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this is continuation of trip report from Thailand section at this link: https://www.gayguides.com/forums/topic/41442-better-to-be-retired-than-retarded-thailand-and-cambodia-in-january-2024-trip-report-brief-but-long/#comment-374666 Day 7 , Phnom Penh part. I had e-visa so immigration was breeze. I exchanged some money into riels as airport rates are only minimally lower than city ones ( 4000 vs 4065 for 1 USD). Some people don’t bother and are using dollars since Cambodia is practically dual currency country and is not unusual to pay 10 $ invoice with 6$ and 16000 riels ( 4 $) for example. Some places are quoting prices in riels , other in dollars but both currencies are accepted everywhere and only exceptions I know is visa on arrival and tickets to Angkor ruins where one must pay in USD exclusively. If you decide to bring dollars just make sure notes are intact without any tears , pinholes and writings on them, I saw 1 dollar banknotes rejected because of those infractions. I prefer to use riels with exception of big ticket items like boys’ tips as getting change from 50 or 100 $ bill may be problematic in country where dinner cost 5 $ and haircut 2$. Other airport purchase was SIM card for 1 week , it was 7$ if I recall correctly and then tuk-tuk to hotel for 9$. Those who want to save money on getting to hotel solution is to take bus from airport parking lot for 1000 or 2000 or leave airport area and get one of the waiting tuk-tuks outside for something like 5-7$ but I did not bother. Room was not ready so I went to Dolce Vita for lunch and returned in 1 hr to find everything ready. I stay in OK Palace hotel, twin of OK Boutique in the same soi where I stay last time. Entry to the hotel is palatial and so is room. Both hotels are in street 19Z, appendix like short soi across from National Museum and walking distance to Royal Palace and whole central area including my Phnom Penh headquarters Space Hair bar. hotel's entry view from the window sleeping machine and the room In the room I noticed I forgot phone charger in Bangkok and girl on reception suggested I go to Kandal Market where there are phone shops. Bingo indeed. Instead of walking 10 minutes I took tuk tuk for whopping 4000 and returned in style by cycle rikshaw for the same amount. After setting in I walked around admiring smells and sounds , bought tour to Killing Fields for tomorrow and at around 21.00 I walked to 136 street to my headquarters – Space Hair bar. I wish we had something like that in Bangkok although they operate on different formula . Staff are exclusively hunky and in shape – see sample from their recent Facebook. Almost all guys from the picture were present on at least one of three nights I visited there. As always almost means one was absent and that one was precisely one I wanted to see as we met already quite closely before. But if I don’t have what I like , I like what I have. Boys there are only to accompany you for drinks and talk. Forget about offs and off fees. Surely if you have designs on one or more you must be very , very discreet and be prepared for meeting absolutely outside working hours. Boss there , while very sympathetic is also very strict and serious about those rules. Cambodian Prince I had debacle with last year was fired on the spot for leaving 1 hr. earlier than scheduled and apparently only because he got drunk Drinks are not expensive 4-6 $ but if you get heated like me , they add up but this is cost of fun. Some guys are somewhat touchy-feely , others less so, kiss or 7 can be stolen after few rounds of drinks , hand and knee holding is available and generally is a lot of fun. Guys are not pushing you for drinks and absolutely no word of ‘ tip’ is spoken but obviously depending on time they sat with you and how long you were holding their knee or hand you should tip them. I gave 5- 10 $ to those few who sat with me for prolonged time. Drinks are what oils bar keep in mind so when boy empties his buy him another one or he may choose to, leave your table. But there are absolutely no situations like I had sometimes in Thai bars when boy gulped his drink in on ego and was looking for another one. It’s why I wish we have such bar in Bangkok. Easy , pleasant and no hard sell tactics. Not only boys got plenty of drinks but also myself so when I was leaving at about 2 am I was quite drunk and 90$ lighter , not to mention about 100 000 distributed for tips. But it was fun worth of every minute and every penny spent. Unfortunately I went home empty handed so to speak. I had designs on one of their boys but neither one of us was brave enough to start serious discussion. Before I went to bed for fun I checked Grindr and had “ Hi “ from quite attractive looking guy but had that senior moment and did not realize that this guy ( I’m notoriously bad reading people from pictures ) was indeed one I had designs on in bar. It only dawned on my next day in the afternoon. But by then damage was done. Not only I spent night in cold bed but also he figured out that I rejected him and was doing his best to show that he cooled to me. Oh well, lesson learned

Hey friends, I recently availed the PCR28 testing service at Pulse Clinic in Silom, and I have to say, it was a remarkable experience. They're offering a 50% discount on their comprehensive STI testing, which now costs 6,700 baht. This test covers 28 different infections, with results delivered in 7 days. If you're in a hurry, you can opt for a faster turnaround with an extra fee. The clinic is easily accessible, located near the BTS Sala Daeng station. I found their service to be excellent—fast, efficient, and professionally handled. It's a great opportunity, especially since such extensive STI testing isn't readily available everywhere. Highly recommend checking it out! For more info, check out their website: https://pulse-clinic.com/pcr-dna-test-for-28-infections You can also purchase PrEP, PEP, and they can do other general blood work for you. They also have IV infusions to help you get over jet lag or give you a boost if you drank too much the night before. I have no affiliation with this clinic but as a happy customer I wanted to share my experience and I hope that it would encourage others to get tested more frequently.

Day 6 Solitary breakfast at Foodland Patpong generated comment from one of servers ‘ alone today? “ . I was about to answer ‘ none of you f….ng business “ but fortunately Guardian Angel restrained me and I said nothing. Certainly we are much less anonymous on the scene than we wish for and then we think we are. Not sure it’s good or bad but it’s good to be aware about the fact. After breakfast I joined my friend for some sightseeing of Sukhumvit area. We visited new mall Em Something at soi 22. I was not impressed but my friend was. I don’t fly that far to wander through the malls , no matter how shiny. But at least I kept him from s Silom area and possible chance meeting of boy loudly asking “ Can I sleep with you tonight?”. Mindful that I expect guest in the afternoon I was thinking how to part our ways but fate was on my side, friend ate something unfriendly for breakfast and decided to retire to his room to cure both diarrhea and jet lag and I went to hotel on my way stopped at KFC of all places because N , my guest loves their stuff so I bought big bucket and as soon as I got it message on Line arrived with N asking to buy some KFC stuff for him as he is on his way. Perfect timing. N works nights so arrangements we have is whenever he feels like seeing me during day ( translation : can use some money ) he tells me day ahead he can come and if I’m free I tell him yes, see you tomorrow . If I have another plans I tell him no, next time . No fuss, clean and clear arrangement. He is great guy who reads me very well and has only one fault – doesn’t kiss. He is not only one who don’t although his lips are particularly kissable and is shame they are so wasted So we had few hours of fun and all started shockingly, yes as soon as we closed door and embraced he planted sophisticated and long lasting kiss on me. I almost fainted or may be I did , just don’t remember ? After I got my breath again he told me ‘this is my new year gift to you “ . How not to like such considerate guy ? So we had quite a nice and long, no rush session this afternoon . No we did not spent all that time eating from that bucket but certainly we tasted a bit. Rest I suggested he can take and treat his friends at work which it turned out was exactly he wanted to ask me. No doubt we understand each other very well. Since his English is good we can always break sinful activities with some sophisticated conversation. At 19.00 he declared it’s time to say good bye as he doesn’t want to be late at work . asked about my trip plans and promised to see me again before I go home “ but no kiss , I kiss you again next trip “ . I’m clinging to that promise expectantly as it was truly nice surprise. I have somebody else coming tonight so just to make sure I went to Thainya to exchange some money. Normally I do it at XOne but today was Sunday and they are closed . Jewelry shop at end of Thainya on the left coming from Sala Daeng is open daily till late and they have pretty good rates so if readers are in need of money exchange late or on Sunday that is the place to go.. I noticed that on Sundays those booths in the area which are opened have rates quite uncompetitive – market economy in situation when most are closed. When I returned to hotel I met K , my Taiwan friend who arrived yesterday and is staying in the same hotel . We exchanged news and upon learning I’m going to Sukhotai after returning from Cambodia he expressed intention of going there as well so I furnished him with info about flight I’m taking and hotel I’m staying there. At 22.00 I was supposed to meet A, muscle semi god who seems to have left scene recently. I did not see him in his bar , when asked mamasan there answer was very vague ‘ we don’t know if he returns and when ’. Nevertheless Line contact worked and he was free tonight. He changed his hairstyle and was actually him who first spotted me approaching although there’s no chance in hell I would miss such hunk sitting / standing / walking anywhere. We went to restaurant to eat something, bill was quite high but blame is on me as I was one to pick up that place. I tried to find out what is his reason for such departure from the scene but my joking question ‘ do you have boyfriend or girlfriend now ? ‘ was met with but reluctant answer “ I know many people ‘ so I left my curiosity unsatisfied. He looked good and happy so I guess he has it good and I’m happy for him. Boyfriend , girlfriend or monk , in the room he was great as always and seemed as happy as I was so another 6th overnight meeting this trip was chalked off as ‘outstanding ‘. For tip he asked it should be I thought but at least he delivered big and in style.

Day 7 , Bangkok part A wanted to go home at 7. Normally I’d be bit upset considering his compensation but today it worked for me as I’m on the move. We went for breakfast to new Foodland in Park Silom, not as crowded as on another day but still very well patronized for that early hour. Total bill 500 , out of it 83 was my discounted American breakfast. Those muscly semi gods are not company for penny pinching seniors. Then we parted our ways , I returned to hotel and packed since today I’m starting Cambodian part of my trip. Most of goodies I simply tucked in suitcase and left in the hotel where I’m returning in about 11 days. What I thought I need for Cambodia I packed into travel bag and took with me. Travelling lightly at cost of making daily laundry is how I like to move around.. My flight to Phnom Penh was from Swampy so BTS to Phaya Thai and ARL to Swampy from there. Lines to immigration and security attested than tourism rebounded big time. Flight with Lanmei Airlines was short and uneventful and 1 hour later I landed in Phnom Penh. This trip report will be continued in Cambodia section for benefit of those readers who are interested more in that country than Thailand. Then we return here to continue Thai part , particularly trip to Sukhotai and Kamphaeng Phet. this report is continued in Cambodia section at this link : https://www.gayguides.com/forums/topic/41671-phnom-penh-angkor-koh-ker-and-sambor-prey-kuk-trip-to-cambodia-in-jan-2024/

Day 5 At first day did not look good for me. At midnight I got message that my friend from hometown arrived in BKK which I expected and wants to meet in the morning which I did not expect. He is one of those types who talk first , think later so is better to keep him away from personal affairs as he may be random source of unwelcome leaks. After my Tawan guest left I dressed and went to meet my friend. Since it was his first visit in several years and he is fan of public transport we made tours of new subways , monorails , red line DMK which took sus better part of day and finally we landed at Madid Tavern to treat ourselves with pizzas. There he confessed that we need to part ways as he feels sleepy after long flight and I skillfully pretended I’m so disappointed but of course as victim of jet lags myself I understand. So with sunset I regained my freedom. There’s another arrival I’m expecting today , that is K , my friend from Taiwan but he is safe bet and big fan of Tawan boys. He told me will be staying in the same hotel I do. N, guy not from the scene I met few times before and who was away to see his parents for last week sent me also a message hat he returned and is free tomorrow afternoon and if I want , he may visit me in my room. My plan for tonight was to repeat meeting with Y and went to Moonlight to pick him up. Fortunately he was still free , as a bonus he was not hungry so I decided to skip the show and we went straight to my room for another, this trip 5th fabulous session. It was supposed to be long time , till breakfast, but in the middle of the night his phone rung and female voice was heard. Bit embarrassed he told me it’s his sister who just arrived at Mor Chit called and wants him to go there and pick her up . We had similar situation in July but then he knew and informed me in advance, this time is was bit of surprise. I don’t think he staged it , after all we met quite a few times in last few trips so he should know there's no need for stories and he suggested that I shave 2000 baht ! of his agreed tip for letting him go early. That was fair and I did not make any fuss over it giving him benefit of doubt while seeing glass half full – finally I get some decent sleep.

There hasn’t been much on the boards about this place in Walking Street since it opened, so I thought contribute a review, after having visited on my trip to Pattaya in January. To briefly explain, it is a male strip show on Walking Street, with western guys as dancers. They seem to be mainly Russians or Brazilians. It’s a bit different than the other offerings in that it’s more like a western style strip-show, based on tease. Despite the title, you won’t see any big tools. It’s basically muscular western guys dancing around a pole and stripping down their trousers. Then they walked down among the crowd and pull down their jeans a bit for you to stick in 100 baht note in their underwear . Even then you didn’t get to see much. Probably wouldn't be the cup of tea for most people on these boards. However, the guys are well-built and good looking, and they really know how to dance on that gogo pole, with some showing really athletic moves on it. I was accompanied by a Thai guy that I had taken off from X Boys bar, and although he was a bit shocked at first, he began to enjoy it. When enter, you go up the stairs to, you have a choice of two rooms, one where there are guys dancing, and another room with women dancing. I had a brief look in the room with a women while I was going to the toilet, the dancers there were western looking also. When we went into the room with the men, we ushered to a seat in the front near the stage. We were given a menu, I looked, and it had alcoholic drinks going from 400 baht up to mad prices for cocktails, champagne, etc. I didnt see any soft drinks on the menu, and when i asked about that, they gave me a second menu with some soft drinks for about 260. So we ordered those and sat down and watched the dancing. They brought the bill for the drinks straight away, and I paid straight away as well. This actually reassured me a bit, as I was a little worried about it being a pure clip joint. After our first drink, although they came around two or three times asking us if we wanted a second, there was no huge pressure to buy, and we turned down the offer and sipped our drinks slowly. There was a constant stream of dancers - there was one on stage at time,and as soon as he was finished, another started. They used to do one dance which was about four or five minutes long. Then they came down and they gyrated in front of the audience, looking for tips in return for a feel of their chest. Most of the audience were western (Russian?) females. But the guys came up to me and my Thai guy as well. When they were with the women, they had put the women’s hands on their chests and chiseled torsos. They were not that pro-active for us, but when I put my hand on the dancer chests, they didn’t object. In return, you were expected to give a tip of 100 baht. They had a sign at the table saying that the minimum tip was 100 baht. The Thai guy I had with me was a bit shy, so when the first guy came round I took the initiative and grabbed his hand his hand and put it on the dancers chest. This made my Thai companion squeal, much to the dancers amusement. Then I gave him 100 baht to give to the dancer. The staff serving the drinks were Thai, but after while a blonde Russian woman came over to us.. She gave us a menu of various add-ons you could pay to do and tried to entice us to buy. These ranged from having a photograph taken with a dancer for 500 baht ( like a fool I actually paid for this with the cutest dancer) to having a private dance for 1000 baht, to getting up in stage yourself (presumably with the dancers) for 800 baht, to renting the whole room for 45 minutes for something like 10,000 baht. I don’t know if they got any takers for these options, the mostly female audience seem to stay for a few dances and disappear. There was no mention of a fee for taking a guy off, I suspect that you would to make your own arrangements for that in a private dance I asked all the guys came to our table where they were from. I think three of them were Russian, one was a Brazilian, and one was Australian (but he said his parents were Russian). If you like Caucasian guys I think you would find them quite good looking. They had a sort of bodies that a member of western stripper troupe would have. Once he got over his initially amazement, the Thai guy I brought seemed to quite enjoy it. When one Russian guy came out with long blond locks, he said "Oh, he looks like an angel!" I know this establishment won’t be everybody’s cup of tea, particularly the Asian guy fans, which naturally enough are predominant on this board. However, considering that the dancers are good looking westerners, you could consider that you could have a similar experience to a western strip club for an hour for the equivalent of 30-40 euros (assuming you spend roughly 1300 baht, broken down into 260 for a soft drink on entry and 1000 bat for 10 dance tips). If you have a Thai guy who has a thing for good looking farangs, it might be a bit of fun for him.

Day 4 For breakfast we opted for new Foodland at Park Silom this morning . At 8 am was so packed that we managed to get only last remaining table in the corner so conductive to not so accidental knee touching and similar sinister moves. Going there we passed stand with discounted clothing and some accessories and upon seeing S took an interest in some travel bag I bought it for him as a bonus for his contribution to my almost sleepless night. I’m surprised that is more hot than last January but still at least some breeze in the morning pretending to be cool with some degree of success. After we parted ways I started tourist program today which was Lumpini and Sukhumit are where I walked from Silom, For some reason despite heat I felt like having walking day perhaps to vent off heat generated last night ?. At night I decided to make some bar tour and started with Hot Male beer bar. P of course was asking what happened to me another night, he thought I was playing practical joke with him but I bluntly explained to him that I did not like fact that he asked for a drink only to leave me to drink alone, fact that was noticed and commented even by some other patron. Anyways red note brought peace but idea of going with me tonight was dismissed. I’m easy going but not that easy going and like to be treated a bit better than on my first night there. Then to soi 4 to have beer at Banana while watching Jupiter boys coming to work and finally to Tawan. As always I was greeted enthusiastically and walking ATM curiosities should be I guess . I was surprised to see Mekhin there. At one time he was unquestionable star at Tawan and his fame lasted quite a few years. Then he moved to Jupiter and when I offed him in 2018 he told me it was very good move for him. Few years ago he had serious accident and disappeared from the scene so I was both surprised but also very happy to see him. He still has his sizable frame but unfortunately muscles are only shadow of steel reinforced concrete they were when I saw him last time. He sat beside me pretending he remembers me from days past and told me he is still in recovery and indeed some fragility in him could be noticed. As always at Tawan boys were circulating asking for tips shamelessly lowering their briefs but today I decided to be not as much stingy as selective so few were left disappointed and one even commented that I used to have good heart and what happened to me to which I cheerfully responded that you guys become too expensive. Still as always I’m of opinion that Tawan is friendliest bar of them all and I quietly thought if Jupiter was so friendly I were bankrupt long time ago. Sure boys are pushing for tips a but it all is done with good natured humor. I watched show, tipped f….ck show participants , even forked out 100 for j/o show but since my tip was only one guy on the scene resigned but my red note was still taken, he, he. Tawan is more diversified now with few twinks in the rooster and one of them being only waiter drew my attention with his smile so I decided to cross Rubicon and asked him if he wants to see my stamp collection. Me and twinky twink – shock waves were probably felt as far as Koh Samui but yes, after the show to applause of whole bar we both marched out. It was actually pleasant moment to see that his co-workers seemed to be vary happy for the boy that he landed such handsome and generous farang i.e. myself. Dinner at Happy Beer Garden, again he selected some very modestly priced dish and back to the room. 2nd Tawan boy this trip and 2nd quasi boyfriend performance This trip is really developing very well and while there will be some mild glitches , that pattern will stay till very end. Again, as with D on the 1st night , I suspect he was happy he got offed and did his best to show his appreciation. I did my part to make sure he was rewarded for his efforts and it was money very well spent.

Day 1 That will be short one as I said arrived at 17.40. Immigration line was hair rising but speed was world beating. It was second longest I saw in BKK ever and still with all boths opened and personnel wisely directing internationals even to “ASEAN or Thai only” booths when they were free it moved shockingly fast. By time I bought SIM card my luggage was out already and in exactly 75 minutes from plane touching tarmac I was already waiting for train at the platform. Raya, where I opened door exactly 47 hours and 45 minutes after closing my home door, was informed that I will miss previous night but at least room was waiting for me ( no refund for no show) so I unpacked , desoiled and went to 7/11 to buy some necessities in process took circular way through Thaniya and Patpong 2. At 21.00 I was supposed to meet J, our member at G’Bangkok , soi 4. As it happened his last day was mine first. So we caught on news and food and being already in soi 4 we decided to go to Jupiter . On recent trips somehow it’s always first bar I’m visiting. Due to esthetics as their boy collection beats them all not a bad place to start. I’m not being big fan of Jupiter due to their policy requiring boys to appear cold , aloof and uninterested. This of course changes right away after one invites boy to seat beside but still I don’t like it as can’t gauge if g boy is treating me as transparent because I deserve or because boss told them so. Of course looking at them during their walkouts is pure pleasure , smile or not. And soon after we sat down first round started. I tipped red note two of them including hero of my many stories and veteran of dozen if not more offs over the years HC (Handsome Cambodian). I did not count on anything other than may be nod and shy smile during next round acknowledging tip and my presence. But disappointingly during next walkabout I was still transparent air. There were few smiles but not at me and not by me tippees . That was bit discouraging and disappointing so when J, who in meantime had some hunk sitting beside signaled he is ready to go I gladly went with them. This was my only visit at Jupiter this trip or as my father would say “ this trip I was there two times - first and last”. Outside I wished guys fun , to J also safe trip home and we parted ways. I went to Moonlight hoping Y will be available but he was already booked to tonight so I secured his presence for tomorrow by slipping him and mamasan who leeched on me immediately remembering me very well from previous visits red note each and went to Hot Male beer bar where P was present so I offered him a drink and in process asked about option of accompany me tonight. He agreed but I sensed answer is kind of suspended. On top of it , even it treated with drink , instead of keeping me company he was constantly on the move here and there. At some point when I noticed he is going to bar upstairs with some female patron I did one of best things this trip, right on the first evening – paid for both drinks and just took off. As it was past midnight I decided to try my favorite corner in Bangkok at soi 6 and Suriwong. That the place where Tawan boys use to drink after bar closes. Tonight it was only D solitary drinking from small Hong Thong bottle. We meet many times in the past, now he is in bit less of shape but his skin is still as smooth as baby’s and being late I made another best decision, drunk or not I asked if he wants to go with me. Happy smile and nod. He wanted to ride his motorsai but I declined and we walked to Raya. Holly Molly, he was always quiet and bit reserved companion , very suitable for 1st night after long trip but not tonight. I was hoping for pussy cat but instead got lion, very sweet lion indeed. As close to boyfriend experience as one can dream about. It was almost shocking in a best sense. I guess blend of being bit drunk and probably not being offed for some time contributed to that energy. What an introduction to Bangkok and a trip and end of day 1 !!!

Touchy chap, aren't you.

slavery was abolished more than 150 years ago. On serious note decision to retire will come naturally based on my experience . I was not planning although I'm well past retirement age, then it dawned on me that time is running out like somebody commented on another forum - longer you save for the future , shorter that future becomes.

X-One is open on Sundays now, but only until 18:00.

There was a time … an American friend of mine was long-term incarcerated in a prison on the outskirts of Acapulco. I’d visit him on occasion. Repeatedly, he’d ask if I wanted to have sex with some of the sex-starved inmates. I could use his cell, he said. No problem, if I gave a small amount of $ to guards. He had an arrangement with the Commandant. Though tempted, I never acted on the offer. I thought, just my luck .. the door to the cell would remain locked, with me inside for a long time unless I paid a hefty bribe. 😇

Day 3 Raya has breakfast again at 250 per person if not included in the rate. Buffet style and all dishes very tasty. Pleased to see that guy I remember from my first stay there good 10 years ago is still working there although I have an impression he looks like 10 years older but what do I know? Today I’m moving to Baan Silom so after breakfast when Y left I packed what I have and rolled me suitcase there. Since it was bit early I was told to return at 2, left suitcase on reception and via Tourist boat went to Grand Palace are to browse stores there. It was good move as I required some old Thai banknote for my collection , one I was looking for for quite a while. This of course created an opportunity to invite somebody to admire and assess new acquisition. Upon return to hotel I was bit jet lagged- day 3 is usually my worst and collapsed on the bed for about 2 hours. Woke up quite hungry as I did not eat anything substantial since breakfast and decided to go to Unseco designated world famous Foodland Patpong for a dish picture of which is attached below. No prize for guessing it’s name though. Then wandered for about 1 hour through the area and decided to go to HotMale upstairs to see if S would be there as I kind of believe he will be best suited to see my new old Thai banknote. He was mentioned in my reports before as only boy taken for a tour ( of Grand Palace back in 2022 ) who genuinely was interested in sightseeing , even trying to explain us some paintings in the area around Emarald Buddha temple. At 21.15 bar was still very quiet. Few farangs were holding court and soon after they took 4 or 5 boys with them. S was there so I grabbed him right away even if there was no competition in the audience. Remembered from last trip when two girls were looking at him lustily when he was sitting with me already. Of course he accepted idea of seeing my new purchase not only right away but also in the morning where light will be more natural. By time we finished our drinks and took off two farangs showed up ( separately), gulped their drinks and left empty handed. Nobody was in the audience when we were leaving at 10 pm so it looked as quiet night and still quite a few offs from the bar. Via 7/11 across the hotel we went to my room and of course in a heat of the moment we forgot about my new trophy. No harm done. It turned out that next week he is going to see his folks in Cambodia and by sheer coincidence I will be in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap at the same time as well. He asked to join me for the whole week but since I had some designs on Phnom Penh I suggested he will join me for 4 nights I will be in Siem Reap. We left discussed particulars of that trip for Line and spent rest of time together how it was supposed to be spend. Third night in row and third fabulous. I started to count my blessings already !

Makes you wonder how long the US will remain in NATO if Trump wins in November? Trump says he would 'encourage' Russia to attack Nato allies who do not pay their bills - BBC News

Certainly a point well taken. Although sex in prison is a hot fantasy, I'm sure that being imprisoned, at least in most countries, is horrible and torturous--in some cases literally. I remember reading of a constitutional challenge to the rights of prisoners in Texas, I believe it was, over the lack of airconditioning. I'm sure that would be just one of many horrors, but for me, that alone would be misery enough right there.

You can do the test also "semi-anonymously", i.e. you can put a fake name, but they will ask you nicely to enter the correct age and country you are from. You need an email address to receive the results.

I also wanted to mention that the consent forms that I needed to sign prior to testing had some interesting statistics: 33% of gay men in Bangkok (Thai and non-Thai) are HIV positive. Only 68% of these individuals are undergoing treatment for HIV. 20% of gay men in Bangkok (Thai and non-Thai) are positive for Syphilis.

my mirror usually does the same job for me

"You got to pay your bills.” Yeah, that's what every damn police dept. where has had a rally should fatso, "Pay your fcken bill". Don't get me started with all his unpaid attorneys and contractors. Oh, the irony! Tucker really got under Trump's ass with his interview with Putin, that this moron had to and out do one better the next day!

new ? I thought I'm doing that all my life , at least since I mastered art of writing

Day 2 First full day and kind of quiet. After energetic night and jet lag still lingering I took it easy. D and me had breakfast at Foodland of all places and parted ways. As it happened I did not see him anymore this trip even if visited Tawan quite a few times, Perhaps he went home or it was just bad luck. I had some dental work to do at Thai Smile. Passing by I stepped in just to book an appointment but doctor was expected to be free in few minutes and since I had money on me I just wait and had it done . Then feeling bit sleepy decided to energize myself with massage so went to soi 6 and Nut from Maha spotted me approaching from mile away and grabbed me right away. Sweet , talkative , tiny but very muscular guy and I was happy with our 1.5 hr session. Massage made me hungry so I took motorsai to Charoen Krung soi 49, you guessed rightly to Madrid Tavern for my first pizza this trip. Late afternoon jet lag made me wanting badly to get some sleep so I returned to the room, set my alarm for 21.00 as I was supposed to pick up Y at Moonlight as agreed yesterday and collapsed on the bed. It was good idea with that alarm since I was sleeping soundly. After making myself looking decent – in Thailand I have habit to shave just before I hit bars in the evening and went to Moonlight. Y was there already , I bought him a drink and told him we will go after the show. At 10 pm bar was almost empty bar even if it was half an hour before show. But models and floor boys soldered on regardless. By 11 filled up nicely to about half capacity. Show quite decent. There, s new model, I guess his nick is Sam or similar. Quite handsome . Several new, floor boys, as well. Lack of crowds did not mean disaster as some high spending farang was holding court and was distributing tips by a handful. Y when sitting with me asked by said farang to join for round of drinks. Y asked my permission and he said for 15 minutes only. I agreed and it was a good move costing me nothing. After 15 minutes, and gulping 2 or 3 shoots he was clutching in his fist no less than 900. So it seems that sparse crowd doesn’t mean financial disaster. All depends. On another hand during my time there i.e. 10 to 11.45 my off was only one and I was, sitting in good position to see comings and goings through the door. So at 11.45 we went to Happy Beer Garden to have some meal, no prize for guessing what I had. Y ordered something simple as well which can’t be said about most boys I used to invite there. Since Raya is across the street few minutes after paying the bill we were already in the shower. Y never disappoints and did not even try to this time either. 2nd night and 2nd great one. Will I ever get decent sleep while in Thailand?

sure but also less time and energy to see them. Again , longer you wait for future , shorter she become I know because indeed I was working well past 65. Older we are those long flights and resulting jet lags are serving us less and less. Retirement decision is very personal depending on circumstances and can't be copied from others . we need carefully consider where we are. But once decision is made my advice will be - stick to whatever you resolved and don't look back.

There is no doubt about it. You know perfectly well that the 7 countries, led by the United States, are constantly staging genocide around the world, killing millions of civilians, and yet you continue to tell the tales of your propaganda with foam at the mouth. But you are just a product of your system, others don't survive. You can see what happens to you when at least someone tries to convey a point of view different from your "official" propaganda. You do not have access to various sources of information, you can only be pitied. And here you arrange a clowning and shame yourself by retelling your false propaganda

obviously and we have it in writing above you did not read my Cambodia trip reports from Oct 2022 and Jan 2023

In light of the discussion of the interview, what amuses me most is how childishly naive your appeal judgments are, implanted in your heads by Western propaganda. It's not your fault, it's your problem. You basically have no other sources of information. You receive only official information carefully filtered by the current government, and a little from opposition mouthpieces like FoxNews. The reason is banal - you don’t know languages. For each point, I can make my personal judgment by reading both Fox and CNN in English, by reading the sources of the Ukrainian regime and the Ukrainian opposition in Ukrainian, by reading the sources of the Russian regime and the Russian opposition in Russian. I have points of view from all sides. I have base for own conclusions. What do you have? Propaganda cliches that you repeat here month after month over and over again?

Yeah... exactly by this reason Brazil now visa-free country for Russians and for Mexico Russian just fill e-viza form with zero rejections, right? You, Westerners, are so naive... you listen your propaganda and thinking what know truth.

Last time I was there a few months ago I didn't see any "gay" section as before. I think it's great everyone is mixed in together.

Of course, the other sick irony is that at the same moment he is saying Vlad has the right to attack European countries that won't pay for NATO's defense, Trump is urging Senate Republicans NOT to pay for NATO's defense. Trump would of course say, stupidly, that Ukraine is not part of NATO. And abandoning Ukraine has nothing to do with NATO. It's hard to decide whether it is best to call this particularly stupid behavior, particularly dangerous behavior, or particularly narcissistic behavior. How about all three?

really ? how much is the short time ?

whole interview is just fake news, table is waaaaaay too short

Unfortunately the "left "or Antifa are only blaming the Christian groups never the "religion of peace" (Muslim) I haven't got time for any religion actually

Another great trip report as always! i am not surprised since it is coming from you. but it was such a pleasant surprise to see multiple posts within a couple of days. readers used to have to wait for several hours or sometimes a few days between each installment on your previous trips. it must be retirement that made this difference. early retirement is my goal!

I absolutely hate to say it, but we're in a post-Trump/maga world now. More and more people are saying things out loud that have long been considered nasty and/or inappropriate. Sadly, it's impossible to put that cat back into the bag. She's out and proud, and more ignorant and arrogant than ever. What was once a quiet curiosity is now an in-your-face prejudice, intended to provoke a reaction, usually negative. I call it a social power-play, for desperately unhappy, unsatisfied people. We have no choice now but to always be on-guard, especially when you travel. The crazy airline stories we hear about now are completely out of control. This thread reminds me of an episode I had with a longtime neighbor. We are not close friends, but for decades, I've been friendly with her. She's a smart, cool, hippy-ish, native New Yorker, a bit older than me. One summer, our building doorman was on vacation, and management hired a young, gay, Latino twink type to stand in. He absolutely looked like he might have been eighteen years old, fresh out of high school. He was adorable. I'll call him Louis. Louis had terrific gaydar, and expertly charmed his way into my focus. He was an extremely good doorman, which will always catch my attention, but he was also very funny and flirtatious with me. I love funny, flirtatious men, gay or straight, so an instant bond had been created. One evening, Louis and I were talking in the lobby about his life, and my neighbor appeared from the elevator. She saw me and sat down next to me to chat. She had a few minutes to observe my interactions with Louis, who never ended his flirtatious flitting. At one quiet point she turned to me and whispered, "Is Louis your type?" I was aghast. It suddenly dawned on me, after knowing this woman for almost thirty years, we never had a conversation about my being gay. She knew almost nothing about that side of my life. I was horrified that she might think I was sexually turned on by young twinks, young enough to be my grandson. I responded, "Absolutely not. However, I do love being in the presence of promising young people. I try to work with young people all the time, because I enjoy their company. Louis is a special charmer. I would hire him." I'm not sure she was satisfied with that answer. She witnessed our unique "gay" chemistry, and I'm sure she imagined us in some daddy-fetish porn scene, and couldn't escape that image in her head. Here I was being completely honest with her about a personal subject that was none of her business. And without mentioning anything sexual, I tried to convey that I'm not sexually attracted to very young men, and I hate the idea of having a type. I felt hopeless in the moment, because no matter how careful my words, I was going to sound defensive, which would make me sound as though I might be lying. The awkwardness of that moment stayed with me for a very long time. That is why I said earlier, you can NEVER totally control what others might think about you. The mind can be a crazy thing, and sometimes you will be challenged to think on your feet.

How about homage to Hitchcock, 'North by Northwest Asians'?

After a short ride, I think about 5 minutes, the shuttle train arrives at another shockingly sterile station on the satellite terminal end. Go up the escalators. Once up, the first thing that you see is a phalanx of duty-free shops, But of course. Actually, they're not that many. Perhaps more will open when passenger traffic increases, but.... Here's a map of the satellite terminal. The commercial spaces are coloured in tan or dun. As you can see there are not that many spaces earmarked and most of those lots in the middle part of the terminal are already occupied. So I don't think there will ever be many more of these duty-free and brandname shops. In any case, I have long wondered who the heck goes to airports to buy fancy brand merchandise. But then, Thailand has long been a bit behind in its thinking, still catering to glamour travel when the age of mass travel (complete with football yobs) has been upon us for decades. They did learn from the mistakes when the main terminal was first built- which for some mysterious reason had next to no toilets for the public or passengers. In the main terminal, they went totally overboard in allocating spaces for commerical use (RENTAL INCOME!!!) such that basic amenities like toilets and sitting areas were totally sacrificed. Looking at the map above, the toilets appear to be plentiful in the satellite terminal. The floor above the concourse level has lounges. Or maybe just the one lounge "Miracle Lounge". As members of the board may know, I don't fly business class (waste of money, and not being plus-sized, no need for larger seats) or care for lounges, so I didn't go up to explore. There were only four F&B outlets in the staellite terminal. Fortunately, I was flying on a full-service airline. If one were on a low-cost airline that does not serve meals on board (other than instant noodles, etc, at ridiculous prices) and needed to eat before boarding, options would be limited to McDonalds, Burgerking, Ginger Farm Kitchen and Koh Hup (which also serves burgers + some Thai dishes). The airport authority does not look very smart in its choices of F&B; they could have had a wider range of food. Another difference from the main terminal is the way the gates now do not come with them own designated waiting rooms. It's open-plan now. There were few flights out of the satellite terminal, so it was mostly deserted. Another proof as to how behind the curve the airport designers/authority are lies in the provision of charging points. These are few and far between. You would think that every row of seats should be equipped with them, but no, only about one in five or six rows. So that means roughly one set of outlets for every 50 seats. I tried to charge my phone just to test them out (I really didn't need charging, but just wanted to try) and guess what? There was no juice. The electrical outlets, even when installed, had no electricity! I tried another one. Also dead. In this picture, notice how only the front row has charging points. The rows behind do not.

Trip Report – Koh Chang – 15 Jan 2024 – 18 Jan 2024 I am behind on my trip reports. I present this one from Koh Chang (which was easier to prepare) and then I will have a bigger one from Christmas/New Years - 17 day trip report for Songkhla. Sorry for the delays. Up to now, my favorite island in proximity of Pattaya has been Koh Samet. Hanging out with my volleyball friends at the Dongtan beach (Sea Rescue area), we were chatting about a new island place to go to and we decided to make a 4 day / 3 night visit to Koh Chang. Aerial shot of the Trat island archipelago One of them has a car, so that made the transportation modality easy. Note that a quick search in Google - notes that there are many busses that also go there – primarily from Bangkok but I believe that I saw one from Pattaya as well. -> Please note that their facial photos are included in this trip report with their permission given as well as their contact details in case any of you would like to use their services. <- We departed Jomtien around 9:45am and we arrived at the Ao Thammachat pier in Trat at around 14:30pm, almost 5 hours – leisurely driving with breaks for the bathroom, iced coffee, and gas. We were able to get onto the 15:30pm car ferry at a cost of 120 baht for the car and then 80 baht for the each of us for a total of 360 baht. The ferry crossing is about 30 minutes. Ferry info can be found here at: Koh Chang Ferries price list 2023 / 2024 Map of Koh Chang and surrounding islands. As you can see there are many ferry options to arrive onto the island from the mainland. Above places highlighted with a red circle are the places that we visited We booked our 3 night stay at the Klong Prao Resort Klong Prao Beach Resort webpage We booked 2 rooms and paid 1,840 baht per night for a total of 11,040 baht for 3 nights. This resort is lovely and very big with a beautiful sandy beach and lush tropical plants everywhere. As we booked kind of at the last minute we were assigned to 2 older rooms. There are 3 distinct zones around a large pond, where the zone we stayed in is the oldest and the other 2 zones are more modern. My only complaint about our rooms were there were hardly any electrical outlets for all of our devices (electric razor, tooth brush, boom box, mobile phones, etc.). Other than this inconvenience the rooms were perfect – air con worked very well, shower had hot water, and unlike my stay in Koh Samet and also in Songkhla (I still need to write this trip report) there were NO noisy geckos to wake us up in the early morning with their annoying chirping sounds. However, they are very handy for eating any annoying mosquitos, bugs and spiders. Note that the 2 newer zones have many electrical outlets as they were probably built after the advent of the popularity of mobile phones and all of our electrical gadgets. The highlights of this resort for us were: The pool and their pool bar with early evening 2 for 1 sunset happy hours – as evidenced in the below photos, The white sandy beaches and blue turquoise water. Note that the Koh Chang municipality has strict rules that keep the noisy speed boats and jet skis away – thus rendering the beaches to be more in their wonderful natural state. Day 1 (15 Jan 2024) itinerary Arrive onto the island, check in unpack, enjoy the resort grounds, pool, beach, happy hour, fantastic sunset and eat at the resort dining facility = RimHad Restaurant. Watched a great fire show performed by some hunky macho guys (similar to the familiar B-Boys, who perform all over Pattaya, Boyztown, Jomtien) on the beach in front of our resort restaurant. Like when I visited Koh Samet, these fire show guys can be found traveling up and down the beach performing in front of the many resorts and beach restaurants. It lasted about 10 minutes and was very entertaining. I realized that I did not take any still photos so the above photo is from a movie clip that I made. Then before going to sleep I received my customary massage – as both of these volleyball friends are also masseurs. Day 2 (16 Jan 2024) itinerary After the great resort buffet breakfast (an enormous selection of Western and Thai foods were available) we headed off to the Khlong Phlu Waterfall in the National Park. It was nearby, and perhaps after 30 minutes by car we were already at the trailhead for our hike. The hike took about 30 minutes and was rather easy. Explore Koh Chang - description of Koh Chang waterfalls As it was not rainy season, the waterfall was a little bit subdued, but it was still cool and refreshing to take a dip and to swim with the millions of fish that were in the water. You need to resist their lite nibbles at your skin – kind of like those tourist places that you see all over Thailand where the tourists put their feet into a fish tank to get their dead skin nibbled off. There were about 20 to 25 people there when we visited with about half of them brave enough to enter the chilly refreshing water. There is a lifeguard off to the left up on the rocks to prevent that tourists climb up onto the waterfall, as it can be quite dangerous as it is very slippery. And there I am trying to acclimate myself to the lite nibbles by the fish before I dove in and swam over to where the water was cascading down – as that end is very deep. Entrance fee to the waterfall (which is part of the national park system) was 40 baht for each of my 2 Thai friends and 200 baht for me for a total cost of 280 baht. Afterwards, back to our resort to relax, swim in the pool, take advantage of the 2-for-1 drink specials at the pool bar, and to watch the sunset. For that night’s dinner we drove over to the popular White Sands Beach area – full of restaurants, hotels, resorts, markets, etc. to eat at the Beach Tango restaurant Beach Tango restaurant Facebook page which became our favorite go-to place to eat. Why? The food and drinks were good. There was interesting eye candy – one of the wait staff had our constant attention. Plus, there were many interesting people walking up and down the beach – as there are many, many, bars and restaurants in this area. Beach Tango is smack in the middle of all of the fun and is an entertaining place to be situated. Then after dinner back to the room to relax for my nightly massage. Life is good. Day 3 (17 Jan 2024) itinerary Enjoy the buffet breakfast and then head down to the extreme southern part of Koh Chang (on the opposite side of the island) to visit the very famous Koh Ngam beach. It was a very long drive as we needed to cross the island to the other side (mainland facing), and this part of the island is not built up like the other side, so consequently, the main road became narrower and narrower up into the mountains to the point where there was only room for 1 car to pass one way with very steep curvy roads. Scary, but well worth the reward to arrive at the tiny boat station to take the 10 minute boat to cross over to the breath taking Koh Ngam. You can choose your mode of transportation – by kayak or by motorboat. We chose by motorboat as we were too excited to already be on Koh Ngam. I believe that we paid 80 baht for each Thai person, and I as a farang had to pay 200 baht, which included the boat ride over to the island. Fee is paid to a ranger on Koh Ngam – as it is now part of the Thailand National Park system. Here is a good short video with some drone footage of Koh Ngam: Youtube video with drone footage of Koh Ngam And here is what awaits you on Koh Ngam – truly amazing. After enjoying Koh Ngam (swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the view and the nature) – back on the boat to Koh Chang and then back in the car for the 1 hour trip back to our resort for those 2-for-1 pool bar cocktails and amazing sunsets. Rinse and repeat the previous night at Beach Tango for dinner and drinks and then back to the resort for my nightly good-night massage. Day 4 (18 Jan 2024) itinerary Enjoy the last breakfast buffet and check-out of the resort for the long 5 hour drive back to Pattaya (Jomtien). Phong says to me – do you want to see one more exciting place before we head back? I say, sure, why not. So, we drive over to the Kai Bae Viewpoint, which is famous for its spectacular view of 4 of the Koh Chang archipelago islands, Koh Yuak, Koh Man Noi, Koh Pli and Koh Man Nok. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kai+Bae+Viewpoint/@12.0205768,102.2919516,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x3104105179b452c7:0x2b4a04572dce185b!8m2!3d12.0205768!4d102.2919516!16s%2Fg%2F11b6tz721w?hl=en&entry=ttu Note that there is excellent coffee available at this Kai Bae viewpoint. Before almost reaching Pattaya, my 2 tour guides noticed that we were all sad that our 4 day trip was coming to a quick end, so they said do you want to eat at a fun place that is near Pattaya (about 1 hour away) before we call it a day? I said sure – as I really like to see and experience new places. So, we stopped off at the Tamnanpar Resort & Restaurant – one of these many nearby Pattaya / Rayong restaurants that are tucked away in a jungle theme – various Thai friends have taken me to different ones as each Thai person swears that his/her’s is the best. Tamnanpar resort and restaurant Facebook page This place is famous for their unique game cuisine where you can eat ostrich, crocodile, snake, and deer. All was good and our random waiter was someone that my 2 tour guides already knew and were teasing him about his in-the-bed attributes – he was quite shy but willing to tease back my 2 Thai friends. I truly enjoy when the Thais do this to each other as it is very entertaining. Then they dropped me off at my condo room in Jomtien and our trip concluded. Trip summary: Would I go back to Koh Chang? Most certainly – it is a large island and there is still more to see. Especially to visit many of the many off-shore islands in the archipelago. Maybe stay for one more additional day to take some time to do kayaking. Any regrets? Yes, we did not have time to see the famous abandoned boat “ghost” hotel. Nation Thailand article on the famous "ghost" ship on Koh Chang Contact details (HORNET and Line) for my 2 Thai tour guides from the Dongtan volleyball field in Jomtien. They can be available to be a tour guide, companion, or masseur. permission was granted to me by the both of them to publish their details for all of you Also, come and visit them at volleyball (nightly from about 5:30 pm until 8pm to 9pm daily) – right next to the Sea Rescue in front of the Pattaya Park Tower on the beach road of our Dongtan beach. Phong Hornet ID is: @m-thailand Boat Hornet ID is: @13hq91

I think you had a lot of fun for the money and much of it from watching the reaction of your date. It was a night he soon won’t forget and will talk about with his mates. Well done! The Full Monty. You’d be perfect for it 🙂

Love it 😁I wonder if they would consider us older guys as part time dancers? what was the name of that movie back in the 80's with the old guys stripping ? on a serious I would love to visit this place 😊sounds like fun.

Nah, I wasn't burned. I certainly expect the worst from Murderous Vlad. And I found it amusing to watch two men make fools of themselves. Like, this is real journalism? The world really thinks of MV as this decent guy who has simply run out of kindnesses to bestow on people? It would make for great parody on Saturday Night Live. If criticism of Putin were allowed in Russia. Mostly it feels tragic. Because all this is about millions of Ukrainians and Russians being dead or displaced, thanks to your murderous sadist. I will tell you two things that do burn me. George W. Bush, 20 years ago. His pushing the Iraq War opened a Pandora's box that led to this kind of adventurism. America invading Iraq without real cause, other than lies, laid the groundwork for Putin to do something similar once he thought he had a chance to get away with it. That burns me. Arguably, one could also blame Bush for pushing the idea that Ukraine should join NATO. But Putin has actually made the best case for NATO in my lifetime. Ask Sweden and Finland about that. If anything, Putin makes W. look strategeric for trying to protect Ukrainians from a mass murdering sadist. Second, Republicans today burn me. That military aid should have gone to Ukraine last year. The EU figured it out, fortunately. And now Republicans looks like they are done with the bullshit and ready to put their money where their mouth is. But it is a global embarrassment that America looks unsteady. That said, again because of our tragic adventurism in Iraq, it's not an entirely bad thing that a lot of Americans are rethinking how much the US wants to be a warmonger. I hope Republicans remember this the next time Republicans want to invade some country. Why do you even care about Tucker's ratings? Have you actually convinced yourself somehow this is a sign that Putin is winning, or will win? The whole things smells of desperation to me. For sure with Tucker. He already lost the war when he was fired for cynically pushing Trump's lies and bullshit about a stolen election, which he clearly did not believe. So Tucker is desperate to stay relevant. And I'm sure Putin's PR on this is that some famous American journalist came to Russia to give your murderous sadist the respect he deserves. If this makes Vlad feel important, good for him. He'll win his election, of course. They don't allow real debate in Russia. But you know that already, @Moses. One other mistake Russia is making, perhaps, is that maybe you think you can change us. Is that the idea here? That would be a very American thing to do. For Vlad to decide he will use Tucker to somehow remake us in his image. And share Vlad's Russian values. America tried that on Russia, too. And democracy obviously failed in your case. I think America and most of the world got the memo. We're no longer trying to change you, and form real alliances. It's now back to just containing you. You can have your war economy for as long as you have Vlad, or longer. There are millions of Russian men who will unwillingly and unhappily be turned into fertilizer so Vlad and his klepto friends can be rich, powerful, and murderous. Through his invasion, he is teaching the world what Russian values are. Your country and people are hated. Russia will be hated and shunned for the rest of our lifetimes. China will buy your cheap oil and India will buy your weapons. They aren't stupid. But you will be hated and shunned. The whole thing with Tucker is just a joke. But enjoy it if it makes you somehow feel better.

List reminds me just how old I am because I recognize quite a few of celebrities on it. 🙂

I'm sure all the responses are accurate, but if it were me, I would be asking the boy of interest. Don't you think the boys know where to go? And I would go with his recommendation because it would be a room he is probably familiar with, likes, and feels comfortable there.

The Brits and Aussies are so cute with their little nicknames for places. How quaint and colonialist is it to shorten the name of a foreign place just like they say Herts for Hertfordshire? 🤓

Dany currently is not available till the summer by personal reasons.

That's for sure. Anti-gay stuff is all over social media now in Canada. We had a series of "Save the Children" marches in Canada in the fall.... you can guess who the children needed to be saved from. The usual radical Christians/right wing bigots were joined by Muslim gay haters which was a first. They provided comments like, "they're disgusting, they should be dead," and "they have no human rights, they're not human, they're animals." As for the white bigots, they're using gays/trans as targets for now because they're easy to go after without much blowback, but it will spread to more severe racially motivated attacks and against women.