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It had crossed my mind but since I was in possession of 22,000+ in bht from SuperRich I opted on side of caution. My bottom line for this humorous bit of massage trivia: (1) the lad needed his sleep more than the income (2) I did indeed dodge a bullet (3) should have have trusted my initial instinct that "Rock" was destined to be a dud even if me managed somehow to stay awake (4) there are ample good massage reviews but I can now claim one of the more unique

In the 17 years of coming to Bangkok I've had the full range of massage experiences from great on on down the scale to disappointing and one or two outright bad. But this is the first time I've had one that escapes definition. Here's how it came about--or actually didn't. On the previous day when just about to enter the SuperRich main location on Silom, two guys wearing Best Massage shirts walked past and made eye contact. I glanced back just before going in the door and one had his head turned smiling at me. After doing my business, I took the short walk to the shop on the first level of complex that also houses Arena Massage. There I found five guys and asked the one who smiled at me his name. Let's call him "Rock." I tell him I'll be back for a massage from him and he thanks me. Jump to today about 3:15 and I return to the shop and ask guy at reception for Rock. He dispatches another guy to get him. After about 5 minutes Rock appears. He's not smiling and looks a bit under the weather. But this is Thailand so I assume he'd been napping. He leads me to a large but really hot room on the second floor. He closes a window that had been emitting a hot breeze, tosses a towel on the table and says "take shower" and disappears. After showering and toweling off, I'm becoming more aware how hot this room is. I attempt to start the air conditioner but it doesn't seem to have a power source. I sit on the table for almost 10 minutes and no sign of Rock. Cut your losses I tell myself and get dressed. As I head toward the stairs, I can hear low snoring from another room. Therein lies my would-be masseur. When I get down stairs and pull on my shoes I inform the reception guy that a Rock is fast asleep. "Very sorry," he offers. I thank him for the use of the shower and leave.

Channel News Asia reports that the Wild Boars tried to dig their way out of their chamber. A military medic who stayed with the boys until they were rescued said he was impressed by their optimism and discipline. He credits their coach for contributing to the psychological and physical well being of his charges. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-cave-rescue-thai-boys-coach-tham-luang-10534542

Could you share the source of your socio-economic statistical findings?

This is an area of human sexuality that defies conventional description. As an adolescent, I had mutually enjoyable sex with many of my male peers. Very few went on to become "gay". The term didn't even exist. But there was one who I'd still get together with on spur of moment well into his 20's. That, I'm sure, anchored my attraction to predominantly straight men. They represent a key formative phase in my life and never really looked back. I've had a few exclusively gay relationships but they were short-lived. I'm with with my regular guy as I write and I'm very much aware that it's his mannerisms, the way he expresses himself and his self confidence that are big factors in my attraction to him. We don't edit what we say and neither is trying to gain the upper hand, a problem I see in some gay relationships. There's a high comfort level between us. It's not that I don't identify as gay. But I get the greater satisfaction with otherwise straight men. This doesn't keep me from enjoying sex with other gays but my preference lies elsewhere. I don't have to be number one in his life. Just being a part of it suffices for me. I admire and wish nothing but the best to LT gay couples. They'll be there for each other fof many years and I envy them that commitment. I just ask that others try to appreciate my situation.

The retired Thai Navy Seal has been posthumously promoted seven ranks to that of lieutenant commander by the King. He died during the mission to save the 13 trapped Wild Boars. https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1503426/posthumous-promotion-for-ex-seal#cxrecs_s

1300 has become my standard for good, one hour massage. But I'm confident most guys would be perfectly satisfied with 1200. Older I get my grateful component increases.

Since I can find no mention of this place before, thought is was worth a new post. Located on Surawong diagonally opposite Starbuck's, I've been walking past this shop for years without stopping. Why I'm not sure because there were always two or three nice enough looking guys sitting outside and not shy about offering a smile. Today (about 2:30 on Saturday afternoon) I was walking by and a good-looking young guy gets up and approaches me, offering a body massage. I tell him I'm on my way to Silom complex but will look for him on way back. But right away I think I'm passing on a good opportunity for no good reason other than I've never stopped there before. I take a diversion and walk up next Soi to look at GBoys in daylight and consider the matter. I grab a handout from out front and walk back to Surawong, now persuaded to take this guy up on his offer. As I approach he smiles and leads me to second floor where I settle on a one hour oil for 500. I'm taken upstairs to third floor and take shower down the hall. The room is a small cubicle but clean with massage table. "Pao" tells me he is from Isan and 20 years old. His English is limited but we manage to communicate fine on all the critical issues. As he's ready to begin, he motions to his shirt and I nod yes. It disappears along with everything else. He's one of the few guys who understands the first time around what "nit noy oil" means. He uses smooth, firm strokes as he straddles me on the table. I reach behind and locate my flaccid objective. Two minutes later it's standing at attention, or demanding it I like to think. After he finishes my back, I get off the table and ask him to take my place. No problem. After I've fulfilled my sworn duty, he resumed command. The best description of the HE was sensual, slow and caressing. None of that rapid jerking some guys resort to just to move on. Before I leave he tells me works only part time (noon to 6) Saturdays and Sundays). He gets an extra star as he didn't ask me what I would pay him. As I descended the stairs three more guys (every one of whom looked good to me) were now sitting outside.

This may be first time public hears individually from the dozen boys. http://www.khaosodenglish.com/featured/2018/07/14/hear-12-boys-and-coach-thank-world-video/ In-depth report from Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/time-is-running-out-inside-the-treacherous-rescue-of-boys-trapped-in-thai-cave/2018/07/13/df335afe-8614-11e8-8f6c-46cb43e3f306_story.html

There are many guys in the show other than the "models." As PaulSF advised in another post, go see the shows yourself. Your experience will be unique. Reviews of others may be helpful but cannot substitute for first-hand visit. Enjoy!

Although I didn't ask, his behavior said yes., for a price. Only had about 2500 left on me (hadn't come hear seriously considering an off) so I was way short of third base already as the off fee for models (as I was just reminded by an erstwhile member) is 1500. Had I been better financed, have to admit I might have gone for the whole shebang. 1500 off, 5000 tip, place in will, keys to car. He was that hot.....and zero attitude.

Addendum to third installment Forgot to mention a first in my experience of massage shops. Adam massage places small cloth bags in each room which guy points out to you to store your valuables in. You're encouraged to take the bag into shower where hooks are provided. Random observation -- Brick and mortar retail is thriving here. Visited Central World and Big C and they were both mobbed. Think "Black Friday" in post-Thanksgiving USA, 24/7/365. Dean and Deluca is about to open its largest Bkk location. As you enter Central World from walkway under BTS it will be on you right. Currency exchange -- got the best rate of trip today at SuperRich main location on Silom next to Arena. 33.25 to the USD. SuperRich Silom complex location buying dollars ar 33.12 same time. Shenanigans, which may or may not have been the Irish bar replaced by Hooters on Silom, has now opened in a large space on Surawong between Patpong 1 and Patpong 2. Doing great business on World Cup nights.

THIRD INSTALLMENT The Shows Screw Boys -- A compact place with good views of the stage and reasonable prices (300 entrance fee with one drink included). Music level is Ok but lighting is a bit too dark for my aging eyes. But I can distill much data from a silhouette. Many easy-on-the-eye boys that twink fans and others will appreciate. Good representation of Vietnam guys. Armed with a photo from a friend on my phone, I give waiter my order and pull up the pic. When he returns, he spots the phone and cuts to the chase: "you want him?" I nod my head and 15 seconds later "Tam" is sitting beside me. A slip a 100 note to the waiter and things proceed rapidly and we're soon walking down Surawong to hotel. He's friendly and has a tight, compact body that I like. He messages our mutual friend that he is happy and grateful for introduction. Moonlight -- First visit but I'm ready to give this place top billing. It's a Thursday night and I pay 350 entrance fee and given receipt for one drink (second drink is 200). There are no bad seats that I can see. I choose a stool on second row back. Other patrons have opted for rows behind men (including a scattering of Asian women) or the front row below me. Waiter takes me slip and brings me a Singha. Show is just getting underway and the staging and lighting is very professional. The sound is of the quality and volume that reverberates through my body so at least I know everything's still working. Everything about the production, from quality of guys to choreography, sends signal that this is meant to please the eyes as well as entertain. Music is selected to have wide appeal and all lyrics are in English. It appealed to me who came of age in the 60's. The stage is always well lit and the guys, who I previously only know from pics and videos, look better in the flesh. When the five models of the evening are introduced (all in briefs), one immediately gets my attention. A strong swimmer's body, perfectly proportioned with long torso. He wearing a red headband and, naturally, a dazzling smile. They eventually go off stage and show proceeds with interesting scenes. But I no longer believe the uniform size cocks are real or even intended to fool anyone. It's show business. When I saw a a pair of performers at Fresh Boys strike them against a pole and get a pinging sound in return, any unresolved questions were set aside. At some point I glance to my right and the object of my desire (the model just described), is casually leaning against wall, looking my way. I invite him to sit beside me and waiter asks me if I will by boy a drink. Of course I do and gladly pay the 400 tab presented. He tells me he's from Phuket and places a hand on my leg. I get immediately weak at the knees. I run a hand over shoulders and down the most amazing back that I've ever had pleasure to explore. When I tell him he's the best guy in show, he asks waiter to translate. Big smile and wai when he hears the words. We exchange usual stuff (where you from, how long you stay) while he maintains should contact. After about 20 minutes, he has to get back to work, I slip him 300 for his time. I get up as he does and he grabs my hand leads me away from seats, thanks me, puts his hands on my sides and then gives me another wai as he leaves. I find the waiter and give him a red note and exit. It was like flying too close to the sun. Never entered club figuring I would get to meet one of the star attractions. Somehow I managed to stumble back to hotel. When I got to room I had a bag from Family Mart in my hand and don't even remember stopping there. This guy can be seen at about the 3:45 mark of this video, entering stage wearing leather vest. https://m.youtube.co...h?v=ki61caIuzmw If you see only one show in Bangkok, this is the one. Numazu's posts about this place are right on the money. The massage scene Nakarat -- You've heard me and Vinapu talk about this place and it's my go-to shop for selection, convenience and price. Easy to find opposite Sunrise Taco at Silom and Soi 4, you'll find wide selection of guys with black shirts hanging out on Silom around entrance to soi. You pick your guy and he leads you through restaurant to third foor. 450 for 1 hour oil. Posted elsewhere about it in Gay Asia/Vietnam forum. Adam -- Also on Soi 4, this is a very well-run operation by a proprietor known for taking very good care of his charges. Hence, many have been with him for long time. If you want a good-looking veteran who is eager to accommodate your wishes, "Kume" (way it sounds to me) is a good pick. If you're looking for a younger guy who is the classic Isan specimen, you can't go wrong with "Chok". He particularly enjoys being massaged and, by now, you guys know this rates big with me and leads to repeat business. But all the guys here are nice but, as in any shop, you want to discuss your expectations before hand. You get a cup of warm tea and bottle of cold water after. 500 for 1 hour oil. Ganymede -- Posted update in separate "Ganymede Spa" topic in this forum. Other Stuff Telephone Bar -- Same great wait staff but new and disappointing menu. Whereas the old one had many color photos of dishes (that made ordering easier and quicker), this has none. One of my favorite items, the club sandwich, has disappeared from menu as have others. And the burger price seems to have jumped 40 bht. Thankfully, the drink specials remain the same as does the people watching opportunity. Golden Cock -- Stopped by for a quick session one afternoon. Brought drink for mamasan and guy who I recalled from visit last year. He produced Isan quality tool that quickly became rigid. But I was on a mission elsewhere so tipped guy, paid tab and moved on. But it's comforting to know this place continues to exist in original format. As I was settling bill, a guy came downstairs and said he was Lao. Hmmm...didn't I read something about a new guy from Laos somewhere recently?

Here's a capsule report on my experiences with Viet guys over past three trips to Bkk: All but possibly one were with straight guys. I don't rule out gays but I find that I'm attracted to vibe that what I call "Bangkok straights" give off. It's a mix of masculinity, appearance and other stuff I can't articulate. I admit that I do not find fems attractive. Where I found them: Screw Boys -- offed a guy (recommend by friend) who held up his part of arrangement. Nakarat massage -- Located at Silom and Soi 4, this shop usually has a good selection of Viet and Thais available on sidewalk or around corner on Soi. I have had massages from five different guys. Four of theose I have used two or more times and thee I have arranged to meet after hours and went back to my room. The performance of all met expectations. Nakarat: bht 450 for one hour oil, 600 for 90 min. I don't know if I've just been lucky or have an innate vetting process. I try to treat all with respect and try to make it a fun experience for both of us. Btw, one of those guys has been my regular guy who I spend much time with. He understand me and I understand him, or at least as close as I'm capable of understanding a much younger man from a very different culture. What keeps it going? He makes me laugh, something I don't seem to do enough of at home where I'm just another old man.

Broke up more than a few times, watching coverage. If you're going to give up your life to a cause greater than yourself, is there a better one? Let's keep in mind that those 22 grown men are exactly what these boys aspire to become. The lessons and discipline imparted by the game and their coaches I have to believe contributed to their character that was so in evidence throughout. That some of these boys are stateless immigrants from Myanmar adds to the signifance of this event. Their status meant nothing to those who risked their lives to get them out nor did it matter to the Thais and others who embraced them and prayed for their safe return.

Although I've never been to VN, can assure you that there are many Viet guys who'd like to make your acquaintance in BKK.

They're all out! What a grand moment for Thailand and all nations who made this possible. And what a testament to the spirit and resilience of these boys.

Great report! Echo what you say about Raya and GBoys. Good to hear you had fine time a that Art Massage location. Although I patronize the Art stops on other side of Surawong, they all seem to be working off same business model that bodes well for the group. I've heard the same from Viet guys about scattered crackdowns that don't affect guys from Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar but does indeed target them. As with most of these sweeps, they seem to come and go in phases. I know two who are returning home for visits later this month in addition to one who who left last week. It's encouraging to see how many members are visiting Bkk off season and--more important--sharing their experiences.

It's all part of the Amazing Thailand experience. One boy can come along (new or from the ranks of fond memories) and can instantly alter our mood and outlook. Happened to me on back-to-back days last week and they were both newcomers.

From CNN Atlanta, Georgia (CNN) — Air travelers, get ready for a new wide-body airliner that could be pulling up to your airport gate soon. The Airbus A330-900neo has wrapped up "route proving flights" in the United States, showing off its new engines, a wing redesign and a reimagined cabin. On Friday the jet flew from Chicago to Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, home of Delta Air Lines -- the world's second largest passenger carrier. Delta has 25 of these new planes on order, expected to enter their fleet next year. The A330-900neo is a new variant of the Airbus A330 family of long-haul twin-engine jets — with seating for about 287 in a typical three-class configuration, about 10 more seats than earlier models. Boarding this plane, the first thing I noticed was the attractive LED mood lighting -- offering millions of options for interior colors. New seats and bigger overhead luggage bins also caught my attention. Airbus says this new plane has a quieter cabin than earlier A330s. The cabin design -- dubbed Airspace -- plays with straight lines, said Airbus Interiors Marketing Director Roser Roca-Toha. "The straight lines maximize the feeling of space and volume in the cabin," said Roca-Toha. "Just like in your kitchen at home, if everything is nice and tidy and you can see the lines, it looks bigger and nicer and you feel the space and the volume. The same happens here in the aircraft. We wanted to have these uninterrupted lines when passengers board so they can feel the space and the well being." Although each airline chooses the seating design options for their own fleet, this particular aircraft is outfitted with seats -- by Recaro -- which offer several appealing functionality features. Tiny step-up holes on the base of each seat let passengers step up to reach into the overhead bins. Also, the distance that hide-away tray-tables pull out from the seat-backs is generous and adjustable. Headrests are also adjustable six ways to accommodate taller passengers. Continues with pics and video https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/airbus-a330-900-neo-tours-us-airports/index.html

Massage report for July 6, about 3:45 p.m. Can confirm all of what DivineMadman reported in OP regarding facilities and type of guys to expect. If you're like me, and can't get on the Skytrain without locating a handful of guys you'd like to put on your short list for the day, you'll likely find someone to your liking here. The briefest description that comes to mind: guy-next-door Thai guys in mid-20's. When I arrived there were three available and one greeted me with good English and a glass of water. He explained the rate card (1 hour oil now 600 and cream 700, the latter of which he recommended and I agreed to). As I judged all three to be about equal in attractiveness. I went with the greeter. Taken to a room on third floor. Boy pointed out that shower was at other end of hall and he left to shower elsewhere as it turned out. The shower is in a bathtub (jacuzzi actually). When he returned to room he had only a towel wrapped around him and that was allowed to drop to floor five minutes later. His massage skills were certainly adequate and he was eager to please. Not a lot more you can ask for. As proceedings came to a close, he asked me what "I thought." It dawned on me after a few moments that he was soliciting feedback on his performance. Don't think I had ever been asked that question outright before. "You can tell me anything," he added. Since he seemed genuinely sincere, I offered two points: spend less time on the legs and encourage customer feedback early on. He thanked me with a hug and left me to shower alone. Since there's only one shower, and it was being used by another customer (a rather hunky farang I noticed as he emerged) there was a brief delay. During prime hours, this could result in a queue. As noted above, Ganymede is easy to find and get to (20 minutes from Silom including walk from station). I messaged the shop on Line before departing and got a quick confirmation that they were indeed open. As I was leaving, a good-looking young man was just reporting for duty. Think it would be better to visit after 6p.m. for wider selection.

I did indeed. One of the drawbacks of having a regular you don't want to disappoint. Up until a year ago, I was a committed butterfly. Starting this trip I've upped my one-hour tip to 1300 and 90-min. to 1800. No complaints yet. I do tend to use guys I like frequently. I'm a sports fan and many gays I know are as well. And haven't had a massage this trip where the guy didn't bring up the games. And, for the record, I find Neymar one of the sexiest guys on the pitch. Regarding number of guys and competition, a bit of both. Many guys from out of town use the opportunity to take a break and return home. Btw, it is a gorgeous evening here with a good breeze and manageable humidity. An improvement over what folks are experiencing in much of the US and Europe.

For those not in country, it's hard to appreciate just how much the on-going effort to rescue the dozen young footballers and their coach has captured the public's hearts and minds. The news today that divers have broken through to the part of the cave known as "Pattaya Beach" and found all 13 alive has been met with massive jubilation and relief. It has to be the one of the three bigggest news events in the past five years. Now comes the tricky task of extricating them that could take as many days--10--as it did to locate them. British cave divers were.first to break through. Thirty US military specialists are also assisting Thai forces in the rescue. Here's the Bangkok Post link today; https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1496678/rescuers-seek-totally-safe-cave-extraction-for-boys

SECOND INSTALLMENT A few masssage shops I've written about it before and it's always first stop: Nakarat at corner of Silom and Soi 4 (same place Vinapu mentioned in his recent TR). My two favorite guys from Vietnam are there and they certainly didn't disappoint this time (Both have beaming smiles and grear dispositions to compliment their massage skills. Like most of the guys I choose, they're straight ("man" in the vernacular), but always leave me happy. And they enjoy being on the receiving side of massage, a big asset in my book. There are many good lads to choose from here. One hour 450, 90-minute 600. Shower down the hall, a warm cup of good tea after. Located on third floor. On Soi Tarntawan I found a guy who I first encountered nearly two years ago on that strip of shops on Surawong. Found him at one of the Art massage venues at entrance to Tarntawan Hotel but next time he was working at the refurbished shop in the old Indra digs. A well-muscled and pleasant guy, he has improved his massage skills since last trip and and always manages to keep me happy. "Root" is from Chiang Mai. Always advise first-timers to discuss expectations before hand so both parties begin on same page. SOI TWILIGHT First stop was Maxi's that has decent crowd for a weekday night in low season, especially since it was competing vs. World Cup. Two of the usual waiters were on holiday, including the favorite of many, Pao. THe friendly and upbeat manager, Tom, remains confident that the Soi will survive longer than most anticipate so you have to appreciate the outlook. Next stop was across to Fresh Boys where show was in progress. Was taken to a bench of my own, directly facing stage and my 350 drink delivered in short order by a good-looking waiter. After a while I inquired that I'd like to talk with number 24 and he promptly went backstage and returned with my request. Brought him the classic show boy beverage (coke on ice) and it was quickly delivered. Waiter appeared to slip a few folded notes discreetly to him. I could see the outside note was a 50 so I'm assuming the was a 100 under it. He places his left hand on my right leg and I glance down to inspect the abs that had drawn me to him. Washboard would be a good description. He tellls he's from Myanmar and is available tonight. I run my hand over his firm back, shoulders and arms and there's ample confirmation that this is a chiseled specimen But here's my dilemma: it's after 10:30 now and I'm meeting my regular guy at hotel at midnight. I'd come to see the show I haven't seen in a while but couldn't pass up oppportunity four same face--and hand--time with this special package. So I explain my problem, says he understands so I give him 200 for the privilege of time spent and he returns backstage.(btw, he ticks all Christianpfc's requirements: warm smooth skin, no fat, slim and a bit on real side). Then cute.waiter sits with me. "I Myanmar, too," he announces. He takes my left hand and places it the magical spot that will soon make difficult to stand up in his tight jeans. Now I'm forced to tell him my predicament about previous commitment. He suggests.that I bring him anyway but I beg off. Had already tipped him 100 for my and no. 24's drinks and gave him another red note for his time. When I was leaving he walks me outside. I tell him when gets off some work next week, look to see if I'm in Maxi's and I'll buy him a drink and we can pick up where we left off. To be continued. NOTE -- a tip of the hat to DivineMadman for setting record straight on.the impending changes for the parcel at Silom and Convent mentioned it OP. it's going to be a high-rise office/commercial project. If you liked Bua restaurant you can now find it on the opposite side of Silom in area of BTS station.

On two of my last three trips I flew Qatar. It's shorter by nearly three hours. But this time I got better deal on ANA (which I've flown before and liked). When I first started my BKK travels I was a committed Delta customer and lost count of how many times I passed through Narita. Got to know some of the veteran flight attendants who bid the route for its benefits. But when Delta dropped Bangkok I dropped Delta. It seems no matter which way I fly I get the most jet lag on the return home.