Airport Rail Link Part II

Photo time!

As a follow up to the Airport Rail Link post on August 11, here's a photo that I took the other day.


What we're seeing is Ratchaprarop (meaning Royal Word) Station, the next-to-the-last station.

From here, a main shopping center, Ratchaprasong (meaning Royal Suggestion) Intersection, is only ten minutes away on foot.

Or, you can ignore this station and get off at the next one, Phayathai, and change to the BTS Skytrain so you can go indulge yourself at what probably is the world's biggest weekend market, Jatujak, which is only 4-5 stations away.

Shopping is harder said than done here, isn't it? Or, is it easier done than said?

Earth From Above

Apart from the rainbow that graced Bangkok sky in the afternoon, another highlight of my day is in the evening.... at Earth From Above.



This unique outdoor exhibition is currently on show at Central World Plaza (just across the street and connected by a bridge from Gaysorn Plaza)

Here, we have a French maestro, Yann Arthus-Bertrand, as the man behind the camera. He had been so fascinated with the beauty of Mother Nature that he decided to conserve Her. He did so w/ such majestic works, taken from 30 to 30,000 meters above the ground to reveal an unconventional perspective of Hers.

Also check out the gigantic spread out world map that accurately details each and every geological landmark. Gear up for a world tour!

Saturday Surprise!!!

Rare moment for all city slickers! Rainbow......as seen from Gaysorn Plaza.

This is totally unexpected. People took out their coolest camera to capture the caught creature.

I felt such urge to follow the rainbow 'cause I knew the pot of gold was waiting for me. In fact, there's a pot of gold for everyone in Bangkok, residents and tourists alike.

I found mine when I got home.

One night in Bangkok

It's Friday night here and most people I know are not at home.

Randy just went out for Sauna Mania. It's open until 6 o'clock in the morning.

Watit should still be at the Aksara Theatre, enjoying tango from Argentina.

Calvin and Raymond are on their way to DJ Station. It is supposed to be most packed every Friday. Just the way they want.

Den just called and raved about a new restaurant and a gorgoeus dinner w/ his high school friends. It's on the river and across the water from Wat Arun. He called to confirm our trip to Jatujak Market on Sunday.

If there hasn't been any change in schedule, my mom should still be at a set of a new film. According to her, today is a scene at Hua Lumphong, the hub station for all trains to and from provinces. Today she's playing a mother seeing her son off to some war. She said that after the set, she would try Rut & Lek, a city-renowned seafood restaurant in Chinatown which is a few steps from where she's working.

Jume, my colleague, is experiencing her first day at TRUE FITNESS at Exchange Tower on Asoke. She had wanted me to be a member too, so we could hang out more. But I'm far from wishing to work out to air-conditioners.

It seems I'm the only person I know who's staying at home.

Well, what else can a sick boy do?

ill but fine Joe

Bangkok Warning

Today in the afternoon my company sent me to attend a seminar on global warming at Courtyard by Marriott. The event is called Spirit to Serve Communities.

It's all "we've heard it all before." Green House Effect. melting polar ice, drought in certain parts of the globe, flood in many regions of the world, and of course, to-be-under-water Bangkok.

Who said this city is not coastal?

Bangkok has indeed a district open to the sea. But sadly speaking, it is a delta, so we've got no beach to brag about.

It is a hard fact that Bangkok might eventually be under water. For a record, she is slowly sinking every year, and the sea level is apparently gaining ground.

So, moral lesson is.......come see the dry version of the city before it's no longer here. But, if you don't make it for whatever reason, there will still be a wet and wavy face of hers for you to savor. But am I just naively optimistic?

Come on, this city is far too fun to let go. For one thing, we've already installed the skytrains. See? We can go from there!


Prepared Joe

Street Vendors - What they could do

One thing that used to turn me off so much about Bangkok is street vendors. They are a big reason why the streets in the city are so messy.

All kinds of merchants can be found here. Let's start w/ food, fruits, juice, clothes, accessories, lotteries, phone cards, CDs/DVDs, and the list goes on.

They make the already unwalkable narrow, terrible footpaths even more so. Many food vendors also do their dishes there and dump the dirty load into the public sewage.

Someone close once offered consolation though. 'But they add character to the city. Without them, Bangkok would be like any big city in the world, boring." And, I would go, albeit silently, "Yeah right, you white people will never ever outgrow Exotic.'

But, tonight we had the same discussion and he shared more of his two cents.

Basically, he pointed out that allowing street vendors is like allowing thousands of people w/ almost no education to stay employed. And, that's how you keep, for example, crime rates low.

That makes sense. Never once in my entire life have I, walking the busy streets of Bangkok, felt that I'm in danger or that I might see my valuables snatched away. I'm not suggesting that it will never happen, but you've got to be really unlucky.

Ok, maybe it is wise to listen to what westerners say sometimes.

Bye for now guys, off to buy spicy minced pork w/ Thai basils on steamed jasmine rice. The one next to the international phone booth in our neighborhood is really good!

Grateful Joe

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Airport Rail Link, what else will be linked as well?

A lot of people have patiently been waiting for the rail link connecting our new airport - Suvarnnabhumi - to the city of Bangkok to finish. It is not a big surprise that this mega project has sufferred delay after delay. Isn't it always the case w/ every other big project in this country?

Anyway, looks like the dream-come-true day is near, as we can see the construction is well approaching completion.

Without a doubt, tourists will greatly benefit from this fast train. The flat-fee fare is said to be 150 Baht (around 4.5 US dollars or 3 Euros.) Good ol' meter taxis cost around 400-500 Baht including toll way.

What else will be linked as well?

Well, while one train will not stop until it reaches the airpot or the city, the other will be allowing ordinary people to up- and unloading themselves along the way. There will be six stations in total, and thousands of Bangkokians will have a new, upgraded way to commute. Then, we will see changes and new additions on the streets and malls of Bangkok.

I still remember vividly when the subway was opened some 4 years ago. I remember being surprised seeing on a train how many provincial-looking people the capital apparently harbored (call me a snob, if you will, but I insist I'm observant.)

It was such a far cry from the metropolitan passengers on the skytrains that had been in use for about 4-5 years already.

The subway that was once opening up a less polished part of Bangkok is now helping expand what is considered cool sections of the city. Appearance-wise underground commuters are catching up w/ those on the elevated trains. No kidding!

The airport rail link (28-kilometer or 17.4 mile long) will have impact the way the BTS skytrain and the MRT subway have. For one thing, you will never be deprived of beauty product ads and commercials whichever direction you're taking. Especially skin whitening cream!

A European friend of mine once said Bangkok people have a lot of attitudes even though the city is not that great. Well, great or not quite, be prepared for more people like that, my friend, 'cause after all.....you are what you ride, right?

Especially when what you ride is infested w/ what 'should" make you look right!

Kiss,
Boy de Bangkok

Coming for a Medical Reason?

I've heard of medical tourism for long while but didn't really pay attention until guest after guest of ours was here for a medical treatment. This "third world" country of mine surprises me sometimes.

There is no shortage of hospitals in Bangkok that conspicuously exist to serve foreigners. Certainly, all of them are private. Heard of Bumrungrad, BNH etc? I've been to one of those and so I can say 'nifty lobby."

A little bird told me that private hospitals are not allowed in some countries like Canada because hospitals should be there for everybody. So, in Canada the rich and the not so rich are guaranteed a place to mingle. Here in Thailand, we operate according to our fortune (or the lack thereof.)

Ask me what I think is the big picture. As of now, I can only say I don't know. Seems like you have to wait until I'm alot older and therefore sufficiently wiser, if that will ever happen. All I can say right now is more power to the wealthy. If you can afford it, so be it.

Wishing excellent health to all of you and, myself,
Joe

Outdoor Living Room

Weekend finally! It's Saturday morning here and I still don't have plans for today (shouldn't have cancelled the trip to Koh Kret in Nonthaburi that my colleagues and I had hoped to visit.)

Today is also one of those rare days when Apt A4 is available. Maybe getting engrossed w/ this blog or a book at its tropical balcony is not an idea too vanilla. This spacious outdoor living room overlooking part of our neighborhood has been everybody's darling since her debut.

It's pretty usual, I think, that when you're on a holiday, a lazy dayoff from those going-out-and-about's is somehow required.

When that happens, A4 occupants can always relocate themselves to this private outdoor hideaway.

So, when I, an authorized intruder, finish this post, I'm gonna still linger here. I'm so being in love w/ More Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin.

Until we chat again,
Joe

Newest Toy

Thai people especially spoiled folks of Bangkokians can never live without fun. No matter what we do, fun has be an element. "If you don't have fun at work anymore, why would you linger?" "I don't wanna lunch w/ her anymore, she's no fun!." "Speeches at the protest are pretty funny and spot on! You should come when you have time."

Mr. Apirak, the current governor of Bangkok, seems to have a lot of time for this Thai trait. He has come up w/ projects aimed to create "ultra convenience" for all beloved residents - genuis traffic billboards, genuis taxi stops, super smart this, super brilliant that.

Now, it's time for the term "Wireless." No no, it's not about taking down the eyesore electrical and telephone wires hanging all over place. It is about connecting to the www's in a cordless manner!

Bangkok's new promoted name is "Wi-Fi Capital of Asia." The ongoing campaign boasts more than 15,000 spots across the metropolis where the connection sans cable is guaranteed.

The other day at Central World Plaza, I was given 3 pin numbers that I can use to register for a Wi-Fi account and look cool across town. I'm not hotly hooked but still.....it could be fun! The 3 accounts that I can apply for will be good until end of September. I guess I'd better hurry up.

Back to BangkokSong, we provide free Wifi too. The radius is said to be 30 meters, meaning you can go online anywhere within our veritible vacation community. Plus, if you come prior to September's end, you will be able to experience 'fun" anywhere in the city too.

See you real soon,
Joe

Plentiful

Bangkok may be infamous for her horrendous traffic, soul-killing pollutions and all that, and in the process coming across as a city where healthy lifestyle is impossible. Here we will kindly rebutt that.

Despite all of her flaws, this exciting metropolis is blessed w/a lot of features that alllow for good health. Let us elaborate one that almost single-handedly forms well-being - good food.

Good in our book means nutritious and affordable. This "sinful" city can feed you w/ fruits, veggie, and herbs all year round. Mango, Pine Apple, Water Melon, Magosteen, Banana, Bok Choy, Clauliflower, Asparagus, Mushroom, Basil, Chilli, Peppers, Lemongrass. You name some of them and this city will find you all of them. It is just non-stop. From high-end supermarkets to extremely reasonable vendors on the streets, it is all clear we will never be denied of what we badly need.


Most recommended at this hour is juice from young coconut. Pls do not confuse it w/ coconut milk which should be avoided. An Indian naturopath has successfully used young coconut juice to stop death at an AIDS orphanage here in Bangkok. Yes, it's that good!

Price range: 40 Baht at Siam Paragon's food court, 35 Baht at Maneeya's, 25 Baht at Central World's, 20 Baht at vendors on various streets but only 10 Baht at the fresh market in our neighborhood. See? Another good reason to stay at BangkokSong.

Cheers,
Randall & Joe

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Apt A2 described

When you open the door that says A2, you will see a handy kitchen on your right. The gas stove is there so you can have a proper cup of coffee/tea or meal anytime you wish. The cabinets and drawers are packed w/ necessary utensils. On your left hand side is the living room. There we have a cozy lounge where decor and lighting endlessly flirt w/ each other.


When it comes to bedtime, only enter the next room whose main color can only be described as bold. Placed in an Asian style, the firm-yet-soft mattress confortably sleeps 2 people. There are three types of cooling that everyone can choose from - aircon, ceiling fan, or a breezy night by opening the windows. Those who travel w/ bulky suitcases need not worry since our large built-in cabinet will take care of that. You will also be entertained w/ a set of TV/DVD player and a music system.


The other door of the bedroom opens to a cute little balcony where you will be tempted to spend some quality time chilling. Now, where is the bathroom? Just go back inside, pass the bedroom, back into the living space, and there it is. Interestingly located, our wet area here is clean and shiny. Be prepared to enjoy fun lighting and creative touch throughout. If this space fits you and your budget, feel free to contact us referencing A2. Thank you.

New Kid On The Block

That Apt A2 is!

After Paul left (we miss and wish him well,) I lost Randy to his new baby. Dinners have never been so insignificant.

I hope my photo does the justice.

Joe

Change is constant

We've heard about this from day one, haven't we?

Change is always there, subtle when we analyze it, obvious when we didn't expect it. The latter kind is happening to our community right now.

First of all, Paul of Apt A2 is returning to England due to family committment. He's hoping to come back within 6 months though.

Next is Mani, another dear friend who a few months ago moved to Manila, planning to spend the rest of his life there. He's returning to live in Bangkok again starting this coming Sunday.

The last change that's already happened is very obvious and yet expected. Allow me to proudly reveal the new face of Apt A5 (B & B) here.


There's good space behind the wall units. Very useful indeed. Wanna know what it's for?

Joe

What's that dark red thingy?

You're forgiven if you mistake it for red wine. But yes, the bottle used to harbor wine.

The thingy's name is roselle. If you haven't heard of it, feel free to wikipedia (gosh, I owe this site a daily good night kiss.)

In Thai, we call it "Kra-Jiab."

Kra-Jiab is very sour and therefore charged w/ Vitamine C (pls condone my logic here.) Anyway, in summary, roselle juice is uber good for you. Proof - my scurvy has never wished to see me ever again since Randy stumbled upon roselle buds in a Thai herb store in our neighborhood.

I've made this juice for some of the guests before. Some said they enjoyed the taste of it. Some even said it seemed to calm their stomach.

I promise I'll make Joe-brewed roselle part of every BangkokSong stay from now on.

Joe

Latest Link

For 3 nights from June 20 to 23, we had such a lovely family staying w/ us at A6. Nate & Krista, Tayah (8,) Max (6,) and Sera (3.) They're from Saipan Island.



Saipan is the largest island in the western Pacific Ocean, about 200 km north of Guam, and also a popular tourist destination. (www.wikipedia.org)

It was the first trip to the Big Mango for the family, and they seemed to thoroughly enjoy it. Now, they've sent us their blog http://saipanhawleys.blogspot.com/ Feel free to check it out.

Joe

p.s. the bottom of this page also hosts blogs/website of our other guests.

Hoping

Seeing Bangkoksong ads on craiglist, Califonian Jeffrey emailed us one day asking if we'd be interested in managing his apartment as a part-time vacation rental.

After a couple of emails, Jeffrey invited us over a dinner at Vincent's on Rama IV. Here's what we learned about his Bangkok's pad.

It's a two-bedroom unit located on the other side of the Chaopraya River (the Rivers of the Kings.) The building is called Life @ Tah-Phra. Jeff and his partner Bret bought it so they can divide time between the two cities. Enviable life, isn't it? The transfer is about to be finalized. Next is furnishing.

We haven't seen the unit yet, but we're hooked already. Now, we can only hope that Jeffrey likes us too!

Randall & Joe

Well done, Bangkok!

We hope it is not too late to congratulate Bangkok, our favorite city in the whole world, for the world's best city title from Travel & Leisure Magazine for 2008.

See? No more hesitation if you've only heard about but not yet seen, touched, smelled, felt or basked in this wondrous jungle.

All Bangkokians and expats hail the world's crown jewel!

Well at least for this year (and hopefully beyond!)


Randall, Ed & Joe

Taking Apt A1?

Randy talked A1 again today at the dinner. He said Ed and he would totally go for the apartment when it becomes available sometime in September.

When taking A2 in June, we all joked 'there are only 2 more apartments (A1 & A3) to go before the whole floor is ours." About 2 weeks later, A1 tenants notified their tentative moveout to Khun Bell, the manager of the building. Lovely Khun Bell passed the news to Randy almost immediately.

Neither Ed or my man has seen the inside of A1 yet, but the latter is sure he can work it and seems really excited.

As for me, I can only say I'm gonna enjoy July and August and not thinking much about September. But alas, time does fly, doesn't it?

Good night,

Joe

Mirror on the wall.......not

Here comes the time when Ed has to leave. He's leaving for Singapore and then back home which is New York and which is to change soon.

Here also comes a time when he leaves BangkokSong a gift.

It is something for everyone to reflect on. How thoughtful! Well, if everyone wants to ponder their reflection.

Ed's idea is to hang this rectangular framed mirror on the wall, above the living room couch. Randy let it hang in there for as long as 10 minutes. He said he preferred vertical.

So, while Ed's gone, the mirrow will be standing on the floor, against the opposite living room wall. To make up for the betrayal, Randy will have some things nailed on the deserted wall. Something Cambodian!

Listen Ed, Randy's really sorry!!

Cheers,

Joe

p.s. it's Apt A6 we're talking about