The Bangkok Podcast

Greg interviews Mark Siegel, the director of Golfasian, one of Asia's largest golf tour operators. Greg opens with the caveat that neither he nor Ed are golfers and leaves it up to Mark to do his best to sell us on a golf holiday in the Land of Smiles. Greg begins by noting that his first thought of a relaxing holiday would not be to spend 4 hours walking around in the scorching sun, but Mark (in the first of his many insights) responds that if you're back in the freezing winter of Canada you might! Mark then points out that the unique appeal of Thailand is that there are so many other things for tourists to do that even if you do spend 4 hours in the sun, the rest of the day can be spent getting a Thai massage or relaxing by the pool. In further discussions of what makes Thailand so good for golf compared to other destinations, Mark observes that there are over 60 (!) golf courses of all difficulty levels within proximity to Bangkok, and about one-third of them are owned by the military which means they are not run for profit and are incredibly cheap compared to places such as Japan. The guys continue with an in-depth discussion of the positive economic impact of golf courses on surrounding communities, what golf will look like in Thailand over the coming years, and how a golf holiday may actually be considered eco-friendly. By the end, Greg and Ed are sold. At least in theory. If they don't have to get off their couches. But you, you can go do it for real and tell us all about it! Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In this episode, Greg fills us in on all the special concerns of being a parent in Bangkok. As if being a parent on its own didn't have enough surprises, it turns out there are several things to keep in mind if you are expecting or even just bringing a child to the Big Mango. Pre-eminent is of course the issue of proper schooling, be it Thai or international or some combination of both. Greg explains the 3 C's - cost, commute, and curriculum - that all new parents must build their life around. As Ed sits by in ignorant awe, Greg runs through other parental revelations, such as malls (of all things) actually being good things that can function as safe, fun, air-conditioned havens for kids. While Ed preaches the value of NOT driving in Bangkok, Greg lists all the advantages of having a car when burdened - er, blessed - with a child. More cool insights follow (did you ever consider looking at the size of the wheels on your stroller?), including a few lessons in cultural sensitivity. Bangkok may have the reputation of a hedonistic city of fun and frivolity, but when the stork comes calling, you probably want to listen to this episode. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Kru Nan from the "You Too Can Learn Thai" podcast. Greg begins with the theory of the 'critical period,' that the human brain is primed to learn languages early in life but not later. Kru Nan notes that the research is not final and that adults might actually have some advantages over children. For example, adults may be able to absorb more information more quickly and also to contextualize it because of their pre-existing knowledge about the way the world works. Next, Greg and Kru Nan discuss the difference between beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners, from the nature of the class preparation to the study materials themselves. This leads to a fascinating discussion about how culture affects the interpretation of anecdotes and dreams. Listen in for details, but suffice it to say 'snakes' don't always mean the same thing around the world. Kru Nan follows with several more fascinating examples of how culture - both pop and traditional - affect our use of language. If you have any interest in improving your Thai, definitely check out www.youtoocanlearnthai.com for resources and the podcast by clicking here. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed discuss some negative expat stereotypes - roughly the person you (probably) don't want to become while living in Thailand...at least forever. We all fall prey to stereotypes sometimes - they have to come from somewhere - but if you're not careful, you can become comfortable with some of these lifestyles and before you know it, they come to define your new identity in your new home, and suddenly you're known as The Whiner, or The Apologist. And that's just the beginning! Heaven forbid that people start to know you as The Premature Pontificator, or The Creep, The Slob, The Bubble Boy or The Player. Like we said, it's hard to escape most of these all the time, but Bangkok's mai-pen-rai lifestyle is addictive, and trust us - before you know it, a decade has gone by and you're still wearing that old Chang singlet out to dinner that you bought when you first arrived on Khao San Road (that'd be The Slob). Have a listen and see how Greg and Ed define these common tropes. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Khun Panarat Anamwathana about the bombing of Bangkok during World War II. Beginning with a discussion about how Thai people today perceive Thailand's involvement in the Second World War, K. Panarat notes that many Thais' attitudes are actually shaped by popular culture and specific romantic stories about that time period in Thai history. Most Thais today don't realize the tragic nature of the conflict and the truly precarious nature of Thailand's relationship with both Japan and the western powers. Next, K. Panarat discusses the fascinating role of Seni Pramoj, the Thai Ambassador to the United States and his role in leading the Seri Thai, or 'Free Thai,' movement, the pro-Western faction of Thai society. Because of his role, Thailand largely escaped punishment after the West's victory. We also discuss which areas of the city were bombed, how the locals reacted and what role the government took vs grassroots groups in organizing evacuations. Greg and K. Panarat also elaborate on the unique role of Prime Minister Phibunsongkhram, one of the more colorful characters in Thai history as mentioned previously on the podcast. In short, although the Prime Minister officially supported the Japanese, he also sought aid from both Britain and America in a complicated game of diplomatic brinkmanship, shades of which you can still see in Thai society, where playing both sides can sometimes be a bit of an artform. Listen in for more details on what Greg and Ed think is the most fascinating period in Thai history. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

On a suggestion from listener Emily, Greg and Ed go back to basics with book and movie recommendations for people new to Thailand and Southeast Asia, or old-timers looking to refresh their knowledge after being disconnected during all this covid hullabaloo. Ed begins with three foundational books: the all-time classic 'Lonely Planet Thailand,' written by friend of the podcast Joe Cummings, the insightful (if a bit outdated) 'Culture Shock: Thailand,' and the super creative 'Very Thai,' by Phillip Cornwall-Smith (not to mention his followup 'Very Bangkok'). Greg follows with his own key recommendations, including 'The Thai Book' by Ron Morris and 'A History of Thailand' by Chris Baker and Pasuk Phongpaichit. Ed concurs and also puts a word in for 'Thailand: A Short History,' by David K. Wyatt. Turning to movies, Ed notes that all foreigners interested in Thai culture should see the ghost film 'Nang Nak,' which relates possibly the most popular story in all of Thai pop culture. For some history perspective, Francis Ford Coppola's cut of 'Suriyothai' is a good place to start, but seeing some version of the famous (partly fictional) story 'The King and I' is probably a good idea. To appreciate the Thai fascination with animism and experience Thailand's most accredited filmmaker, check out 'Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall HIs Past Lives', by the filmmaker whose name only Greg can pronounce (that'd be Apichatpong Weerasethakul). In closing, the guys make a few final suggestions. To learn about the man who has shaped modern Thai politics (for better or worse), read 'Thaksin' by Chris Baker, or grab 'Anand Panyarachun and the Making of Modern Thailand' by Dominic Faulder for a look at another legendary figure. Greg concludes by suggesting the under-appreciated film 'City of Ghosts' with Matt Dillon, a crime thriller set in Cambodia and Thailand. These recommendations likely won't shock anyone, but you gotta start somewhere, and this is it. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Things are not so great right now, and they're even more desperate for people who live on the edge, which is why we're pleased to chat with Friso Poldervaart, Greg Lange, and Kerv Chittaropas about their organization Bangkok Community Help. The three are instrumental in providing the community of over 100,000 with food, medical supplies, living essentials and care packages in Khlong Toey, Bangkok's biggest slum community. The discussion gets into the history of Khlong Toey, how the English word 'slum' does the people who live there a disservice, and the intricacies, difficulties, and triumphs of giving people a helping hand amid Thailand's complicated lattice of permissions and regulations. And of course all of this becomes exponentially more difficult - and necessary - in the midst of Covid-19. From cooking food to buying ambulances to painting bare concrete, Bangkok Community Help is putting charity first to help the underprivileged in Bangkok, and our guests give listeners an up close view of what it's like. To donate to Bangkok Community Help, click here. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed relates his 4-day adventure in the much-reported-on Phuket Sandbox. But spoiler alert: It wasn't a great trip, mostly due to bad luck: it was gray and rainy almost the entire time, thus denying him quality beach time. Oh well. But what was not bad luck was the way that the Thai government has marketed the Sandbox. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has repeatedly stated that Phuket is 'open' to tourism as of July 1st, and Ed took that to mean that the most popular area on the island, Patong, would actually be ready for tourists. Alas, this was not the case, with only a third of restaurants open and 95% of everything else closed. With bad weather and not much to do, the trip was more or less doomed, but a glimmer of hope presented itself with a chance meetup with friend of the podcast Dan Fraser, travel expert extraordinaire, who coincidentally has been hired by the TAT to market Phuket to foreign tourists. Dan was able to explain that the TAT was focusing on 'non-beach activities' on the island of Phuket, such as environmental tours, museums, and local arts and culture events. Ed and Greg discuss this approach and largely agree with the TAT's strategy; Ed just wishes he knew about it before booking a hotel in Patong. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed bare their souls and discuss how living in Thailand has changed them for the better - and for the worse. Greg begins by noting that since being in Thailand he has a much greater appreciation for the life struggles of the average person, in Thailand as well as the rest of the world. Raised middle class in the West, it is easy to see yourself as 'normal,' when in reality you are quite lucky compared to many people around the world. Ed then observes that living overseas has helped him to realize what is universal in the human experience and what is more cultural or unique. The truth is that a lot of 'Thai' behavior is just human and not uniquely Thai, and the same goes for things that we think of as American. Greg follows by pointing out all of his accomplishments of the last twenty years and how making his way in the world as an expat has given him a different angle on the world than his friends back home. Not necessarily a 'better' angle, but certainly a different one. Not being able to escape all the classes he teaches, Ed notes that he has learned a much greater appreciation for the boring subject of the 'rule of law.' Simple things that you take for granted back home - such as everyone who breaks the law gets punished - are not always true in Thailand, and the consequences can be grave. As for how Thailand has made Greg and Ed worse, you'll have to listen to the show to hear those confessions. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

It's a dream of many to move to Thailand and start their own business - be it a spiffy e-commerce site, a beer bar on a beach, or some type of consultancy. But navigating the tricky cultural and bureaucratic hurdles isn't something to be taken lightly. We're joined by Derek van Pelt, a Thailand resident for 24 years and someone who has had a number of successes in a variety of different arenas. Currently a partner at Stonelotus Ventures and a long-time friend of Greg and Ed's, Derek talks about what brought his past businesses success and why he chose to shut some, his advice to people who want to start their own business here, his role as President of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and insights into Bangkok's business community. And of course, to discuss one of Greg's favorite restaurant chains, getfresh, which Derek helps manage. It's not an easy road for anyone, but as Derek notes, if you have the three Ps - patience, perseverance, and presence - making it work in Thailand will be a lot easier. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Diving into one of their more complex topics, Greg and Ed explore some of the questions that arise when raising a child with an appreciation for skepticism and science in the middle of a culture known for its superstitious beliefs. With Ed teaching a critical thinking class to Thai college students and Greg's son asking questions about ghosts and praying, the boys have some interesting insights. Greg stresses the delicacy of parents in his situation: were he to directly state his opinion that ghosts are not real and praying for something has no effect on the outcome, it could create friction between his son and the Thai side of his family, who sit more on the 'probably/definitely' side of the scale. While trying to ensure his son grows up with an appreciation for evidence and science, this also provides a good lesson on respecting others' beliefs, despite having different ones yourself. Where exactly is the instruction manual for this situation? The guys wrestle with the issue, doing their best to come up with some guidelines. Perhaps just appreciating the importance of threading the needle between the two cultures is the key to being a good parent. Greg's not gonna be able to get it perfect, but maybe just trying is the point. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Chin Chongtong, the founder of Chili Paste Food Tours, a food-based tourism company in Bangkok. Khun Chin first relates her difficult early days as an untrained tour guide, giving informal tours around Bangkok, having to negotiate both massive floods and military coups that shut down half the city. After getting a formal tour guide certificate from the Thai government, she and a friend developed the concept of food-based tours around Bangkok and occasionally other parts of Thailand. Chin is known for her highly specialized tours and her ability to seek out the most unique or hole-in-the-wall locations serving hard-to-find-food for any audience - vegetarians, spice-lovers, or those who are simply adventurous and want a surprise. Greg and Chin then trade some behind-the-scenes stories about being a tour guide, in particular the need to be flexible and to have backup plans for every eventuality. Obviously operating a business that relies on tourism right now is not easy, and Chin explains how she's adapted during Covid. In a city famous for having a million food options, it's great to have Chin and a company like Chili Paste Tours to do all the legwork and research for you! Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

On this show the guys keep it real by discussing things they do not like about being an expat. Plus, patrons and listeners write in with their own pet peeves about being a stranger in the strange land of Thailand. Ed begins with his number one complaint: being mistaken for a tourist. Even after 20 years in Thailand, he is still clearly not Thai, and Thais (especially those looking to make a buck) assume that 'not-Thai' equals tourist. This annoyance manifests itself in many ways, from constant pestering to buy tchotchkes to take home (wooden frog anyone?) to taxi drivers that won't use the meter. Ed wishes for a permanent sign (or maybe a tattoo?) that makes clear he's not fresh off the plane. Greg follows with a whole series of annoyances sent in by listeners, from the classic 'can you take care of my friend's friend while they are in Thailand' to the more obscure favors asked by former expats who still need help from someone in-country (power of attorney, really?). The complaints run the gamut, but with one overriding certainty: if the positives didn't outweigh the negatives, we wouldn't still be here. That doesn't mean there are no negatives though. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed interview Dr. Sarah Taylor, the Canadian Ambassador to Thailand to discuss her role in Thailand, Thailand's role in Asia, and what Canada and Thailand have in common...and don't have in common. Ambassador Taylor comes from a long line of diplomats, with parents who met while on mission overseas. Once bitten by the travel bug, she ended up majoring in archaeology but later began a career in the Canadian foreign service. She has had stints in several countries around the world, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and China, before becoming Canada's Ambassador to Thailand in 2019. The ambassador discusses her job as well as Canada's relationship with Thailand, especially in light of Canada's much larger neighbor often hogging the international spotlight. She also discusses how Canada's experience dealing with indigenous peoples could be helpful to the Thai government in its relationship to the various hill tribes scattered throughout North Thailand. Among other things, the guys pepper the Ambassador with questions about the trouble in Myanmar, the role of Asean, Canadian companies in Thailand, feminism in Thailand, and the most important issue of them all: the exorbitant price of maple syrup in Thailand. Listen in if you want proof that a person can be both insanely erudite and successful and 'aw shucks' down-to-Earth as well. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

The guys return to their 'Seven Deadly Sins' series to discuss the sin of 'Sloth.' Greg notes in an introduction that sloth can be a little hard to define in that all the other sins involve actively doing something, whereas sloth of course can refer to simply being really lazy. The guys agree that for the purposes of the show they will rule out simply staying home and being a slug on the couch to answer the question - what are some of the best ways to spend a day in Bangkok being as slothful as possible? Greg begins with a simple idea: hanging out at one of Bangkok's many swanky 5-star hotels. Sounds simple but long-term expats often overlook the awesome infrastructure built to cater to tourists. We can use it too! He also recommends dailypass.com, a membership service that allows you to take advantage of a hotel's full amenities (such as gym and swimming pool) without being a guest...for a fee. Last, Greg goes back to the old faithful, the ultra 5-star cinema experience where you can be insanely pampered while catching Hollywood's latest. Ed pimps one of his old standbys, the Thai massage: undeniably cheap and relaxing, especially if you choose a variety to your liking. Next, weather permitting, he recommends simply chilling at one of Bangkok's many parks as the Thais do, especially the idyllic Lumpini Park on Wireless Road. Rent a mat, bring some food, and become sloth. Last, Ed notes that Bangkok is world-famous for its many spas, where it's actually possible to know what it's like to be treated like royalty. The Bangkok Podcast thinks you're worth it! :)

Greg and Ed interview Oliver Ackermann, one of the co-producers of the Thailand-based Netflix series "The Serpent," about 1970s era serial killer Charles Sobhraj. Oliver is a partner in Living Films, a prominent production company based in Thailand famous for shepherding large foreign productions (such as Hangover 2, which our buddy Chris Lowenstein talked about on season 1) through the maze of Thai government regulations as well as Thai culture in general. Oliver walks through his process of finding locations in Thailand that can mimic almost any place in the world, and laying the groundwork for a small army of people to make a globetrotting series about murder and deception in Bangkok. Oliver also discusses his role helping foreign actors adjust to Thai culture and temperature, interfacing with the Thai film board that must approve all scripts, the amazing local Thai film crews, the BBC's obsessive research on the source material for 'The Serpent,' and how to find dozens of genuine, functioning 1970s era automobiles in Thailand. In short, if you want to know anything about foreign film productions in Thailand, Oliver is your man. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This is the second episode of Greg and Ed's interview with Joe Cummings, expat extraordinaire. This episode begins with a bang as the guys discuss the future of cannabis in Thailand and then goes right into the kind of story that has to be heard to be believed, but basically it involves an attempted recruitment of Joe into the CIA while he was a graduate student at the University of California at Berkeley. Enough said. The guys follow with a discussion of Joe's take on the current round of protests and how they relate to all the protests of the past (and Joe has seen MANY). Ed and Greg give their perspectives about what may be different about the current protesters while Joe offers a fairly skeptical perspective but with a hint of optimism. Last, Greg asks Joe a question from our patron Phil, about what adventures are left in Thailand. Joe explains that there are actually plenty of islands in the South that are relatively untravelled in Thailand. Greg finishes off with a few classic 'Joe stories' from his long friendship with the legend. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed do a tag team interview of legendary Thailand expat Joe Cummings, a renaissance man and expert on Thai culture if there ever was one. Joining us during a break on his latest film role, Joe and Greg discuss how they met in the jungles of Mae Hong Son 18 years ago, and discuss how Joe went from being known primarily as a writer (most famously founding Lonely Planet Thailand) to being an actor, musician and consultant on Southeast Asian mythology and culture, most recently for the Disney film 'Raya and the Last Dragon'. Although a consummate traveler and consumer of Thai nightlife, Joe also explains that he has two Master's Degrees, one in Southeast Asian Studies and one in Applied Linguistics. It's safe to say Joe's expertise is grounded both in the academic world and the real world of his hundreds of adventures in Thailand and around the world. The guys then traverse a wide range of subjects from the apparent increase in Asian representation in American cinema to the extent to which both the U.S. and Thailand are really 'melting pots' of different ethnicities. Joe then discusses a recent documentary film on the controversial Dhammakaya sect of Buddhism that is based in Thailand. Part One of the interview concludes with Joe's take on the future of Thai tourism in light of the COVID pandemic. Many more interesting topics await in next week's Part Two. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Hey there! This type of content usually goes out to our patrons only, but we figured it was important and relevant to everyone, so we're putting it out to y'all! Our buddy Kevin and his wife Tip have just landed in Bangkok from the US after getting vaccinated and doing a whackload of paperwork. We check in with him to see what the process was like and get an idea of what people may have to deal with as they start to return to Thailand. Enjoy!

Utilizing a topic suggested by listener Wes, Greg and Ed discuss the unwritten 'rules' of Thai culture - the ones that everyone knows but aren't written down anywhere, despite Ed wishing they were because he really has no idea what he's doing right and wrong! As Greg notes, we all have to fake it until we make it. Greg then begins a series of specific puzzles that farangs have to navigate, including the proper use of the expletive 'arai wa,' knowing when or how much to lower your head when passing in front of someone, trying to determine the correct use of 'nong' and 'phee' when interacting with a stranger of indeterminate age, and how to wai someone when your hands are otherwise occupied. The guys discuss each puzzle, but Ed notes his overarching problem: what to do when Thai people treat him as a foreigner and don't follow Thailand's cultural norms. Should farangs follow Thai rules when Thais don't? No one knows! But Greg and Ed agree that the impact of these difficulties is lessened by Thais flexibility and general forgiving nature. So do your best out there fellow expats, but don't worry about it too much. It's all 'mai pen rai' in the end. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews three local comedians, Justin St-Denis, Chris Raufheisen, and Tana Sukke, about life as a stand-up in Bangkok. After a few quick bios Greg dives right in with his brief experience as a standup in Canada and then later in Bangkok, which kicks off a discussion about the recent history of western-style stand-up comedy in Bangkok. Tana discusses the difficulty of doing comedy in a foreign language, as well as the difference between English comedy and Thai comedy. Greg and the gang try to figure out the seeming Thai preference for silly gags and sound effects and discuss famous Thai comedian Note Udom and his Netflix special. According to Tana, Note is unique in that he's truly doing stand-up as opposed to playing a character on stage. Greg then takes questions from the patrons, and the first question involves the effect of 'pc' or 'woke' culture on comedy in Bangkok. Luckily, the local comics agree that the Thai scene has largely been immune to the sometimes judgmental audiences in the West, partly due to tourists' expectations that Bangkok is a somewhat raucous and racy place to begin with. But audiences filled with Thai people tend to carry on the 'mai pen rai' attitude that Thais are famous for, rarely taking offense and rolling with most jokes. Yeah Thai culture! Check out Raw Comedy Bangkok for information on future shows. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

We think almost every long-term expat has been asked how long they've been here before, only to see the challenge, throw down their card, and ask the inevitable: "How about you?" It's an unspoken contest. But does it even matter? Greg and Ed tackle this issue of status, noting that although they've been in Thailand TWENTY YEARS, that number is dwarfed by such legendary expats as Joe Cummings (soon to be a guest on the podcast), who arrived in Thailand in 1977. Ed jokes that part of the appeal of the podcast is that the guys love to talk about all their mistakes and misunderstandings, but certainly they have learned a lot in twenty years. Greg throws out the distressing thought that simply being here twenty years may not lead to any more wisdom than being here ten, as Ed notes he probably is at his peak knowledge of Thailand now only because of his role as co-host of the podcast, which forces him to raise his game. The boys end up trading stories about various old timers they have met, with Joe C. leading the pack for Greg and a Catholic priest doing so for Ed. In the end, it's clear that the number of years you have in Thailand doesn't really mean diddly squat unless you spend that time pushing yourself into learning more about the country and engaging with its endlessly fascinating culture and people. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Colonel Johnny Thoyts, an old friend who has been retired in Thailand for over 20 years. Johnny has had an interesting time in Thailand - as the former British military attaché, he summarizes his career and his various experiences living in Thailand and dealing with some of the country's top military and diplomatic brass. Next, Johnny recounts his life in Bangkok, Hua Hin, and more recently Khorat. Greg and Johnny discuss the cultural quirks of Thailand, from the Thais reaction to older foreigners living in Thailand to the Thai attitude of 'mai pen rai.' Then, Johnny relates the changing retirement rules in Thailand, including the cash required in Thai banks to support a retirement visa. He emphasizes the fairly harsh nature of Thai laws that apply to resident expats, as opposed to the laws of neighboring countries such as Malaysia. Although he likes his life in Thailand and has resigned himself to it, his dream (and the dream of many expats) is that Thailand revise the laws that apply to long time foreign residents who pay taxes, support their local communities, and have families. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

The guys discuss the sticky situation of what it means to lose your job in Thailand as an expat, and the relative insecurity that all of us have, no matter how long we've lived here. Ed gives a quick overview of the law: if you have a non-immigrant 'B' visa connected to a work permit and a Thai company, and your work permit is canceled, then your visa is also automatically canceled and you have exactly 7 days to leave the country. Now it may be possible to re-enter as a tourist, of course, but even that can cause significant life disruptions because it is not possible to get a new work permit with a tourist visa! Greg jumps in with a personal story of losing his job last year due to the ravages of COVID on the travel industry. He was in a particularly scary situation given that he is married with a kid, and even with all his years in Thailand, he would have been subject to the same 7-day rule as everybody else. Thankfully he had some luck and found a new job. Bullet dodged. Greg and Ed discuss the fairness (or more accurately, unfairness) of the rule and if there are any possible ways around it, and in general lament the harshness of some Thai laws as they relate to expats, as opposed to tourists. Suffice it to say that they don't call Thailand the 'Land of Smiles' because the expats here are always smiling. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Midnight Poonkasetwattana and Inad Rendon, the Executive Director and Program Director at APCOM, a nonprofit organization that advocates on behalf of gay men who are facing discrimination. We begin by raising the issue of the image of Thailand as a very gay-friendly place. Does the reality match the reputation? According to Midnight, in some ways, because Thai culture is less confrontational and LGBTQI people in Thailand are unlikely to face violence. However, Midnight notes that the West often provides legal protections lacking in Thailand, such as same-sex marriage or partnership rights. Inad tells his story of living in the Philippines as a gay and HIV-positive man, and the differences between his past life and what it's like living in Thailand. In general, the Philippines was more conservative and traditional, given the influence of Catholicism and Islam. But Inad concurs that it's a mistake to think of Thailand as a gay paradise. Check out TestBKK for more info on what's being done in this regard. The men continue with details on the myriad obstacles and difficulties that LGBTQI individuals encounter in Thailand, and the role that NGOs play in countries that don't have an extensive social safety net. Greg and the guests focus on the treatment of HIV-positive men in Thailand, how education can help remove ignorance around the situation, and how the situation is improving. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Welcome to season 5! Greg and Ed discuss the new season, which admittedly is mostly a continuation of the last season - if it ain't broke, etc. But some nostalgia is warranted, and the guys reminisce about the last two seasons since Evo's departure. Ed can't believe he's done 150 shows plus, and both guys make some modest suggestions for changing things up. Maybe some shows should include video, at least for the patrons? Ed suggests revisiting earlier topics and updating them with new info. Greg concurs, and talks about some plans he has to get some higher-profile guests. Inserted are interviews with our gracious former co-hosts, Tony Joh and Evo Terra. Tony and Greg reminisce about the let's-see-if-this-works experience of season 1 and gives a few updates on his current status in Canada, planning a return to Japan and/or Europe, and re-launching the Tokyo Podcast. Evo then talks about his life in Arizona, and his insistence on using Thai in every Thai restaurant he can find in the States. Turns out Evo has is keeping very busy as a podcast producer extraordinaire and making his own show, Podcast Pontifications - unsurprising from one of the earliest podcasters on planet Earth. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Hey guys, Greg and Ed are taking this week off for a short break, but we'll be back with the first episode of SEASON FIVE (OMG) of the show on March 17. See you then!

Greg interviews Chris Larkin, creator of ThaiCitizenship.com, a website that answers all the confusing, conflicting, confounding questions about getting citizenship in Thailand. Half Thai-Half Australian, Chris grew up mainly in Australia and got his Thai passport in his early twenties. Now married to a woman from New Zealand, it was their yearly slog up to Chaeng Wattana to deal with visas and work permits that led them down the path of getting Thai citizenship for her, and setting up a site to help others get the info they need. Greg and Chris walk through the two main routes to citizenship: via permanent residency, or applying directly via marriage. The requirements are similar but not exactly the same, and some strategy is needed to determine what is best for you. Chris runs through some common misunderstandings (that you must be fluent in Thai for example), discusses the process, and lays out what he has learned over the years about best practices. In short Chris says that the process is definitely somewhat complicated and a lot bureaucratic, but if you dot all your i's and cross all your t's, you are very likely to end up with a shiny Thai passport. Good news for Greg and Ed, and our listeners too! Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

If Thailand is good for one thing, it's 'interesting' expats, and Greg and Ed keep it light with a humorous discussion of some of the crazy characters they've met over the years in Bangkok. All names have been changed of course, but Greg recounts a few stories of 'Chandler', an out-of-control, heavy drinking, motorcycle riding, jacket busting, wrecking ball of an expat, as well an African refugee who recounted stories of civil war that sobered Greg up real quick. Ed counters with a few stories of a chap who couldn't open his refrigerator door lest he be electrocuted and spent his evenings dropping acid and watching his pet turtles race, as well as a Swedish friend who ended up getting deported and incarcerated back home on the continent. There are always stories to entertain and lessons to learn if you ask a question and listen, and Bangkok is a fantastic place to mine for stories and lessons. And remember - if you're bored in Bangkok, the problem ain't Bangkok. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed interviews Chokwan 'Kitty' Chopaka, an expert on the cannabis industry in Thailand. The interview begins with a discussion of how Kitty ended up in this field - strangely, it was her mother that suggested she'd make a great 'ganjapreneur.' After trying a cannabis venture in the U.S., Kitty founded the Thai company Elevated Estate, which serves as both an educator to the entire industry and a consultant to cannabis startups in Thailand. Ed and Kitty work through the roughly four categories of the cannabis industry: hemp products with very low levels of THC, CBD oil also with low levels but designed as a medical treatment, medical marijuana with high levels of THC, and full blown recreational cannabis. It turns out the Thai government just recently started accepting applications from prospective hemp farmers, and Kitty thinks that products could hit the shelves by the end of the year. Kitty walks us through what's available in Thailand, what might be available soon, and where the gray lines (and red tape) are that make this burgeoning industry such a fascinating and potentially important one. The future is bright even if the current state of affairs is murky and confusing. Listeners are encouraged to contact Kitty at Elevated Estate with questions or queries about cannabis-related startups in Thailand. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In a return to our Neighborhood Focus series, Greg and Ed check out Soi Suan Phlu and some of the surrounding area, broadly known as either Sathorn or Yen Akat. We start with a discussion about Suan Phlu of yesteryear, when almost all foreigners had to go there for a miserable immigration ritual. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Suan Phlu seemed dreary and certainly not a place you would hang out once you were done wrestling with the Thai bureaucracy. However, over the years, Soi Suan Phlu has slowly changed. Although the immigration office is still open, it is used primarily for ASEAN immigrants, with most farangs relegated to a long ride out to the super dome at Chaeng Wattana. But the effect on Suan Phlu has been undoubtedly positive. Although far from the gentrification of Thong Lor, it has its share of cocktail bars, cozy coffee shops, farang food, and a serious plethora of Thai street food of all types. The long and short of it is that Soi Suan Phlu is well worth a visit for the cozy neighborhood atmosphere that combines a majority Thai population with farang-friendliness. The Bangkok Podcast says: Check it out. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Mark Wiens, an old friend known far and wide for his awesome YouTube videos about eating food. Good food. Weird food. Scary food. Any type of food. Mark tells us how he started as a regular food blogger, slowly morphing into video as the technology improved, and his efforts to keep up with Google's demands while still putting out quality content. The effort seems to have paid off - 7 million subscribers can't be wrong! Greg and Mark also discuss the nuts and bolts of running a YouTube channel, the video equipment he uses, his SEO strategies, and, of course, favorite street stalls, favorite restaurants, and favorite food inside and outside of Thailand. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This week Greg and Ed return to the Seven Deadly Sins series with a discussion of GREED in Thai culture. As an opening caveat, Greg makes clear that greed exists in all cultures, and the guys aren't saying it's worse in Thailand than anywhere else, but every country and culture deals with it in different ways, and the guys want to talk their way through its different facets to try and understand it better. Ed begins with the claim that there is something in Thai-Chinese culture about the pursuit of wealth that is more open and less modest than in the American Midwest where he grew up. He speculates that it might be the northern European influence on the area, built on the Protestant Work Ethic which values labor but tends to be low key and not ostentatious when it comes to money. The guys continue their discussion, touching on data about the high consumer debt in Thailand, how expensive things like cars and bags give you status (even if you can't afford it), and some choice words from previously published studies on Thais and greed that ponder if the country's endemic corruption is something that can ever be solved. It's a big, deep, messy, and complicated topic, and Greg and Ed just scratch the surface. What are your thoughts on how greed presents itself in Thai culture? Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Khun Weena, founder of the Thailand Clean Air Network and an expert on air pollution in Thailand to discuss the who, the what, the why and the WTF behind Thailand's annual season of poisonous, toxic air. She begins by outlining the fundamental problem: more or less unchecked economic growth, not only in Thailand but around Asia as well, especially in gigantic countries such as India and China. Although the problem has been around for a while, public interest has peaked due to the increased spread of information about the problem. According to Khun Weena, one problem is Thailand's actual standard for what counts as a problem: the current cutoff of PM 2.5 is 50 parts per million, but the WHO recommends a level of 25 parts per million. Further, there is a misperception of the actual risk of bad air: although the coronavirus has killed 65 Thais, it is estimated that 66,000 (!) Thais die per year due to illnesses directly related to air pollution. Greg and Khun Ween continue to discuss many facets of the problem, including what changes Thailand can make to move in the right direction. Although the problem is complex and longstanding, there is increased focus on the issue by the general public and NGOs such as Khun Weena's, and the Thai government is slowly...slowly moving into action. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In order to wash the bad taste of New Year's Eve 2021 out of our mouths, Greg and Ed discuss what New Year's Eve means in Bangkok. Normally it's one of the biggest nights of the year, but due the resurgence of COVID, this year was fairly tame. So the guys decided to discuss the holiday during better times. Ed begins by noting that the two biggest places to witness the countdown and fireworks in Bangkok are at Central World in the shopping district, and near Saphan Taksin bridge on the river. Both guys strongly prefer the river, as the view is better and the crowd less oppressive. Greg shares an anecdote from noob NYE that required a LONG walk home due to lack of cabs. (NYE tip: Don't forget to plan a way home!) The guys also reminisce about their epic New Year's on a boat that got a little too close to the fireworks, resulting in an unexpected bath for a few party goers. This leads to a discussion of several memorable Bangkok New Year's - some a blast and unfortunately some tragic. NYE always seems to be an adventure in Bangkok, one way or the other. On a positive note, the guys want to do a podcast Meetup next New Year's on the river, so mark your calendars now. :) Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

The issue of violence against women in Thai culture is not often discussed. Awareness is low and even when the topic is brought up, the default reaction is to shussssshhhhh, forget about it, don't make waves. Obviously this is not a tenable solution. Emma Thomas (Under the Ropes) and Nana Wipaphan Wongsawan (Thai Consent) are two women who are fighting to change this. In part 2 of a 2-part interview Greg sits down with both of them to discuss why Thai culture is like this and the issues and frustrations that arise from trying to help it evolve. In the course of the conversation we hear stories about how dismissive the police can be when a victim comes forward, the role Thai languages plays in preventing the problem from being understood, how bro culture often just lets it slide, and insights into why sexual assaults are sometimes treated as a minor annoyance rather than a serious attack. But it isn't all bad news - just the fact that organizations like theirs exist is a big step forward, and they also report on some green shoots as awareness around the issue slowly but surely starts to grow. For some further insight into the issue, you can read this great article that Emma wrote for Unearth Women. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

The issue of violence against women in Thai culture is not often discussed. Awareness is low and even when the topic is brought up, the default reaction is to shussssshhhhh, forget about it, don't make waves. Obviously this is not a tenable solution. Emma Thomas (Under the Ropes) and Nana Wipaphan Wongsawan (Thai Consent) are two women who are fighting to change this. In part 1 of a 2-part interview Greg sits down with both of them to discuss why Thai culture is like this and the issues and frustrations that arise from trying to help it evolve. In the course of the conversation we hear stories about how dismissive the police can be when a victim comes forward, the role Thai languages plays in preventing the problem from being understood, how bro culture often just lets it slide, and insights into why sexual assaults are sometimes treated as a minor annoyance rather than a serious attack. But it isn't all bad news - just the fact that organizations like theirs exist is a big step forward, and they also report on some green shoots as awareness around the issue slowly but surely starts to grow. For some further insight into the issue, you can read this great article that Emma wrote for Unearth Women. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

It's been a while, but the guys jump into a Q&A show, where they answer questions from listeners. The topics are incredibly wide-ranging - everything from our first Thailand memory to the equipment we use to record to our rules for 'wai-ing' service staff! We also touch on questions about whiskey, COVID, Thailand's tourism outlook, whether or not the infamous commuter vans are safe, and of course, things that Thailand does better than they do back home. Lots more where those came from, so listen in for our deeply insightful answers to our listener's most probing questions. :) Huge thanks to everyone who sent us their queries! Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews celebrated Thai artist Alex Face (https://www.facebook.com/Alexfacebkk), known mostly for his large building-sized murals, which appear not only in Bangkok but also in other cities around the world. Alex begins by recounting his interest in art as a child, which slowly developed into a passion and later a career. He explains his love of graffiti (both legal and illegal) and then discusses his education and attempts to live in other countries, including Korea and later England. Interestingly, Alex mentions becoming a parent as a major turning point in his life, but not one that led him to a more conventional job. Instead, he focused on finding a way to support his family as an artist and continuing the struggle no matter what obstacles got in his way. Greg and Alex wind through multiple topics, including the art scene in Thailand relative to the West and the role of politics in modern Thai art. Listen in for an in-depth discussion with a truly unique Thai artist. Also, here's a link to a neat expat promotion - basically a free 500 baht! https://www.facebook.com/socialgiver/posts/4692824567458610 Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed dive into a great question for expats in Thailand: to what extent are you actually integrated into mainstream Thai culture? Greg posted a quick survey on our Facebook page and uses some responses as a jumping-off point for discussion. Ed begins by guessing he's probably a 5 on a scale of 1-10. He never socializes with only Thai people, but has good enough Thai language that he can handle himself on his own in the city. He does note though that Thailand may be different than some Western countries, in that there may be a level of assimilation that Thai people don't really want foreigners to achieve. Greg states he's probably a 5 or 6. His Thai is getting better and he sometimes attends family events that are 100% Thai, but still...by this point he should be busting out soliloquies in the park! Greg then reads a number of quotes from listeners about their relative absorption into Thai society with a variety of answers, but most long-timers seem to come at the 4-6 range. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews the fascinating Wichit Saiklao, godfather of craft beer in Thailand and founder of Chit Beer, with podcast friend Scott Coates sitting in for fun. Khun Chit relates how he first learned about homebrewing while living in the States, and after returning to Thailand and buying a small house on the river island of Ko Kret, he decided to give it a try with a kit he bought on Amazon. Just seven years later, he is a legend of Thai brewing, not just because of his own popular craft beers but also because of his brewing school which now has thousands of graduates. Khun Chit explains his approach to Thai law, which in general prohibits small batch brewing: by focusing on staying under the radar while campaigning to change the law and spreading his love of brewing to his 'army' of brewers, he hopes to push Thai culture in the right direction. He estimates that there are already tens of thousands of Thai people brewing quietly at home, a number so large that eventually the Thai government will likely have to accept as a fact of life. Greg, Scott and Khun Chit discuss the community of brewers that he has fostered and spread around the country, his ignoble first attempts at brewing, and what drives him forward. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed consider the issue of freedom of expression in Thailand and the extent to which it is or is not compatible with Thai culture. The topic is sparked by THAT case...the one about a TripAdvisor reviewer who harshly criticized a Thai resort, only to have the Thai resort file a criminal defamation action against him. After two days in jail and a negotiated settlement, all was well until TripAdvisor put a warning on their website indicating what the resort had done. Ed gives a basic rundown of Thai defamation laws and the sad fact in the case of a criminal defamation action, the 'truth' is not necessarily a defense unless the court determines the issue is a matter of 'public interest.' The guys go back and forth on whether Western-style freedom of expression is a true universal or whether it is more specific to a country's culture. Last, the boys consider the younger generation of Thais and whether they may be ready to actually push traditional Thai culture to evolve in a free-er direction, at least when it comes to speech. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews repeat guest Rikker Dockum about the ups and downs of raising bilingual children, beginning with an update on (now Dr) Rikker's life back in the US - including his own two kids, both products of two cultures. Next, Rikker segways into some common myths and truths about language acquisition. First, he dispels the idea that a parent needs to have a high level of fluency in a language to avoid hurting a child's ability to learn it. In fact, kids are so adapted to learning languages that any exposure, even imperfect, is helpful. Second, Rikker discusses the 'critical period' of language learning for children, something this is true but subject to much debate about its depth and extent. Greg chimes in with his own experiences raising a bilingual son in Thailand. The guys move on to discuss many other language issues, such as how to motivate children, the difference between spoken acquisition and learning how to read and write, techniques for getting kids to focus on language lessons, and mixing multiple languages together. Listen in for a quite broad discussion of a common issue facing expats in cross-cultural marriages. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

The boys reenter the world of the Seven Deadly Sins with a discussion of 'Wrath' in Thai culture. What's the angle? Well, here is Ed's theory: every society has roughly the same amount of total anger, but in the West negative feelings are expressed in small amounts over time. However, in Thai culture, where there is pressure to always say 'mai pen rai,' negative emotions build up over time and come out in an explosion. In an entirely unscientific discussion, the guys give examples that might support the theory, ranging from musings on why Thailand is the world leader in penis hackings (and thankfully, penis reattachments), to the time a mentally ill man unfortunately attacked the statue of Brahma at the Erawan Shrine only to be beaten to death by the crowd, to the effect that soap operas have on impressionable viewers - and even a scientific paper on the repressed emotions of Thai children from 1976! No definitive conclusions are reached, but with a combined nearly 40 years in Thailand, Greg and Ed have plenty of interesting anecdotes to discuss. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In this episode of Bangkok Podcast Metaphysics, Greg interviews our favorite guest, Phra Pandit, about notions of heaven and hell in Thai Buddhism. Phra Pandit begins by explaining the difference between reincarnation and rebirth. In Theravada Buddhism, there is not a belief in a constant, steady soul. Instead, life force, for lack of a better term, passes from one lifetime to another, like a flame from one candle to the next. In general, a person cannot remember his or her past lives, but a few, enlightened individuals can. Phra Pandit continues by explaining that a person can be reborn in this world, but may very well be reborn into a layer of heaven or hell, all determined by one's build up of karmic merit or sin. He outlines what specific behaviors will result in someone moving 'down' or moving 'up' in the afterlife. Next, he discusses the role of angels or 'devas' in the system. The guys also touch on the topic of enlightenment, and Phra Pandit explains that an 'Arahant' is someone who has stepped out of the cycle of rebirth completely and is simply not reborn at all. We all have something to look forward to! And just for our patrons, the worst selfie ever taken by Greg with Phra Pandit at his temple. Double chins FTW! Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In this episode, the guys debate the pros and cons of one of Thailand's most famous cultural pastimes. Despite being friends for going on 20 years now and agreeing on a lot of things, Greg and Ed do NOT agree on Thai Traditional Massage (TTM). Ed loves it, Greg...does not. Ed argues that while TTM may not be for everyone, its unique mix of pain and pleasure are deeply relaxing and well worth it in the long run. Greg contends the pain ain't worth it, and there are countless better ways to spend your time (such as taking a nap - they're free!). The boys go back and forth in their deeply lucid and insightful way on the nuances of the experience, but in the end both agree that all visitors to Thailand should try it at least once. For specific DO's and DON'Ts and recommendations on where to go, listen in to the full episode. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

If you've been in Bangkok for any length of time you've seen the 'healthy lifestyle'...uh...lifestyle...change a great deal. But why, how, and to what end? Greg interviews Jack Thomas, founder and CEO of BASE Fitness to chat about the evolution. After several years of high-pressure sales and overly-packed gyms, the scene kind of imploded in the mid-2000s, led by one famous name that rose higher and fell harder than any. But the industry is back and healthier than ever, driven in part by the changes in cultural attitudes towards health and fitness that seem to have taken place in the last 10 years. From places like BASE and the strategies they use to help their clients get fit to home-based businesses delivering healthy food and drinks, Jack and Greg discuss why Bangkok is now a much more hospitable place for the genuine health enthusiast than it once was. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews David Robinson, co-founder of the Creative District Foundation, which promotes the mighty Chao Phraya River community for tourism and cultural purposes through the excellent website Bangkok River, which provides resources, history, and insight into the communities that line it. But before all this happened, David - a former resident of Sydney and London - felt the neighborhoods around the river in Bangkok were under-utilized and under-developed. (Greg and Ed wholeheartedly agree.) He decided that Bangkok needed an organization that united all the varied groups that had an interest in promoting these areas and BAM - Bangkok River Partners was formed. Greg and David discuss the unique neighborhoods along the river, noting how the communities often vary by common profession or craft, while David also points to their great ethnic diversity. Both guys riff on the controlled craziness of Bangkok culture and the extent to which neighborhoods along the river exemplify this fact. Last, David details the concept of the 'Creative District' a stretch of neighborhoods particularly packed with religious and artistic sites that has become a tourist attraction in Bangkok. There are great things planned for Bangkok, and the Chao Phraya River will play a central role far into the future. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed return to their 'Neighborhood Focus' series with a review of the Chinatown-Talad Noi area of Bangkok, a neighborhood is near and dear to the boys' hearts, as Greg used to live there, and back in the day he introduced Ed to the area's many charms. Greg begins with a mini-history of Chinatown and its many historic streets, most of which you can still walk on today. Ed summarizes Chinatown as 'chaos with street food.' Its popularity is extremely high with both Thais and foreigners but even during current COVID times with its dearth of farangs, the neighborhood is still crowded. Speaking of food, Greg recommends Nai Lek Ouan, the ultimate noodle shop on Yaowarat Soi 11, while Ed throws his two cents in with Chijuya, a vegetarian sushi place off of Song Wat Road. Despite not having many great opportunities for long-stay living, there are many small hostels and a few nice hotels, like the Grand China Hotel and the gorgeous Shanghai Mansion. Next, the guys herald the 'Creative District' along the river in Talad Noi, an area mentioned in last week's show. A neighborhood of old apartments and working-class shops with a vaguely Chinese-slash-'Blade Runner' feel, it is the ultimate place for a casual walk through intriguing back sois, especially if you like to take pictures. The boys even chanced upon a very hip club on the river called Baan Rim Nam, a perfect place to hang for food and drink along the river, and the site of our next meetup - whenever that is. Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.