Friday, May 27, 2011

(Updated) End of the world grammar

Grammar in the news

The world didn't end as predicted by Harold Camping and now news writers have started to use the past tense.

Harold Camping, a California preacher, predicted the world would end yesterday. It didn't happen.

The world didn't end as Harold Camping said it would and now the news stories have changed to the past tense.  Here are two examples:

Click button to listen to Rapture and rightclick to download

The 89-year-old Family Radio broadcaster prophesied a great earthquake would cause believers to be swept up to heaven and saved by Jesus Christ while non-believers would stay on Earth to perish in the ensuing apocalypse.

Some American followers, where Camping is based, reportedly sold their possessions and quit their jobs to help spread the word. Doomsday ads stretched from the Middle East to Vancouver, reportedly costing the California-based preacher $100 million.  Sarah Douziech, the Province (vancouver, Canada)

After months of warnings and fear, the Day of Rapture, as predicted by apocalyptic Christian broadcaster Harold Camping, passed without apparent calamity. Judgment Day was to have started at 6 p.m., but as darkness fell on many parts of the world, it appeared that heaven could wait.

At this writing, there have been no reports of people soaring upward to the skies, but plenty of folks are talking about it.  CNN

broadcaster – a person whose job is presenting or talking on television or radio programmes ผู้กระจายเสียงทางวิทยุหรือโทรทัศน์
prophesy – to say what will happen in the future ทำนาย, พยากรณ์
heaven – the place believed to be the home of God where good people go when they die สวรรค์
ensue – to happen after something else, often as a result of it ที่ตามมา
apocalypse (adjective form: apocalyptic) – the end of the world when the earth is destroyed by God
reportedly – as reported (often used for showing that you are not certain that something you are reporting is true) ตามที่รายงาน
possessions – things owned ทรัพย์สมบัติ
spread – to gradually affect or cover a larger area แพร่กระจาย
Doomsday – the last day of the world when Christians believe that everyone will be judged by God วันโลกาวินาศ,วาระสุดท้าย,วันที่พระเจ้าพิพากษามนุษย์ทั้งหลายในโลก
preacher – a person, often a member of the clergy, who gives religious talks and often performs religious ceremonies, for example in a church นักเทศน์,ผู้แสดงธรรม
Day of Rapture – in the Christian religion, the time at the end of the earth when the Christians of the world will be gathered together in the air to meet Jesus Christ
predict – to say that an event or action will happen in the future, especially as a result of knowledge or experience คาดการณ์ว่า พยากรณ์จากสถิติว่า
apparent – seeming to be something although it may not be real ดูเหมือนว่า, ตามที่เห็นภายนอก
calamity – a bad event or serious accident causing damage or suffering เหตุการณ์ที่เลวร้าย
soar – to rise very quickly into the air บินสูงขึ้นไปในอากาศ, พุ่งพรวดขึ้น

If Harold Camping, a preacher form Oakland, California, is right we still have a few hours left to learn some English. Below is transcript of what he told a television station a day or so a go. Notice how he refers to the future.

He uses two future forms, "going to" and "will". You will notice that he is very certain about what is going to happen today and that is why he mostly uses "will", e.g., the world will end today.


Click button to listen to Rapture 2 and rightclick to download


"On May 21, there's going to be a terrific earthquake, way, way greater than anything the Earth has ever experienced and that will be the beginning of Judgement Day. The rest of the world will know instantly that Judgement Day has begun because all the earthquake sensors will pick that up instantly and they will be able, until it comes to 6pm May 21 in their city, they will be able to witness what has happened there."

preacher – a person, often a member of the clergy, who gives religious talks and often performs religious ceremonies, for example in a church นักเทศน์,ผู้แสดงธรรม
transcript – a written or printed copy of words that have been spoken บันทึก
terrific – very large; very powerful มากมาย, น่ากลัวมาก,สยองขวัญ
earthquake – a sudden shaking movement of the ground  แผ่นดินไหว
way, way – much, much
Judgement Day – in the Christian religion, the day at the end of the World when God takes away those who will be saved and leaves the rest to die or go to Hell. วันสิ้นสุดของโลก, วาระสุดท้ายของโลก
instantly – immediately ทันที
sensor – a device that can react to light, heat, pressure, etc. in order to make a machine, etc. do something or show something อุปกรณ์ส่งสัญญาณที่ไวต่อแสงหรืออุณหภูมิ, ตัวเซ็นเซอร์
witness – to see something happen – มองเห็น, เป็นพยาน

Here is a chance to use the present perfect tense:

It is now 19:12 in Auckland, New Zealand and the predicted earthquakes have not occcurred.

And the past:

6pm came and went in the Christmas islands without incident, i.e., nothing bad happened.

Relate Search: Harold Camping, end of the world

You can subscribe to free e-newsletters and receive e-mail alerts when other people leave comments in articles after you did. Click here to take full advantage of the alerts!

Keep this article in your social bookmark:


View the original article here

A cultural excursion in Sam Sen and Thewet

AWAY

Culture lovers should not miss tomorrow's walking tour to explore the history and art of the Sam Sen and Thewet areas. Led by Chulapassorn Panomvan na Ayudhya, the group will visit Rachathiwat Temple at 8:30am. The ubosot (ordination chapel) of this temple was designed by Prince Naris, while its fresco murals depicting the Lord Buddha's last life as Phra Vessantara was painted by Italian artist Carlo Rigoli, who also created art for the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Its salakarnparian (multi-purpose pavilion) was once hailed as Southeast Asia's largest and finest gold teak building.

Wat Rachathiwat’s gold teak salakarnparian (multi-purpose pavilion).

The group will then proceed to Rajabhat Suan Sunandha University and pay respects to the statue of King Chulalongkorn's Queen Sunandha, who died in a boat accident.

In the afternoon, they will visit Wat Thewaratkunchorn, worship Phra Buddha Thewarat Patimakorn, a U-Thong-style Buddha statue and cherish beautiful mural paintings. They will also visit the temple's teak museum, which enshrines the Lord Buddha's remains and statues of the Buddha and many revered monks.

At 4pm, the group will visit Wat Noranart Suntarikaram, restored by Phraya Choduek Ratchasetthi (Thian Chotikasathien) in the Fifth Reign.

Registration fee is 400 baht per person and the teak museum's admission fee is 15 baht per head. Advance registration and payment is required. Call 081-343-4261 by today.

A fresco mural at Wat Rachathiwat depicting Vessantara Jataka.

Go to "Chiang Mai Now!"

The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre invites art and popular culture enthusiasts to the Chiang Mai Now! Exhibition, being held at the centre's gallery on the 9th floor until June 26.

This exhibition, curated by Angkrit Ajchariyasophon, demonstrates a process of occurrences, activities and experiments of contemporary culture that are happening in Chiang Mai through the unique perspectives of 12 artists and cultural activists.

Special activities include movie screenings (3-5pm) and discussions (5-6pm) by directors every Saturday. Related projects include the "3147966 cm3" + THAI ASS" Photographs and mobile gallery, being held until July 26 at the centre's Motorcycle Taxi Station.

Visit www.bacc.or.th or call 02-214-6630-8.

Chiang Mai Now! Exhibition at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.

Airfare promotion

- Oman Air, the Sultanate of Oman's national airline, is offering a special fare for round-trip economy class tickets for Bangkok to London, Milan, Frankfurt, Munich or Paris at the starting price of 18,000 baht; round-trip economy class tickets for Bangkok to Bahrain, Doha, Dubai or Abu Dhabi at the starting price of 15,000 baht and round-trip economy class tickets for Bangkok to Beirut, Cairo or Amman at the starting price of 16,500 baht. It is also offering new route round-trip economy class tickets for Bangkok to Dar Es Salaam or Zanzibar at the starting price of 18,000 baht.

The prices are exclusive of airport tax and fuel surcharge. Reservations can be made until June 30 on 02-635-1222 or www.omanair.com.

- Until August 31, Etihad Airways, the United Arab Emirates' national airline, offers two nights accommodation at selected luxury hotels in downtown Abu Dhabi, Yas Island or Dubai, complimentary breakfast and a return hotel-airport transfer for its Pearl Business Class guests who travel to or transit at its hub in Abu Dhabi.

Special return fares from Bangkok to Abu Dhabi in Pearl Business Class start from 63,000 baht and to London from 94,000 baht, inclusive of all taxes and surcharges. Visit www.etihad.com/ complimentarynights.

- Meanwhile, Emirates will start operating its daily A380 service to Johannesburg, South Africa, on October 1.

Passengers can board EK 373 at 9:20pm, arrive in Dubai at 12:30am the following day, connect to EK 761 from Dubai at 4:40am and arrive in Johannesburg at 10:50am. From Johannesburg, EK 762 departs at 2:10pm, arrives in Dubai at 12:10am; EK 384 leaves Dubai at 3:15am and arrives in Bangkok at 12:25pm. Visit www.emirates.com.

If you have any comments or news to share, send them to pichayas@bangkokpost.co.th.

You can subscribe to free e-newsletters and receive e-mail alerts when other people leave comments in articles after you did. Click here to take full advantage of the alerts!

Keep this article in your social bookmark:


View the original article here

Sukhumvit

HOTEL DINING

Ambassador Bangkok (02-254-0444)

The Pavilion, Dusit Thani Bangkok, presents a Singaporean food promotion by guest chef Paul Then Seh Chon for lunch and dinner, until May 28.

- May: Hong Teh features Sichuan delicacies priced from 295 baht net per dish. All-you-can-eat dim sum lunch or dinner costs 425 baht net.

Dream Bangkok (02-254-8500)

- May: Flava restaurant presents a new healthy menu with prices starting from 160 baht.

Grand Sukhumvit (02-207-9999)

- May: Cafe De Nimes features a Sun brunch at 1,095 baht net; 1,495 baht net with free flow of draught beer; and 2,096 baht net with free flow of house wine.

Landmark Bangkok (02-254-0404)

- May: Sui Sian highlights Pacific sea conch with prices ranging from 250-720 baht.

Windsor Suites (02-262-1234)

- May: The Golden Palace offers a dim sum buffet lunch priced at 499 baht or 599 baht with a bowl of shark's fin soup.

Chatrium Suites Bangkok (02-307-8888)

- May: Silver Waves presents a la carte dim sum for dinner with a 50% discount. For every 1,000 baht spent after discount, get a 50% saving voucher for Peking duck to enjoy on next visit.

Dusit Thani (02-200-9000)

- Until May 28: The Pavilion presents a Singaporean food promotion by guest chef Paul Then Seh Chon. The price is 920 baht for buffet lunch Mon-Sat; 1,290 baht for dinner Sun-Wed; 1,599 baht for dinner Thur-Sat (1,888 baht for Sun brunch), 50% discount for children.

Holiday Inn Silom (02-238-4300)

- May: Tandoor presents an Indian Sun brunch buffet accompanied by live Indian music at 399 baht net.

Le Meridien Bangkok (02-232-8888)

- Until June 6: Bamboo Chic highlights a variety of abalone dishes for dinner with prices starting from 650 baht.

Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom (02-206-9100)

- May: The Square offers new mango menus as part of the regular buffet priced at 540 baht for lunch and 640 baht for dinner.

Ramada Plaza Menam (02-688-1000)

Z - May: Eurasian Grill offers Thai, Japanese, Indian, European and vegetarian set menus daily from 6-10pm, priced at 690 baht.

Royal Orchid Sheraton (02-266-9214)

- May: Sambal Bar & Grill introduces a steak and wine promotion featuring Australian sirloin steak paired with Wolf Blass Red Label Shiraz Cabernet at 900 baht net.

Shangri-La Bangkok (02-236-7777)

- May: Every Sun, Angelini features La Dolce Vita Italian brunch buffet from noon-3pm, prepared by chef manager Marco Riva and priced at 2,450 baht.

Sofitel Bangkok Silom (02-238-1991)

- May 20-29: V9 wine and dining highlights asparagus dishes such as asparagus soup, crab and asparagus salad, asparagus with Parma ham and more. Prices start from 230 baht net.

Banyan Tree (02-679-1200)

- May: Saffron introduces a 9-course Thai cuisine tasting menu priced at 2,000 baht.

Novotel Bangkok Fenix Ploenchit (02-305-600)

- May: The Square offers a daily buffet at 499 baht net for lunch, 599 baht net for dinner, and 880 baht for weekend seafood nights (add 299 baht for wine, 199 baht for draught beer).

Plaza Athenee Bangkok (02-650-8800)

- May 25: The Glaz Bar offers afterwork cocktails, Thai tapas and cones from 6:30pm onwards at 500 baht net (1,200 baht net with dinner buffet).

The Sukhothai Bangkok (02-344-8888)

- May: Colonnade features a Sun brunch from noon-3pm offering a wide selection of delicacies including the chef's garden corner at 2,500 baht.

Swissotel Nai Lert Park Bangkok (02-253-0123)

- May 25-29: Noble House presents a Sichuan food promotion by guest chef Michael Liu from Swissotel Kunchan, China, for lunch and dinner.

Arnoma (02-655-5555)

- May: The hotel offers an afternoon high tea at the Buttercup Cafe, daily from 3-5:30pm priced at 220 baht net.

Centara Grand at CentralWorld (02-100-6255)

- May-June: Every Tue, The World and Ginger restaurants highlight foie gras items in the dinner buffet with a free flow of Prosecco at 1,390 baht.

Four Seasons Bangkok (02-126-8866)

- May: Biscotti features the Giro d'Italia, a gastronomic grand tour of Italy set menus. The menu highlights specialities from Molise, Abbruzzo and Marche from May 19-22; Friuli and Veneto from May 23-26; and Lombardia, Trentino and Alto Adige from May 27-29. The set menus are available for lunch and dinner, priced at 1,300-1,400 baht for 3 courses and 1,400-1,700 baht for 4 courses.

Grand Hyatt Erawan (02-254-1234)

- May: From Mon-Fri, Tables serves a pair of set lunch menus _ a 3-course set at 950 baht and a 2-course set at 750 baht including coffee or tea.

Hansar Bangkok (02-209-1234)

- Until May 24: Eve restaurant presents a 4-course French Mediterranean set dinner created by executive chef Stephen Dion, priced at 3,999 baht with wine (2,999 baht for food only).

Holiday Inn Bangkok (02-656-1555)

- May: Cafe G features a Thai cuisine buffet for lunch and dinner for 229 baht including free flow of soft drinks.

InterContinental Bangkok (02-656-0360)

- May 26: Grossi Trattoria & Wine Bar features Italian fare with an opera performance. The Act 5 "Hansel and Gretal" evening features a menu from the historic Veneto for 2,499 baht.

Pathumwan Princess (02-216-3700)

- May: Kayageum features Korean barbecue, hot pot, teppanyaki and more in the buffet, priced at 620 baht net for lunch and 850 baht net for dinner.

Siam@Siam (02-217-3000)

- May: Party House One introduces a daily wine buffet and dinner, priced at 987 baht net (with a time limit of 1.45 hrs).

Amari Atrium (02-718-2000)

- May: Cascade presents an international buffet lunch at 380 baht (250 baht net/person for a group of 4 persons).

Amari Watergate (02-653-9000)

- May: The Promenade offers new noodle dishes with prices ranging from 260-380 baht.

Baiyoke Sky (02-656-3456)

- May: Bangkok Balcony offers grilled, seafood and international buffet dinner at 690 baht net for indoor dining, and 1,250 baht net for outdoor balcony dining.

Eastin Makkasan (02-651-7600)

- May: Attica Sky Lounge highlights seabass dishes. A 3-course set lunch with unlimited wine for 2 hours is priced 950 baht net.

Royal Princess Larn Luang (02-281-3088)

- May: The Empress offers an all-you-can-eat dim sum buffet for dinner priced at 499 baht net.

Pullman Bangkok King Power (02-680-9999)

- Until June 12: Deja Vu features chef Marshall's 5-course dinner menu highlighting white asparagus at 2,500 baht net with wine pairing, or as an a la carte option.

Vie Bangkok (02-309-3939)

- May: Vie Wine & Grill highlights Alaskan black cod delicacies in the international dinner buffet from Mon-Sat, priced at 1,150 baht net, plus a 'come 2 pay 1' promotion.

Golden Tulip Sovereign (02-641-4777)

- May: Fook Yuan features an array of Chinese-style fish dishes with prices starting from 650 baht.

Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok (02-694-2222)

- May: Fountain Cafe features seafood dinner buffet from 6-10:30pm priced at 1,299 baht (50% discount on Fri).

Miracle Grand Convention (02-575-5599)

- May: Premprachakorn highlights Asian food in the international buffet at 290 baht for lunch and 320 baht for dinner. Singer Linjong Boonnakrin entertains all at lunchtime.

Rama Gardens (02-558-7888)

- May: Suiren highlights bento ange set meals. The Japanese buffet is priced at 440 baht for lunch and 470 baht for dinner.

Sofitel Centara Grand Bangkok (02-541-1234)

- May: Le Danang offers an a la carte buffet of Vietnamese cuisine, daily for lunch and dinner at 488 baht.

Peninsula Bangkok (02-861-2888)

- May: The traditional Peninsula and natural Peninsula afternoon tea are available daily in the Lobby from 2-6pm, priced at 880 baht.

Royal City (02-435-8888)

- May: Cheiw Tien Lao features all-you-can-eat dim sum served with fried rice and soup of the day at 300 baht.

Royal River (02-422-9222

- Until May 15: Fangnam offers the favourite summer rice dish, khao chae, in the international buffet at 380 baht for lunch.

Novotel Suvarnabhumi (02-131-1251)

- May: The Square presents a 3-course grape cuisine matched with wines from GranMonte Estate Khao Yai, priced at 800 baht net.

Amari Orchid Pattaya (038-429-591)

- May: Mantra features a Sun brunch buffet from 11am-3pm, priced at 1,490 baht (add 1,150 baht for a wine buffet).

Anantara Bophut, Koh Samui (077-742-8300).

- May: Every day from 4-6pm, the hotel features a beachside chill out with Barbecue seafood market (1,500 baht/person), fusion cocktails, Turkish shisha pipes and more.

Centara Grand Beach, Phuket (076-201-234)

- May: Every Mon, Tue, Thur and Fri, Cove restaurant presents a special Mediterranean night buffet with live entertainment, priced at 890 baht.

Dune, Hua Hin (032-515-051)

- May: Dune bar and restaurant's recommended item is black pepper sea crab with fried Chinese noodles, priced at 1,200 baht for 2 persons.

Dusit Thani Pattaya (038-425-611)

- May: Cascade features contemporary Nordic cuisine with prices ranging from 395-500 baht, daily for dinner.

Grand Pacific Sovereign, Cha-am (032-709-899)

- May: Bellevue features a healthy Thai set menu based on the body's 4 elements, priced at 499 baht.

Hilton Pattaya (038-253-000)

- May: The Edge offers a '7 days, 7 themes' lunch buffet from noon-2:30pm at 300 baht net (1,200 baht net for Sun brunch).

Hyatt Regency Hua Hin (032-521-234)

- May: On Sat, enjoy the family fiesta barbecue dinner buffet, priced at 1,000 baht net (500 baht net for children). Fun activities for kids from 3pm onwards.

Mercure Patong Phuket (076-302-100)

-May: Every Sun, World Cafe presents a noodle market dinner buffet priced at 399 baht net (150 baht net for children).

Sheraton Pattaya (038-259-888)

- May: Every Sat, Elements presents a barbecue dinner buffet with imported seafood from around the world at 1,499 baht.

You can subscribe to free e-newsletters and receive e-mail alerts when other people leave comments in articles after you did. Click here to take full advantage of the alerts!

Keep this article in your social bookmark:


View the original article here

Reading and writing Thai makes expats more employable

CAREER CLINIC

Dear Khun Munthana: My name is Redgy and I'm 34 years old. I moved to Thailand in November last year after having worked for 12 years as an investment advisor in the banking sector in my native Belgium. Since arriving in Thailand I have spent my time learning to read, write and speak the Thai language - very much a work in progress.

I have enjoyed visiting different parts of the country but in a few months I want to be back at work and my initial thought was to look for a position in the financial sector. This is where I have most experience, especially in terms of financial advice and stock market analysis.

Is it possible for me as a foreigner? Can you give me some advice on how to find and apply for such a job?

That said, I will be happy to work in any capacity as long as it gives me satisfaction - I was also thinking of positions such as a tour guiding or tour manager. Whatever the role and industry, I would prefer to stay in the south of Thailand.

Perhaps you could give me some advice on how to improve my knowledge of local business culture and tips on networking? Do you think it is possible for me to become a marketing freelance and what would be the right way to go about it?

Redgy

Dear Redgy: It is a smart decision to learn the Thai language. Many expats here learn to speak it but few get to grips with the reading and writing of it. Keep going because to be fully conversant in the language is a huge plus when it comes to your employability. You will also find it much easier to understand the culture here and office/business culture in particular if you can use the language with confidence.

With a background in financial advisory (and I'm assuming you have professional qualifications to your name) you could apply to the Big 4 - PwC, E&Y, KPMG and Deloitte - for a position. They all have advisory practices and provide their expat employees with mandatory visas and work permits. These are required by law for any foreigner working in Thailand (no matter the position or nature of business) and are the responsibility of your future employer. In addition to focusing on international financial advisory outfits you should also send your CV to recruitment companies and specify your requirements. This will widen your job-seeking channels.

If you want a move to the hospitality sector there is no limit to your work location. In fact, southern Thailand is a good bet given the number of tourist attractions and visitors. Finance or hospitality industry, you must build up your network of contacts and you can do this by joining various chambers of commerce where events are put on for business networking among locals and expats alike. Check local papers for business seminars and presentations you can attend, dine at international restaurants and pubs where resident expats like to eat and make a few friends. If you play golf join a group at your local course and visit the gym frequently - you'll stay in shape and meet people there.

Regularly read local online blogs by expats and pay frequent visits to websites like http://www.thaivisa.com where there are job seeking options, forums on working in Thailand written by fellow expats and heaps of up-to-date information on visa and work permit requirements.

Remember, basically you can work legally in any profession providing you have a work permit. The bottom line is to find your future employer. If you continue to learn Thai that process will become much easier and you will be very employable. Have you thought about using your language facility for teaching work? If you are fluent in a continental European language, competent using English and able to speak, read and write Thai well then you have the ideal background for a language teacher. Imagine, you could be making a living giving private language tutorials to students on a palm-fringed beach.

Whichever direction you choose, put yourself about and network. And don't give up on the Thai lessons. Get the language down and you're on your way to a good and productive life in the Land of Smiles.

Sawasdee ka and chock dee na ka!
Munthana

Munthana Thamlikitkul is CEO and managing director at Tricor Outsourcing (Thailand) and Tricor Executive Recruitment. Email Munthana.Thamlikitkul@th.tricorglobal.com.

You can subscribe to free e-newsletters and receive e-mail alerts when other people leave comments in articles after you did. Click here to take full advantage of the alerts!

Keep this article in your social bookmark:


View the original article here

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Bangkok’s Best Gay Saunas

Saunas are  firmly established as part of gay life in Thailand.  Virtually all offer steam rooms, saunas and a darkened maze of cabins in which you can get intimate with a new-found friend.

We all know the reason why most gay patrons pay the entry fee but most saunas are well maintained venues offering a wide range facilities. They serve as a place friends can meet up for a drink and a chat, or maybe a bit of sunbathing in a relaxed, 100% gay environment.


Babylon

Generally considered one of the best gay saunas in Asia. Besides the usual facilities found in a sauna, Babylon offers a wide range of services, including a good restaurant, coffee shop, two bars, a swimming pool, sun terrace and a reasonable gym. Popular with Thais, expats and visitors. Open from 10.30am to 10.30pm.

Soi Nantha (off Sathorn Soi 1), Sathorn Rd. MRT Lumphini
Tel: 022132108

Chakran

Offering Babylon some serious competition is Chakran Sauna. This multi-story stylish venue features a swimming pool, gym, a reasonable restaurant and bar.  Free wifi. Chakran attracts a more local crowd although the number of expats and tourist customers is growing.

Open from 3pm to midnight Mondays to Thursdays and 2pm to midnight Fridays to Saturdays. Offers weekly and monthly memberships for tourists and expats.

32 Chakran Building, Soi Ari 4, Soi Phaholyothin Soi 7, Phaholyothin Rd, Phayathai. BTS – Ari
Tel: 022791359

Sticky Rice? This venue is popular with Asians who prefer Asians. Split over five levels Sauna Mania has all the usual facilities, a gym, and a roof top terrace. Open from 3pm to 2am weekdays and 3pm to 6am at weekends – making this sauna an interesting option for a bit of relaxing fun after DJ Station has closed.

35/2 Soi Phipat 2, Convent Rd. BTS – Sala Daeng or Chong Nonsi
Tel: 0818174073


View the original article here

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Adonis Massage – Soi Convent, Silom, Bangkok

Sorry, I could not read the content fromt this page.

View the original article here

The Ascott – Luxury Serviced Apartment Hotel

book make a reservation now!


One of our favorites in Bangkok. Close to the gay bars and clubs in Silom, spacious and well equipped accommodation, great staff, an amazing gym and pool combine to make this an attractive option for both short and longer stay gay visitors.

Location : ?????

Centrally located on Sathon Road.  One stop on the BTS Skytrain to the gay bars and clubs in Silom and three stops from the main shopping area. Access from The Ascott to the BTS station has been improved recently with the opening of a walkway that crosses a busy road junction.

Gay Factor : ?????

Completely gay friendly, and very popular with gay travelers.

Rooms : ?????

Apartments with one or more bedrooms, a lounge and small kitchen. The kitchens have a microwave oven, hob, dishwasher and wash /dryer. Generally well equipped although some aspects are a little dated compared to more recently opened hotels ( for example, traditional TV rather than a flat screen). Sheets and towels are changed daily. Firm, super king sized beds.

Service : ?????

Friendly, welcoming and efficient. Want to invite a few friends over for drinks before a night out? No problem. Housekeeping will provide extra glasses and do the washing up in the morning.

Breakfast : ?????

A buffet breakfast is offered that includes a range of hot and cold dishes.  The range is limited compared with what you would find in some other 5 star hotels.

Facilities  &  Services : ?????

The Ascott is home to The Cascades Club and guests get free access. The Club offers one of the best gyms in Bangkok with an exceptional range of equipment and very helpful staff.  A great place to pump up before a night out. There is an outdoor pool and sun terrace on the 7th floor, and a sauna.  A spa offers a range of massages and other services.

Aldos, a rather good Italian restaurant is located on the 7th floor.

A small on site convenience store sells bottled water, alcohol, soft drinks, ice and some food items.  All rooms have wi-fi and a hifi.

book make a reservation now!Go to top

View the original article here

Adonis Massage – Soi Convent, Silom

Sorry, I could not read the content fromt this page.

View the original article here

Songkran 2011

The biggest celebration of the year is coming. From April 13th to April 15th the country celebrates Songkran – Thai new year and water festival. The fun spills over to the weekend with some of the best events happening on the 16th and 17th April making this a great time to visit Bangkok.

The historical origins of the festival was to visit elders and pay respect by gently sprinkling them with water. It is now celebrated by people roaming the streets with containers of water, water guns or even hoses drenching everyone in their reach.

Last year’s events were restrained by political unrest so expect even more wet, fun filled celebrations this time around.

Special Events

Most bars and clubs organise special events with extended hours.  It goes without saying that the bars of Soi 2 and 4 and both DJ Station and GOD will be bursting at the seams all weekend long.

In Silom the party atmosphere takes over the main road which is closed to traffic each evening.

gCircuit  

Elsewhere in Bangkok, organisers gCircuit will stage three big dance parties on April 15th, 16th and  17th. gCircuit know how to put on a really great party with stunning productions and a world class international DJ line up.

pictures courtesy of gCircuit

Last year gCircuit won praise for the successful relocation of their Songkran parties (to the appropriately named Queens Park Hotel) away from an area occupied by anti-government protesters. Unfortunately in September gCiruit was forced to cancel a three night event at the last minute – but organisers did the right thing and refunded tickets.

This time, with a brand new warehouse venue, a huge production, great DJ line up and a far more stable situation in Bangkok everyone is looking forward to what should be the best gCircuit parties we’ve seen so far.

Bearbie (Silom Soi 4), Bangkok’s only dedicated bar for bears and their chasers will be hosting Songkran parties on the 12th (9am – 2am) , 13, and 14th (5pm – 2am).  Swim wear is the bear necessity on the 13th and 14th.

Babylon & Chakran 

After a long night of dancing you might fancy a more intimate celebration. Check out the special events, including two foam parties, at Bablyon Sauna and Spa. Expect this venue and its restrooms to be busy throughout SongKran.  Likewise Chakran Sauna is holding special events including ‘Erotic Exotic Shows’ during the holidays.

Thinking of coming to Bangkok for SongKran? Check out our list of recommended hotels here.

For information on the bars and clubs in Silom click here

Songkran Essentials

- Book your flights and hotels as soon as possible. Songkran attracts thousands of visitors from abroad.

- Expect to get wet – particularly in the evening. Dress accordingly. Shorts and tee shirts are recommended. Don’t wear flip flops as you will not get into some bars and DJ Station or GOD.

- Place valuables such as your mobile phone and wallet (or banknotes) in a small plastic bag to keep them dry.

- Pace yourself. Celebrations last for nearly 5 days with some of the best events such as gCircuits closing party at Fallabella happening on the 17th.

- Water related eye and ear infections are common during this period. If you get any symptoms go immediately to your local pharmacy (Boots etc) for medication.

Go to top

View the original article here