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I had a look at that complex last year when I was condo shopping. Yes, it is a large complex. It is not that near Foodland, unless you have a motorbike or like to walk. I also would think twice about walking home late at night from Central Pattaya Rd. as the soi is a bit dark. If you are looking to rent, the prices are very reasonable. But realize that each condo reflects the taste and pocketbook of the owner. If the location and price appeals to you I suggest you have a look before renting as the difference in furnishings varies greatly. Rental prices last year varied between 8 to 12000 B per month. Plus electric. The furnishings seemed to make the most difference in the rent. I later purchased a condo between Beach Rd. and Second Rd. and near Big C so I don't need a bike. A big plus. I don't know how the purchase prices run a the Nirun, though I suspect they are lower than most. Again, take a look before you commit.YMMV. Roy

The Sabai Lodge and Sabai Inn located further up Soi2 is my choice. NO guest hassles, great pool, and helpful staff. When I left Pattaya in early March the pool at the Royal Cruise was under reconstruction and was completely unusable. May be finished by now, but.... As others have mentioned, major additions are being made to the Royal Cruise in the form of three new buildings. One next to the old one, and two more behind them. Should be impressive when finished, but if still catering to the Chinese tour groups, and still charging a joiners fee, I definitely would not stay there. Roy

Might be best to stay in a hotel while you inspect the condos. Unlike hotels, condo apartments are all furnished differently. Sometimes that is very good, sometimes not so good. Furnishings reflect the taste (?) as well as the finances of the owner. Yes, great deals can be had, but look before you commit! Roy

The standard rooms are just fine. I prefer the Superior room only because I stay there for two months at a time and feel the smaller room might feel even smaller as time passes. If you opt for the Superior room, request one on the first level. It's more convenient and saves you having to negotiate stairs late at night. Also, the Superior rooms have huge tiled shower stalls...large enough for three to party in. The safety boxes are behind the desk in the lobby. Frankly, I don't know any hotel that offers one of those electronic safety boxes that would be large enough for your laptop. Why bring it? There are internet shops everywhere in Pattaya....two of them on Soi 2. Just extra baggage to lug around, and worry about. If you bring it, just lock in in your luggage. Should not be a problem. Sorry we will not be able to meet up since you get there in Dec., and I leave about Nov. 22. Roy

Charlie, the Sabai Inn is newer than the Lodge, and costs about 100 B a day more. If you are in the Inn you use the pool at the Lodge....no big deal. And both hotels share the same restaurant, the Sala Thai. You might want to try an e-mail again, only this time address it to "Khun Care." Care is the manager lady. She is very efficient and a nice person. She and the staff have treated me extremely well. Roy

P.S. On Soi 8 I generally hang out at the Vicky Bar. Talk to Jim, the owner. He will know where I am. Roy

I will be at the Sabai Lodge from Sept. 30 until November 22. If you decide on the SL, please look me up. Otherwise, I'll see you at FLB or on Soi 8! Roy

View Talay is in Jomtien. A hassle to get to and from the shopping and action in Pattaya. Residence Garden has a good reputation, but for a new guy wanting to get his feet wet, as well as other things, I would suggest the Flipper Lodge on Soi 8 or the Flipper House on Soi 7. RG is probably better for those who already know where things are and are looking for more comfort. Personally, I like the Sabai Lodge on Soi 2 and it is near the Big C, the soapies, many beer bars, and is an easy baht taxi ride to Mike Shopping Mall, Royal Garden Plaza, and Walking Street. And the hotel is very quiet with a great pool and a friendly staff. Everyone has their own likes and dislikes. So come on! Your adventure begins! Roy

Tom's question is a good one. That feature is very handy when the thread is quite long and you want to check the most recent postings. Roy

When I first came to Bkk 9 years ago, I made a habit of staying at the Ambassador. However, as time passed, the place became a bit run down. The restaurants were hurting for business so they went down also. Yes tour buses are the thing there now. I quit staying there about 5 years ago as the rooms were very worn, and the plumbing was terrible. It is as if they don't fix anything. If there has been any up-grading, I am not aware of it. If I am alone in BKK (a temporary condition that is solved on a daily basis) I stay at the Nana. When I have a tirac in tow I stay at the Swiss Park Hote, which is next ddor to the Ambassador on a little side street. Small and friendly, but has the same good location. Roy

Last year I had 4 days with a Go GO gal who was Catholic. She was great! She was looking for a husband, but because of our age difference didn't press the matter with me. I understand that she did find a guy and got "married". A sweetheart of a gal, but very Thai in that she was looking for security. The Thai culture still will control attitudes and goals. Roy

LISTEN TO PAPA! RENT! Don't tie up your principal in Thailand at this time. You probably will not get your money back out in the future. Invest your principal, and chances are that the interest will pay the rent. Rent someone else's condo. It is cheaper than a hotel and without the maintenance headaches of owning, and you can move if and when the maintenance proves unreliable. Actually, there are some hotels than can give you a great long time rental rate. Good luck! Roy