Hub

http://www.ajarn.com/

Not sure about money changers, but there is an atm listed in Hat Sai Kaew (#50 on map linked below). Hub http://www.travelfish.org/map_detail/thail...ong/ko_samet/31

Thanks PA, will likely try the number and drop the GM name next year. Hub

Partyanimal: Thanks! that place looks great and didn't even know about it after several trips there and now want to give it a spin. Agree on Diamond Beach (Hat Sai Kaew) and Sai Kaew Resort. What did you pay for motorbikes? I couldn't get them for less than 300/day. Those gravel-covered steep partially-paved hills are tough going down, especially after a night of margaritas . Even tougher, my friend said he and his TG slowed to bypass a big branch blocking the road one night - until it moved! Hub

During my first trips (~5-6 years ago) I couldn't figure out what to do either, but now that I have an idea of where things are, there doesn't seem enough time in the day, even for 3-4 week vacations. No naps for this kid usually, to my detriment when drinking with the serious lads at 1-2 am! As others have said, golf, bowling (lawn and regular), the quiz nights. Also, once you develop a circle of friends, there are so many spot to have an afternoon beer or six. If you are into sports at all, places like Pattaya Sports Club (pattayasports.org) have various leagues including darts,

That sounds like the wisest move by far. I bet the five years will go very fast for you - and it leaves you time to plan where you want to end up in Thailand, property purchases, investment structures, etc. Retire now, generate at at best (assuming 6%) $1,000/month taxable income, which is variable on the market and IMO does not allow for a very good standard of living or emergencies. Or wait five years and get $3,200/month, $1,200 of which is guaranteed and does not even mention the huge amount more in your retirement accounts which you can probably start borrowing on before 59.

It sounds like the "bar" on the new Cathay Pacific business class They show a hot girl hanging out with a martini on their website: http://www.cathay-usa.com/duringflight/newbusinessclass.asp but it's really a small little thing in a traffic area near the galley where no one would hangout. Hub

Thanks for the interesting report Echster. Hub

Duece: Classic and all too true, even without the eyecandy. Hub

Hub likes Loy Kratong.

English: I share your sensitivity and have been similarly insulted by some of these characters in the past. I have received insults and have NEVER NEVER lowered myself to responding negatively to these guys, including to that other English guy with a hump in his back, the little Scottish guy that hits the wet farts he calls drives around 140 yards, or the European captain that has less hair than Jim Furyk. I try and take the high road and stay above the fray. If you want a round of golf without insults, I am your man. Hub Doggie: Has the agenda/course/tee times for t

Taxi: Sign me up and if we have some of those colorful hats representative of the Bangledeshi region I promise not to wear it backward. Hub

This seems to be a common trait for many of the European players in the RC. Strangley, it always seems they make the mistake towards the lower end. Hub Pie, please tell me you are NOT sticking to a 36 HC. This from the guy that pars the 425 yd uphill par 4 18th last year to push the RC.

Duece: Yes, I think that may be Arm, Brad's little-known brother. He is reported to be genetically deficient with an overactive thyroid. The reverse baseball cap says it all. He appears to be camera shy as well, kind of like a heavy yeti. Hub

Doggie: I look forward to it as well, including the rapier-like sarcasm with the Scot accent I may have just got a serving of. As to the ninth hole, I wouldn't miss the opportunity but may wait until the 5th or 6th hole to begin drinking in earnest this time so as to save some "powah" for the back nine. Speaking of drinking on the course and it's ill effects: Doggie drinking on the course in last year's RC: and the subsequent ill effects of the alcohol and associated reprehensible behaviour See you during November, Hub

I also hope you feel comfortable in meeting people from the board other than Doggie and Pieman. On a serious note, how about a quick review of those 11 courses when you get back? I may hit CM next year. Hub

Bella Villa Prima: Great hotel otherwise also, see hotel reviews. Hub

You sound like your own biggest fan Hub

I'll be around until the 14th - I'm sure we can arrange a few foursomes in between the RC and when the guys leave for Chanm Mai. Hub

Also, it appears he has placed some dogshit on your forehead Pie. Not sure what's that about. Hub

I've been thinking about joining anyways, but thanks for the reminder Hub

Duece: That is excellent; you are very talented. Did you draw and scan that? Scared Hub

Wow Doggie: I am drooling. What a great trip and price. I've always wanted to see Chang Mai also. Unfortunately I will be leaving the 14th. For anyone on the fence and considering going, we did a similar trip to Kanchanburi last year a had a stellar time. Doggie sorted everything down to a tee. Hub Doggie, I assume Lobin will spoof you out of your room at the Mai Ping once again?

Good Call! Love those kebabs on Soi 8! Had them more times than I can recall. Could go for one now. Last year, I was in line and I thought some guy was getting cheeky, as he kept bumping my shoulder. When I turned around to see what he was up to, it was that damn baby elephant! Made me jump! Hub

Tom; Didn't know that one opened. R U going to use some points for a stay and give us a report? Hub