heraclitus

So before the smoking ban comes into force then

Somehow I just can't see the words "Bannana" and "Bar" together without thinking of an infamous establishment in the Amsterdam RLD. I'll have to drop in next week to check that any similarities are limited to the name.

New Plaza is getting some quite good reports lately so it's on my "to do" list for my next trip starting next week. I'll be sure to drop in for a couple (or more).

Always raises a smile, thanks.

Duty Free at AMS is a lot better than at Birmingham anyway.

Don't know if it's any use to you, but remember EVA also fly direct AMS - BKK (Flight BR0076, leaves A'dam around 12.30).

JohnK, Thanks for the info - I rather suspected that might be the case. The extra space will be welcome in any event.

Dynasty Inn appear to be prepared to be a little flexible about prices, at least for a longer stay. I've booked a superior room for 30 nights in March/April at a rate of 1100 Bht per night. I usually stay at the Whitehouse almost next door but no discount available from them so they've lost my custom at least for this trip. Doesn't seem to much info on the board about the superior rooms at the DI so I'd be grateful for any info BMs may have.

I paid more or less the same AMS - BKK return flying out 11 March and back 09 April. I booked in November. EVA fares on the the AMS - BKK route go up with effect from 1 April but, because my outward leg is before the fare increase, I still got the return at the old price.

Just selected my Evergreen seat for AMS - BKK in March and EVA are still using the same 747-400 Combi aircraft. Well worth the up-grade IMHO.

No problem with Air France, but I'd go a long way to avoid CDG. Depending on where you're starting from, try looking at routing via AMS. Both EVA and China Airlines are pretty cheap on the Amsterdam - Bangkok route and Schipol is fairly civilized (for an airport).

Cabbages & Condoms is owned by a very wealthy Thai businessman who has made his life's work a charity for AIDS prevention by spreading condom use. I forget his name but there was an interesting piece on him on (I think) CNN not so long ago which showed him going round the streets of Pattaya distributing condoms to all and sundry. He's got quite a sense of humour hence the name. I believe that the profits from the restaurant go to support the charity. http://www.cabbagesandcondoms.co.th/

I can confirm that the Whitehouse charges a joiner fee for a second guest - 500 Bht if my memory serves me correctly but I'm not sure. No problem with multiple TGs for a bit of afternoon or evening delight though. First trip I stayed a couple of days at the Sandy Spring but didn't really like it so I took a walk up the Soi, dropped into the Whitehouse, saw a suite and was immediately sold. Never stay anywhere else now. I'm sure you'll enjoy your trip where ever you stay.

No possible doubt - got to be the Dynasty Inn Grande