splinter1949

while you are spot on, going that far to be glued to the screen seems very expensive way to enjoy one's smartphone
from my experience and what i heard from others that seems to be established , accepted and fair practice
I'm joining chorus : great and informative report !!!
 

Below is a photo from 2018, taken at a bubbletea cafe in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka, trying to make the best of their situation (no wifi). But as you said, the new generation finds the absence of wifi intolerable, so there was no one but me in this shop for over an hour. 
Oh, as for the sign cut off at the left edge of the picture, it says "I keep losing weight, but it keeps finding me." I find it quite apposite, and made me feel guilty about having afternoon tea there. I had half a mind to tell the proprietor that making his clients feel guilty about his cakes and bubbletea, and exhorting them to talk (what's that?), is not exactly a secret to success in his business.
Mack.
 

I have just returned home from a one month vacation in Thailand.  I decided this time to plan a side trip to Koh Chang.  Here is a brief report of my recent adventure.  
After spending a week in Bangkok, I stayed in Pattaya for ten days, so I was ready to hit the road for a break.  In Pattaya I rented a car for the trip to Koh Chang.  I have rented vehicles many times in Thailand, because I like the freedom driving a car gives me.
I took a boy from a Pattaya bar with me, he was eager to travel with me.  It was a good break for him to get away from the bar for a few days, while still making a guaranteed long time tip each day.  I have always paid any boy traveling with me the going rate for long time tip daily, and of course I paid for all expenses.  I always let them know if they want free time away from me, they can have it, but I have found they usually want to stick with me every day.  When I ask them what they would like to do, the usual response is the ubiquitous "up to you".   Believe me, if you have planned something a boy thinks is boring, or not fun for them, they won't be shy to tell you.
Total travel time from Pattaya to Koh Chang was about 6 hours, including the ferry ride.  The first part of the trip was from Pattaya to Laem Gnop in Trat province, that's where the ferries depart for Koh Chang.  The drive was about 4.5 hours, very enjoyable,  going through Sattahip, Rayong, and Chantaburi.  As you can see in this photo, Koh Chang is very close to the Cambodian border.
 
 

Because Koh Chang is a very large island, I wanted to take the rental car on the ferry to use to get around and explore the island.  The ferries run frequently.  Tickets are 80 baht for each passenger, and 120 baht to take a car.  The ride takes about 40 minutes.  After driving aboard, all passengers go up to the second deck lounge for the transit to the island.  There are snacks and drinks available on the second deck from a small store and a coffee stand.

 

 

I had made a reservation for Seabreeze Bungalows in Kai Bae Beach for five nights.  I chose the deluxe bungalow, and it was 1,850 baht per night, including all taxes and fees.  Not a bad deal for a good room on an island in January during high season.  This price was locked in long before the current coronavirus was news.
Upon landing on Koh Chang, it took about 20 minutes to reach the bungalow, driving south along several beaches on the way.  The further south from the ferry pier, the more rustic the small villages along the beaches are.  White Sands Beach is the first beach coming from the ferry.  It is the largest beach, and the most developed on the island, something I wanted to avoid.
After leaving White Sands Beach, the road begins to narrow, and the atmosphere becomes much more tranquil, with less development, and fewer people.  I decided since Kai Bae Beach was located in between White Sands beach and Lonely Beach, it would be a good location to stay.  Lonely Beach is the most popular beach with backpackers, and is known for very loud parties every night at different bars that go till dawn.  Kai Bae turned out to be a good choice, a very relaxed area, but with a good assortment of small restaurants and bars.  There was a Filipino band that played every night at the open air bar and restaurant at the Seabreeze Bungalows where we stayed.
This is the bungalow where we stayed.

 

 

 
This is the main road running through Kai Bae Beach. 

If you travel without a car, there are songtaews, making it very easy to get around the island.  They charge a fixed rate based on how many beaches you pass.  The songtaews meet the ferries, and they strap any large bags on the roof for transport to your hotel.
 

 
One day we rented kayaks, and paddled about 20 minutes to an uninhabited island offshore from Kai Bae beach.  When I first mentioned this, the boy I was with thought that sounded like fun.  It included getting up early to rent the kayaks and be on the water by 9 am.  I have heard many people say that it's impossible to drag a bar boy out of bed early, but if there's something they want to do, they'll make sure to be ready.
There are several waterfalls, and we had planned to hike up to one, but figured since it is dry season with little rain that there wouldn't be anything to see.  Each day we went to a different part of the island to explore using the rental car.  One day I bought us masks and snorkels.  The boy I was with said he liked snorkeling, as he had never done it before.  He told me afterwards it was good, but he didn't get to see any fish.
There are a few 7-Eleven stores on the island, and a small Big C, and a small Makro.  Another reason I chose the Seabreeze Bungalows is it was only a short walk to a 7-Eleven store, very convenient to buy snacks and drinks.  Most motorbikes buy their gasoline from stands selling it in used liquor bottles as you still see in some areas of rural Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia.
There are many small restaurants, and unlike Phuket, the prices for food were reasonable, about the same as on the mainland. 
The air quality on the island was great until late every night when a local resident decided it was a good idea to set large piles of leaves on fire, letting them smolder all night.
There was an elephant camp just steps from the bungalows, and every afternoon, the mahouts would take the juvenile elephants down to Kai Bae Beach to swim and allow tourists to swim with them and take photos.  The salt water didn't bother the elephants, as they were having fun spraying the tourists with water from their trunks.

 

 

 

 

 
Koh Chang was a good break after being in Bangkok and Pattaya.  Five days was a good getaway.   It's a place I had wanted to see for some time.  It's well worth the taking the time to travel there.
 

 
 

More3x...
 

Day 10 Laos Trip with Y
So Y offered himself to go with me to Laos after i mentioned that im going there. I already mentioned my train of thought about why I decided to take him in previous posts so im not going to repeat that here. My bus arrived at Suvarnabhumi airport around 8.45pm, and i managed to take the 9am shuttle bus to Don mueang airport that arrived around 9.50+ am. Y texted me 5 minute before my arrival saying he is already there. He posted a picture of his location, and i went there and we went inside. We were a bit early, and the check in counter isnt opened yet for our flight. I asked Y if he had breakfast yet, he said no, so we went upstair to have breakfast. 
He ordered beef bryani and i ordered beef noodle soup. I asked him he like indian food and he said no, he dont like the smell. True enough when the dish came, he took a whiff and told me he cant eat it. I offered him to swap with me. At first he refuse, but i assured him i can eat either of the dishes anyway, so he accepted and thanked me. We wait until a bit later to check in so Y can go to smoke few more times before we enter the gate. Even though i dont like smoking smell, i totally understand the ordeal a smoker have to deal with, and sometimes they are addicted and cant help themselves. Anyway, we checked in and goes inside to wait at the gate. At the gate, i noticed one middle age gay asian had his eye fixed towards Y when he passed by, obviously impressed at his handsome look and great body lol. Once we are seated, I told Y that a guy is obviously thinks he is handsome. Y nonchalantly asked me if I see any girl looked at him as well lol. 
In order to board our flight, we had to take the bus that take us to the plane, and this is what Y had hoped for as he wanted to take picture with the plane. We didnt get to seat next to each other though, as the flight is full, but we both got window seats at the front of the airplane, and the flight is only a bit over an hour. Flight was on time and as we arrived, I tried to contact the hotel as they advertised they have provided hotel shuttle, but apparently the phone number on the website is not reachable. I then checked at the airport shuttle if they stop near our hotel and luckily they do. So we went with the bus. One thing i quickly realize is the taxi rate over here is really expensive, unlike in thailand nor malaysia. I also buy simcard for both Y and myself, which is pretty cheap (IIRC usd5 for 5gb 3 days) at the airport. I also gave Y some pocket money to spend.
We stay at Best Western hotel which is at a great location, near the night market, and close to many restaurants. Not that the city is huge anyway, so lots of the area are reachable by walking. The room are spacious, and i purposely booked a smoking room, with balcony. While the hotel allow for smoking inside the room, I told Y to smoke in the balcony and he has no problem with that. We both felt a bit famish so we head out on foot to find something to eat. We found one garden them bar/restaurant near the big road and decided to eat there. Great food, and Y is really on holiday mood, and ordered a local Lao beer called BeerLao. Yup, very creative name indeed. He took some selfie and share it on his FB. 
Btw, i mentioned before that Y proves to be a great companion to bring to Vientiane as people here can speak and understand thai, so Y has becomes my translator too. Each time we go to eat, he knows what i can and cannot eat, so he will order the food for both of us, and eat sharing the dishes. We were at the second floor outside eating area/garden for probably 2 hour or so, with Y keep ordering the beer. I dont really have any plan for the day though so taking it easy at this place is totally relaxing. Yu did told me he didnt really sleep last night as he went out drinking with his friends, so we went back to the hotel and I let him sleep for few hours before i join in to cuddle. We both wake up close to 11pm, and decided to walk out to find something to eat for supper. Thankfully there are few bars and local restaurant still open. We ate at this local Laos restaurant serving set dimsum, rice and noodles dishes. We then go back to hotel, had some fun together and then went to sleep. It felt so nice to have this gorgeous hunk next to me even when im not in Bangkok. I am so glad that i decided to bring Y with me. 

So for those waiting for Jaab's naughty pics, enjoy!!!

Jaab in the shower, yum3x!!!

Day 9 - First repeat of the trip with D (first 2 day in a row too)
Back at the hotel, I checked my text and D is texting me asking my whereabout. I told him i just arrived at the hotel and that he can come anytime. He asked where is my hotel, i said Zing, in jomtien complex. He said he dont know where. I said let me share the location. Before i share, he asked if i want to come to his place instead. Thats the first time boy asked me to sleep at his place. He said because i want to wake up early, and he would like to sleep in, so i can just leave the room and he continue to sleep. But i didnt make that connection at that point, so i told him I prefer he come to my room. He said ok, he will come at 11.35pm, very specific lol. He texted me 11.36pm saying he is on his way and arrived around 15min later. I take him from lobby and to my room. 
This time around, my room is a bit bigger, and have a balcony facing the pool. D enter the room and he brings some food to eat. He also smokes so I tell him we can hang out at the balcony first. We get to talk and I told him im going to Laos with a boy, and he said he is unlucky, because he didnt get to go lol. Not long after, we moved to the room and shower. To be honest, I was expecting some massages first but in the moment, D started to kiss me and I guess there will be no massage tonight. Not that im disappointed though, coz it turns out D is so horny and there is lots of foreplay and sex that night it lasted quite a while. I did say i detected some kinkyness during our massage session before and that he was holding back. 
Yes, and yes. He even do dirty talk (impressively in english!) and he likes that we get a bit rough too. At one point, he was doing both massaging my back and fucking at the same time lol. I even had to ask him to stop in the middle to rest a bit. And the kisses, he almost suffocate me lol, sloppy kisser. When we stop for a rest, we actually went out to the balcony, him is smoking and naked with only part of the curtain to hide his private part and me with towel lol. Then we continue again and honestly, i had to tell him to finish off, otherwise i think he can still keep at it lol. This was the most passionate sex id ever had. We both were pretty exhausted after, so we clean up and went to bed. 
Timeline was a bit hazy that night after all that sex. D told me he used to work in Bangkok, sabaidee spa. He said customers are mostly thai, and he said he dont like it not because they dont give good tips, but because they like to ask him very personal questions which made him uncomfortable. I woke up around 6 am. I already packed my stuff yesterday so i just took shower and dressed before i need to leave for the bus. D is fast asleep, and I remember now that he wanted to me to sleep at his room so he can continue sleeping without waking up. I got an idea, I woke him up slowly, pass him his tip and told him to continue sleeping. I went to lobby and tell reception Im checking out early, and my friend is still sleeping. Seems like I'm not the first to do this as the reception says ok, and make sure to put a note on the PC, and tells me Im already checked out. 
Arrived at the bus station, and the bus is already waiting. Departed to Suvarnabhumi on time. I text Y that I am already otw. He asked where to meet, I told him either Don Mueang at 10am or Suvarnabhumi at 9am. He said he will go to Don Mueang. During the bus ride, I already started to miss H and of course D too. Im still in contact with both. Funny thing about D though, when he texted me, he will say I miss your ass rather than i miss u lol. 

From South China Morning Post
Coronavirus: Whistleblower Dr Li Wenliang confirmed dead of the disease at 34, after hours of chaotic messaging from hospital
Li, 34, was one of eight doctors who tried to share information about the coronavirus only to be reprimanded by Wuhan police Wuhan Central Hospital initially denied reports he was dead, saying he was in “critical condition”, before finally confirming he had died
Li Wenliang – one of the first doctors who tried to alert the public about the coronavirus outbreak, only to be reprimanded by local police – has died, Wuhan Central Hospital confirmed early Friday morning, hours after it initially denied reports of his death.
“In the fight against the pneumonia epidemic of the new coronavirus infection, our hospital's ophthalmologist, Li Wenliang, was unfortunately infected. He passed away after all the efforts we’ve taken to resuscitate him. We deeply mourn his passing,” the hospital said on its official Weibo account.
Li, 34, died at 2.58am on Friday, the hospital added.
The announcement capped several chaotic hours in which Chinese media first reported Li's death, only for the hospital to respond that Li was alive, though in critical condition.
The earlier reports of Li’s death by multiple Chinese outlets, including Beijing News and Global Times, triggered an outpouring of mourning and tribute both on Chinese social media and at health agencies trying to stem the outbreak.
“We are very sorry to hear the loss of any frontline worker who is committed to care for patients … we should celebrate his life and mourn his death with his colleagues,” said Michael Ryan, director of the World Health Organisation's health emergencies programme, said during a briefing on Thursday.
Chinese social media has been awash with anger over the death of the whistle-blower – some mourning Li’s death with candles, some demanding that the authorities apologise for the way they had treated him
“None of the police has ever apologised to you. You could have been a national hero, but the dereliction of duty has claimed your life, along with a few hundred innocent lives,” a user said on Weibo.
On December 30, Li warned his medical school classmates in an online chat group that a Sars-like illness had stricken several patients in a Wuhan hospital and that all of them were quarantined in the emergency department.
The same day that the doctor shared the message, local health authorities announced that the city had confirmed 27 cases of a new type of virus, most of them linked to a seafood market.
However, Li, along with seven other doctors who shared information about the outbreak, was summoned to the local police and forced to sign a letter promising to make no further disclosures concerning the disease.
On January 1, CCTV, the Communist Party’s mouthpiece, accused the eight doctors in Wuhan for spreading what the government had called “rumours”.
As of Friday, according to Chinese health authorities, the deadly virus had claimed 563 lives in mainland China, plus another two in Hong Kong and Philippines. The outbreak has infected more than 28,000 in China, far exceeding the 2002-03 Sars epidemic, which killed almost 800 people worldwide.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/3049411/coronavirus-li-wenliang-doctor-who-alerted-authorities-outbreak

Day 9 - Movie night with H
H texted me that he is on his way to my hotel at 7pm. Within few minutes, he texted he is here. I replied saying im coming down. He is wearing a very nice Karen traditional shirt. We walk a bit to the main road, and H suggested we should take the motorsai to beat the traffic if we want to make it to the movie. I agree, and H negotiated the price, and managed to get the same price for two motorsai instead of us 3 in one motorcycle. Though 3 of us squeezing in one motorcyle would be awesome, but Ive been back and forth between jomtien and South pattaya enough to see plenty of motorcyles being stopped by police for variety of offense, so better be safe and travel according to the law. As we hit South pattaya after the bridge, we knew we made the right choices and the traffic is already pretty bad and most are at standstill, except for the motorcyles which still being stopped from time to time due to not enough space to squeeze through.

We arrived at Central festival and walked all the way to the cinema at the very top. I complimented H on his nice shirt, and H proudly explain that it is his traditional shirt. We went to the kiosk to buy the ticket and H took out his loyalty card to be used. There are two choices of seats, the normal seats and the sofa at the very back. I told H lets take the sofa, H said it cost more, I said its ok. Of course i am ok with this lol. It means there will be no arm rest in between us. It does cost twice the normal price but it is worth it.
I also learned that H didnt know how to read Thai script when he had to asked the movie attendant to help on reading some of the wordings in the websites, probably try to see the current promotions. And I also realized that the slot time for the movie i chose is English audio with thai subtitle. While H english is actually quite good, I felt bad a bit as he probably would understand more if we chose Thai audio with english subtitle instead. But i checked again for the time limit we have (him finishing work at sunset and wanting to go back early to sleep), we didnt have a better time slot choices. I guess maybe in the future, Ill choose a Thai audio english sub for his benefit. 
We bought a popcorn to share and got a drink each. Lots of hand, shoulder, arm and leg touching during the movie. H did dozed off a bit, tired perhaps from working and probably due to language barrier as well, or he is also not a fan of star wars. Either way, while it is a bit cold in the movie theather, I am kept warm enough from the skin contact with H lol. Only towards the end i summon the courage to actually wrap my arms around his hand and he seems dont mind that either. Shouldve done that sooner. 
After the movie ended, we walked out of the mall while chatting a bit more. I asked about last night if Z make it ok to home. H told me something about that i just said to H that Z was a bit drunk lol. We took songthaew to Walking street. I bought something to eat and asked if H wanted something and he said he already full from the popcorn. We took another songtheaw to Jomtien and H walked me to my hotel. We say our goodbye and i told him i will find him again the next time i go to pattaya. He reminded me about some of our conversation about him trying to find other job. I told him i'll contact him if i cant find him at the beach. We hugged and i kiss his cheek for goodbye, of course after asking permission.
Though our time together is very short and only with innocent flirting and nothing further, I am glad he is actually sporting enough to go out to a movie with me. I will cherish this memory and hope we will meet again in the future. 

Day 9
Had the most satisfying sleep yesterday, from midnight till 8 am, 8 hours of uninterrupting sleep. Even at home, this is very rare as i usually woke up once to go to the toilet. So far in Pattaya no real pattern have been developed. First night was ST with massage in the morning in bangkok, second night LT, third night ST, and 4th night no off with massage in the evening. Today Ill be moving back to Jomtien for my final night in Pattaya, and a practical move as its easier to catch early bus tomorrow to catch my noon flight to Vientiane. I checked out a bit early, around 11am and took the songtheaw to Jomtien. Dropped my luggage at lobby after being told my room is not ready for early check in. So, I went ahead to familar shop for my brunch at Jomtien beach. 
With no plan for my daytime activity, i take this last full day opportunity to go to the beach again. Apart from relaxing to the sound of the waves and the cool breeze under the shades, sight of sexy shirtless H is a bonus too. H is definitely more open with me now after last night. I ordered coconut juice for my first drink and relax and even fell a sleep for a period of time. H from time to time comes to my place for chatting. We discussed a bit about last night disappointed meal and H said usually he dont really eat at night, just heavy breakfast and lunch. 
I asked if H want to go out with me again, maybe to a better place to eat, since its no longer Christmas eve dinner tonight, he said maybe not tonight. I told him tonight is my last night as tomorrow ill go back to bangkok and leave for Vientiane. I said maybe we can also go watch movie. He mentioned itll not be enough time for dinner and movie as he wanted to go back early to sleep as tomorrow he still have to work. I then suggested that we can skip dinner and just go watch movie after he finished working. He then said ok, that should be fine. In my mind, I scream with joy as i get to take H again, this time for movie. He then show me the movie showtime and asked which movie and slot that i want. I asked him if he havent watch the new star wars movie yet, he said he havent watch it yet so we settled for that movie, showing around 8pm. 
I told him Im back at Zing today, so he can come to Zing after he finished his work, around 7pm. Now, knowing i wont go to the bar tonight and H wanted to go back early to sleep anyway, I texted D, Lao masseur from Helios asking if he is available to see me tonight, around 11pm. He said yes and asked for details of my hotel and tips. I told him to come to Zing, share the location, and said ill let him know when im at the hotel. I knew during last session that he stays near jomtien too, and he finished work at 10pm at helios, so 11pm should be a good time to meet. I also told him ill leave in the morning tomorrow around 645am, so he dont have to stay long. He said ok thus my night companion for my last night in Pattaya was set.
I also went to the bus station to buy my ticket for tomorrow, taking the 7am bus, so ill arrive to Suvarnabhumi around 9am, enough time to take the airport shuttle to Don Mueang and arrived there around 10-10.30am for my 12.50pm flight. After all that, went back to hotel to rest a bit and then get ready for movie night with H. This time around, I didnt ask Z to join us, as i feel that Z probably better of at his bar taking customer than coming with us. 

I decided to tag on this thread for a short trip report on my recent visit over the Chinese New Year weekend. 
My parents wanted to go somewhere over this period so I conveniently suggested to them Bangkok, a place where they have never been to. My brother would also tag along on this trip. He has been to Bangkok a few times. This trip was also a self-treat for my birthday weekend. It was a last minute decision when the booking was made as I could not confirm my work schedule. Day time was fully occupied with bringing my family around to the touristy spots. I was tired by night time and had to force myself to go out every night.
Due to technical issues, check in luggages collection was delayed upon arrival. It was late by the time we reached the hotel and I had to give the first night a miss.
On the second night, after settling my family back in the hotel, I headed straight to Screwboys. My one and only aim of this trip was to see adorable Myanmar boy from Screwboys again. Though I understand that boys come and go in this industry, I was disappointed that Myanmar boy had indeed stopped working and went back home. I expected he would have at least stayed until the end of his work permit in March, and he had lived in Thailand for many years before this. Therefore I thought the chances of him still being around was high. Mamasan confirmed this with a Lao boy, his friend, standing behind me. I have not seen Lao boy previously, I had to double take on Lao boy as he was adorably cute. CNY Friday night was the most crowded I've seen Screwboys in terms of customers but not the boys. Something felt missing in all the bars this trip, and I realised it was the lack of Viet boys. Most of them I assume went back home for CNY. Show was ongoing and I waited for it to be over to see the boys lineup. I was eyeing two boys, one of which was Lao boy. On stage, Lao boy avoided eye contact with all customers and stared straight at the back wall. He looked dreary and tired which made me hesitant to call him. I continued to observe him, during occasional interactions with other boys his face would break into a cute smile. Cute smiles are my soft spot so I had to call him over.
Lao boy had only worked for a month and did not speak any English. Had to resort to google translate with many conversations lost in translation along the way. Lao boy started the conversation with the news of his friend, adorable Myanmar boy. He showed me Myanmar boy's profile on Facebook messenger to confirm we're talking about the same person. Seeing his picture made me miss him a little more. I was satisfied with Lao boy and decided to off him. I decided to tip another Lao boy who I recognised previously from Super A. He was avoiding my eye contact the whole time and was even unhappy with the tip. Another pissy Lao boy to add to my list. I shared a room with my brother, so I opted to use the short time room. The short time room would be the next door Pavilion Place. The room had two massage tables with face holes pushed to one side, a smaller than queen bed on the other side and a shower cubicle, no toilet. For short time, it was clean and comfortable enough for me. Lao boy was great, very affectionate and a great kisser. We also had good google translate conversation after. He has a day job so that explains why he looked tired.
Third night, I headed to Lucky boys. My usual Mamasan said he waited for me the night before. The night before, I bumped into the other Lucky Boys mamasan on the street on the way to Screwboys. Actually I walked along the inner corridor on the opposite side but he still managed to spot me and called me over to say hi. Show was ongoing so Mamasan brought Cambodia boy A, who was already in street clothes, over to say hi. He whispered to message him as per previous time. Unfortunately, no daytime slot for him this trip, which I explained to him on Line the next day. Mamasan then brought a Myanmar boy, a boy I called for a drink with but didn't off on my previous trip. Again, I felt no connection with the boy but selfishly decided to hold onto him to see if there were anyone better in the line up. Not a lot of choices for boys so I settled for Myanmar boy. Mamasan proposed a larger room down the road at Strand Inn. Room had a big king bed, big bathroom with jacuzzi but only shower curtains as separation and no hot water. As per initial feelings, did not have great connection with Myanmar boy which translated to a not so great session.
Fourth and last night, I got an early start as parents were too tired and decided to skip dinner. I decided to check out Banana boys for the first time. It was Sunday night, the slowest night of the week. Show had started and I was seated in the front row. I scanned the boys available, they were seated diagonally to the left beside the stage. Less than ten boys, none that stood out. I headed out before the show ended. I headed to Freshboys next and beautiful Mamasan was not around, only fierce looking and guy mamasan. Only one boy waiter was around. Freshboys still had a decent number of boys, though no one that attracted me except for my handsome straight Thai boy. He was sitting with a customer together with another boy. Not sure if he has been converted or just very drunk as he didn't look uncomfortable with the customer fondling him and seemed to be even enjoying it a little. He wai and smiled at me when he saw me, which was also unusual. He normally has a stern face. I tipped him again as I have done every time I see him. Maybe that loosened him up a bit every time. Did not spend long in Freshboys before I left and headed out to Screw boys. I would have repeated Lao boy again but he was not working that night. With no other alternatives, I made my way to Lucky boys next. I had initially planned to make this an early night by quickly picking a boy as I was extremely tired from the day's activities. No quick pick so my resolve changed to just take my time and relax at Lucky boys till closing time.
My usual mamasan informed me the previous night he would be away with a customer with 3 other boys to northern Thailand for a few days. I was stuck with a pushy mamasan, who I ignore most of the time. Lucky boys was starving of boys, only one row of boys was available. There were two boys that were acceptable but I held out, secretly hoping some boys would magically appear late on. I stayed on and stared at the mostly empty stage. I decided to call on a Thai boy who was persistently smiling at me, though not the cute Lao boy smile. Thai boy was likeable and not pushy. Cambodia boy A came in the bar sometime after, again in street clothes probably done for the night after a customer. I was happy with Thai boy and we head out with mamasan to Strand inn. On the way out, Cambodia boy A was chilling on the sofa so I said goodbye to him and promised to look for him on my next visit. He jokingly asked for an 'ang pao' which I obligedly gave. In Strand Inn, we sat on the sofa beside the reception to wait for our room. At that point of time, the other boy that I was eyeing just finished his session with a customer and was about to leave the hotel when he saw us. It turned out he was also Thai and a good friend of my boy. He planted himself next to me and I witnessed first hand the boys discussing the session he had with the customer. Though in Thai, I knew what the discussion was about. After the discussion, attention turned to me as the 2nd Thai boy asked for a threesome, with mamasan also urging me. He was not pushy but more flirtatious. I asked my boy if he was ok, as two friends together could be a nightmare. He gave the ok so I decided why not for my last night. It was the best decision. 2nd Thai boy was a master orchestrator and the leader. Though they did not touch each other, both boys were passionate, proactively flipping roles and was patient, making it a perfect night to end the trip.
Some other notes, new ladies gogo bar have opened further down Patpong 2 so walking down from Silom rd was no longer as quiet.
 
 

Nope. Z isnt really my type but i really like his company as a friend. H isnt really a money boy too, refusing tips from me is definitely a sign. But nevertheless, i had fun lol

Day 8 continued - My first night out with H and Z
Quick recap, H is my crush of 1 year and Z is Vinapu's prized guy from our last trip where i met him in Bangkok, tagging along with us is A and Jimbillp. I finally had the courage to ask H to go to a bar with me and Z to drink my free bottle that i won before. H asked where to meet, so i decided to meet him at Z's bar first. I asked what time he will be able to meet, and he said 7.30pm. I texted Z about the plan for tonight. We are both equally excited for tonight as Z also told me H is hot and sexy and he like H too lol. Z even congratulated me. We talked further about tonight plan, as well as gossiping about boys i had and customers he had yesterday night. Nothing explicit hehe. 
Fast forward to 7pm, Im already dressed for tonight's night out and went out to take songtheaw to Jomtien. Arrived at the bar a bit early, i didnt see Z around. Texted him and he said he is on his way. Then i received text from H asking where to meet. I shared my location and he arrived minutes after Z arrived. We first discussed about where to eat dinner. Apparently due to tonight's being christmas eves, all the good western restaurants are fully booked. So we settled at one thai restaurant at Thappraya road towards the beach. We orderd few dishes and eat asian style sharing the dishes. Bill was reasonable but H said the food used to be much better, and said the mango shake dont even use fresh mango. While i dont mind at all as im not a picky eater, next time i will make sure to plan ahead if i ever had dinner plan on christmas eve in pattaya. All i care is I get to eat with H.
After dinner, we took the songtheaw to Boyztown. I realized we are too early even for the earliest show at Xboy, so to get the full bar nightout experience, I bring the party to the bar in front of BBB. I want to say Serene bar, but its in between of Castro and Panorama. We ordered some drinks, chat and people watching. H told me he saw some customer from the beach there, and said if they know im here, many of them will be sort of mad. I guess he had been asked but refused to go here before? I can only guess. I show H some of the boys i recognized that work in BBB as they come to work. H also told me he recognize one guy in front of Copa massage and said the guy also work as masseur at the beach. H didnt know that the masseur also work here, stating he got family and kids and admires how hard the guy is working, day at the beach, night at boyztown. 
Close to 10pm, we proceeded to Xboys, and showing my voucher at the door, we 3 escorted in and given the seat at the back, which is what i prefer too, as the seat is elevated. There is a charge of 1k to the bar for opening the bottle and serving, but given that i got the bottle for free, its still a good bargain for 3 of us. 3 drinks alone will cost 900 baht, and we were given unlimited soft drink/soda/water and ice to drink with the whiskey. H sit in the middle of Z and me, so we both have access to H lol. Show havent started yet and boys are on rotation. Z and I quickly identified our favorite, and some of our comments about boys are similar, like one guy we both like his body but but not much of his face etc. Meanwhile i also try to extract from H if he likes what he see. Z texted me through line in the bar, saying that H is bisex. A vital piece of info which leads me to asked H what kind of boy he like lol. Not surprisingly, he likes cute twink with perky personality. He did show me some of the boy that is his type, and told me one boy he recognized went to the beach before with his customer, and try to get the boy picture to show his customer lol. 
One thing that actually made my day is H is not opposed with me being a bit handsy and flirty with him, touching his hand, thigh, or put my arms around his waist or shoulder. I didnt do anything further though, not knowing his limit and dont want to make it awkward or pushing my luck. Plus Z is with me and we are in a public area. I am fully satisfied that i get to spend happy times with H still. One thing that didnt happpened as planned was H actually has to work tomorrow. I thought Wednesday was the day when the beach is closed but turns out it is no longer the case now. So H basically have no day off and works at the beach everyday now. Knowing this, I am surprised that H still agrees to go out to the bar with me. He did however told me that he cant stay too long and cant drink too much. I told him its alright, lets just see how the night goes.
At one point, Z texted me that he need to go as he has customer waiting, but said H will also go if he goes as H has to work tomorrow. I told Z i already know that and its ok, he can go when he has to go. Z did stay with me another 30min or so after that though. H did asked me if i like any of the boys on stage, i coyingly says yes some, but i like you more. He just laughed, the kind of laugh that show u dont really believe what the other is saying. Its cute when he did that. One of the cute boyish looking mamasan came to our table and pour another whiskey to H even when H is trying to stop, so he as revenge, H asked the mamasan to drink whiskey shot as well. The mamasan is quick thinking on his feet and told H he will do it if H kiss him on the cheek. And H actually did kiss the mamasan. I am in full view of this and that is a cute scene to watch. The kind of cute scene one can see in Thai BL stories. A hot guy, shyly kiss a cute boy and H was clearly blushing and laughing afterward. 
Z was either out to buy cigarette or to the toilet, but he wasnt around when this happened. I told Z later and Z was clearly jealous hearing this lol. 
Its time to leave the bar, Z announced, and H and I also agreed. We all called mamasan to settle to bill and i also tip the waiter and mamasan. As soon as we are out the bar, Z suggested we go through boyztown to go to the songtheaw. Im still staying in Ambiance tonight so Z and H will go back to Jomtien together. I sent both of them off at the mouth of the entrance to Boyztown, near Toyboys. As we walked pass Copa, H wai the copa masseur he knows and He just smiled and greet with few short sentences in Thai. I say goodbye to Z and H, and says thanks to both for accompanying me to bar tonight. I offered H to take the bottle of whiskey back with him but he says he dont want, so I gave the bottle to Z which he took it and says he will probably drink when he is sad. I gave Z his bar fine, as well as tips for his time and of course his role as the middle man. I then thanked H again for the great time and wanted to give him tips as well. He was touched and hugged me but insisted that he dont want the tip. What a great way to refuse a tip and keep face. I definitely wont be offended, instead i just hope i didnt offend him by trying to tip him, but his respond make me feel at ease, and make me like him even more. 
The two boys went back home together, Z probably a lil bit drunk (he whispered to me he is afraid he cant perform well with his customer now since he is a bit drunk lol) but H has been very good at controlling his alcohol intake so he should be able to take care of Z. I am on cloud nine that night, had very satisfying massage with sex, and my very first, very successful fun filled outings with 2 great boys. I dont want to spoil the night by doing anything else like going to another bar and finding a dud, so I went back to my room and sleeping with a smile on my face. 

Sightseeing in Bangkok

Bangkok Guy and I reunite for a couple of days sightseeing.

We begin with the area around the Grand Palace and Wat Pho but find the numbers of tourists oppressive and retreat to a hole-in-the-wall restaurant for a quick bite of pork with noodles (120Bht and very good) before crossing the river to Wat Arun. Since I last visited Wat Arun about fifteen years ago it has enjoyed a facelift and looks very clean and white. I get a kick from the decorations made from old china crockery.

Re-crossing the river Bangkok Guy welcomes my suggestion that we sightsee with air conditioning and we decide to go to the Art and Cultural Center near National Stadium BTS to see the exhibitions. In this heavily touristed area the taxis all want no-meter Falang rates which is not how Bangkok Guy rolls. He is Thai person and expects Thai person rates. We take a TukTuk and welcome the breeze.

If you have the opportunity to see the exhibition Spectrosynthesis II before it closes March 1st go to see it. The LGBTQ art presented is of very high quality. Bangkok Guy’s reaction to some of the more obviously sexual works is amusing. On encountering them his face registers shock combined with engagement and he emits a quiet, almost unconscious “Oh My God”. “Oh My God” is his standard utterance when faced with something surprising.

We each buy the exhibition t-shirt.

Bangkok Guy is innately very modest. He still dresses and undresses outside my line of vision. So I wondered what he thought of some of the more explicit works.

Over dinner we go through the pics I had taken of various works. The degree to which he liked the works, or not, bore no relationship to how explicit they were. Rather, it corresponded to the degree to which he could relate to the work. Naked Issan boy with two falang, yes. Christ child with two fathers, yes (because he has a soft spot for children). Two Queen-ish Chinese Opera performers, no. 

We also enjoyed the photo exhibition by Princess Maha Chakri. Quite apart from the professionalism of the images what appealed was the quirkiness of the selection. Sort of ‘scenes from the life’. Not only Thailand, as expected, but shots from overseas visits and even her dog with a massive chew toy.

The following day is River Trip day. For some time I have wanted to hire a long tailed boat and explore the river and canals. After discussing prices with operators at Taksin Pier Bangkok Guy asks me what I want to do, his face suggesting that he has a better idea. Following his lead, I decline the 4000Bht requested for a longtail boat and he takes me to the Chao Phraya Express Boat where for 60Bht we get to spend around two hours traveling along the river as far as Nothaburi, where we disembark and wander through the market stalls.

One stall has great bonsai. I would really like one but can’t take it back home. “If had apartment here, could have” says Bangkok Guy.

On the return trip I notice a woman wearing a lucky bracelet similar to one Bangkok Guy had shown me internet pics of, hinting that a good friend might think of buying him one. I failed to take the hit.

I point it out to him and he confirms that yes, this is what he was showing me, although it is a ‘made in China’ replica. Apparently the best ones are real gold and come from China Town, which by coincidence is a stop on the route. We disembark at China Town and Bangkok Guy is excited. These lucky charm bracelets clearly mean a lot to him. The charms are fat hollow gold dragons, the larger the luckier (of course).

We are now Shopping, which means a lot of comparisons and China Town has many, many goldsmiths to visit. Unfortunately for Bangkok Guy we arrive at 5.20pm and the shops shut at 6pm. He runs out of time. The problem is that none of the style he likes, a single dragon on a red draw-string cord, are large enough to fit over his hand. With more time he can get one made to fit. I think they are quite stylish and, as it means a lot to him, I happily give him the cash to get one later. 

I smile to myself that this is also a somewhat unusual business development expense.  If the charm brings luck, his prayers will be answered and I will generate more business. Not something I am likely to run past my accountant.

Back at the apartment after dinner the long day outdoors and the exposure to the reflected light off the water has left me pink, Bangkok Guy brown and both of us tired. We opt for a nap before going to Bamboo Bar for jazz.

As usual, I rise and dress first. Unusually, Bangkok Guy does not want to get up. “You go, I sleep”. This is my last night. At the end of my last visit Bangkok Guy, ever up and cheerful, got a little down. Same thing is happening now. I re-hang my clothes and join him in bed, where we spoon and sleep through until dawn.

Writing this, I notice that I refer to Bangkok Guy’s expression a lot. Limitations on verbal communication mean that we watch each other’s face and body language carefully and fairly constantly. The benefit of this is that I think we are pretty aware of each other’s state of mind, enquire and get feedback and get a lot of the basics right. It is probably one of the reasons we get on well.

We have tentatively planned the next trip.

These days I am a bit inclined to run the business to maximize interest rather than profit, an advantage of my stage of life. In the coming year I am going to drive a lot harder on profit. I had planned to do this anyway, as I felt I had become a little self-indulgent. I now have the additional motivation of needing to provide enough ‘pennies on the dollar’ to make a difference to Bangkok Guy.

In particular, I would like to get him the capital to fund one of his (fairly modest) business ideas so that, hopefully, he develops confidence in his ability to build something for himself. He is bright enough and not work-shy.  But he has no experience of, or examples of, anyone getting ahead except through relationships with Falang or Chinese.

Time for that to change.

There are lots of reports in the local press that Phuket, etc., have been hard hit by the cancellation of the group tours.  Overall BKK seems quite busy with people, but with so many people wearing masks hard to tell.  The Charoen Krung Creative District has a bit more been busy with people for Design Week, but that could be mostly locals.
Outside the truly crazy days around the big holidays, most bar guys seem to default into "bar not busy", so I tend to tune them out as unreliable reporters when it comes to the bar scene.  Rumor has it that a forum member/bar chronicler extraordinaire is returning to BKK, so perhaps there'll be an update on the scene in a few days.

stay there until Brexit is done

Day 3
 
sigh.. end of my trip now typing this while lazing at coffee club waiting to go airport soon..
 
so day 3 starts with sanctuary spa again! Ive always had my eye on this guy. Saw him in jupiter Few times before but didnt manage to off him before, i was either with a boy or he was offed alr. When i saw him on sanc spa line photos knew i had to try so i booked via app and told mamasan will come at 3pm ( photo from line app)
Hes handsome with great body and very good strong hard massage, everything else was great too and really enjoyed my massage. Booked 1.5 hr for 900 baht room, min tip also 1500 ( tho it seems not dependent on duration of massage cuz i was quoted 1500 before i even selected the duration of massage). My first 1.5 hr this trip and well worth it. I think to have a successful 1.5 hr massage the masseur needs to be good (proper strong massage) and i knew he could perform from his looks lol. dont think ill be able to take 1hr of poor massage skills before fun starts. Which is why i usually pick 1hr massages cuz i like to explore new guys ( with unknown massage skills) heh.
 
then headed to R3 (again yea i know) as there was advertised mask o party at 5pm. Headed there at about 5+ and still quite empty so headed to the basement where there was this little heated pool. Got played with by a thai boy, kept using his legs to touch my legs and then stroke my c*** with his toes lol 1st time for me i think. Becuz its dark ppl around cant see whats going on, but in the end he just came up beside me and started stroking/licking me so yea ppl could see but no one cared hah.. after awhile i moved away abit and he went to attack another guy opposite me heh while i watched.. headed up to the o party and they were issuing everyone a mask ( the pullover kind that ppl wear to rob banks eew), didnt want to wear one for hygiene reason plus i think ppl rather see my face than a mask i would like to think its cuter lol. Same models were there, this time no show unlike the fri/sat parties, this one was just upfront sex. Again spotted by my hunky model and once he saw me he pulled me over to a spot in the room and made sure only I serviced him. Gladly obliged for a 3rd time and licked him up/ sucked him, groping his strong muscular arms and pecs and just hugged his sturdy bod and he hugged me back haha hes like a handsome jock teddy i live it. He kept asking to F me but i said no F, he sort of got the hint and just hugged me from behind instead haha aww... after awhile decided to explore more, and saw this twunkish handsome model hjing some guy. I approached him and he hj me too. After awhile he put a condom on me and i was like ok sure and started F-ing him on the bed. Beside us was a model f-ing some other guy too so our hands were all over each other and stroking heh. first time F-ing someone in a sauna party lol. might have been the poppers which made me high or sth but of course safety always and theres always a large supply of lube and condoms. After im done he Wai-ed and said thank you haha so i said thank you back. So cute

i had only time for 1 more last massage in bkk so i had to make it count. Headed to Senso and my fav masseur was there yay! Tim ( has pic on senso website). Hes a lean clean cut abs handsome quiet guy who delivers a strong hard massage. Ive had him many times and always find it dificult to choose someone else despite me always wanting to try new guys when im at senso , when Tim is around because he is a guarantee - strong massage and gratifying afters. Making out, cuddles and hugs aww.. spent awhile just hugging and laying there once the deed was done. Great last massage in bkk. 
 

 
love these mirrored walls in senso where i can spy on the masseur massaging me hehe..
Headed to moonlight 480baht entry, didnt see anyone i would off but stayed for the show anyway. No more twinks at all, all tall str looking dudes. Abit like arena vibe. Thinking abt it, comparing my fav massage places and barshows, do u guys agree in general:
senso/vck/prince = jupiter ( str looking twunks/hunks)
arena = moonlight (str looking daddies)
then whoevers gay from all the above put together = dreamboys ( gay boys, twinks)
haha.. what do u think
Only 4 models so sad but had Mr Tum who was hotty hot hot.. mamasan handed out free masks to those who werent wearing one which i thought was a very nice gesture. I also saw a boy who i had massage with few years back in prince - his name was Pai, he was in a few xxx videos/movies too heh. Memories of very hot sensual massages by him before sighs..
 
left at 11:30 and headed to dj station for some clubbing and then headed back to hotel at 2am shagged..
now on the taxi heading back towards the airport and well back to reality soon urgh...
but coming here once in awhile to read u guys trip reports always keep memories alive so keep it up guys!
peace out till next time
xoxo
 

I think it  might be more likely that you are just a nice guy who takes people the way they are instead of the way someone might want them to be.
Sorry couldn't resist and now I will disappear once again.

Solo Bangkok Interlude

Back in Bangkok, Bangkok Guy and I go our separate ways for a few days as both of us are working.

This gives me the opportunity to visit the bars over a couple of evenings and my experience highlights how changeable the bars can be. Some of my experience was so far from expectations and past experience that what follows comes with a warning to the uninitiated – do not base your plans on this report!

Lucky Boys – First visit I settled in to enjoy watching the parade. Many guys and a range of types from twink to beefy but, unlike previous visits none to my taste. Homely to an extreme. Second visit slightly better, a couple of guys to my taste: I give one 100Bht.

Fresh Boys – First visit my plan is to enter, look, and leave without committing to a drink if it appears disappointing. What I find is a large number of guys covering the full twink range from small to swimmer to twunk. Some great smiles and bone structure. Mostly Cambodian, some Lao and Burmese. One guy has striking bone structure and I ask him to sit with me. Very tempting. But after a week with Bangkok Guy, not tempting enough. I give him 200Bt which he accepts graciously although it is not what he was hoping for. Second visit, the same group and I again tip the Cambodian with striking bone structure.

Moonlight – First visit, I see the show for the first time and it is very professional, so much so that I stay for the entire show. Finally I see why Babe has so many fans. The rest of the models, not for me. The one who really catches my attention is a non-model performer in two of the acts with a great face (my view) and cropped hair. Very tempting, but he only appears in those two acts. Second visit I arrive before the show and get a better sense for the non-models. Only one appeals and I tip him. No sign of the performer.

Jupiter – First visit, 10pm, empty to the point of cavernous darkness! Full staff of waiters. Only about five guys coming on-and-off the stage. Almost no audience. I sit in the ‘VIP’ seats! Spooky. Second visit, 9.30pm and the VIP seats close to the stage are empty but reserved. Thin crowd, about ten guys on rotation, none of whom grab my attention.

Banana – I spot Banana as I leave after the first disappointment at Jupiter. Up the stairs and I should have followed the view-first buy-drink-later strategy, but I am not concentrating. About ten slender guys but none that appeal. As with Lucky Boys homely to an extreme.

Dream Boys – First visit, I catch the last couple of rotations before the show starts. A range of types. Show is too slow paced, although the diva is good. As another member has noted, she looks like Eartha Kitt.  Someone should tell her: I think she could channel Eartha well.

Three guys really appeal to me. But it dawns on me that I would rather be being silly in front of Japanese TV with Bangkok Guy than having a romp with a random hot guy. My butterfly wings are Toast.  Second visit the three guys who appealed the first time are not there and only one replacement with the same appeal.

Screw Boys – I make two visits on the same night. One too early, a fraction before 9pm, finds about six guys plus a couple playing drinking games. Mamma san is pleasantly chatty and says too early, come back around 10pm. I return about 10.15pm to a full house but also the middle of the drag show so not so easy to see the twenty-plus guys. A couple have nice faces but they need feeding.

Hot Male – Had a good conversation with the host with the vampyric incisors, whom I like. Business slow. Chinese not have so much money. Even Chinese New Year had been slow. One guy really got my attention. From Issan, swimmer-ish build, great smile and wearing tight jeans that revealed great promise. The host caught the direction of my gaze (it was pretty obvious) and with great enthusiasm said “Yes, like can!” shaping his hands into something between a Red Bull and a Beer can. I tipped the guy generously, but went no further – silliness with Bangkok Guy in front of Japanese TV retained its appeal. I am truly Toast. Happy Toast, but Toast.

Jaab is also in Tawan b4, 2017 as the grand winner of its 30th anniversary contest (where he beats Mekhin that yr, yikes!)...he looks hotter now, he he

I went to gay Sunday night at Maggie Choo one week ago and while I didn’t like the layout (the stage was so small and the audience couldn’t see the divas performing), I liked the vibe.
my Dancer Boyfriend was so excited because the stars of Dragrace Thailand were performing. I had not watched the show so I didn’t recognise any of them. But I must say when they came on to perform, their lip syncing and dance moves were fabulous!
Dancer Boyfriend and I arrived at 9.15pm by Grab car. Driver dropped off by the side entrance of Novotel hotel after navigating some dark side roads and we ran smack into a huge family of tourists from India in the hotel lobby. (Well, luckily they were not from China!) Dancer Boyfriend asked the hotel staff where Maggie Choo was and we quickly left hotel lobby.
past Maggie Choo’s door and down the stairs, we were greeted by two shirtless hunks and very friendly staff. As I had made reservation by Line, we got a small table for two next to a pillar opposite the bar. It had a direct view of the stage which was at the end of the hall but in the end, we couldn’t see much as people streamed in and formed a crowd around the stage.
500baht for two drinks was a reasonable price, I must say. Varied crowd - gay couples, Thais, Asian tourists, Farangs and about 20% ladies. I love the emcee - “welcome to maggie Choo. If it’s your first time, you must do 3 things - intoxicate, donate (to tips box) and participate.”
we caught the 10pm show. There was even an audience runway challenge. 5 participants were invited to do a runway catwalk. I tried to persuade dancer Boyfriend to volunteer. “I shy. My catwalk not good enough.” Nonsense! I have seen him dance and I knew he would win the challenge. Winner of the challenge took back a bottle of whisky. Dancer boyfriend’s eyes opened wide. “Next time we come here, you do catwalk and win that bottle whisky,” I said to him.
Both of us enjoyed the night. I pushed dancer Boyfriend to front of stage so that he could take videos of his favourite Dragrace Thailand contestants. I stayed at the table enjoying my cocktail as well as ogling at the two shirtless hunks on display. They went up to the cage directly above the bar. After the show, it was disco time. We ditched our table and danced with the crowd. Unfortunately, music was too “old” for Dancer Boyfriend. He prefers modern EDM (electronic dance music) so at 11 plus we adjourned for supper. Anyway, by 11, the place was packed.
here’s a photo of Dragrace Thailand season 2’s winner - Angele Anang. Her lipsynch is the best I have ever seen and she has a charismatic stage presence. Even though I prefer gay twinky boys, I must confess to developing an appreciation for the Ladyboy performers. Thanks @DivineMadman for the advice about reserving seats and arriving early.
 

Admittedly, I am bad when it comes to use of plastic bags. I use to just get them anyway. Now, no stores have them and slowly I am remembering to carry my reusable bags into all the stores. I think this is a very good thing for Thailand. Now, if we can just stop Pizza Company from delivering 40 bags of ketchup with every order (in plastic), we might make a dent. 

Keep an open mind. One thing I've noticed over the past few years is the number of ageing falangs wandering hand-in hand with Thais in their late thirties. Twenty years ago, the Thais would have been cute twenty-somethings. The reason, I suggests, is that contrary to received opinion on gay forums, some LTRs do work and result in long-lasting relationships.
And yes, my boyfriend, aged thirty-eight, was holding hands with me (rather older) in Terminus 21 last week after seventeen years of.....well, quite a lot really.