aaroninatl

Friday night part 3.
Hope you’re enjoying the live update. 11pm and my mood is much better. I am back at Orion. Much happier now. About a dozen guys. Most of them are seated with clients at the moment. But a good vibe I like this place. Certainly nothing fancy. But I don’t need fancy.

Thanks... maybe AI can condense my babbling into something coherent and structured. :-P. I'm not a regular on this site... I might become one. But yeah I discovered you guys as I was preparing for my visit. The trip was set up to test myself to see if I really would like life in Asia as much as I thought I would. I've spent much of the past year researching all the various logistics of a move here. I didn't want to do 1 or 2 weeks and spend half of it jet lagged or running from one tourist trap to another. I wanted to give enough time to walk around neighborhoods, talk to people and sit in coffee shops and so forth.
That said, I'd always heard Thailand has lot of opportunities for some naughty fun so that's when I found this site. You'll see over on my Bangkok thread the first couple weeks of my trip I was like a kid in a candy store. I hit up all the bars and a few massage spots. There wasn't much time given to exploring all of Bangkok because at the start of the trip it really wasn't in contention for where I'd want to live. That changed... so when I go back next week, there will probably be fewer bar visits, but I'll still squeeze a few in for sure.
The chats and threads veering off course happen in boards like this. I found most of them useful and entertaining. But then again as you probably saw I'm a big proponent of the ignore/mute feature on sites like this. I have zero interest in drama and argumentative types. I'm on vacation. If you annoy me, one click and you're gone. Imagine if we had that superpower in the real world?

Haha that would actually be kind of hot. Oil wrestling match. Three-way. Totally down.
So the trip almost came to a grinding halt yesterday afternoon. Local guy wanted to ice skate for the first time after I told him I play hockey. They have a nice arena here. All is going great until he took a spill and brought me down with him and I hit my head. I was a little freaked out when I saw the reaction of the ice rink attendant when he watched. A little bit of a headache, but I think I’m OK. It’s been a little over 24 hours. No signs of something serious.
Low-key day today with the Bangkok guy. Walked around old town and Nimann. Checked out some temples. Came back to my place had fun. Then he picked out an incredible place for dinner. Probably the best one of the trip. Khao So I. It’s on the northeast side of the city. I had the fried rice because I didn’t think I’d like khao soi. He was ordering it so I could try it, but knowing that I am not a fan of curry or coconut I really didn’t think there was a chance I would like it. I actually did. But the fried rice with pork was absolutely phenomenal. Normally fried rice is fried rice. I don’t know what they do, but it was incredible. Might even go back again tomorrow.
Got home and spent some time during the sunset at the pool. I’m still a little woozy and sore from yesterday. He was tired as it was a pretty big ordeal to get from his place to the airport in Bangkok yesterday. So he just went back to his hotel. It’s 7 here so there’s a passing thought of getting together with the local guy tonight, but I think it’s better if I just rest. 😆

Thanks guys. Chiang Mai deserves the love. It's a great city. The scene here is obviously not on the Bangkok level. But how could it be? It's in the shadow so there's naturally the comparison. But it's cool that there are some fun spots when you've got that itch!
But man the quality of life here is great. The mountains are gorgeous. The people are so kind. I've yet to have a bad meal here... Asian or Western. Grab is my BFF. I love that it's a walkable city. Love the idea of living a car-less life. Burning season is def a concern. Been talking with a lot of locals about it to get an idea of how well I'd handle it. Daytime heat is more of a challenge than I thought it'd be given the elevation difference. But the nights here feel fantastic. And I miss being a night person.

When it comes to tipping, one thing I’m very glad that hasn’t caught on here in Asia is the culture of pre-tipping as I call it. I can’t tell you how many places in the US I just don’t go to anymore because of it. Tips for me are reward and gratitude for great service. So many places in the US now, you have to tip when you place your order. Of course it’s voluntary but you feel like a crumb if you don’t. Drives me insane. If your employees are underpaid, just charge me more for my coffee. I’ll pay it.

Good Wednesday morning from Chiang Mai. Again, not much really to report in terms of what the message board is about. Maybe tonight I’ll hit one of the bars or get a massage.
Yesterday was spent on an incredible tour of the mountains southwest of chaing mai. I thought it would be kind of cheesy and touristy (but hey I’m a tourist). The elephant experience really was incredible though. Plus, it was great to see surrounding areas of the city. The drive took about an hour and a half. Arrived at a sanctuary and had a quick lunch watching workers tend to the elephants. We put on our uniforms that cracked everyone up back home when I posted pictures on social media. Had a cooking class to create elephant vitamins. Then it was time to feed and then bathe with the elephants. An incredible experience that I really underrated when I signed up for the tour. After we went to a waterfall. Beautiful.
Normally, I check in with you guys during my rides. But the van that we were in didn’t seem to have shocks. I was in the back row, bouncing up and down like a basketball.
The tour was about 50 bucks. Everything is cheap here, but it blows my mind how they can do tours like this at that price.

Evening fellas... not much to share tonight. Roamed around the old city today, spent sunset at the pool talking fun stuff like visas and healthcare with an expat. Then ended up taking I think Jason's advice and hit up a blues/rock club with the expat and his girlfriend. Good times. Parted ways with them and went to another Muay Thai event next door at the Night Bazaar that was just starting. There was this one boxer who was so my type. Shaggy blond haired guy from I think Austria. Probably not available to be off'd though. Unfortunately there were no mamasans to consult.

The first 24 hours have gone by and this city has not disappointed. As expected, I made all of these plans and did all this research and then just ended up improvising on my first night. This experience is so overwhelming. I'm pretty sure I'm gonna be living here within a year.
I arrived at midnight and hastily made my way to immigration to try not to get in the back of the line. It didn't matter much. The line was about 15 minutes at the most. After two days of trying to sleep on airplanes and getting maybe two hours combined in 10 minute increments, I got into my Airbnb at 2 AM. I was so wired and excited I still ended up taking a walk around the neighborhood. I knew I would feel safe and I did even at 4 AM in the middle of the week. There were street markets at that hour... that blew me away.
I walked around this afternoon and got introduced to the massage scene. After doing a few laps around Si Lom, I ended up at 19 massage. Kit was my choice. Excellent massage the extras were OK. I'm a pretty easy customer in that. I don't go the full way with escorts or the like. Room charge was 700. I tipped him 1000 which probably was excessive. I have an appointment tomorrow at Ssence with Kairo. 
I was so mesmerized walking around tonight that I almost didn't even go to a go-go bar. A couple weeks ago a few of you got on my case that I was over planning and singling out whatever bar would be my best bet for the first night. As I imagined I would, I ended up not even making it to the one I planned. I think fresh boy was the one I ended up at.  The stage shows were much more involved than I thought they would be. I guess I'm used to American strip clubs where they just shuffle from 1 foot to the other.  Between the choreography and playfulness on stage, I was pretty impressed.  
After reading about all these meals at Foodland, you guys have had I think my expectations I might've been a little high lol. I didn't have a meal though so I can't judge. But I popped in a couple times.  I haven't done anything touristy yet got plenty of time to do that.  If anyone's in town hit me up! 

Last I talked with you guys Bangkok had a pretty substantial lead. Chiang Mai scored MAJOR points today after I finally started wandering around Nimman. If this part of the city is affordable this might be the spot. Wow. I love the vibe. Indy hipster but not dingy. Cute little coffee spots. People smiling everywhere. (Could be said for lots of Thailand I know.) I’ve been roaming around all afternoon and can’t get enough of this neighborhood. The ironic thing is I originally booked my Airbnb here. My memory is terrible so I have no idea why I changed. I love my condo that I’m in, but this area is definitely my favorite of any neighborhood I’ve seen in Thailand so far.
This would definitely be the training wheels way of moving to Thailand. It’s got an upscale western feel.
Currently sipping my 2nd coffee of the day (usually a monthly amount for me) at Roastiniyom. Lots of PLUs as @bkkmfj2648 calls em. Yet it’s not a flamboyant or a tacky gayborhood.
Got a legit massage at Gentle. It was nice. Beautiful facility. Masseur was super cute. Gay friendly but no funny business. There’s a sign in the room that says “no prostitution.” 700 baht. Tipped 100. That’s enough right? I have no idea what you tip a legit masseur. 😆

Hey all... coming out of posting retirement to let everyone know I'm fine. I posted the other day that I'm going to just keep in touch via DM and Line. Scroll back a couple pages... should still be there. But seriously ... very touched by the concern!
Feel ok after the head bump. Said goodbye to the Chiang Mai guy yesterday and the little guy got emotional. He's such a happy go lucky kid so that shook me.
In Pattaya for a few days. Then wrapping the trip up in Bangkok. Again, I'm in posting retirement lol, but will say this Boyz Boyz Boyz... YES YES YES! Way up near the top of my favorites in Thailand. As for Pattaya itself, still not feeling like it's anywhere in contention of being a settle down spot. It's a nice fun spot but the quality of life day to day isn't here to me. Maybe it is in the burbs, but I don't know if I wanna be a burbs guy. It's still Bangkok or Chiang Mai for sure.
Much love all! Safe travels and as I said, if you wanna keep in touch, drop me a DM!

Hey all... coming out of posting retirement to let everyone know I'm fine. I posted the other day that I'm going to just keep in touch via DM and Line. Scroll back a couple pages... should still be there. But seriously ... very touched by the concern!
Feel ok after the head bump. Said goodbye to the Chiang Mai guy yesterday and the little guy got emotional. He's such a happy go lucky kid so that shook me.
In Pattaya for a few days. Then wrapping the trip up in Bangkok. Again, I'm in posting retirement lol, but will say this Boyz Boyz Boyz... YES YES YES! Way up near the top of my favorites in Thailand. As for Pattaya itself, still not feeling like it's anywhere in contention of being a settle down spot. It's a nice fun spot but the quality of life day to day isn't here to me. Maybe it is in the burbs, but I don't know if I wanna be a burbs guy. It's still Bangkok or Chiang Mai for sure.
Much love all! Safe travels and as I said, if you wanna keep in touch, drop me a DM!

Hey all... coming out of posting retirement to let everyone know I'm fine. I posted the other day that I'm going to just keep in touch via DM and Line. Scroll back a couple pages... should still be there. But seriously ... very touched by the concern!
Feel ok after the head bump. Said goodbye to the Chiang Mai guy yesterday and the little guy got emotional. He's such a happy go lucky kid so that shook me.
In Pattaya for a few days. Then wrapping the trip up in Bangkok. Again, I'm in posting retirement lol, but will say this Boyz Boyz Boyz... YES YES YES! Way up near the top of my favorites in Thailand. As for Pattaya itself, still not feeling like it's anywhere in contention of being a settle down spot. It's a nice fun spot but the quality of life day to day isn't here to me. Maybe it is in the burbs, but I don't know if I wanna be a burbs guy. It's still Bangkok or Chiang Mai for sure.
Much love all! Safe travels and as I said, if you wanna keep in touch, drop me a DM!

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

Haha that would actually be kind of hot. Oil wrestling match. Three-way. Totally down.
So the trip almost came to a grinding halt yesterday afternoon. Local guy wanted to ice skate for the first time after I told him I play hockey. They have a nice arena here. All is going great until he took a spill and brought me down with him and I hit my head. I was a little freaked out when I saw the reaction of the ice rink attendant when he watched. A little bit of a headache, but I think I’m OK. It’s been a little over 24 hours. No signs of something serious.
Low-key day today with the Bangkok guy. Walked around old town and Nimann. Checked out some temples. Came back to my place had fun. Then he picked out an incredible place for dinner. Probably the best one of the trip. Khao So I. It’s on the northeast side of the city. I had the fried rice because I didn’t think I’d like khao soi. He was ordering it so I could try it, but knowing that I am not a fan of curry or coconut I really didn’t think there was a chance I would like it. I actually did. But the fried rice with pork was absolutely phenomenal. Normally fried rice is fried rice. I don’t know what they do, but it was incredible. Might even go back again tomorrow.
Got home and spent some time during the sunset at the pool. I’m still a little woozy and sore from yesterday. He was tired as it was a pretty big ordeal to get from his place to the airport in Bangkok yesterday. So he just went back to his hotel. It’s 7 here so there’s a passing thought of getting together with the local guy tonight, but I think it’s better if I just rest. 😆

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

My guy is Japanese so that probably inspired his pick. It definitely had a Japanese theme to it. It was so good. Don't know how much of a spin they put on the Khao Soi but however they did it worked for me. I really cringed before the first bite. Thought I'd hate it.

And yeah, watching for the symptoms for a concussion but I think I'm ok. But sometimes they can take a few days to materialize. Thanks pal. It definitely shook me last night but today just some neck and back pain... but nothing unmanageable. Most of the day I didn't even think of it.

((glad to hear from you again, I sensed sudden quiet is but unusual))
such a nice way of saying I never shut up. 😜

Haha that would actually be kind of hot. Oil wrestling match. Three-way. Totally down.
So the trip almost came to a grinding halt yesterday afternoon. Local guy wanted to ice skate for the first time after I told him I play hockey. They have a nice arena here. All is going great until he took a spill and brought me down with him and I hit my head. I was a little freaked out when I saw the reaction of the ice rink attendant when he watched. A little bit of a headache, but I think I’m OK. It’s been a little over 24 hours. No signs of something serious.
Low-key day today with the Bangkok guy. Walked around old town and Nimann. Checked out some temples. Came back to my place had fun. Then he picked out an incredible place for dinner. Probably the best one of the trip. Khao So I. It’s on the northeast side of the city. I had the fried rice because I didn’t think I’d like khao soi. He was ordering it so I could try it, but knowing that I am not a fan of curry or coconut I really didn’t think there was a chance I would like it. I actually did. But the fried rice with pork was absolutely phenomenal. Normally fried rice is fried rice. I don’t know what they do, but it was incredible. Might even go back again tomorrow.
Got home and spent some time during the sunset at the pool. I’m still a little woozy and sore from yesterday. He was tired as it was a pretty big ordeal to get from his place to the airport in Bangkok yesterday. So he just went back to his hotel. It’s 7 here so there’s a passing thought of getting together with the local guy tonight, but I think it’s better if I just rest. 😆

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

So true!
The unhappy lives of some members are clearly evident in their posts. They just can't help themselves.
They also tend to be boring know-alls in an attempt to be the go-to guy on all things Thai. No names, no pack drill.
I don't like to use the'ignore' function because, as you pointed out, their posts are often quoted by others so it doesn't always work.
Also, trolls can sometimes offer useful information.
Personal attacks by total strangers on an anonymous board in cyberspace are meaningless to me, which is why I don't reply.
It's a case of read and move on without further comment.

I wish all would just take the easy way out and tap ignore. One thing about Thailand I love is you learn to prioritize inner peace. Let go of the people and things in your life that don’t belong. There are 2 members who own the distinction of getting my ignore. The board shows me that they have replied, but I don’t see it. It’s like watching TV with mute on. But the annoying thing is I still see their babble if someone quotes them. Or worse a couple people have sent screenshots with “did you see what that idiot said”. I know intentions are good but there’s a reason I like the ignore button. 😆
Babies cry out for attention. They’re either hungry or need a diaper change. Many of the trolls probably also need a diaper change too… but the big thing they want is your attention. They don’t get much attention in the real world so they seek it out in places like this by trying to rile people up. You can participate and give them what they want. Or you can just ignore and let them think they won.
The board was super helpful before my trip and when I first got here in finding some fun. But I think I’m good now. The training wheels are off. 😉
None of us are getting paid to be here. You’re under no obligation to waste your time with Internet trolls. I’m finding my best interactions are happening with a couple members here on the board and in direct messages… so I think I’m going to keep things there. For those of you who don’t use this site often shoot me a direct message and I’ll send you my Line. 👍
Enjoy your travels and please take my advice and get rid of the negativity in your life. This site makes it easier than the real world does. One tap is all it takes.

When i was with a regular guy that came close to this, I would imagine a life with him in the future. Yes, relocation was an option, mostly seeing if i can bring him here instead of me living in his country as Im still working full time. Alas it didnt go further than that. It would be a different story if im retired or close to retiring though.
I consider myself very picky even when it comes to hiring from bar. Those who pass the test to be a regular are a few, and those who i want to spend time more than the night are even less. But I still enjoy the chase just not as often and would always prefer tried and tested guys over new ones unless they are "ideal" type. It work well in Thailand, especially Bangkok, where my Ideal type are sufficiently available.
Back home, there are fewer and much more expensive...