TotallyOz

There is no way on earth that anyone on the face of earth should book a flight with Air India. They are the worst airline I have ever been on and without a doubt the least professional I have eve had. First off, getting the airplane ticket was a pain in the butt as I tried to book at Air India's website. I was denied with a good credit card and told that I was trying to use it in Thailand and I am from America so it was fraud. I called them and explained that I was in Thailand and going to India. I was then told that they don't accept credit cards on the phone. I asked how can I pay for my ticket, her response was, go back to America and try or you can send us a copy of the front and back of your credit card and your ID to our support email and we will try to run the card for you in the next 7-10 business days. I was shocked as I have never heard such BS from an airline. I ended up going to the Air India office in Bangkok to purchase the ticket and they were very helpful and helped me to get everything arranged. They said I got 40k free luggage and would be charged 59 baht for each kilo after. I booked Business Class. I got to the airport in Bangkok and was told my luggage was 30k overweight and I had to pay a fee. I was then told the fee was near 500 baht per kilo. That is NOT what I was told at the Air India office but I had no choice. I said that was no problem. I went to the counter to pay and gave them the same Credit Card I used for the ticket and was told, "sorry, we don't accept credit cards. We only take cash." Are you kidding me? Cash only for extra baggage fees and on top of that the fee was 15,000 bath. It was almost the cost of my trip. I asked to speak to the manager and was told that he didn't want to come out to speak to me that he took cash only. I had the ladies call him again and he got on the phone with me and asked why I wanted to speak to him and I told him the problem with the cash only. I said I did not have cash and needed to use a credit card. He said, "cannot." He said, "you can cancel your flight but we can't refund you the flight as you have already checked in. So, I wasn't allowed to get a refund on a refundable ticket as I checked in and I wasn't allowed to pay cash for extra weight for baggage. Again, I was shocked. I fly a lot of miles per year and I fly only in business class. I have never once had any issue like this. I have never once been treated so unfairly. As I didn't have the cash on me in Thai Baht, I did have some Brazilian Reals with me. I went over to the exchange. "No, sorry Mister. No take Brazil." After 3 places, no one would exchange. I told the ladies at Air India the issue they said said, "Oh, sorry Mister. Nothing we can do." It took a few minutes but then I got the money and paid for the extra fee. I asked to actually see the manager for Air India and was told no. I asked for his name. I was told they can't give that out. I asked them if they knew the manager's name and they said yes. I asked if they could write it down for me. They said no. I then asked to see him in person and they called again. I told I needed to speak to him in person regarding this and he said there was nothing he could do and a waste of time to talk to him. He almost hung up on me but I told him I would not board the plane until I spoke to him. After a few minutes he came out. He was very nice but he said he didn't understand the problem as no one has ever asked to pay for excess fees with a credit card before. He said he had no idea why anyone would even need this service. I told him that I didn't have the cash for this today while traveling as cash is valuable. (When traveling and I always like to have at least 1k USD for emergency as you never know when you hit a snag like last year in India when the customs officer tried to extort 2,000 USD from me for a computer) He said he didn't care the reason that as cash was what they accepted. I asked why that is not stated on their website or in other areas and he said that was not his job. We argued for a bit. I asked for his business card and he reluctantly gave it to me. He asked why I wanted it and I told him that I needed it to complain to the airline. He is a true horrendous service agent. It took me nearly an hour to get him to see me and while I did make my flight I was not a happy and content business traveler. When I got to the plane, I spoke to two other business class travelers and was told they have done this before and tried to use a credit card and was old they cannot and they too asked to speak to the manager. So, the manager flat out lied. I was NOT the first person to ever ask to pay for luggage with a credit card. He simply flat out lied. He told a lie to try to save face but it was so absurd when I heard it I knew it had to be a lie. And, upon talking to other passengers, they said it was a lie. In other words, the manager was dishonest. Apparently Air India does not cater to business travelers. They want the low budget flyers. Their Business Class seats were not comfortable and not the lay flat seats I was told. Their in flight movies had no movies or anything for anyone to watch of any consequence. The food was decent but the same as served in economy on most major airlines. At the airport I had to pick up my bags and take them back to another area. But, no one knew where. 10 airport employees and 10 answers. It was insane. Not one person knew what the hell they were doing. Then, I get to the place to drop the bags and the lady there tells me I need to go upstairs to check in again. I do. They have both male and female lines. I got in the male and the guys were assholes. They were rude and unprofessional and snappy. They were just dicks. Plain and simple. Then, after I finished that, which took 20 min as they didn't know what a Kindle was or why I needed an electrical cord for my computer, iPad, iPhone, etc. I finished. I went to the Air India lounge only to find there was no Internet. Again, the people who make the rules in India are complete and utter morons with zero customer service ability. If I didn't need to spend a month with my programmers, I would have found a way to exit the country and say fuck you to India. Pure and simple! (Yes, I know unfair but a hard day for me) Air India Lounge in Delhi is the most horrific and ridiculous lounge I have ever seen. It is a business lounge that does NOT offer WiFi. They don't have their own wifi and they depend on the free airport Internet which does not work. In other words, you get a few chairs that are private and some drinks. But, nothing else. The staff is incompetent. There is NO Business lounge on earth that does not offer Internet to those in it. If no Internet, it is useless. Thus, my journey begins.

SevenSuns Residence - accommodation for discerning couples seeking something a little special. SevenSuns is located in the heart of the Old City area of Chiang Mai, They provide two luxury suites of 38sm and 45 sqm. Guest And Service 1. Extra large king size beds 2. Massive sized rooms 3. En suite bathrooms 4. Wi-Fi 5. Cable TV 6. Fridge They will meet you on arrival and if you forget there will be many taxis willing to take you to their doorstep Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information: Address: 155 Ratchamanka Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50200 Phone: +66.53.814325 Fax: +66.53.81427 6 Price Range: (30-50) us dolard Website: http://www.oldcitychiangmai.net Photo Of This Establishment

Nature Guest House fully furnished with modern facilities including tv, air-con, minibar,telephone and coffee pot. Clean and cozy room in a quiet and beautiful surrounding. Friendly staff, friendly price. Restaurant and internet are available at the premise. Hotel Service: 1. Free wireless Service 2. Daily Room Cleaning 3. Free Transfer From Airport 4. Tour Booking Available 5. Free Continental Breakfast 6. Laundry Service Travelling Time To: 1. Airport 5 min 2. Bus Terminal 15 min 3. Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street 5 min 4. Famous Night Bazaar 10 min 5. Shopping Center 5 min Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information: Address: 15/14 Bumroongbury rd. , T.Phrasingha , A.Muang ,Chiang Mai , Thailand 50200 Phone: 05 327 8936 Fax: 053282541 Website: http://www.comeonplace.net Photo Of This Establishment

A New Perspective a waits your check in: Le Méridien Chiang Mai blends classic European style and forward thinking originality with reflections of ancient Lanna culture and heritage. Multi-sensory elements stimulate the imagination and inspire local discovery. Conceptual lighting, fragrance and soundtracks, as well as scenes of visual intrigue and an interactive lobby hub, reveal a new kind of travel experience. You will be presented with a special key that will allow you specials on Art and you will receive a special welcome and will give you a gift of 383 chic guest rooms and suites offer high tech amenities, signature comforts, and spectacular mountain or city views. They have a Spa , gym and fabulous views from many of their room There are also award winning restaurants for your dining pleasure. This Hotel is a favorite for wedding and business receptions Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information: Address: 108 Chang Klan Road · Tambol Chang Klan, Amphur Muang · Chiang Mai 50100 Phone: +66 53 253 666 Website: http://www.lemeridienchiangmai.com/ Photo Of This Establishment

The Oriental Garden Restaurant Oriental Garden Restaurant was established by Ger Hesselink in 2000 as a Thai restaurant in Chiang Mai. It serves traditional Thai food, but also serves a few special Dutch dishes (bitterballen, kroketten and sate). Oriental Garden Restaurant serves the traditional food of Thailand at its best – and at affordable prices. Enjoy Thai food, Dutch food, and vegetarian food. They also have a kid menu.With a friendly atmosphere and nice garden setting, Oriental Garden is a great place to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner . The Oriental Garden Chiang Mai Guesthouse At the Oriental Garden Bar you can shoot pool, grab a beer, chill out or enjoy your casual conversation. They serve a selection of beers, wine, liquors, and cocktails. And if you’re feeling puckish just order some of their snacks, served all day, everyday. The Oriental Garden Bar Has everything you’d want for a relaxing night out—a pool table, good music and drinks that won’t break the bank. The Oriental Garden Bar & Pool Room Enjoy your cocktails and after-dinner drinks at our bar with pool table in a friendly hustle-free atmosphere. Guests and Service The Oriental Garden provides the following extra services for our guests in Chiang Mai Double and single beds Air-conditioning or fan rooms Hot running water Refrigerator Restaurant Bar & pool table Free WI-Fi for guests Motorbike rental service In room cable TV with European and Dutch channels Security camera’s for safety Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photo If you have. Information Address: 69 Loikroh Road, T. Changklan, A. Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, THAILAND Phone: 053 – 276 742 or 085 – 722 3084 Opening Hour: 7.00 AM – 1.00 AM Website: http://www.orientalgardenchiangmai.com Photo Of This Establishment

I have read with interest the thread on Saxophone Pub. It was not my intention to confuse any one of you but I wanted to let you know that Bangkok had a great Jazz and Blues Bar . I think the discussion was respectful but got off track when it veered into a discussion of past members. I tend to agree that there is really no difference between all the Hotels and Restaurants listed that are not Gay, but still listed. I also recognize that in some places mentioning a regular bar in a Gay listing could spell trouble . This is certainly not the case in Thailand where finding a business that is not Gay Friendly would be harder then looking for a needle in a haystack That said I will change the listings to say Gay and Gay Friendly which should satisfy everyone concerned. In the future I would encourage anyone who has a problem such as this to please send me an email to support@gaythailand.com I am always happy to hear from members and their concerns. I can't promise I will always make you happy but I will listen. Please remember suggestions frequently require programming changes which cost money. Since this is a completely free site , I cannot always make changes immediately even if the idea is a good one. It certainly would help if the travelers among you would remember to book your Hotels through our Agoda link. Also if you tend to use another booking site such as Booking.com please let me know so I can look into adding that Link. Happy Posting and Halloween!

1. Your words make me believe you mean that. 2. I think it was early on when you were saying something about how boring this forum was under the old owner who treated it as his personal blog. But, my memory is worst than yours. 3. LOL were you looking for the announcement or the bank statement? 4. You are always an asset. 5. We all often say we have said the last thing in a thread and then say more. I have done it at least 5 times that I know of this year. No need to apologize or worry about that. Look, for those that can't figure out Willi and I, I'll set you straight. He is one of the few posters that can take a zing and not take it personally. At least that is the way I remember it. One comment I read early on in this thread really does sound true. People take the boards way to seriously. You can't get your feelings hurt over something someone says or doesn't say on an anonymous message board. If you do, you will end up leaving and not participating anywhere. I have seen willy get into some pretty big cat fights over the years (not with me) and he always keeps going and contributing to the message boards. I am the same way. I don't take things personally too often but there are some people that know how to get under my skin and from time to time I get into the frey of things. I always regret it later but I still keep on and keep posting. Life is too short to let little squabble and perceived anger get in the way of one enjoying life. Willi seems to enjoy his and I do as well. I hope everyone of you do the same. And, I hope that no matter what little arguments and disagreements you may have that you just read it, respond and move on. The board is suppose to be fun and informative. These little bickerings are a fun distraction for some but never been something I enjoy. So, like willi, I have had my last say in this thread.

I am so sorry willy willy if you thought I was attacking you. It was not my intent and I do apologize for it. You have stated we never met before and while your monkier has a certain way of writing that brings back memories of another poster on this site from years gone by, I can assure you that I have not one time ever wished you were not on this site. To the contrary, I think you have had some great contributions to the site from time to time. Now, as you can see from the above, and if you read over my last 500 or so posts on this board, you will see that I am complimentary 99 percent of the time. You seem to wish that the 1 percent didn't exist. Well, it does. I have a right to disagree with someone. And, yes, I know from your friends in Pattaya that you think I still own the site. I don't. But, you can live in your fantasy that I still do and thus I should not be allowed to make comments when I disagree with someone. If you know me, and you do, you know that I do not mind speaking my mind on many topics. I don't think a message board should prohibit me from doing that just because you feel I jump in to protect another poster. Fountainhall left the site of his own accord. Not asked by anyone to leave. I won't speculate as to why he left but you may be right. It may have been one thread on this site that we disagreed. But, it could have been something else. I don't know. When you say, "you can't have such a thin skin and run a forum" I just had to laugh. First I don't run this forum. I don't run the site. And, I have never had a thin skin. But, I have also never been one to let someone throw out bullshit without giving them a shovel and asking them why they came to the place to shit. It doesn't matter if I run a site or not, I have never had a problem with expressing my opinion and while you may wish my opinion was the same as yours, it is not. It most likely will never be the same on many issues. I am OK with that. I am sorry that you are offended by this. The truth is your comment: "I fear losing new posters like trail rider when we argue over what is a gay bar. I am still recovering from the loss of fountainhall and glad to see firecat and devint filling the gap but the forum needs new blood and semantics is a sure way of turning off new posters. I think some take this as a personal attack on the owner. It is simply calling a spade a spade." This post was the one that caused me to post my true feelings. Perhaps, I should have just bowed and said, Oh my goodness Willy, you are so right. Semantics are a way to turn off new posters. I'll agree not to be catty any longer. Let me buy a round of drinks for the boys at the round table and make life good again. Please forgive me for speaking my mind or expressing my opinion. LOL Nope. Sorry. Didn't happen. Won't happen. Can't happen.

No, if you get an airport 30 day, the max you can get is 7 additional days. I don't think you can go the next day either but you can go closer to the expiration and you can't wait until the day it expires.

I did not know this or I would have done that. Thank you. I will try the next time. You are also right about the entrance. If you are taken to the wrong one, I imagine it would be a bit of a PITA.

Bob, the building is massive. It is not all part of the immigration department but the complex takes a taxi a few minutes to get around. Inside, things were very clean and organized. Everyone for the Extension waited in one area and the rest were in other areas. It was the most organized I have seen in a long time. And, the ladies that took my information were friendly and professional. They did charge me an overstay for a holiday they were closed the day before but they said the computer would not take it otherwise and there might be problems at the airport. So, I paid. I think that is what took a bit longer than the other ones waiting with me. Most were in and out in 15 min or less. Truly remarkable after my sometimes 2-3 hours wait in Pattaya. The only negative is the place is far away from everything. It is not convenient to get there but once there, it was easy and pleasant experience.

Not to argue semantics with you, but the bar was listed as just a bar in Bangkok. Read the thread in question: http://www.gaythailand.com/forums/topic/9135-the-saxophone-pub-and-restaurant-blue-and-jazz-in-gay-bangkok/?hl=saxophone It was listed as a place to go and in the GAY BANGKOK forum for visitors. It was not said that the bar was gay. I know. I know. Facts are irrelevant to you as you want to make a point that you miss Fountainhall. So do I. But, I didn't realize that he was important to this thread. Oh, sorry, I guess you just brought him up to say that debating a bar is something FH would not like or enjoy. LOL You didn't know him too well, if you think that. I am so glad you are recovering from his loss. I hate to see someone in agony and pain. I know you have a sensitive soul and the boys at the round table are dressing in black for months now. It is OK. We love sensitive people here too! And, the black pedi coats some of you boys are wearing in order to morn are divine and even Lady Bunny would be envious. Wait. Your post must be about someone in this thread being rude to the OP to scare him off? Have you read the comments here? Has anyone been rude to him? Did anyone question his integrity? The answer to both is no. If you expect someone to make a comment about a business and no one posts other comments, then you don't have a forum. This is a forum that is open for discussion for any subject. Just because a few people disagree with you or the OP does not give cause to run and hide. On the contrary, it gives cause for more discussion and debate. Why on earth would you consider the comments in this thread as being mean to the OP? I don't see them at all. But, my dear, I am not as sensitive as you I guess. I do not take the OP's comments as an attack against the owner. The owner is working hard on the site and I respect that. But, my comments are just directed as your change of direction of the thread and the assertion that other comments in the thread were an attack on the OP. That is just not the case. And, I am only calling a spade a spade.

If you need a visa extension while in Bangkok, here is what you do. First, the visa office is not on Sathorn Soi 3 anymore. They have moved near the old airport and it is a massive building. They open at 8:30 and it is best to go early but I have been told that most times you go there is little wait for the extension. Address: No. 120 Mu 3 Chaeng Watthana Soi 7 Thung Song Hong, Laksi Bangkok 10210 You can take a taxi or go by public transportation. I did each and I much prefer the taxi although more expensive. The taxi from the Sathorn area was around 200 baht each way depending on traffic. And, I told them to take the highway to make the trip faster and that was about 100 baht more each way as well. For going by Skytrain, take it to Mo Chit station and either take the buses or a Motorcycle Taxi. It is a hike from there via bus so it depends on your time. I did the bus with one of my Thai boys and he knew what to do. It was much longer than taking the taxi in no traffic as we switched buses 2 times and had some walking to do. I did not take the train back. We just took a taxi as there is a slew of them waiting outside for you. You will need your passport, an application that you get at the office, a passport photo and a copy of your passport and current Thai visa stamp. You will be asked for your telephone number and address in Thailand. I was never asked for this in Pattaya but I was here. The office will make copies for you if you need for a charge. I didn't need photos so I don't know if they do that for you or if it is available in the building. Once you fill in your application in Division 1, you will go back and get a ticket number at the counter. It is very quick to do and then you wait by the area of your letter on the ticket. Mine was Letter K and I was called in about 5 minutes. I gave them all my stuff and they took about 30 minutes to process. They called me back with a stamp for an extra 7 days. You get 7 if you have a 30 day Visa or 30 days if you have a 60 day visa. I believe the cost is the same for both: 1,900. You can then just take the passport and leave. Like I said, there are taxis outside waiting. The place is much nicer than Pattaya and the speed was great. I was impressed with the whole thing.

Would you consider New Orleans in Boyztown a gay restaurant? Or, Dick's Cafe in Bangkok?

Much more then a basic place to stay. From rooms to luxurious Villas and all done in the style of a traditional Thai House. They offer soft, comfortable European mattresses, central hot water, and complete water filtration, air-conditioned rooms and a lovely terrace and garden. Come experience amazing Thailand in the style and craftsmanship of Old World design but with the grace and elegance of New World amenities and services. Rates include free airport pickup. A la carte breakfast is also available upon request. They have the very popular popular Sabaidee Santitham restaurant, a unique and extraordinary eatery that is certain to please your palate. They recently received a Trip Advisor Award for excellence so you can check out their reviews on WWW.tripadvisor.com Now with FREE high speed Wi-Fi Internet access! They are happy to quote you rates for a day, week or month. Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information Address: 61 Satitham road, Chang Phuak Muang (District) Chiang Mai Office Hour: 9am to 6pm Phone: +66 53 406 449 Website: http://www.santitham.com/

30 minutes North of the city of Chiang Mai and set in 10,000 sq. meters of gardens. Close to Doi Saket and Tao Gardens. The name tells you what this resort is designed for. Small number of spacious rooms where the key is privacy. Enjoy the views and solitude in Northern Thai style. Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information Address: 31/1 M.8 Ban wangtarn T.Luangnua A.Doisaket chiang Mai, Thailand 50220 Phone: (Eng) 66 0 81-002 0377 (Thai) 66 0 87-942 0740 Website: http://soulmates-retreat.com Photo Of This Establishment

Club One Seven Chiang Mai is brought to Chiang Mai by a company that has similar in Singapore and Phuket. It is a fully equipped facility designed for the gay traveler. For those wishing to stay at a Gay Hotel, this is the perfect place. With a gym , sauna and pool and massage rooms it is a complete Gay Resort The gay guesthouse has 11 different air conditioned rooms in 2 story traditional Thai teak guesthouse. You may meet people here from all over the world and get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere. Fine dining, massages and full gym facilities are just a few of the things offered. Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information Address: 385/2 Charoen Prathet Road, Changklan, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand Phone: +66 (0) 53 274 317 Fax: +66 (0) 53 274 932 Website: http://www.clubonesevenchiangmai.com/ Picture Of This Establishment

MansField Hotel is both a central location and still in a quiet area for a good nights sleep. Mansfield’s location within Chiangmai’s rapidly up and coming vibrant neighbourhood of Santitham is perfect for tourists. Within a short walk are many bars, restaurants, cafes, as well as clubs and massage shops catering specifically for visitors. They offer upscale suites most with jacuzzi tubs and rain showers. The rooms are of a 5 star Hotel standard and the Hotel has the feel of a resort for play. Shoes and shirts are optional and you can even have a private butler for an additional charge. Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information: Address: 10 Wiang Bua Soi 4 Chang Puak, Muang, Chiang Mai Thailand 50300 Phone: +66.53.410458 Website www.mansfieldchiangmai.com Picture Of This Establishment

I like going to Jazz and Blues places and I take my boys with me. While they are not gay, I have never once had any problem. In fact, in on Jazz club in Pattaya, I had a birthday there and about 20 gay boys and ladyboys and we all had a blast.

PROMOTION !!! ALL BOOKING MADE DIRECT WITH THIS HOTEL INCLUDE COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST Peaceful ambience and tastefully casual, Qi68 is a new boutique hotel in Chiang Mai downtown that strongly focuses in its 'discreet' and 'cautious' attitudes coupled with cosy, modern design. The lobby of the hotel is a loft space with a wide open area, along with kitchen for self-catering. The name of the Qi68 Hotel means "Flowing Energy". Guest rooms are furnished in contemporary design with a simple concept. Qi68 Hotel offers 6 spacious guest rooms, plus LCD TV, lush bed linen, hot and cold rain shower and a complimentary homemade breakfast. Wireless internet access throughout is for free. The Lobby also has the kitchen, refrigerator and microwave. Amenities of this hotel are local organic products by PuPechPrai. The location is very close to the heart of the city; few minutes to the moat and Central Kad Suan Kaew Shopping Mall (the main shopping area with local markets too!) on Huey Kaew road (this is the main road to most of the fabulous attractions such as the Doi Suthep Temple, Chiang Mai Zoo, traditional Hmong villages, Buphing Palace and Student Markets) and 15 minutes to Chiang Mai International Airport. - 6 rooms available - Pantry in the lobby - Wifi - Parking for private car n motorbike Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos. Information Address: 68 Santiruk Chang Puak Muang, Chiang Mai, CM, Thailand Phone: +66 89 632 9944 Website: http://www.qi68hotel.com/index.php?pagename=contact Photo of this Hotel

137 Pillars House is a boutique hotel in Chiang Mai that revives the old world elegance of the Orient and invites guests to enjoy every modern luxury. They have gardens, rooms and suites and will try to make your stay special. They have a vast knowledge of the Chiang Mai area and will offer you directions and recommendations to some of the best sites. Their ambition is not only to give you a comfortable place to sleep but suggest things to do that will remain in your memory for many years Please tell us about your experience and do not forget to post some photos . Information Address: 2 Soi 1 Nawatgate, Road Chiang Mai, 50000 Phone: 053 247 788 Fax: +66 (0)53 247780 Website: http://137pillarshouse.com/ Photo Of This Establishment

Ace, I really like the city as well and I hate I missed the gathering this year. I hope I am in the USA for the one next year.

I am always signed in unless I log out or close my browser. But, for those with issues, Expat is right, a lot has to do with your browser settings. However, if you have issues, please give us your OS and Browser and the version of each one and we will test this. I will also clear my cache and I still have stuff on my Firefox as it syncs with the Fox server.

This city was the hardest yet for me as I know we have many that live there and that visit often. I hope I have done it justice. Please take a look at the new listings for this great gay city! http://gaypalmsprings.boytoy.com http://www.boytoy.com/forums/index.php?/forum/273-gay-palm-springs/

TY, you write so beautifully! I think you missed our calling as a novelist! Or, are your secretly that 50 Shades guy?