Europe to Bangkok; flying with Eva Airways

Europe to Bangkok; flying with Eva Airways, the flight of my life

Last summer I flew with Eva Airways to Bangkok. Eva Airways provides a good quality service for a low price. Most of the times when I fly to Bangkok I book economy class, but due to my length I started looking for alternative classes. Two years ago I flew with KLM/Air France and I had to pay extra money for a long-leg-seat. This wasn't that pleasant because I had to spend over 120 euros extra on my flight to have some extra space for my legs.

Anyways, this year I decided to give Eva Airways a go. The best thing is that they offer three different classes: economy, evergreen deluxe class and business class. Well the last one was out of my price range, it was about 2.000 euros. So I decided to go with evergreen deluxe. The price was 1.200 euros, which is exactly the same amount I paid a year earlier while flying with KLM/Air France. However, the seats in evergreen deluxe are bigger than in regular economy. So I had more space for my legs, a bigger seat and I was able to check in and drop my luggage off within a few minutes because the line for the evergreen deluxe check in desk was much shorter than for the economy class. I was already having a great time, not even being in Bangkok yet.

After having a nice holiday and having spent my days in the land of smiles, I was ready for my flight back to Europe. While standing at the check-in desk at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the nice flight attendant said that Eva Airways was looking for a handsome young man for a free upgrade. Apparently the business class wasn’t booked full and some people from the evergreen deluxe class were being upgraded, well one of them was me. A big smile appeared on my face. The lady had me sign a paper which stated that I was voluntarily upgraded. She requested me to put on some shoes instead of my flip flops I was wearing. Because other business class flyers would appreciate it if I’d look neatly. So after changing my footwear and dropping off my luggage I made my way to the customs to leave the country and wait at the gate for departure.

Well, the seats were great. It was a big chair which could be turned flat with the click of a button. I had a big screen in the seat in front of me and I had all the space I wanted. Oh, and the service was great, they even laid my table, I had real cutlery instead of those plastic knives and forks you’ll get in economy class. And the food was delicious.

Well thanks Eva Airways, you spoiled me. Next holiday to Thailand will be an expensive one, I better start saving!

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Nightlife in Thailand

Nightlife in Thailand

Hotel bars

It is usually pleasant to be around the "happy hour” in the bar of your hotel. You will meet people from all over the world, enjoying the coolness of the air conditioner after a long hot day, and often there is also a pianist or a small band in the background to ensure a pleasant atmosphere.

Beer Bars / Beer Gardens

Beer Bars ("Beer Bar" say the Thais often) and Beer Gardens you will find across Thailand, most are located in Bangkok or other touristic places. They come in 3 types:

1. Without "bar girls", or simply female waitress staff: These are usually Beer Gardens (outdoor version of a Beer Bar). Many hotels have a Beer Garden. 
2. Beer Bars with "bar girls" who act as hostesses and they are there solely to serve you and have a chat-although sometimes you can make a date in their private time. 
3. Beer Bars with "bar girls" who not only have to serve you but also offer other, more horizontal services. One usually speaks of "Girlie Bars'. If you are not into this type of bars make it clear that you want nothing more than your beer and just a little chat. This won’t be a problem. The dividing lines between 2) and 3) are not always clear, but you will find out soon enough.

Karaoke bars and clubs

The Thai and Chinese (young and old) are crazy about karaoke. You can find these bars and clubs whatsoever throughout Thailand. You can drink, sing and have something to eat while enjoying your time. Most Thai like to sing, although many are too shy. So pore in some liquor and within no time you will have yourself a personal concert.

GoGo bars

GoGo dance bars (half) naked girls on a stage and / or around a pole. Speaking broadly, the term has been used by venues that cover a wide range of businesses, from nightclubs or discothèques, where dancers are essentially there to set the mood, to what are in essence burlesque theaters or strip clubs, where dancers are part of a show and the primary focus. After you have bought them some drinks, and they are up for it, you can negotiate a price for some horizontal services.

Transvestite Shows

Transvestite Shows are performed by 'katoeys', wholly or partially converted gentlemen to ladies. Many katoeys also operate in the sex circuit. Katoeys are seen as entertaining by Thai themselves, most of them do cabaret shows.

Cinemas

If you want to see movies that are not dubbed in Thai, you should go to one of the many mega-cinemas (in large cities) in Thailand known as' Major Cineplex. These are often located in or near major shopping malls.

Muay Thai boxing

It is an experience to enjoy a night Muay Thai Boxing to watch, not just what is happening in the ring (ceremonies and the fight itself), but also how passionately the Thai gamble on the results! In Bangkok find these competitions in Lumpini Boxing Stadium, close to Lumpini Park on Rama IV Road. Outside Bangkok for Muay Thai contests advertised on posters and advertising propelled vehicles.

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Moving to Thailand

Moving to Thailand

Reasons to move to Thailand 

There are several reasons for foreigners to migrate to Thailand, the weather is nice, there are friendly people and the food is just so delicious. Basically there are three different kind of groups of foreigners that have moved to their favorite country in the world. The first one consists of expats. These are people living in mostly Bangkok because of their work. They are probably working for an international oriented company and are only stationed in Thailand for a few years. The second group consists of foreigners that are looking for a new life. They want to build a career in a new country, you could think of young adventurers that think ‘hey, let’s see what will cross my path’. The third group consists of people that have generally done well in life, they’ve retired early and are enjoying the rest of their life in a better climate. Some of them are ‘partially migrated’, they’ll live a few months in their country of origin, mostly in the summer, and then they will fly black to Thailand during the winter.

Some things you’ll have to think through

1. Cots of Housing: Where do you want to live? And how much are you willing to spend on housing? Living on the country side isn’t that expensive, but if you choose to live in Bangkok you’ll have to spend a lot more. Do you want to live in an apartment or in a villa? Everything has its price, also in Thailand.
2. Costs of living: A lot of expats make the mistake that living in Thailand is a lot cheaper; therefor they spend money more easily than in their country of origin. The great thing about the costs of living in Thailand is: you can spend a hundred bucks a day, but you can also live for a few dollars a day. You can eat in restaurants daily, or make some food at home; it’s your choice and your budget.
3. Visa: The most common visa is a non-migrant visa, which is only valid for three months. If you choose to move to Thailand you’ll need a permanent visa. If you are 50+ years old, than you can change your visa in to a retirement visa. If you would like to do work you will need a working permit.

The downside of moving to Thailand 

There is a chance that you will get lonely. Most foreigners do not speak the language fluently and therefor they are not able to connect with many people. They are only able to have a basic conversation with local Thai. Another part of the downside is that foreigners tend to become alcoholics, they open up their first beer at 10 AM in the morning and finish their last one at night. Therefor life expectancy is a lot lower for foreigners in Thailand than in their country of origin. Some of them are wasting their livers and decide to drive under influence in Thai traffic. Which is NOT a good idea.

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General travel information on Thailand; pasport, money and health tips!

Passport and visa

If you travel to Thailand for a holiday then you’ll need a visa. If you are less than 30 days on a journey you get this visa for free at the airport. Check your visa immediately upon arrival at the airport in Bangkok. During the flight you will receive the visa forms, it is useful to fill it in completely upon arrival. This saves a lot of time at the desk of the customs. If you travel to Thailand by land, then you’ll only get a Thai visa of 14 days. For all travelers, the passport must be valid at least 6 months upon departure from Thailand. A great tip is to leave a copy of your passport with family or friends in your country of origin.

Travelers who want to stay longer than 30 days, should get an additional visa upon arrival. This visa can be arranged at the Thai in your country of origin. Thai visa arrangements can be difficult and time consuming and often take 14 to 16 days. Quick requests are not always possible. Applying for visas is also possible at the Thai consulate.

Money

In Thailand you pay with the Thai baht. It is convenient to look up the currency rate just before your arrival, because the exchange rate can fluctuate. The best way to get Thai money is out of an ATM in Thailand. You can find almost everywhere ATMs where you take out money easily with your bank card or credit card. Upon arrival at the airport you can cash in your euros/dollars for bath at the currency. It is also wise to take some Thai bath with you from your country of origin. Most ATMs are located in the cities. However if you go into the jungle or to an Island there might not be always an ATM around, keep this in mind. Credit cards are accepted in many places, especially Visa and Mastercard.

Thailand is generally safe to travel to. It is wise not to take a lot of valuable items with you on your holiday. Money, passports and valuables are best in the safe of your hotel until your departure. Almost all the hotels in Thailand that are able to be booked online have a safe in the room, or else at the reception. Never leave valuables unattended in your room behind. There is always cleaning staff present with a key to the room.

Health

Vaccinations for Thailand are not required, but generally are vaccinations against Hepatitis A and DTP recommended. For the latest information on the required vaccinations, we recommend you to contact (at least 6 weeks before departure) agencies as your GP or other Health institutions.

For Asian concepts Thailand has a pretty good hygiene. However, you do have to pay attention. For example you cannot drink water from the tap unlike some European countries. Drink water from a bottle. Food should be well cooked, so that any bacteria are slain. For fruit is that it is better to wash them before eating, just like in any other country. Do this with clean water. Hospitals are generally very good. If you get ill it is not a problem for a foreigner to go to a Thai hospital since their service is great, they have great doctors and Thai hospitals are internationally reputable.

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Tourist attractions in Thailand; Wow it's beautiful!

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The best sights in Bangkok

Best sights in Bangkok

The grandpalace (Wat Phra Keo)

The Grand Palace, the former royal palace is a must to see. This holy complex located near the river in the center of the city consists of buildings from different periods. Wat Phra Keo is located in the same complex. The Emerald Buddha is the most venerated image in Thailand. The Grand Palace is open daily from 08.30 to 15.30. Appropriate dress is required (shoulders and knees covered). Around the Sanam Luang, the oval square for the Grand Palace, we include the Museum of Modern Art, Thammasat University and National Museum. This building has a stunning collection of artifacts and works of art from the Bronze Age.

Wat Pho

Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, adjacent to the Grand Palace. The huge, gold-covered statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. The soles of the Buddha are inlaid with pearls. The 'School of Thai Massage’ is found in Wat Pho. In two weeks you will learn the intricacies.

Wat Arun

The Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) to the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace, is famous for its porcelain inlaid with pieces of 79 meters high central pagoda. The Vimanek Palace (the Heavenly accommodations) is the largest building in the world of teakwood.

The Chao Praya River

The best view of Bangkok from the river and we especially at night. A river dinner cruise is an ideal way to a tasty meal with a fantastic view to combine. Request more information in your hotel or your travel agent or tour operator. A swirling cultural show with an impressive decor you can attend at Siam Niramit Theatre. The theater, which opened in October 2005, is centrally located and offers the show also features a fully reconstructed Thai village where the lifestyle of four regions can experience. Before the start of the show at 20.00 you also have the option to dine in one of the three available restaurants.

Thai Boxing, Muay Thai

Lovers of Thai Boxing, Muay Thai can in two major boxing stadiums, Lumpini and Ratchadamnoen watch matches. Those interested in Buddhist meditation join themselves to the headquarters of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) on Sukhumvit Road 33, between Soi 1 and Soi 3.

Shopping malls

Thai love spending time shopping, so do most foreigners. Bangkok has the lowest prices throughout Asia, but there's always something to negotiate about. Remain friendly negotiation. The best and biggest shopping centers are at the beginning of Sukhumvit Road and along Ploenchit Road and Rama I road. Shopping Malls as Gaysorn, Mahboonkrong (MBK), Central World Plaza and Central Chit Lom offer everything a person could want. The brand new Siam Paragon is for the top of the market and includes shops and cinemas and also the largest aquarium in Asia (access is about 450 Baht).

Markets

The Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must for anyone who wants to come home with something typical Thai. It is a huge complex, with numerous shops on the Phaholyothinweg, opposite the northern bus station which is accessible by skytrain.

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The Thai Cuisine; spicy, fresh, sweet and sour!

Thai cuisine

Thailand is known for its tasty, refined, varied, but also spicy dishes. Sweet, sour and spicy are the most common flavors. Rice or noodles (noodles) are often the basis, combined with fresh vegetables and meat, fish or a chicken dish. Not too spicy? Say "Mai Phet" to a cook or waiter when ordering. Especially in the big cities,there are also the huge range of international cuisines and you can also find the famous fast food chains. The Thai cuisine combines the best of Chinese and Indian culinary traditions, including noodles, curries, sweet and sour dishes and exotic spices.

What does a typical Thai dish look like?

You must know that all dishes are served simultaneously on the table, except the desserts. Nobody orders for himself alone; everyone takes according to his appetite. Do not forget to try fishcakes with sweet and sour sauce (tod man pla). And the green curry chicken (kaeng Kiaw wan kai) or pad thai, a kind of Thai noodles. These are some well known Thai dishes, and they are so delicious! Thai curries are rich with fresh herbs and vegetables. A simple Thai curry consists of dried chillies, shallots and shrimp paste. More complex curries include garlic, galangal, coriander root, lemon grass, round eggplants and green peppercorns. Salads look clearly different from us, often without lettuce. Sometimes they are very spicy. A sour dish, a fluffy omelette, and a stir-fry help the meal complete. When the meal arrives you always get a few small cans with suger, some dried pepper and some fish sauce, which you can spice dishes at will. Fish sauce is like salt, vinegar may taste slightly acidic, and the dry chilli... it's all up to you. Eat once a day a noodle soup, optionally filled with chicken, duck or pork. The soup itself ensures that your mineral management is maintained due to the sweating. A very well known and often spicy Thai Tom Yam soup is a great and delicious example. This soup can be made with prawns (kung), pork (moo) and chicken (kai) made. No meal is complete without a Thai dessert, although the taste not always captivate our Western tongues. Almost always, these are sweet dishes, though they are sometimes welcome after a spicy meal.

Fruit

And do not forget the exotic fruits: mangos, mangistans, fresh pineapples, rambutans, bananas and papayas, to name a few. And all kinds of fruits that you've never seen, let alone tasted. But certainly try ... Then there are the durians that are very popular with the Thais. You should definitely try them, but it is generally not permitted to take this fruit to your room. This is due to the very pungent odor. Thai do not recommend eating durian with beer.

Beverage

In Thailand grows much fruit. Fresh fruit shakes are thus virtually available everywhere. In addition, all international drinks are in Thailand for sale, as well as various export beers. The local beers Singha, Chang, Tiger, Cheers and Leo are good enough to drink, and the Mekong whiskey (actually rum). Heineken is in terms of status the best beer available in Thailand.

Thai eating habits

Thai eating habits are not the same as the Western, they do not eat just three times a day. Thai eat food whenever they feel like it. Usually in small portions but approximately seven times a day. Eating is a pleasure for Thai. There are no strict rules that one should take into account. It is good to know that in Thailand knives are not used while eating a dish. They always eat with a fork (left) and spoon (right). Especially food stalls and restaurants provide chopsticks as a way to eat your dish. For example, when you eat a noodle soup with chopsticks, you will use the chopsticks to grab the ingredients from the soup. The latter you'll eat with a Chinese spoon. It will probably take a lot of practise...

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