KBTexas
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Posts posted by KBTexas
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Wearing my geologist's hat, I'd say it was a tooth.
Yep...not sure if there were Mammoths in this part of the world, (and if not, was brought in to sell for 200000 baht!) but it looks very much like a Mammoth tooth:
:KB
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You say in France WE, so I assume you are French. St. Remy makes a very decent brandy that is sold at reasonable prices (for 40%) here. St. Remy VSOP. It is presently around 635 baht / 70cl at most stores in Udon Thani, but it may be cheaper in BKK. Very decent tipple (straight up...sipped) while sitting on the porch watching the world go by.
For beer, you can usually find Asahii for a reasonable price. I am not a beer drinker, but I do enjoy an Asahii from time to time, especially during cookouts.
Alternately, get friends to bring you decent liquor from the duty free when they come to visit. Literally, 70cl of my prefered single malt (Glenfiddich 15 yr old) is more than TWICE what 1 liter costs outside the LOS! (3500 baht here vs ~1650 baht)
I am sure that punitive tax needs to be there to protect Thai distilleries and help people not drink to much. (yeah RIGHT!)KB
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Just a follow up on my previous post.
I did get a return email from the vendor in BKK. It would seem that they have two email addresses floating around, and one of them is bad. I was contacted by Khun Jarutas Apichonchaipan when I wrote to 'info at chanintr.com' (modified email..replace at with @ and remove the spaces), who was courteous, helpful and wrote and spoke understandable English. They have a 'promotion' on presently that saves you around 7500 baht. The only downside to the transaction was the 3500 baht delivery fee to deliver to Udon Thani, which seemed quite high. I was able to order an Aeron through their website at https://aeron.chanintrliving.com/ that should be delivered this coming week. Here is the info for the company if you require it:
CHANINTR LIVING
10th Floor, Nai Lert Tower2/4 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330 Thailand
T +662 655 5188 Ext.148, F +662 655 5189
Mobile Phone: 086-990 8007Yes, these cost more here, BUT, there is no guessing as to what the import duty would be AND the 12 year warranty is honored onshore, so it turns out to be a decent deal. Also, the cost here is about the same as I paid for the Aeron 8 or 9 years ago in the US. While the price has dropped considerably in the US, freight and import duty would make it a gamble as to if it cost more or less by the time it got here, not to mention any issues that might arise with damage during shipment. If the chair lasts for 12 years as I expect it to, then it is a break even for continually buying chairs that just don't work, and my back should appreciate the ergonomics.
KB
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Here's my experience with chairs which may or may not be useful to you or others. I've had 3 desk chairs here in Thailand. The first a local brand for a few thousand Baht which felt good at the store but after a few weeks gave me a really bad back ache.
I then replaced it with a Korean chair purchased from Modernform, very comfortable and fully adjustable, however it started breaking and falling apart after about 2 years. I had it fixed with original parts from the manufacturer and it's still being used now by my wife, getting to about 5-6 years without issues.
While the Korean chair was being fixed I got a Herman Miller Aeron, definitely pricey but excellent ergonomics. This chair too started showing it's age after about 3 years with some parts failing, but.. it comes with 12 years full service warranty on every single part. I had very good experience having it fixed, they come to your home for free and quite promptly.
So in my opinion it all depends on how much time you spend in your chair (I spend a ton of time sitting) and whether your back is "picky" or not.
As a retired programmer who used to sit many, many hours in front of a computer, I have to totally agree with this post. YES, Herman Miller chairs are expensive, but so is back surgery, which I had as a result of sitting for hours in 'bad' chairs! I had a Mira at my home and an Aeron at my desk at work, and these are the ONLY chairs I have ever had where one could sit for 8-12 hours and not have back fatigue. I moved to Thailand almost three years ago, and am on my FOURTH 3,000-5,000 baht chair, so if I had bought an Aeron when I got here, I would break even in another 3 to 4 years and my back would probably not hurt like it does now! My back constantly lets me know that these Thai chairs are not ergonomic in any sense of the word.
My issue is trying to contact the dealer here. Evidently, they do not read their email (or it is bounced) or cannot understand English emails. I am going to get my TW to call them next week, because I have written them at their 'contact us' address at least 4 times without a response.
Not a warm fuzzy about their response if there is a problem! I really, really, really need a decent chair!Just an aside on the longevity of the chair, I had the Mira for 6 years, and it is still in use at my daughters house 3 years on, with no issues whatsoever. I used the Aeron for 6 years, and again, not a single issue. I am not a lightweight either, so I consider this a sign of a very well made product.
KB
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They can come up with any truth-lie alchemy for all I care
Personally, I thought this was one of the best descriptions of politics and politicians I had ever read!
KB
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Update:
A month after this topic exchange, I changed to Dunlop tires front and back. No issues whatsoever in over a year (14 months) in rain, sand, dirt, etc. Same roads, same conditions: no wiggles, slips, slides or dumps. So gee, ya think maybe it WAS the tires???? I just love pundits that find excuses and point fingers for everything.
Hope everyone riding with the IRC's are still around to comment on them.
KB
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Some years ago I had Bridgestone BT39SS (front) on a Wave. IRC on the rear. Should you wish to consider something different. They also worked OK.
I think the issue may be the size of the tires, but it is good to know that there may be alternatives. Thanks for the info.
Best Regards,
KB
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Sniper Osborne said: "maybe you need a trip to specsavers ?? .. i have no issues with seeing sand on the road"
I guess reading comprehension is about the only thing you are not perfect in? Here's a protip...if someone takes the time to say a 'light dusting of sand that was not easily seen', assume that you would not see it either. Since you seem to be a sniper, I will now ignore you. Enjoy your perfect existence sir.
KB
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I've had a Nuovo for over 2 years and have no problems whatsover, same with about 3-4 other stock scooters
From reading some posts, it is apparent that some posters have no clue how to adapt their riding styles to different road conditions... if you ride like a <deleted> on a sandy/wet road, it doeasn't matter what tires you have, you will more likely end up on your ass
I am happy for you, and for Karlos...but there are many people in this thread alone that report problems (and there are quite a few threads about this). Why would you assume that they all have no clue as to how to ride? I rode motorcycles for 15+ years in the States, and dumped the bike exactly once, in unexpected gravel. It is a bright sunny day, no water...how would you 'adapt' your driving style to this? When I looked at the road after the spill, it had a very light dusting of sand and dirt...which could not be easily seem. I expect a bike of any size (including a scooter) to be able to handle 'normal road conditions' without having to 'adapt' my riding style! The stock tires on this thing are dangerous and I will be replacing them with something a bit stickier...end of story.
KB
PS to Karlos...I checked the pressure this evening. It was 2 psi high...not enough that I would think it would turn the thing into an unstable ride.
And I also own a Honda scooter that has even skinnier tires, and ride it around the same turn without issue.
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As one who just dumped his 2 month old Yamaha Elegance today, I can tell you that tomorrow I will be looking for the Dunlop's at the very least! The stock tires on the bike have tried to dump me numerous times...if they are a bit wet, there is dirt or sand on the road, or just a nice polished piece of roadway! Today it was a bit of sand, from a dead stop on a u turn, and boom, the front end went one way and the back end went the other. Nothing but a bit of road rash and some scrapes on the bike, but it was a wake up call that the stock tires just do not cut it. I would hate to think of driving this thing with these tires during the rainy season!
I'll let you know how the new tires work out.
KB
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Hmmm, it would appear no way to get a Zoji in Thailand.
Here is the reply from Zoji:
Dear Customer,
Thank you for your interest & support of our products.
We regret to inform you that we don't have any agent or stores in Thailand to sell our electrical products of rice cookers and on-line service can be provided too. Very sorry for about that & not helping you more even we wish we could.
Thanks for your inquiry.
Best regards,
Carmen of Zojirushi HK Co. Ltd
Found this link while searching the Zoji website for stores in Thailand. It might come in handy. I do notice that they list the unit as 220-240 volts. http://www.zojirushi.com.hk/
UNION ZOJIRUSHI CO., LTD
11/3 MOO 14 BANGCHAN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
SERITHAI ROAD, MINBURI, BANGKOK 10510, THAILAND
(66 2) 517 8159
fax-(66 2) 919 9058
Hope it helps...I will call today and see what I can find out.
Best Regards,
KB
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Found this link while searching the Zoji website for stores in Thailand. It might come in handy. I do notice that they list the unit as 220-240 volts. http://www.zojirushi.com.hk/
UNION ZOJIRUSHI CO., LTD
11/3 MOO 14 BANGCHAN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
SERITHAI ROAD, MINBURI, BANGKOK 10510, THAILAND
(66 2) 517 8159
fax-(66 2) 919 9058
Hope it helps...I will call today and see what I can find out.
Best Regards,
KB
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If you have found a way to get a Zoji that works in Thailand, please let me know also. I arrived in Thailand last week, and have looked, in vain, for a Zoji Micom rice cooker. Bought a Hitachi at the electronics store for 2000 baht that will not be used again as there is NO WAY to remove the steam lid for cleaning so all the gunk just builds up. TERRIBLE design. Robinsons carries some Zoji stuff, but not the rice cookers. (I imagine they cost too much to sell many in Thailand)
Used the Zoji Micom 5.5 cup cooker for a year and a half every day for breakfast (grits, oatmeal, jook) and dinner chicken and rice, shrimp and rice, etc.) and never had a single issue with it. Easy to clean (including the steamer lid) and I want another one.
Thanks for any info...
Best Regards,
KB
I haven't seen them here in Thailand. I have a Zojirushi fuzzy logic model in the USA, I have a fuzzy logic Phillips here in Thailand... The Philips doesn't have as many features as the Zojirushi, but it makes good rice and it was a lot less money.
I was hoping to be able to buy a Zojirushi model in LOS and not have to go through the hassle of special ordering a 220 -240 volt model and then having to take it to LOS in my luggage - taking a chance on buying one at Narita airport on the stopover in Tokyo would probably be very cost prohibitive with their high prices coupled with the poor USD exchange rate!
If all else fails, I will have to choose from a couple of preferable rice cooker models mfr. by Sanyo and Panasonic ......
Just a side note to that. Japan uses 100 volts AC, so I doubt they would stock a 220-240 volt model either. I brought a small Weber BBQ in one of my checked bags as they are over 3,300 Baht here, for the little Joe I think it's called. It was $35 in the US. The small kettle on wheels is over 6,600 Baht here. So, if you have time you may want to order the Zojirushi 220 v model if it's available and bring it with you... But make it look used or you may be charged duty on it....
I did not know that uses 100 volts AC.......thanks for that tip! I will look to ordering a European model of this rice cooker if it isn't cost prohibitive - shipping and custom fees(?). If all else fails, I will have to get a different brand of rice cooker from a local retailer here who stocks 220 - 240 volt versions.
I had hoped, short of any Zojirushi sightings there in LOS, that someone would have noted retailers specializing in wide selections of rice cookers.
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There are different beaches in Khao Lak, the liveliest are Bang Niang Beach and Nang Tong Beach. At Bang Niang, which is the best for swimming, check out Ramada, Mukdara, La Flora, Sudara, Chong Fah and Ayara, they are all beachfront hotels varying from 3,5 to 5 stars.
For a taxi from Phuket Airport, don't pay more than 1200 Baht, just haggle with the drivers standing around outside. Using the taxi counter in the arrival hall will make it more expensive.
On my website, which you can access through clicking on my "name", there is a lot of general information about Khao Lak, it also contains links to other useful websites.
Be careful of the Ayara villas, especially the pool swim up rooms. I stayed in one a couple of years back and could hear every scrape from the room above, sounded like a marching band at times. Manager didnt want to know, personally I wouldnt return.
Also be careful of the Ramada. If you can get (and afford) one of their beachfront villas, then all's good. However, be aware that their 'seaview' rooms are not. They are pool view, and most are 90 degrees from the sea. Restaurant is ok but very expensive. Beach was very nice (2009).
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I have used www.changflorist.com for 4 years, and am very happy with their service. The owners name is Peg. They do chocolate, wine and very nice flowers, as well as other gifts as requested.
Hope it helps,
KBTexas
BTW...Peg can make deliveries all over Thailand. We've used them in Udon Thani, Phuket, Khao Lak, Ayyuthaya and Chiang Mai.
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Just an update...I spoke with Centara, and indeed they do have Chocolate Fondue, though inexpensive it is not. We are going to order it for a surprise dessert for the MiL. I will update with quality, etc. after the meal, but expect that it will be quite nice. At the price they ask (33% more than what it costs here in the US), it should be quite good.
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My dear KBTexas, it doesn't matter which restaurant you suggest .. there will be something wrong with it!!
My best suggestion to you would be to get M.i.L to suggest a venue ... her favourite ... then everyone will be happy.
Good luck
Heh, it sounds like you have experience.
That is exactly what we did...we told her is was up to her. She chose the Centara, and Going said that they saw a chocolate fondue at Songkran, so maybe I can arrange to have it brought out for dessert. It should make mom happy.
I am optimistic.Best Regards,
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The Centara had one on their breakfast buffet (yup breakfast) at Songkran this year when we were there, but on other - less crowded - times of year I've not seen it in action.
Thanks for the info Going....that at least gives me hope that I can arrange for it to be present, since the MiL wishes to eat there.
Heheh, we offered many places, but she decided she would like to eat at the Centara, so that is where we will go.Best Regards,
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Politcally correct nonsense.. there is nothing to say you cannot RECOMMEND a restaraunt or business .......
.....Top recommend for restaraunt .. unique 4 level layout.. huge choice.. parking opposite tho' you might get lucky on the street.
it is in a side street best, google up udonmap.. Follow Srisuk rd west (or on the map left to right) past Udon Prison (!) on the right.. next left turn -with post office on the corner - is their street .. however..it is one way so .. left at the lights .. left again.. voila ! .off road parking opposite ..
Also have a look at some the restaraunts along the road at the top of Nong Prajak Park/Lake on Supakit Chanya Rd.
Thank you for the directions in2fridge. My mother in law is familiar with the restaurant, and it is not one of her favorites.
So we are back to letting her chose wherever she wishes to go. Does anyone know of a place that has chocolate fondue in Udon Thani? My wife had it for the first time here in the States last spring, and thinks her mom would like it a lot. She certainly enjoyed it! For those of you who are unfamiliar with it, it is melted chocolate ganache served with cut fruit and small cakes or biscotti that you dip into the chocolate. It is quite tasty, and for those who like chocolate, it is heaven.
Best Regards,
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This post has been edited by toptuan: Yesterday, 20:54
Reason for edit: According to Thai law, if a business suffers because of adverse public announcement, then the forum is exposed to defamation lawsuits, even if the accusations are true.
Wow...I did not know that. My apologies. Even if you do not NAME the restaurant? Heh, I guess I will have to learn to be a bit less opinionated in Thailand.
Best Regards,
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Thanks guys...I will recommend Mae Yaa to the mom and see if she would like to go there. I appreciate the replies.
I will ask my wife is she knows the place. The mom is a bit opinionated, so we will see.
Best Regards,
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Ok, the last time I took my wife's family out to dinner in Udon Thani, we went to the Chinese restaurant in the <snip> Hotel. It was ok, but way overpriced for the quality. I am going to be in Udon Thani in October, and once again get to host a dinner for mom, sisters and friends. I would like to recommend a few places to the mom that may provide both excellent food and good atmosphere. Price is not a huge issue (as long as it is not like $100 a person), but somewhere where a middle class Thai lady can be comfortable with her family is an issue. I think it will be a party of 7 or 8 people.
Any ideas? Mom enjoys Chinese fish dishes, which is why we went where we did last time. The daughters will find something they like where mom is happy, and I can eat anything that does not eat me first, but I do enjoy good food, whether it is Thai, Western, or ???.
Any comments or recommendations would be appreciated.
Best Regards,
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Live how you want my friend...I will not judge you. I admit it...I have been around guns all my life. Sorry if that offends you.
Best Regards,
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As a non thai citizen you cannot own firearms or bring them into the country unless under special circumstances eg sporting events,security ( body guards ) military / police on missions all under special permits.
The thing here is you get through the red tape some how, you do import them in, the customs the tax and every other charge that they can put to that firearm you could most probably buy several here or it will get lost.
The other avenue would be approach a gun shop and get them to import for you which again it would not be worth it.
We have a police friend who has several gun shops and my wife has purchaced handguns in the past and as a foriegner he told me that I cannot apply for a license or import a firearm
Thanks for the info...after reading most of the threads here about guns, I kind of thought this was the general case.
Are crossbows or bows legal? Heh, how about broadswords?
Yes, I also fenced and did exhibition broadsword.Again, thanks for the replies.
Best Regards,
I am sure that punitive tax needs to be there to protect Thai distilleries and help people not drink to much. (yeah RIGHT!)
Not a warm fuzzy about their response if there is a problem! I really, really, really need a decent chair!
So we are back to letting her chose wherever she wishes to go. 
Motor show models may face legal action
in Thailand News
Posted
First off, it is very telling that such an office exists, and does remind us that the Orwellian vision is still alive and well.
Secondly, I Googled Bangkok motor show body paint to see what the fuss was about, and it would seem that every model there (at least in the Google pics) were covered, although some other Asian motor shows were a bit less strict about art. Fully covered? No, but the supposed 'naughty bits' were not on display without a LOT of imagination. None of these I saw would have offended even if I had had my grandkids with me, but then I am not a knee jerk reactionary about 'moral' issues.
KB