bklyngal
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Posts posted by bklyngal
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My girlfriend and I are looking to holiday in Phuket early 2006. Can someone tell me the hotels that are the closest to the beach in the 3-4 star range?
I always have stayed at the Holiday Inn Busakorn wing. It is the best !!! Food wonderful and the bartenders are the best!!! Open at one end of the resort to the beach....enjoy tell "O" Alice sent you. He is at the pool bar...
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I am planning to go to Thailand (my third trip in the last year, but frst alone) to look over the spa industry. How safe is this for me to do? I am almost 50 years old (a young 50 though) I have been to most visted destinations around the country. This time I believe I am going to focus on Bangkok. I dont plan on letting people know (other than this friend) that I am traveling alone. Can anyone make suggestions where I can stay (possibly a serviced apt.) which will be safe? Also, where should I not venture....and any other tid bits you can share with me . thanks a bunch....
Alice
Hi - I was there with my daughter for over a year, we taught english for rajaphat univeristy for awhile. In Bangkok we stayed at the Atlanta Hotel - nice old retro hotel - http://theatlantahotel.bizland.com/ (has a nice pool too) - or if it was full the Raja Hotel up the street. We were out late to the night market with the band near Sala Daeng and so on and never had any problems. I think there are expat women's groups in Bangkok you could attend.
Thanks so much for your suggestion. I will look into this hotel. I like the fact that they dont allow outsiders to walk about the hotal without permission. Every little bit of extra security measure helps when you travel alone...
Alice
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It's safe to be here on your own but many things require that you understand how Thais view women differently. Also, being able judge someone's character is much harder when they are from a different culture. Often I have met someone new here and I will ask a few Thais what they thought of the person and their impression is completely different than mine.
Unsafe areas are generally not by neighborhoods, but more by little sections. I know that Thais tell me to avoid areas near construction sites and areas that are undeveloped in BKK. They don't feel comfortable in saying why, but it's been said enough that I don't do it.
Don't be alone with a man unless you know him well and/or your purpose is very explicitly stated. Many Thai women bring chaperones to dates. Some men may get the wrong idea if you are alone.
I have a friend who had someone try to slash her purse open on a crowded public city bus. They accidentally cut her instead. Generally, be aware when in a big crowd.
Busses going out of BKK are generally safe, but if you are going on a visa run sleeper bus, I'd advise you to bring somebody else or make a friend on the bus. I've heard a story of a bus driver (not the one driving, mind you) trying to feel up a woman while she was asleep.
Don't take tuk-tuks in Bangkok. This is good advice for anybody. Taxis are safer, but have a mobile phone. Get out if the driver does not listen to directions. He may know of a shortcut, but they will normally explain if that's the case. If you are in an argument about money with a driver, show them you will call the tourist police 1155.
Many taxi drivers are flirtatious and it is mostly harmless it can be amusing (they sing sometimes!) and sometimes it's annoying. I will call somebody and chat if it bothers me but I don't feel threatened.
Almost any building will have security. Go by any place you are looking at several times to see how good they are. My last building I paid double what I paid now. I asked the security at my old place to keep my ex out of the building. They were too afraid to tell him no, and let him in. Generally they were unfriendly but I didn't know that better was available. My new place has more units and has a team of guys that actually give my guests a hard time. This is good. I accidentally hit the alarm button on 8 AM on a Saturday and they were knocking on my door in two minutes!
I do feel safe here, and you just have to be aware in different ways.
I cant thank you enough for your valuable advise. I never knew about the construction sites...I will keep that in the front of my mind when walking about. No matter how many times we visit a place there are always others that have valuable info such as your self....thanks so much
Alice
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I am planning to go to Thailand (my third trip in the last year, but frst alone) to look over the spa industry. How safe is this for me to do? I am almost 50 years old (a young 50 though) I have been to most visted destinations around the country. This time I believe I am going to focus on Bangkok. I love to speak with the locals and shop. I have made one pretty good friend who I hope will be able to one day visit the USA and possibly have her work for me here. Although her english is a little slow. I am planning to learn some Thai while I am there. I dont plan on letting people know (other than this friend) that I am traveling alone. Can anyone make suggestions where I can stay (possibly a serviced apt.) which will be safe? Also, where should I not venture....and any other tid bits you can share with me . thanks a bunch....
Alice
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in the USA about 1-2 hours reading and search info each day....keeps me connected to Thailand. Love all the banter and valuable info...thanks for a good site...Alice
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How did this work out for you?
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this attorney's US phone has been disconnected.....Is this someone trying to promote this attorney??? And why?
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Hello-
I'm an American getting ready to begin the K-1 visa process for my Thai fiancee. I'm well read on the technical as well as anecdotal info related to the process. Meaning: I know I can do it by myself, and it would be cheaper, but given my gal's location (Isaan) and the logistics associated therein, I'm comfortable making the financial investment to hire a firm in order to make the process more efficient.
I'm interested in using a Thailand-based law firm to assist with the K-1 Visa process.
Question: Has anyone had recent experience with a firm that they would highly recommend? Again, looking for a law firm rather than a fly-by-night "agency."
Thanks for the help, all....
Somruk
I tried his number the the states and it said not a working number. Is this person Really reliable????
Somruk,
There is a reputable U. S. lawyer based in Bangkok , his name is Bill White. Here's his contact info:
Asia Office
Bangkok, Thailand
White & White Ltd.
U.S. Immigration Consultancy
New ITF Tower, 17th Floor, #3
140/36 Silom Road, Bangrak
Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Telephone 66 (0) 2231-6466
Mobile (66) 0-1909-8202
url: http://www.usvisalaw.info/
I have contacted him before via email regarding an overstay Tourist Visa holder who has married a US Citizen and he helped me with advise and referals to lawyers stateside.
He has a reputation of being an honest lawyer and one who is COMPETENT.
Well, see for yourself should you choose to contact him. AND good luck with everything.
regards,
chivasgeo
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If not the Princess, Chiang Mai Plaza (slightly farther out than the former) is the bees knees with quality rooms in the Executive Tower. The Riverside bar is cheaper than the Goodview next door, both not too far from the Night Bazaar and hotels, and is more cozy...good live bands. Just opposite the Princess is the Anusarn (spelling) market with some fairly good seafood places and O'Malleys; a block north is the Red Lion etc.
As ThaiPauly says, if you're here tomorrow, pop into the Saloon after 7
There are a few much better than the Plaza.....I stayed there about 3 months ago and was very unhappy. The beds were of very poor quality, springs springing...blankets were not only shabby but dirty. The temp in the rooms are not what you expect when you have ac, we opened the window for air (during the hot season) The buffet for breakfast is an array of warm eggs and not much else. Fruit is brough out as it gets eaten so there is not even trays with an assortment. You have to get your own coffee in the am. I am real bad at this...never made a ggod waitress. To get to the pool you have to walk through a part of the hotel that looks closed...not real nice or safe for that matter. I spoke to the mgr and told him how unhappy we were with all of these things and got a "we thank you for your comments" So no more Plaza for me....I also stayed at the Sheraton which was much nicer, pool, food rooms. and people...they are happy to work in this hotel not like the Plaza where they are sour. So for what its worth that my opinon...BTW also great food at the riverside..
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Hey Thaibebop,
You obviously do not have the good hook up for bootlegs. I have a great one off of Silom if you need it.
Great, would love the location. The copies I bought were about half bad......I am going to bring them back in Sept. when I return
Thanks a bunch
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Here's a fairly standard business plan template. Some may be n/a and you can add any missing bits along the way. There's alot of others online- just google. Good luck.
Great thanks so much !!!!!
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I am in need of a business plan for a massage spa in the USA. I have to have this for a work visa for Thai national. If you know where I could have one drawn up please email me ASAP
Alice
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IMHO your not going to learn much about the Thai massage business model that will help you in the U.S. I doubt you will be able to make a go of a Thai massage business here due to the extensive competition, your own inexperience in that business and the working conditions that you have previously expressed distaste for. I suspect there is a lot of corruption and sex oriented influence in the massage business here and the pitfalls are many.
I would suggest researching the successful massage or spa businessess in the U.S. and use that model for your locale.
I am not saying not to learn as much as possble about your business anywhere you find it, just beware how difficult it is for a falang to have a successful business here, especially when you are not bringing to the "table" anything unique to attract customers away from the existing establishments, which abound.
I dont think I was clear about forming a company in Thailand. The issue for that is it may be easier for her to transfer inter-company than just a work visa for the US. I know the amount of massage places are numerous so believe me I dont want to start another one in Thailand....market is flooded!!! What I want to do is hire her (for a newley formed company) to do the research etc and then have her transfer here (USA) to work setting up and managing the business. I want the business here to be as close to the Thai massage (professional ) spa as possible. ie; style, design etc. My problem is...getting her to the US....How do so many Thai's get to the US without marriage, money, land etc....they are here!!! If anyone has any ideas please let me know. I appreciate all of your ideas and comments....thanks again...
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I would suggest you go to your local Chamber of Commerce and find out about how to import workers for your "existing" business in the U.S.
Perhaps, inquiry of the INS in their closest available office would also be a good idea. There are many documented foreign workers in the U.S., but what the criteria is and how to do it would clearly be within the purview of the INS,, with an assist from the Chamber of Commerce.
Forget the tourist visa, she clearly doesn't qualify.
Thanks for your reply, I have started a work visa for this woman, it seems to be the only way. Now if I can just get the documentation from all of prevoius employers stating that she worked there and for how long. I am also thinking of starting a company inThailand and let her work ther for me and then transfer her to the USA through my company....what do you think about this? That is if the work visa dosent go through as planned. I am planning a trip to Thailand in October for a month to learn the language a little better and take notes on how the massage business is run and for design of the spa. Hopefully by then I will know how this is working out...thanks again for your response and advise...cheers
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Hi all,
I've booked an appointment at Bangkok Dental home at Phahonyothin Road
to do laser whitening but am contemplating to do it at Silom Dental at Naratiwatrajnakarin Rd.
Anyone has any experience with these 2 dental clinic? Any advise is deeply appreciated. The price difference between them is THB500.
I had lots of work done at Bangkok Smile. They have two locations one on Asoke and another on sukumvit at wireless. I had caps, whitening, and several veneers applied. They all look and feel wonderful. Please go there if you want great Dentists and quality care. I couldent be more happier with the work. Tell them Alice from the states sent you....
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Can someone thai speaking tell we what this is:
I thought it was shampoo but not. Itching as ###### !
Shower to shower is body powder to keep you dry and smelling good....not for itching....hope that helps
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Hi Alice,
I don't know much of the US visa process but would suspect that it is pretty similar in approach to the UK. With the proviso that this is the case, a visit visa applicant has to demonstrate that they have a good reason to return to their native country at the end of their visit. This would normally entail proving, for example, that you have money in the bank and a job to go back to. Additionally, ownership of land and familial ties can be of assistance too. However, for someone who has never travelled before, and who has what some may not class as a well-paid job, the process can be not so straightforward. Ultimately, the success, or otherwise, depends upon the individual's circumstances.
With regard to working in the US, other members are probably better placed to advise.
Cheers,
Scouse.
thanks Scouse, same same all except we cannot sponser anyone personally to obtain a visa where you can.. Hopefully anyone with some experience in this matter will join in. I have contacted attorneys to assist in this matter and the fee quoted is about $3,500-5K for filings etc. I think this is very steep unless they have info that we dont. Do you think that the embassy would look at papers prepared by an attorney differently than if I prepared them? Monday I am stetting up this company and put a letter in the paper looking for workers (as stated by the web site for work visa w/labor certificate) I hope this works out for the both of us. Now she works as a massuse working up to 15 hours a day with some massages being 4 hours....This is abuse. She would be a definate asset here in Virignia whre i live and her work load and the money she will be paid will be so much better for her. If anyone can assist with any ideas or advise please....jump on in...
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I am trying to obtain a visa for a woman I have made friends with in Bangkok. The woman is a massuse and has been for the past 10 years. She and I have an interest in starting a business in the USA for Thai massage. The thing is I want to see first if she adjusts to how life would be in the US and then if it is ok for her I would then open the business. So, first off, does she apply for a tourist visa and if so is this very very difficult to obtain. I would supply documents for her of support and all paid for trip. If this is not a viable option then try to obtain a work visa. I have no idea how to go about this and do not know if this is the more difficult option or not. Can you tell me if you have any experience in either of these visas and how I should go about it. I want to do everyting above board and not have a red flag pop up. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
Alice from Virginia
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Alice, I don't mean to be rude but you'll have to get in the back of the line. We've all been waiting in this thing for 5 years. Same old story same old song and dance my friend
I hear you loud and clear. Just thought if anyone had any experiences good or bad they would share so we know what we are up against. I know this is very difficuly to obtain but I will try anyway. Do you think it would be better if I was there in Thailand to go with her to the embassy or not?
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Bro....I'm here to save the day! I"ve done it twice and can help you every step of the way. Send me a PM with your email address and I'll take care of you guys.....Always willing to help, I'll save you a lot of trial and error...trust me I know.
I am trying to obtain a visa for a woman I have made friends with in Bangkok. The woman is a massuse and has been for the past 10 years. She and I have an interest in starting a business in the USA for Thai massage. The thing is I want to see first if she adjusts to how life would be in the US and then if it is ok for her I would then open the business. So, first off, does she apply for a tourist visa and if so is this very very difficult to obtain. I would supply documents for her of support and all paid for trip. If this is not a viable option then try to obtain a work visa. I have no idea how to go about this and do not know if this is the more difficult option or not. Can you tell me if you have any experience in either of these visas and how I should go about it. I want to do everyting above board and not have a red flag pop up. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
Alice from Virginia
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Hi, I am looking to do the same thing in the usa, could you tell me how you made out.I have one woman now who i am going to put in school to teach her english. She also is certifed in massage. I plan to use her as mgr and open the salon then bring a few more woman to assist us. I am in Thailand presently but am leaving tomorrow evening. By the way I am a female..fyi.....I plan on submitting for a work visa possibly through an immigration attorney in the states. I have known her for about 3 monts and I believe that she is sincere and a good person...have met lots who would drop husbands to go with me the the states, but if they do that to them .....what about me and the business...let me know if you could how you are getting along...thanks so much
Bklyngal
Hi guys, I've been thinking a long time about opening a Thai massage salon ( NO, not a soapy....)in Spain and now ready to give it a try, but I'm not sure about the possibilities about bringing a few ladies over. I've looked at the embassies website and it just seems to easy, all they need is- Application for visa form duly and fully completed, passport and photographs, the same as in number 1.
- Documents attesting good economic means to finance the trip. Supporting documents regarding the schedule of the journey and means of transportation to and fro: a round trip ticket, hotel reservation.
- An invitation letter from the Spanish business partner stating the purpose of the visit, length of stay, etc. (the letter must be written in Spanish).
- Travel insurance for up to 30,000 euros, covering medical expenses during the stay in Spain and, if necessary, repatriation to Thailand
I have 3 ladies that would be willing to come over if everything is ok, but I'm still have doubts about it.
Do you think the above would only count for big businesses, does it look that simple as it says on their website, does anybody have any experience as such?
I haven't set up the business yet (massage salon)for the invitation, but do have another business. Does anybody know of any parlors who work with Thai ladies in Europe?
I've seen some websites who recrute Thai workers for Europe but only for ingeneers, agriculture, .....
Any help would be appreciated before I go to my embassy, because I know they gonne tell me to bring in the above papers, but then what???
The ladies have some cash but not enough to cover the travelexpences, etc.... so I need to get their flights and insurance and that's a big costs allready if I don't know if it will be possible, so any advice is very welcome....
Thanks, K
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I've tried the new location for the Pasta Cafe (Soi 5, Nimanhemin) a couple of times and have to revise my previously unfavourable opinion based on the old location on Nimanhemin itself.
I've enjoyed meals at the new one, which is much more spacious and inviting than the original 'hobby' resto. Good pastas and salads. Not as good a Da Giorgio (best in town for my tastes) but considerably cheaper and more relaxed, not as cheap as Italian Lang Mo but a tad better quality-wise and a step up atmosphere-wise - tho I quite like the casual atmosphere at Lang Mo for everyday dining.
Also there's a newish place selling pizza by the slice late nights, near the Rasta Cafe/Heaven Beach, etc. Not the best pizza around by a long shot (I haven't found any Chiang Mai pizzas to be all that special), but edible and convenient for that area.
Please add your suggestions.
The Riverside. get there early before 8pm or you will wait a very long time. Fantasitic local food over looking the river. They also have a barge that goes out on the river to have your diner..live music also .very inexpensive....enjoy!!!
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Did a search for Prof Montri on their website but he is not listed there?
I did a search for the Dr. and did locate him. He is listed as Pediatric, so possibly he was in the ER that night. The person who used him could enlighten you on his speciality if he was slected for plastic surgery. I could not find him associated with any form of cosmetic surgery.
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Did a search for Prof Montri on their website but he is not listed there?
I am in Bangkok presently recouperating at the Marriott for upper/lower eye surgery. I went to Bumrungrad Hospital and Dr. Sorawuth Chu-Ongsakul performed the surgery. If there are typos please excuse as I cannot see clearly yet (day #3 morning). The surgery went well although it was under local anestesia (I would not do that again) I was very scared as it took an average of 5 injections on the upper and lower eye lids to numb. I asked for something to calm me and I believe that the gave me injections of valium. I brought my sister along with me to care for me during my recovery which is expected to last about one week. I had surgery Monday night at 8pm my follow up is on Sunday afternoon. So far everything seems to be going as expected. If I can help you answer any questions pleasr pm me and I will be happy to answer what I can. Good luck to you,
Phuket Holiday
in Phuket
Posted
lol....no, no comission.....might be a good idea though!!!! "O" is a wonderful person who I helped after the tsunami get his child back from relatives who was taking care of her due to his not working during the tsunami. In Samui I stayed at Poppies. Great place, nice beach,pool and the best food on the island. The rooms are great as well. private villas.
Alice