desi

I would proceed with caution when asking any thai men out for an innocent drink, that is considered very forward for most decent thai men & they would more than likely get the impression that you liked them. If you are part of a group then no problem but just bear in mind that this is a different country & culture & what is considered completly innocent & normal in your own country could be considered forward & cause you some problems if a misunderstanding occured.

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If you don't mind expanding, I have a serious question on this subject.

My neighbor is a very warm/kind newly widowed (just a few years) Thai man of much energy (retired). We have a lot in common and have just started to do things together. After the container arrived and unpacked I invited him into my home for a look as he was curious. He's been in several times for this and that. When I'm more settled I'll have him in for tea, but only if it's the done thing.

We have exchanged phone numbers and he'll call me when something interesting is going on in the street with vendors, etc (as I've not learned the sounds of the different bells), or if there is something he thinks I'd like to do. And we've now set a time to go 'Thai grocery shopping' so I can get used to the local vegetables and fruits.

All of the above I am grateful for because I work out of a home office and being too focused on my job, I need contact with live people, especially if I'm being sweetly coerced.

So my question is this - is what I am doing considered 'proper' in Thai society? I live in a mostly Thai community, a very small and quiet soi where everyone has been here for years.

desi

I hope its health is 100% because JJ amrket animals often come with a few strings attached if you catch my drift, but I imagine you got a nice one. What colour is it?

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Hmmm, just reread my post. I meant to say Siamese, not Persian. I'm of the opinion Persians have no business in this climate unless they are kept on ice.

She's beautiful, playful and lovable, and talks back like all get out. A typical cream and tan.

I've named her Pong because she shoots straight up like a ping pong ball, and has terrible gas on occasion (I imagine it's my changing the food too often to see what she likes).

BUT she now has cold symptoms (yup, JJ) so I'll take her into the vet here on Ladprao and get her fixed up (she needs her shots anyway). It may be the dust in the clumping kitty litter, but I doubt it and I seriously hope not as it's what makes life worthwhile in kitty world.

desi

DANG this bed is hard! I do believe I've dislocated my shoulder.

Any suggestions where to find a fairly inexpensive but comfortable mattress for a king size bed?

desi

I was a bit torn at first, but when you all were so kind helping out right from the getgo, I didn't want to jinx it by correcting everyone

And the advice was plenty, but I just had to make the jump and pay for help. Clients wait for no man. Or lady. Impatient they be.

But I'll be back ...

desi

Dear Mr. Unpronounceable :-)

Its quite all right, and thanks again for suggesting all you did. In six months + or so I'll have more time to play so will bookmark this discussion and get back to it later. I'm just grateful it's working now. It was frustrating to be away from my world, if you know what I mean.

desi

Thanks pandit

Btw, [not that it matters, just setting the record straight] I'm a chapette ...

desi

As I said, I wish I was there....

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Weeeell, after fussing and fighting with all the technical mumbo jumbo, I bowed out from the challenge and with advice from a friend from this forum, I contacted her friend who came out and sorted the whole mess. Yeah, I know, I'm a wimp, but I HAD to be up and running asap and all the technical bits were driving me crazy!

The pc is acting as the main, and the modem they used is the one from loxinfo (until I can buy another one) as the Paradyn didn't work asap and I was on a time limit (we even called the US office before switching back to the Billion modem), connected to the router which connects all four computers.

And if anyone else here needs to do what I've been doing and doesn't have an IT brain, I used the chaps at Compass IT Solutions (www.compassitsolutions.com). Am I allowed to say that here? Anyway, they were quick and extremely professional getting me sorted in time.

Thanks for sticking with me and I'm so sorry I couldn't figure out all the suggestions each of you gave. There just wasn't enough time (I had to be connected by today for a job) or I'm sure I'd have eventually waded through everything. Well, a huge 'maybe'. They found I had the router hooked up with the wrong cables, so it's a good chance I'd still be here fussing into next week. Like I said, I'm not a techie, just needed it to work and now it does.

desi

pandit and mgnewman,

I'm here and I've read what you both had to say. I'll get to it in the next couple of hours as a client is screaming for attention. I just wanted to say thanks, and that I'll be back after I play from both ends.

desi

Is this what you want to do?

It's exactly what I was hoping to do when I arrived with all this stuff that works fine together. Router connected to all the computers (and airport) then connected to the Paradyne modem, which should be able to connect to LoxInfo. That's the theory anyway.

If so, you certainly don't need the modem driver for the Mac. You just need to configure the Paradyne modem to work with the LoxInfo ADSL modem on their end of the line.

Or, am I missing something here?

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Nope, not missing anything at all, you have it right. So, any tips on how I configure the Paradyne to work? I'm not even sure where I'd start looking. I glanced at their website, but the exact model number wasn't showing. And no drivers that I could see (but I did lose heart rather quickly).

desi

give us the make and models of your routers/modems as best as you can and I can try and look them up. Somewhere in the advanced settings is the vip/vci settings - and these need to be checked as the first step. These settings are probably easier to change for the usb modem than the router which needs you to access it through the web browser with password. So try and configure the usb modem first to use with the mac. If it works after changing the vpi/vci settings you can move on to the router.

Ok, megga thanks. Below are the makes and models.

What I've used before coming here:

Modem - PARADYNE ReachDSL

Model - 6350-A4-300

Router - NetPassage 15-D

What they've hooked the pc up to:

Billion Astra USB ADSL Modem

Model - BIPAC 7000

Make sure you have downloaded and installed the mac drivers for the modem. Then should be able to access the settings mentioned.

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I still have the INSTALL_USB_ADSL on my powerbook from when he tried to get it connected, so I guess that's a good start. BUT I am not technically inclined. Many years ago (when computers were much simpler) I was. But not now. As it stands, programming a VCR defeats me (although I can whip out a site in css ...)

Thanks for all of your help.

desi

the only thing he had to change from when he was using TRUE was the vpi and vci - to 0 and 35 respectively. Otherwise it connected as usual. I have never used a mac so I don't know its foibles - in a PC you just go to the installation program and change in the settings there. Though you might have to consult the modem maker's website to find out how to access the settings. With the Billion modem for instance it is not intuitive (ALT +P)

I've tried the Paradyn website, but no luck yet.

Try it with the usb modem first as that should be easier to set up. And let us know!

As for living and learning - yep we say here  "TiT" = This is Thailand, such pre-emptive measures come with experience.

I'm learning, just slooooooooooooly.

My other friend who has a mac (dial up internet) has endless problems with no one here being able to help him - he uses mostly Final Cut Pro, and Motion which he insists are the only real options for a professional film editor. He does have to take the computer to the Mac centre in the World Trade Centre. He has a computer technition working for him who is experienced with PCs but is getting better on a Mac. If push comes to shove I can phone him and ask for advice.

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I've not had any problems with dial-up, but I need all of the computers live, not just the one. And besides, dial-up is a dog when you need to transfer a 50mg file asap. Takes hours and hours. So this saturday I'll try Pantip as well as the World Trade centre (thanks for that). Right now I'm in the dark a bit as to what I change, or not. And how to find it.

desi

As I read it he has a pc and several macs. He also has a (free) usb modem and alos bought a router for connecting to the macs. Currently all they could do was connect the usb modem to the pc, and could not configure the router for the mac.

I have all of what it takes to make this work as all I did was pack it up and ship it all out here after using it together for a good long while. I have a Paradyne modem and a NETpassage router, all were working fine with all the computers online at the same time (including airport). Their chap couldn't get it to work, so connected the free modem. And then walked away.

In my opinion it was a mistake to even show them the pc and usb modem because they will connect them as they know how, and feel their job is done - they got you working so now it's your problem. Next time they come, hide the pc and usb modem altogether.

Still, it should not be a majour problem to connect the mac via loxinfo - the mac hardware is top notch. I think that there is just some setting that needs to be adjusted and you are set. If you give me the number of loxinfo service I can call and get the vpi/vci settings which I still suspect are the problem.

Excellent. The official Loxinfo customer support (24 hrs) is 0-2263-8222 and the one I've been calling is 0-2263-8299

Certainly (ish) the mac should be able to use the usb modem directly.

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I have my fingers crossed you are correct. Thanks for this.

desi

Is the PC connected via the router or directly to the ADSL modem?

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

The technician couldn't figure out how to connect it to the router, so the modem goes directly into the PC, even though I stressed it would be useless for what I needed (much hand waving, etc). In addition to the router, I also have airport (and bought a powerbook so I could use it) and without the router it's just a useless pile of plastic.

He came out three times, two of which he attempted to fiddle with what I have here as well as their modem. After several hours he gave up on trying to connect their modem to my Mac as he couldn't get the settings right (even with talking to their helpline).

The loxinfo site says they can connect Macs so I got a Thai friend to call them and get the name of their technician who knows the most about Macs but he is not returning my calls. I'll attempt to call again today as I'm sure he's very busy if he's their top (english speaking) technician.

But now I'm worried that if they cannot figure it out, how can I when I cannot speak Thai (my fault, I know) and am not a technician AND I need to be connected asap or run the Macs off of dial-up cards until I am. grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

I'll call the Mac helpline today but I've called them before and it ended in confusion (most likely generated from my end).

desi

I did read that for macs using a Billion free modem with TRUE the vpi setting should be changed to 0 and the vci to 100 as the mac drivers had a different default. Not sure about Loxinfo but you could always ask. Could be the default settings for this are different too.

Let me know how you get on as I have to go and set  up my friends pair of macs with loxinfo next month so I am keen for you to solve the problem. Otherwise if you fail, I can let you know next month when we try it. PM me if you need to - I am here most days.

the vpi and vci settings in the billion for TRUE can be found with opening adsl configuration (in programs) and pressing alt +p . Sorry can't help more than that.

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I came across the below information online which may help. The problem is I am NOT a technecian and I'm used to the plug and play of Macs and cannot find my way around a PC.

http://www.extensions.in.th/post/adsl/adsl.html

Silly me, I thought this would work like it's always worked. Right the first time.

I'll keep you informed if I'm able to solve anything.

desi

After searching around and listening to everyone here bitch about TRUE, I opted for Loxinfo.

Today the technician came and connected me.

He spoke no english, I speak no Thai.

After several hours of him not being able to connect the computers with the router and modem I already own, he called the main office who talked to me and said I only paid to have one computer connected, and that I needed to pay a technician to come and connect all of them via the router.

"Fine" I said, "how much and when can they come", I said. She said "call one of the IT shops."

What is this?

Anyway, I now have a PC connected to the internet (he couldn't figure out how to connect any of the three Macs) when what I need is a Mac online. ALL of the Macs online.

Any suggestions? Does anyone know of any decent technicians who can 1) speak english and 2) know what they are doing?

frustrated in Bangkok ...

desi

I sent you a PM. The kittens are playful, healthy and very very good natured.

DJ Pat.

I already bought one at JJ, but thanks very much for thinking of me. She's healthy, eats a TON, jumps all over the place and loves to snuggle.

again, thanks.

desi

We've got an ordinary thai alley cat,got him from a friend,he is VERY tired indeed...

Not to mention our dog(some kind of mix:poodle,shih-tzu and more..),almost as tired as the cat.

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Well, I found a kitten at JJ's that's just fine. She's persian [seal point] and about 2 months old. At the moment she's sleeping off a very satisfactory night of keeping me awake while yowling and turning my hands into slivers of flesh.

Yup, she'll more than do.

And in a couple of weeks I'll take her in for shots at the ladprao vet (thanks for the tip). I'm feeling that I've stuck it lucky to be close to SOMETHING for a change ...

It's been two+ weeks now of looking around JJ market and mostly all I can find are those really tired persians.

Does anyone have a handle on finding a decent kitten out here?

I've run into some freaked out English short haired, and a set of American short haired (beautiful but all male or I would have plonked the money down and they weren't cheap).

I'd like personality more than anything, but I wouldn't turn away a looker if that was the case.

I've set this weekend as my final date, so if anyone has a handle on a kitten please contact me asap as I'm heading back out to JJ first thing in the morning.

desi

QUOTE(DJ Pat @ 2005-02-24 17:57:56)

Lat Phrao area, Lat Phrao Road just after Ratchada intersection.

There are many around town, I need to take my kittens into a vets soon.

---------------------------

i've been searching for a kitten for two+ weeks. are you looking for a good home for some of yours?

i'm in the lat phrao area and will be going to JJ market tomorrow to look again.

please contact me if you are, or if you know of any kittens on offer [not full grown cats].

i'm not interested in a persian, just a kitten with personality and spunk

[persians are WAY too tired in this climate for my tastes]

desi

Avast..... just remember that on a dark night, its out there and ready to pounce without warning. 

I'm new in Bangkok and newer to the amusements on a Friday night, so tonight I titillated my household of one (yes, I talk to myself) by reading out load your experience

... between peals of laughter ... and tears streaming down my face ... yes, 'Avast' amount of amusement.

and may there be many more contributions from the source ...

Good thing that I have one of those plastic keyboard covers and it was tea not beer or coffee.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

:-)

yeah, i thought that was the case, especially after reading about internet out here.

i'm now [after all this time away] on dial-up but this won't work for long as my files are rather large.

... back to the drawing board ...

Hi all,

After much thought, I've landed in the Bangkok area and am now looking for highspeed internet for the house.

I've been advised by the estate agent to go with ISSP, but she let me know she is not experienced in these matters.

Does anyone have any opinions on this company, or suggestions? I cannot be down for hours at a time ...

(why do i get the feeling a number of you just spit your coffee/beer on your keyboards in a surprise burst of laughter?)

Desi

Thank-you for responding.

Due to flights out of Bangkok, my concerns are being able to get to Bangkok without a lot of hassle. So in all actuality, one hour would be reasonable if the price wasn't outrageous. Also, friends coming in would be more likely to visit if there wasn't a time consuming additional leg to their trip (been there).

My main concern is money. I'm coming in with a set amount and will need to live on that without eating too much into it (for retirement), while reviving a business (I work online).

And although I intend on learning Thai and mingling, I want to be able to reach out to other expats. Also, I'm shy (and a workaholic) so would need some sort of support system with those of my own culture, with enough going on I'd be forced to push away from the keyboard.

I am not into nightlife. I'm more into a quiet life with the enjoyment of nature, visiting with good people and the arts. I do not mind living in a big city as long as my surroundings have a bit of green (and I can afford it). I do not know Bangkok very well, or the surrounding areas (not enough to make a good choice).

Personally I would incorporate an offshore company (easy and not so expensive) and have that own the website and all aspects of it (domain, etc) so it is not in your name. 

How does one go about this? I did a brief look around but wasn't really sure who to go with. And the offshore bank account I looked into wanted £300 per years.

I was wondering if I could get comments on where you believe the best area is for what I'm looking for.

1] at least 4 hours out of Bangkok

2] reasonable amount of retired/working expats

3] reasonably priced condo

4] green

5] good internet connections available

6] decent shopping

thanks in advance

Desi