damaja

I have been in a similar situation - came to live in Thailand with my girlfriend 3 years ago, after already visiting here many many times while living the prior 8 years in neighbouring Cambodia. My girlfriend got a transfer to her organisation's Bangkok office, so got a proper visa and (eventually) a work permit sorted. I was on a 'companion' visa with her. I didn't have high expectations for finding work here, but thought I'd surely be able to find something half decent within a year. I did get bits of work, freelance (I'm a creative/art director/designer), but permanent jobs for foreigners employed locally, at a decent salary (>60,000 bht/mth), are *very* thin on the ground and highly sought after.

I've eventually managed to sort out some decent work, but it took nearly 2 years (!!!!) and I've accepted a very substantial drop in pay compared to what I was earning 4 years ago (in Asia). Plus, the 'career' considerations I used to have, have been all but shelved till i leave Thailand. And as I'm a similar age to your bf (early 40s) I'm pretty depressed about that at times, as I have had an otherwise fairly good and steady career progression for nearly 20 years in my industry; but I know that it only gets more and more difficult to reinvigorate even a very good career path that you've diverted from after 40.

I've known several other foreigner couples in very similar position here (one partner is in a full-time 'proper' job, while the other is trying to find work) and they've all ended up leaving within 2 years, mainly because the partner without a proper job has become depressed/dissatisfied with either the lack of prospects, or the nature of work they've had to accept just to keep things ticking over (often teaching).

Having said that, it did happen for me in time and there are many perks to living here as I'm sure you already know. Just be sure that if you do decide to come, that your bf has plenty of motivation and drive and patience. It's best if he has a year's worth of activity already planned out - even if it's just things like travelling and research. Plus, it's best if he can develop work/projects outside of Thailand. Certainly don't come hoping for him to find a job he'd like to do within the first year - that could well lead to a lot of very depressing disappointment. If he stays active and outgoing and involved in things, he's got a good chance of coming across opportunities for work eventually. I would actually agree with a previous poster's suggestion of him looking into enrolling in a course of some sort for at least the first year he's here. I'm sorry I didn't do that myself when I had the finances to do so. I could have done a Master's degree in film-making while here if I'd wanted. Plus, there's distance post-graduate degrees that can be done with European and American universities online. All would be a very valuable outcome for him and a positive thing to be doing while he keeps an eye out for work opportunities. Plus, of course, if he had another post-grad qualification his prospects in Asia would definitely improve (they're very focused on post-graduate - Master's/Doctorate - academic credentials for both employment and immigration requirements).

Anyway, good luck and get in touch if you do decide to make the move.

[P.S.: may I ask, how old you are? Sounds like you have the comparative optimism of youth still! ]

Can anyone technically minded tell me if the programmes are being broadcast in the modern 16:9 format,

or are the still pushing programmes out in the old 4:3 format

Maybe PaulBax as his dreambox will give the relevant detail about the signal?

Thanks

All the old programmes that I recorded a year or so back have had to be replaced with torrents

to get the right format to fill my LCD screen

All the BBC channels broadcast by Truevisions (Knowledge, Lifestyle, Entertainment, CBeebies) are standard definition 4:3 signal, even with the HD box; but new shows are shown mostly widescreen format 16:10 aspect ratio, i.e. they have black bars at top and bottom. The channel logo usually overlaps though, so it's not quite a clean cut if you adjust your TV's zoom/crop/ratio setting to make the picture fill the screen. Depends on how good your TV is at adjusting and/or upscaling.

None are in HD though (yet )!

is this still going on? tried to get an answer on your facebook page but no reply on that too

Any 'senior' 5 aside games in Bangkok ?

Sorrry, this has been dormant for a while as the other modes of keeping it updated & comms etc. became more popular etc...

We do still play weekly though, at 5pm every Sunday, on 6-a-side astroturf pitches at Arsenal Soccer School on Prakhanong 21.

Open door policy - all welcome.

Message me through our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bangkok-Footy-Giants-SoccerFutbol/180087055370049?sk=info )with your email and I'll add you to our 'Evite' mailout list which is now the main way we keep it updated.

Any updates on the route to Hua Hin from Suvarnabhumi?

I have friends due to arrive from the UK on 12th Nov. who are intending to go straight from the airport to Hua Hin by road.

I've seen (unreliable) reports today that Petkhasem Rd. is flooded at it's Bangkok end (in eastern Bangkok),

and that Rama 2 - as the only alternative leading over the Chao Phraya to the South - is likely to be flooded next...?

When I look at the map on Google, I see that the route from Suvarnabhumi can be via 'Bang Phli - Suk Sawat Expressway' (marked blue road #9, then becoming #37), then joining Rama 2 Rd. (white road #35 ) at Bang Bon, which is surely not affected by flooding as yet... is that correct?

Can anyone confirm whether the route from Suvarnabhumi to Hua Hin is still clear and/or if it's likely to be imminently affected?

Please

Reminder for this Sunday's footy:

When: Sunday 11th Sept.

Time: ** 4.30pm - 6.30pm**

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel:02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (150 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, on either Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

or ThaiVisa:

http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4454114

Cheers, & see u then,

-a.

Reminder for this week's Wednesday evening footy:

When: Wed 31st August

Time: ** 9pm - 10.30pm**

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel:02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (150 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, on either Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

or ThaiVisa:

http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4454114

Cheers, & see u then,

-a.

just quick Q's if yo dont mind

Whats the level of play and just 1 5v5 game?

Level of play? Err, that depends on your standards doesn't it? We don't turn anyone away, but generally I'd say the games are quite good with a fair few players at good amateur level - it's not pro level though, obviously.

You should just come and see for yourself.

we play 6-a-side (pitch is bigger than average 5-a-side pitch) and either have rolling subs when we have 13-16, or several teams of 6 and rotate via 2 goal win or 7 mins.

Once again though, you should come and have a look. If you don't fancy it there's always other teams there you can join in with if you prefer.

Hi,im gonna be in Bangkok from the 7th for three monthsmhave you guys got any 5asides spaces ?

Sure, we can always make room for one more!

PM your email address to me and I'll add you to our 'evite' list;

and/or go to our Facebook page and 'like' it:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bangkok-Footy-Giants-SoccerFutbol/180087055370049

Hi I plan to stay In Thailand for the UK winter. Unless I teach English I guess Ill be unemployed? With a lot of free time Id be keen to meet decent people and play some football/soccer.

Will it be hard to me as a guy alone in Thailand to find regular games? Im a decent player but not played seriously for years but Im still pretty fit. Im just looking for casual/fun games and some decent people to hook up with. Cause goodness knows what Id do alone in Thailand for 3-4 months? It just a plan I had.

Cheers

Sure, come down when you are here - details above (thx Keong)

Reminder for footy 2morro:

*NOTE EARLIER START @ 5.30pm AS F.A. SHIELD STARTS @ 8.30pm!*

When: Sunday 7th August

Time: ** 5.30pm - 7.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (150 - 300 bht each)

Cheers, & see u 2moro,

-a.

Reminder - NO regular footy tomorrow!

But we do have 2 pretty strong looking teams entered into the tournament:

'Souled Out Rovers' & 'Get Real F.C.'!

Come and support please if not already coming!

@ 3.30pm @ Arsenal Soccer School: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

We'll be going for drinks and eats after too - at beer garden @ cnr of Ekamai/Sukhumvit. Come along!

Reminder for this Sunday's footy:

*those that want to play in the tournament on Sunday 31st, please make extra effort to come,

as there's only 2 more scheduled sessions before then!*

When: Sunday 24th July

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm**

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel:02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (150 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, on either Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

or ThaiVisa:

http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4454114

Cheers, & see u then,

-a.

Reminder for this week's Wednesday evening footy:

*those that want to play in the tournament on Sunday 31st, please make extra effort to come,

as there's only 3 more scheduled sessions before then!*

When: Wednesday 20th July

Time: ** 9pm - 10.30pm**

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel:02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (150 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, on either Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

or ThaiVisa:

http://www.thaivisa....ost__p__4454114

Cheers, & see u then,

-a.

Reminder for this Sunday's footy:

When: Sunday 17th July

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School, Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, either here or on Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

Cheers, & see u then,

-a

Reminder for this Sunday's footy:

When: Sunday 17th July

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School, Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, either here or on Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

Cheers, & see u then,

-a

Reminder for this Sunday's footy:

When: Sunday 10th July

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School, Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, either here or on Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

Cheers, & see u then,

-a

Oops, nearly forgot to send out the reminder for this Sunday – sorry, had a preoccupied last few days!

As far as I know, despite elections, Arsenal Soccer School pitches will still be open tomorrow.

Will update if I find out any different...

When: Sunday 3rd July

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School, Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110. Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, either here or on Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

Cheers, & see u then,

-a.

Monday 7ish sounds good for me if there's any room left !!!!!

Since I've been " away " my footie skills have gone to shit , need to get playing again !!!!!!!!!!!!!.

Huh?! "Monday 7ish"?

Have you got the right thread mate? Last I checked, we don't play on Mondays

Hi, I'm SAFUAN from Malaysia. I'm also new here, since I'm here past around 2 months, I'm looking for any members can help me to join any futsal game.

At my hometown before I'm also semi-serious futsal player and hunger to play futsal everyweek. I'm not the superb player but I'm the "Futsal/Football Addicted".

Now i've found this forum and wish you could help.

Could you count me in?

Here my email [email protected]

Really wish I can join the others.

Thanks

SAFUAN

You'll be very welcome Safuan.

I've emailed you now.

http://www.ensogo.co...k-23062011.html

Probably a bit awkward to organise but we could have 3 months half price football by using this. Or this might be useful to someone you know.

Anyway see you all in a few weeks. Brian.

Cheers Brian. Had a look and it's sold out already!

Besides which, I think there'd be many that'd make a meal of how far away it is compared to Prakhanong (even though I see it's only 10 mins drive from Ladprao MRT) and would probably be tricky to get everyone aware of the change in venue.

Cheers for the heads-up though and best o luck to u on your trip

Hi, I am new here and from Malaysia.

Just wondering whether you all can assist.

My brother is into futsal and very keen to join any futsal clubs in Thailand as Thailand has superb futsal teams and excellent skills.

How can I help my brother to achieve his dreams?

I really wish I could help him..Thanks and regards.

Mimi.

Hi Mimi,

Sounds like your brother is looking for a professional or semi-pro club, which we don't really have much knowledge of I'm afraid.

As far as I know, there is a Thai Futsal association/league (I've seen games shown on Thai TV here), but I couldn't give any more info than what you'd get from a Google search.

Of course he's welcome to come and play with us for casual games. We don't quite play 'futsal' now though, as we play on an artificial grass pitch and are usually 6 players to each team (rather than the hard court and 5 player teams in proper futsal), but it's pretty much the same in many other respects. Plus, our guys might not be pros, but there's some pretty quick and skilful guys amongst them.

Tell him to come down and have a look if he's interested. PM an email address to me and I'll include on our email reminder/schedule/updates list.

Ok, reminder for footy tomorrow:

When: Sunday 12thJune

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110

Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of 'in' or not, either here on ThaiVisa, or on Facebook:

http://www.facebook....180087055370049

Cheers, & see u then,

Is there football today?

Cheers

PomPui

Yes, there was - but as it started at 9pm I'd already lefthome by the time you posted this, and I don't have an iPhone/Blackberry etc...

Do you get the emails? If not, send your address to me by PM, ok?

reminder for 2moro eve:

When: Wed 1st June

Time: ** 9pm - 10.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

17/1 Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71, Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110

Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

See u there

Ok, reminder for footy tomorrow

(*note: 6.30pm start – to continue from now on)...

When: Sunday 5th June

Time: ** 6.30pm - 8.30pm **

at: Arsenal Soccer School,

Soi 21, Sukhumvit 71 Rd., Phrakhanong, Bangkok 10110

Tel: 02-711-1221

Google maps directions from Prakhanong BTS: http://bit.ly/bqhnTR

Cost: 1500 bht /hr (200 - 300 bht each)

As usual, would be good to post replies of ‘in’ or not on either ThaiVisa:

or Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bangkok-Footy-Giants-SoccerFutbol/180087055370049

Cheers, & see u then,

-a.