PhysaliaOS

I was directly involved in conducting the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the filming of "The Beach" on Koh Phi Phi Le, and I used Koh Phi Phi Don as my base of operations. I had to develop a pretty good understanding of the development on both islands in order to be able to discern the impacts of the "with project" and "without project" scenarios in order to identify the impacts associated with the movie (e.g., the with project impacts minus the without project impacts). We also implemented a number of mitigation measures to restore the vegetation and dune configuration on Maya Beach, including the installation of an irrigation system to get the roots started prior to the monsoon season.

I'd have to go back and review my contract with Figment Films to see if I can send you a copy of the EIA, but even if I can't, I'd still be more than happy to chat. Just let me know...

Michael

I've seen far too many motorcyclists unexpectedly hit with ice-cold water as well, and its usually not pretty, nor was the intent of the splashing appreciated. Of course, the organizers of the Phuket Bike Week intentionally pick Sonkran in order to maximize their attendance, but they are also inviting an inordinant number of bikers into town when it couldn't any more dangerous to ride the streets and highways of Phuket. Outlaw it, though, and I'll go elsewhere in April.

My experiences in Phuket have been ALL POSITIVE, and the only people that have spent more time there than I have are the expats that LIVE THERE!

You know, I'm amazed at how the rest of the world seems reacts to "Americans" whenever they enter these little chat rooms. I'm an American who has visited Phuket nearly 30 times in the past 4 years (work and holiday), and I have NEVER had a single negative experience based on my nationality, at least not from what I consider to be the apolitical Thais I interact with. A few (and clearly a minority, but usually French and German- duhh!) of my fellow farangs have been less than hospitable to me when they discovered my nationality, but then again, I don't travel to Phuket to interact with them - its fine if they want to get to know another human being that lives here on the face of the planet, but you know, if they have something against Americans, well, then get in line pal, but get out of my face. I'm American, and damned proud of it!

As for Phuket, there's no place on the face of the planet that I'd rather spend my time. I've even opened a branch office of my American corporation there, and I have every intention of making it my second home in the near future. The Thais are genuine (away from Soi Bagla, that is), the weather is nearly identical to my home here in Hawaii, and the opportunities there are boundless.

If you have the ability to make a living there, and it takes a LOT less than where ever you call home, then I would suggest that you get your ass there as soon as the next plane departs.

Check out the Hash House Harriers (meeting at the Expat Hotel at 3:00 PM on Saturday afternoons) the next time you're in town! Meet a bunch of GREAT expats and super Thais!