Hi, I live in the Pattaya area and am very interested in learning how to master the art of meditation. I would prefer to go to a class or 2 or even I am open to private instruction. I think a weekend or 10 day retreat would be too much for me at this point. Any names or numbers of places that have meditation class in English is appreciated.

Firstly you say you want to master the art of meditation, thenyou say you aren't ready for an intensive retreat.

Contrary statements IMHO.

An absolute beginner benefits the most from a real teacher, not trying oneself from books, and to get the most benefit one needs to spend long enough to allow the teacher to correct faults and put one on the correct path.

There are many different styles and methods of meditation.

I would not recommend a beginner going to a ten-day Goenkha retreat where they are expected to sit all day.

I would recommend the vipassana style of Mahasi Sayadaw taught in many places which includes walking meditation.

The first week on any retreat is very uncomfortable whilst the body is getting used to long periods sitting cross=legged, but then it gets easier and more progress is made.

I would certainly recommend a retreat at Suan Moak, Surat Thani or Wat Rampoeng, Chiangmai.

You might find it easier to attend the 'Monk for a month' course we have in my temple in Fang, Chiangmai. Our meditation teacher Phra Chutawongso (Greg) spent six months at Doi Suthep temple and did the teachers course there so he can judge your progress and advise well. There is also basic buddhism instruction given by me.

http://www.monkforamonth.com/

http://www.facebook.com/monk4amonth

There are two or four day courses with Monk chat at Wat Suan doak, Chiangmai...

http://www.monkchat.net/

In Jomtien, Pattaya, there is also Boonkanjanaram Meditation Center, where you can stay as few or as many days as you like. Methods are based on a Burmese system disseminated by the late Ajahn Naeb, a Thai nun.

http://www.meditationboonkan.org/

Wat Rampoeng, .Suthep Chiangmai, is a good address for a retreat.