One of the best things about living in Thailand is the food. It is not only delicious, but it is also plentiful and cheap. In fact, you can find it on almost any street corner at any time of day or night. I guess we are spoilt in Thailand in having such easy access to Thai food. After all, one meal in a Thai restaurant in say London, New York or Sydney would probably be the same as our weekly food budget. I know that is not really fair to compare as portion sizes in the West are far greater than what we get here. In addition, if you order say chicken curry in a London restaurant you are actually going to get a fair amount of meat. Here you will probably get a lot of bone and a bit of meat! Basically you get what you pay for.

As you probably know, I love to cook. So, I don't actually go out and buy street food that much. If I am going to eat green curry, I like to have a good amount of quality meat in it. If I am going to have stir-fried vegetables, I want to make sure that it isn't sweetened with a lot of sugar or "flavoured" with a tablespoon of MSG. I also like playing around with recipes mixing Thai and Western recipes to create my own innovations. It is fun. Cooking for myself also means that I can have more Western meals. Variety is always good I think. I don't live in Bangkok and we don't get much of a choice here in Samut Prakan.

One of the downsides to cooking at home is the cost. If you are buying quality ingredients or cooking Western meals then it is going to cost you more than the average meal bought on the street. Electricity is also expensive and my cooker and oven contribute greatly to my electricity bill. In the West we cook at home in order to save money. If we go out we might prepare sandwiches and a flask of hot soup. In Thailand, in theory, it is the opposite. I think a lot of us would say that it is actually cheaper to eat out every night. Of course, that doesn't mean dining at five star hotels every evening and drinking wine or beer. You can easily go through a lot of money that way.

Eating out for us is going to a local food shop or buying something from a food cart. Something that I don't do nearly enough. Which is what gave me the idea for this food challenge. I decided for one month that I would eat nothing but Thai street food. This would be three meals a day, seven days a week. I am not allowed to go to supermarkets, restaurants or even 7-Eleven. At home I cannot cook or even heat things up. I won't even be allowed to boil some water to make a cup of coffee. Quite a few Thai families don't have a working kitchen. Or if they do then it is just a single gas hob. What I want to see is if I will really save money by eating out for every meal. I have already made a note of how much I spend weekly at the supermarket and also the monthly average for my electricity bill.

To make it a bit more interesting, and certainly more challenging, I am not allowed to eat the same dish twice. Straight away this means I will be eating at least 90 different dishes in one month! I am not sure if that is even possible. In addition, I cannot return to the same food shop, food cart, stall or food vendor twice in the same week. To be honest, I am not sure how easy it is going to be for me. Breakfast is certainly going to be a challenge. My Soi doesn't sell much in the morning and I have to be at work by 7.15 a.m. So, I might have to do what many Thai people do and eat leftovers from the night before. Though, of course, for me it has to be something new bought the night before. I was never one for eating spicy food so early in the morning!

My Thai Street Food challenge starts on Wednesday 1st September 2010 and will last until the end of the month. I will be posting pictures of every meal as well as running costs on my new Twitter account @EnjoyThaiFood.com. I will also be posting daily updates over at www.EnjoyThaiFood.com. As I will be exploring the Thai food scene in Paknam a lot over the next month, I decided I should also take the opportunity to do a survey about Thai food. So, I will be working on a food map and making notes of what kind of food is being sold the most. I will also take notes about the kinds of places that are selling food. I will then write about my findings here at the end of the month. So, what do you reckon? Will it really be cheaper for me to eat out for every meal? Will I be saving money or will I just be putting on a lot of weight? Let's see!

This is a review of what happened in Thailand during the last week based on topics that I tweeted. You can follow me live for latest news about Thailand @RichardBarrow.

Friday 20th August 2010:

• US Presses Thailand on Extradition Case for Merchant of Death (VOA) http://is.gd/epjSa #
• Red Shirt v Yellow Shirt: Thailand's political struggle (The Independent) http://is.gd/epkiv #
• WikiLeaks still available in Thailand & now at dedicated website http://www.thaileaks.info (Straits Times) http://is.gd/epk8l #
• Ayutthaya, Chon Buri & Petchburi are shortlisted as host city for World Expo 2020 (The Nation) http://is.gd/epkOG #
• Interior Minister Chavarat suffers food poisoning after going to Banharn's birthday bash /BkkPost #
• Obituary for Allen Quicke, Editor-in-Chief of Asia Times Online, who died in Hua Hin on Tuesday night http://bit.ly/dAcZ2s #
• Appeals Court rules to extradite alleged arms dealer Viktor Bout to US to face terrorism charges /BkkPost #
• Thailand: 2.3 million pay tax. 60,000 earn more than 4 million/year & 2,400 earn more than 10 million/year (BkkPost) #
• Newsweek: Thailand rated 58th for World's Best Countries. Rated for quality of life, political environment, education… #
• AirAsia now flies Kuala Lumpur to Hat Yai (already flies to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi & Phuket) http://bit.ly/c88SWY #
• Puea Thai get permission from their fortune tellers to move Party HQ. New place has better feng shui http://bit.ly/9aBpOX #
• Aussie Conor David Purcell, held over Thai protests can now go home http://bit.ly/bAckOj #
• Red Shirt Conor Purcell was sentenced to 45 days but is released as he has already spent 89 days waiting in a Thai jail! #
• Remote-control aircraft crashes into Phuket temple – http://is.gd/eqUzo #

Saturday 21st August 2010:

• How the U.S. Got 'Merchant of Death' Extradited – CBS News – http://is.gd/erWLs #
• Obama Administration Wins One in Thailand – Newsweek – http://is.gd/esMzi #
• Cyberactivists unblock Wikileaks for Thai Netizens (AP) http://is.gd/esMPV #
• ICT: "Wikileaks is not blocked by us, but may not be accessible because of a technical server glitch." http://j.mp/anxLb2 #
• The new Thai wikileaks site http://www.thaileaks.info has "no official ties" to Wikileaks (AP) http://j.mp/anxLb2 #
• The Joe Louis Puppet Theatre at Suan Lum Night Bazaar will close down next week. #
• I'm with @thaicam & the TAT heading to Ratchaburi Province to do some product testing – http://www.RichardBarrow.com #
• I'm at Suan Silp Ban Din in Ratchaburi which is a home to performing arts. http://twitpic.com/2gopza #
• At Suan Silp Ban Din they perform for the public. There's homestay. http://twitpic.com/2gp4dt http://twitpic.com/2gorkp #
• We're now at Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory in Ratchaburi. This province is famous for ceramics http://twitpic.com/2gpbcm #
• There are 59 ceramic factories in Ratchaburi. This one is 60 years old & one of the oldest. http://twitpic.com/2gpch1 #
• We're having lunch at Cowboy Cafe on Highway in Ratchaburi. http://twitpic.com/2gpro1 http://twitpic.com/2gprg4 #
• Cowboy Cafe is a good place to stop when heading south to Hua Hin. http://twitpic.com/2gps5l http://twitpic.com/2gps7c #
• RT @Kru_note: @RichardBarrow Hi, I'm one of ur follower. Just wanna tell u that the lamb chops @ Cowboy is good ? #
• RT @Soniccondo: Where is this Cowboy cafe exactly? => See map http://twitpic.com/2gqot1 http://twitpic.com/2gqoqs #
• RT @gilestalbot: Heading to BKK in 3 weeks, what's the weather like? => Good chance of monsoon rain but not so hot. Won't rain all day. #
• Staying at the Hyatt Regency in Hua Hin. Pic of my room & view. http://twitpic.com/2grggv http://twitpic.com/2grgir #
• We're doing the inspection of Hyatt Regency + spa in Hua Hin now. http://twitpic.com/2grpb9 http://twitpic.com/2grpex #
• In Hua Hin they apparently have a problem with jelly fish during the rainy season. http://twitpic.com/2grr2r #
• The sea in Hua Hin is looking very green today! http://twitpic.com/2grw64 http://twitpic.com/2grw61 #
• The green sea in Hua Hin apparently started today and expected to last only a few days. http://twitpic.com/2gs1sc #
• At least the sea in Hua Hin is green & not red or yellow! http://twitpic.com/2gs6qe #
• We're eating at Supatra-by-the-Sea in Hua Hin. Delicious food & excellent sea views. http://twitpic.com/2gsaf3 #
• Best thing about TAT trips is the food but I haven't lost the 2 kilos I gained on the last trip yet! Food too tempting. #
• We're at Vic Hua Hin for a theatrical performance. Meeting with Khunying Patravadi first. http://twitpic.com/2gsx8a #

Sunday 22nd August 2010:

• Good morning from the beach in Hua Hin! http://twitpic.com/2gzq8b #
• Early morning merit making at the Hyatt Regency in Hua Hin. http://twitpic.com/2gzqbb #
• It is low tide in Hua Hin this morning and the sea is not so green today. No rain also means no jellyfish. http://twitpic.com/2gzsqa #
• Wow! I'm walking along the beach in Hua Hin and I just saw three dolphins playing in the sea! #
• Would love to relax here all day but we have to check out now & inspect another 5 star hotel! http://twitpic.com/2h07z2 #
• Inspecting the Asara Villa & Suite in Hua Hin. They have a lot of greenery here by the beach. http://twitpic.com/2h1b1c #
• This room at Asara Villa has it's own private pool for 10,900B http://twitpic.com/2h1o4b http://twitpic.com/2h1o48 #
• The presidential suite at Asara Villa is only 48K Baht this week! http://twitpic.com/2h1r1p http://twitpic.com/2h1qp7 #
• Really beautiful & peaceful here at Asara Villa & Suite in Hua Hin http://twitpic.com/2h22oo http://twitpic.com/2h22of #
• Food at Khan Nam Restaurant Hua Hin! http://twitpic.com/2h2m81 http://twitpic.com/2h2ldo http://twitpic.com/2h2l7x #
• Picture of @thaicam looking confused about which toilet to use! http://twitpic.com/2h30dj http://twitpic.com/2h30cw #
• The Royal waiting room at Hua Hin Railway Station. Very beautiful. http://twitpic.com/2h3iem http://twitpic.com/2h3ijw #
• Steam train & old carriages turned into a library on Hua Hin. http://twitpic.com/2h3jdq http://twitpic.com/2h3j82 #
• We're inspecting Let's Sea Hua Hin Al Fresco Resort http://www.letussea.com http://twitpic.com/2h3pb2 #
• Poolside rooms at Let's Sea Hua Hin are 9,000 baht. http://twitpic.com/2h4734 http://twitpic.com/2h482n #
• The rooms on the 2nd floor at Let's Sea Hua Hin are 11,000 baht http://twitpic.com/2h49ki http://twitpic.com/2h49ki #
• Tonight we are staying at Aleenta Hua Hin and I can only say WOW! Best room with a view so far! http://www.aleenta.com #
• My room at Aleenta Hua Hin looking East out to sea. Wonderful! http://twitpic.com/2h53xa http://twitpic.com/2h53y5 #
• Excuse me while I jump into my private Jacuzzi with the spectacular sea view. Have I told you yet, I really love my job! #
• My room doesn't have a TV but who needs one when the bed is pointing towards the sea. Should be a great sunrise tomorrow! #
• [moblog] Thai Ladyboy Toilets: Today we came across some toilets for people who are neither boy or girl. This sign… http://bit.ly/cwZJEd #

Monday 23rd August 2010:

• Good morning from the beach in Hua Hin. Doors of my room are open & I can only hear the surf. http://twitpic.com/2hbbma #
• Tourist arrivals to Myanmar up 37%: Thailand was the biggest source of visitors to Myanmar http://is.gd/exmQ8 #
• The popular visa-on-arrival scheme in Myanmar, started in May, will stop on September 1 ahead of the November elections. #
• Picture of the view I am enjoying while eating breakfast this lovely Monday morning! http://twitpic.com/2hc53y #
• I'm having a lovely stroll along the beach in Pranburi, Thailand. Not a soul in sight! http://twitpic.com/2hcipw #
• Picture of my room at Aleenta, Pranburi, from the beach & inside. http://twitpic.com/2hcqbc http://twitpic.com/2hcmfn #
• This 2 floor room at Aleenta Pranburi is only 5,400 baht. Special price. Shared pool. http://twitpic.com/2hd4rb #
• This spacious room at Aleenta Pranburi has a verandah with direct access to the pool. 5,300B http://twitpic.com/2hd71d #
• We're now inspecting Villa Maroc Pranburi http://www.villamarocresort.com http://twitpic.com/2hdadp #
• This suite at Villa Maroc, with a 4 meter high door, is 30,000B. http://twitpic.com/2hdcst http://twitpic.com/2hdd02 #
• This 2 storey villa at Villa Maroc Pranburi is 17,000B & comes with 1.2 meter deep pool. http://twitpic.com/2hdgwc #
• Villa Maroc is like walking through a Moroccan village. Colorful! http://twitpic.com/2hdlp6 http://twitpic.com/2hdlp0 #
• Heading back to Bangkok after the 3 day trip. Just started pouring with rain which is good timing. We were lucky with weather. #
• Most people driving back from Hua Hin will stop at Phetchaburi to buy food souvenirs. http://twitpic.com/2hfea1 #
• Souvenirs for Thai people means food! http://twitpic.com/2hff6o http://twitpic.com/2hfeza http://twitpic.com/2hffb7 #

Tuesday 24th August 2010:

• Thailand to resume diplomatic ties with Cambodia after the resignation of Thaksin (BBC) http://is.gd/ezDpa #
• Piranha 3D Sequel Announced, Might Be Set in Thailand at Full Moon http://is.gd/ezE1B #
• King's rainmakers take to skies to ease Thai drought – http://is.gd/ezEQv #
• 'Merchant of Death' in Thailand transferred to isolation cell http://bit.ly/bZIIEp #
• Today is the Hungry Ghost Festival (Sart Chin Day) in Thailand for people with Chinese ancestors. http://bit.ly/1JoUDb #
• Miss Thailand Fonthip Watcharatrakul wins Miss Photogenic & national costume awards at Miss Universe 2010 /MCOT #
• Thailand's Largest Buddhist Temple Goes Wireless http://bit.ly/9OtP1Y #
• Canadian tourist dies in fall from train in Ratchaburi Province, Thailand http://bit.ly/9jP7tC #
• Victor Bout to be extradited on Wednesday to US. Heavy security will escort him from Bang Kwang to the airport /Nation #
• @Saksith Also, I think someone wants to get rid of a hot potato quickly. They had 3 months to deport Victor Bout in reply to Saksith #
• This fad may kill you: Korean trends tagged with deadly warnings in Thailand by @bkkapologist http://bit.ly/bnUgqa #
• Top 10 favourite iPhone apps for @ladykarla45 http://bit.ly/9Z1VKE #
• @ladykarla45 I am new to iPhone (smartphones) too so any suggestions are good! In fact I haven't been doing twitter long! in reply to ladykarla45 #
• Video of NGV car on fire on Theparak Rd, Samut Prakan today (media there before fire trucks) http://bit.ly/c7Kznq #
• Chelsea to play in Thailand for the first time in 14 years during its off-season tour ahead of the 2011-12 season (AP) #
• What happens if you eat nothing but Thai street food for a month? Save money and put on weight or the other way round? #
• Soon I will try an experiment to see if I will save money by eating out every day. Follow my quest at @EnjoyThaiFood #
• RT @thethaireport: If you buy food from a local market & cook it yourself, it's cheaper than eating out => I disagree! #
• I usually cook most of my meals and I do a mixture of Western and Thai dishes. Ingredients can be expensive. So can electricity bill. #
• I reckon if I eat out every day I will ultimately save money on my supermarket and electricity bills. #
• My experiment will start on 1 Sep and last one month. You can follow the Thai food adventures incl. pics @EnjoyThaiFood #

Wednesday 25th August 2010:

• After Years of Upheaval, Not All Is Well With Thailand?s Youth – NYTimes.com – http://is.gd/eBDUt #
• News crews have been staking out Bang Kwang Prison all night waiting for Victor Bout to be extradited /via @thaicam #
• Chelsea promise top squad for friendly in Thailand in July 2011 (Bangkok Post) – http://is.gd/eBENT #
• Some sources say there are still charges against Viktor Bout so legally he cannot leave until they're dropped. #
• Statement from Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding Viktor Bout’s case http://bit.ly/dnWjVV #
• Armed guards outside prison but no sign of convoy taking Victor Bout to military airbase /via @Coalporter #
• Viktor Bout's wife on edge, throws water bottle at cameraman in front of Bang Kwang Prison /via @Coalporter #
• Map showing Bang Kwang Prison, where Viktor Bout is held, in relation to the airport http://bit.ly/cqfBO6 #
• Viktor Bout won't be extradited to the US this morning as not all cases have been cleared. No indication of when yet. #
• Sirichoke Sopha, a Dem MP denies having asked Viktor Bout to implicate Thaksin in arms trade during his visit /BkkPost #
• Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin has written a book "The Truth" about the Sept 19, 2006 coup. Published soon! /BkkPost #
• Yellow Shirt protest along Cambodian border foiled by Thai troops (Phnom Penh Post) http://bit.ly/cKhDLc #

Thursday 26th August 2010:

• Sondhi led 79 PADs to report themselves to [police] to acknowledge charges on two airport seizures in 2008 /TANN #
• Viktor Bout's lawyer stayed overnight at Bang Kwan prison, citing he doesn't trust the Thai gov't /via @Juarawee #
• Live broadcast with multi-cameras on CH.3 showing a 300 kilo Thai woman being forklifted out of her apartment. #
• They are trying to fit the 300 kilo woman into an ambulance now. Live broadcast continues on CH.3 #
• Pics of "forklift" & the 300 kilo Thai woman http://twitpic.com/2i82kz http://twitpic.com/2i8ehg /via @bangkokgovernor #
• Pic of @bangkokgovernor holding umbrella as 300 kilo Thai woman is extracted from her apartment http://twitpic.com/2i8e8o #
• Leicester 'takeover' yet to be ratified by Football League as "fit & proper" check has not been done http://bit.ly/bwynV5 #
• Another foreigner has been arrested for alleged involvement in the anti-government red shirt protests http://bit.ly/arqDaK #
• Keith Bush was arrested when he flew into Suvarnabhumi Airport. An arrest warrant said he tried to burn down a town hall. #
• A 130 meter long skywalk between Makkasan Station and MRT subway on Phetchaburi Rd will be complete next year /BkkPost #
• 300-kilogram Thai woman takes crane to hospital http://bit.ly/b38dFP #
• BMA ready to cancel BRT in 4 months if BKK residence not satisfied, admits 60% of car owners not happy /via @Tulip_Oum #
• Vegetarian Festival starts 7th October 2010. I will "gin jay" for 10 days. Follow my vegetarian adventure @EnjoyThaiFood #
• This afternoon, HRH Princess Srirasmi, the Princess Consort to the Crown Prince, flew to Laos http://bit.ly/b01gRe
• 274-kilogramme Thai woman has a tumor in her right leg. Leaves home for first time in 3 years http://bit.ly/aKrLYg #
• If they decide to cancel the BRT bus service, they should consider China's straddling bus http://youtu.be/Hv8_W2PA0rQ #
• "Bangkok blames the international media" by the BBC's Alastair Leithead (@aleithead) http://bbc.in/cbvI3F #
• Alastair Leithead: Social media, especially Twitter, saw a frenzy of anti-media sentiment which verged on a witch hunt #
• RT @somtow: BACC turned off the air con during our concert!!! RT: @Trisdee: So much for Bangkok's support for the arts #
• This evening, Princess Chulabhorn flew to the Republic of Korea. She will return on 1 Sep. http://bit.ly/aiaGcl #

This is a review of what happened in Thailand during the last week based on topics that I tweeted. You can follow me live for latest news about Thailand @RichardBarrow.

Friday 13th August 2010:

• Pregnant woman, who the Queen praised for chasing car thieves, gives birth to baby boy called Hero – http://is.gd/efllk #
• I am on my way to Ancient Siam to meet the "The Thailand 2010 Citroen rally" at the finishing line http://bit.ly/aE8lMn #
• The Thailand 2010 Citroen rally at Ancient Siam in Samut Prakan. http://twitpic.com/2e7d5v #
• Short video of The Thailand 2010 Citroen rally arriving at Ancient Siam. http://twitvid.com/OGAST #
• Some really beautiful Citroen cars here at Ancient Siam. Getting some good pictures. http://twitpic.com/2e7n63 #
• RT @elehelp: Great to hear they made it, they were in the Golden Triangle not so long ago http://bit.ly/a0v4jz #
• Short video of Thai dancing for the French car rally club while they are eating lunch. http://twitvid.com/NYRRF #
• I posted 13 photos from my iPhone for "The Thailand 2010 Citroen rally at Ancient Siam" Facebook – http://is.gd/efz8O #
• US court sentenced LA film couple to 6 months in jail for bribing Thai officials to run Bangkok film festival /BkkPost #
• The French members of the Citroen rally are now touring the floating Market at Ancient Siam. http://twitpic.com/2e8h2n #
• Final group photo for "The Thailand 2010 Citroen rally at Ancient Siam" in Samut Prakan. http://twitpic.com/2e8qq1 #
• Thailand Citroen rally leaving Ancient Siam now & heading up Sukhumwit Road towards Bangkok. http://twitvid.com/JSFBX #
• Thai film about peace to be shown simultaneously in all 76 provinces http://tinyurl.com/39rms6r /via @on_off_course #
• 10 yrs in Thai jail Farang has bachelor for Thai law & helps foreign prisoners http://is.gd/efsGt /via @jonfernquest #
• Photo Album for the Citroen Car Rally at Ancient Siam, Samut Prakan, this afternoon http://bit.ly/bVuhbz #
• August edition of Paknam Post, local newpspaper in Thai for Samut Prakan, is now available in PDF http://bit.ly/dBATmd #
• Cooking up soul food in Bangkok at a new restaurant http://j.mp/a0gCi2 /via @thaicam #
• Remember this pic from yesterday? http://yfrog.com/nb5jjj Here is the reverse shot from the Nation http://bit.ly/ddptWZ #
• Thais celebrate Queen's birthday as govt investigates monarchy threat http://bit.ly/d6AhBM #
• Thai democracy enters 'Burmese' phase (ABC Radio Australia) http://bit.ly/cLfcUu #
• 2 years of battling rebels in deep south are paying off, says Pichet from 4th Army http://bit.ly/bqTsKV /via @tri26 #

Weekend 14th-15 August 2010:

• Illegal drug shipments flood Thai border by @seacorro (ABC News) http://is.gd/eghjx in reply to seacorro #
• While US couple have been sentenced for bribing ex-TAT chief, Thai system plods along at snail's pace http://is.gd/egi05 #
• Miss Universe 2010 Pageant: Miss Thailand Universe 2010 Fonthip Watcharatrakul Aims For The Crown http://is.gd/egK5b #
• Northeast Thailand gets flash flood warning (Bangkok Post) http://is.gd/egKxQ #
• Thailand’s war with the foreign media (New Mandala) http://bit.ly/cWldbv #
• Torrential rains cause floods in parts of the North and the Northeast of Thailand – http://is.gd/ehlwS #
• Thai-Chinese people will soon celebrate Sart Chin Day or Ghost Festival. #
• They will also take part in ting krachaat which is giving rice to the poor. I will go to one tomorrow. #
• British murder suspect Lee Aldhouse is sought by police for fatal stabbing of an American in Phuket http://is.gd/ehztX #
• More details emerge about corruption allegations at Thailand Tobacco Monopoly http://is.gd/ei34V /BkkPost #
• Late last night, Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, the Crown Prince, flew to Germany http://bit.ly/b1xPWB #
• Just arrived at a Chinese temple in Taiban, Samut Prakan for their annual "ting krachaat". http://twitpic.com/2euw11 #
• 1000's of poor people here already ready to receive rice & food from local Chinese-Thai. http://twitpic.com/2euxgu #
• The poor are lining up for tickets & are being herded into tents http://twitpic.com/2ev5oy http://twitpic.com/2ev5th #
• People are arriving to donate food which will be handed out in about an hour when the Governor of Samut Prakan arrives. #
• All the food being offered to the Chinese Gods is making me hungry! http://twitpic.com/2evazw http://twitpic.com/2evb8k #
• The smoke & smell of burning incense and the cacophony of sound at this "ting krachaat" ceremony is very overwhelming. #
• They are about to open the gates. Get ready for chaos as 1000's will stampede for free food. http://twitpic.com/2evxv8 #
• VIDEO: Complete chaos at the moment as they stampede for free food http://twitvid.com/9DGOU http://twitvid.com/VMSQV #
• Pushing & fighting as they try to get the free food. 1000's here but still plenty of food. http://twitpic.com/2ew468 #
• Video of Chinese opera. I guess it is for the Gods as no-one is watching. http://twitvid.com/B8KKP #
• An hour later the crowds are still large & still plenty of food. As I leave more folks coming. http://twitpic.com/2ewghc #
• That was my first "ting krachaat" of the season. More will take place all over Thailand this month at Chinese shrines. #
• Photo Album for the "Ting Krachaat" ceremony this morning at a Chinese Shrine – http://bit.ly/aUjTjB #
• Suan Dusit Poll: Many people think Thai politicians like to speak rudely, look down on others and are devious /BkkPost #
• Thailand's dengue fever toll jumps 83%: 50,000 cases and 63 deaths this year so far http://bit.ly/aYX4DZ #
• Thailand will fix prices for bottled water at 7 baht (0.5-0.6 liter) and 14 baht (1.5 liter) http://bit.ly/9fL1WP #
• The dark side to Thailand’s Tiger Temple by @Journotopia http://tinyurl.com/2aw6wzm #
• The Thai schoolgirl who won 10 million baht in the world cup draw sent in 700 postcards! Her parents will buy a house. #
• A new building at Burapha university in Chonburi has collapsed, at least 1 killed, 30 trapped inside /via @Tulip_Oum #
• Photo: The collapsed building was under construction trapping workers http://j.mp/9hHW8U /via @Tulip_Oum #
• Report on CH.9 about Burapha university said collapsed building was the new auditorium & definitely no students inside. #
• Latest pictures of collapsed building http://yfrog.com/edf5dg http://yfrog.com/n3gd6g Still many workers trapped inside. #

Monday 16th August 2010:

• CH.3 now reporting at least 3 workers dead in university building collapse. Rescue efforts continue through the night. #
• There seems to be confusion among Thai media about number of dead in building collapse. From 1-4 dead so far. #
• Thailand Tourist Police star in their own music video – 100,000 hits on YouTube – http://j.mp/9A7×4d #
• American Tourist Murdered in Thailand (Fox News) http://j.mp/ciGKsZ #
• Chonburi Governor: 1 confirmed dead, 2 missing in Burapa University building collapse /TANN #
• RT @ThailandVoice: Bangkok Podcast interview with Bangkok Post columnist @voranai now online http://bit.ly/bSnbbX #
• 16th July: Thai Peace Day – Historians point to forefathers' sacrifices http://is.gd/ejwTW #
• PM signs order to cancel emergency decree in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Ubol Ratchathani /TANN #
• 19 Red Shirt leaders including Veera Musikhapong in Court for 1st hearing on terrorism cases, all deny charges /MCOT #
• Yellow-shirt protester gets community service for trying to kill 5 policemen http://bit.ly/cD7Jf3 #
• Manhunt in Thailand for British boxer (BBC) http://bbc.in/bgojEB #
• The cabinet approves Defence Ministry's proposal for navy to send ships to help fight pirates off Somalia /BkkPost #
• RT @veen_NT: Government postpones enforcement on bottled water prices to Sep 1 after receiving complaints from businesses #
• Watch the video & ask yourself, should the driver get more than 48 hours community service? http://youtu.be/c9bpEm5Jb48 #
• Some great short videos on places to visit around Thailand. In Thai with English subtitles: http://bit.ly/bSO9PS #

Tuesday 17th August 2010:

• Some history on Preah Vihear Temple and the border controversy (The Nation) http://is.gd/ekKQl #
• Red shirt supporters in Chiang Mai will hold their first gathering on Sunday (Bangkok Post) http://is.gd/ekL6z #
• I'm on my way to TAT HQ on Phetchaburi Road. Have been stuck in traffic for 90 minutes now. I think I'm going to be late. #
• I'm at RattanaKosin Exhibition Hall on Ratchadamnoen-Klang Avenue in Bangkok with the TAT. http://twitpic.com/2fhrby #
• This is a picture of Loha Prasat, the Metal Castle, in Bangkok. http://twitpic.com/2fhuas #
• Model of the Grand Palace at RattanaKosin Exhibition Hall. http://twitpic.com/2fi74c http://twitpic.com/2fi77o #
• Having a great time learning about history of Royal Bangkok at RattanaKosin Exhibition Hall on Ratchadamnoen-Klang Av. #
• At the moment there is a special promotion price at Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall of only 100B & 30B. No 2 price system! #
• Excellent panoramic views from RattanaKosin Exhibition Hall. http://twitpic.com/2fio24 http://twitpic.com/2fio2c #
• Rattanakosin Exhibition hall is on the Royal avenue near Golden Mount & Democracy Monument. http://twitpic.com/2fiv6q #
• Website links & info about my trip today in Bangkok is on http://www.RichardBarrow.com. I will post more when I get back. #
• VIDEO: Excellent views of Golden Mount & Loha Prasat from Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall. http://twitvid.com/1Q0MY #
• We're having lunch at S&P Maha Rat by the river. Looks delicious. http://twitpic.com/2fiyzb http://twitpic.com/2fiyza #
• We're now at the Arts of the Kingdom V at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Not allowed to take pics http://twitpic.com/2fjgi9 #
• NO PHOTO: Arts of the Kingdom V at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. http://twitpic.com/2fjgx1 #
• On an audio tour of the throne hall. She told me to "press the numbers & pray"! (Thai for "play") #
• The inside of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is absolutely magnificent. Really worth the visit. Exhibition is great too. #
• The ticket for Arts of the Kingdom V at Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is 150B or free if you went to Grand Palace first. #
• Public Health Ministry: Death toll from H1N1 virus in Thailand from April 28, 2009 to Aug 7 this year is 245 /BkkPost #
• A group of dancing policemen has become the latest pop sensation in Thailand with a YouTube video http://is.gd/eloES #
• Helicopter carrying senior officials of Natural Resources Ministry still missing, search continues amid bad weather /MCOT #
• Phuket Kickbox Killing: Security camera shows 'Man in Black' with knife – http://is.gd/elAUj #
• Thailand Patriot Network activists staying overnight outside Parliament; announcing next move at 9am Wednesday /MCOT #
• RT @Juarawee: +300 volunteers set to search for Permanent Secretary of the Natural Resources team in Naan 'til 2AM #
• You can now download the latest PDF version of Muang Samut News, a local newspaper from Samut Prakan http://bit.ly/aa7vqK #

Wednesday 18th August 2010:

• Search efforts continue at the break of dawn for missing helicopter in Nan province /TANN #
• Thai Groups Denounce Web Censorship (Wall Street Journal) http://is.gd/emiBV #
• 18th August: Today is National Science Day in Thailand. #
• King Rama IV, Father of Thai Science, successfully predicted a total solar eclipse that took place on 18 August 1868. #
• The Bangkok-Airport Rail Link will open on Monday. The trip will cost 100 Baht. No baggage check-in yet. #
• Celebrated Thai pathologist arrives in Malaysia amid heavy security http://bit.ly/dsVPI5 #
• Missing helicopter has been found in a jungle in Nan Province; 5 passengers presumed dead /via @suthichai #
• [ThaiPhotoblogs.com] Miss Thailand Fonthip in National Costume http://bit.ly/amEVl6 #
• Thailand blocks access to WikiLeaks website http://bit.ly/cfVGhI (someone tell AFP it opens for me http://www.wikileaks.org) #
• Nothing like a bit of censorship and the ensuing publicity to make you go & take a look at what the fuss is all about! #
• I had a brief meeting with the Inspector of Samut Prakan Immigration just now about the website we are doing for them. #
• He is excited about my idea to invite questions on visa & immigration issues. He promises they will be answered. #
• Our aim is to make the Samut Prakan immigration site the most useful & updated immigration site in Thailand. Let's see! #
• One problem he admitted is that he might be lenient with some rules at his immigration but cannot guarantee same elsewhere. #
• AFP have now updated their story on "blocking" of wikileaks after reading our tweets about it http://bit.ly/dceO5X #
• AFP: "Some users, however, reported that they were still able to access WikiLeaks within the kingdom" http://bit.ly/dceO5X #
• "Censorship versus security: When is freedom of speech not freedom of speech?" by @smartbrain http://bit.ly/dpFyrJ #
• 78th Province for Thailand called for in Kanchanaburi's Thong Pha Phum district /BkkPost #
• Bodies of senior Ministry of Natural Resources officials and airmen who died in helicopter crash reach Bangkok /MCOT #
• The Tourism Authority of Thailand and Mastercard launch "Bangkok Welcomes You" campaign http://bit.ly/9JW7Tq #
• AFP changes the title of their story from "Thailand blocks access to WikiLeaks" to "tries to block". Just pull the story! #
• ISP's have been guilty before of putting up fake "This website has been blocked by ICT" notices. It is "self-censorship". #

Thursday 19th August 2010:

• King Power to set up Leicester FC academy in Thailand (The Nation) http://is.gd/enTY0 #
• Five perish in Thai helicopter crash. King & Queen sponsor funeral (Bangkok Post) http://is.gd/enUgM #
• When police act selectively: The case of the Bangkok scrap seller fined 133,400 baht (BkkPost) http://is.gd/enWLe #
• Expressway Easy Pass has sold 180,000 units. In October you will be able to top up at 7-Eleven /via @thai101 #
• Leicester football stadium to be renamed King Power Stadium in December after takeover by the Thai group /BkkPost #
• Government urged to develop big attractions that can compete with Disneyland and Universal Studios http://bit.ly/bD6JGL #
• Scouts making "som tum" in their Scout lesson at school this afternoon. http://twitpic.com/2g3jwp #
• Scouts showing off the "som tum" they just made themselves. http://twitpic.com/2g3kkp #
• Facebook app on iPhone has been updated. Thai language display problem has been fixed among other things /via @s_narut #
• You can now see in realtime on your iPhone what seats are available in a SF cinema & then book it! http://bit.ly/9QZXRK #
• Culture Ministry to seek amending of film & video copyright laws after garbage collector fined 133K http://bit.ly/dAGXsm #
• Viktor Bout has been waiting in a Thai prison since March 2008. See pics of how much weight he lost http://bit.ly/aeaorx #
• RT @Dedatos: How long will trip on Airport link to Bangkok take? => Only 15 minutes! But no baggage check-in yet #
• RT @philipbkk: Can we go from Makkasan to Ramkhamaeng on Airport Link? => Yes and only 15 Baht #
• State Railway of Thailand will install GPS devices at railway crossings to warn cars when trains are 1.2 km away /BkkPost #
• The OTOP Midyear 2010 Fair starts this weekend 21-29 August at Impact Arena. #
• RT @BangkokDi: Does the airport link stop in Makkasan? => Yes it does http://bit.ly/b3FY4A Map: http://bit.ly/ddvM9g #
• RT @king_of_tonga: I finished reading 'Escape' by David McMillan => You might like to read the interview I did with him http://bit.ly/9EgwzD #
• This is a map I did showing the route that David took when he escaped from Khlong Prem Prison http://bit.ly/bMTFUz #
• This afternoon, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn returned from Germany http://bit.ly/cJMuju #
• Wikileaks now goes on offensive and targets Thailand => RT @wikileaks: ThaiLeaks announced http://bit.ly/a3R9Ic #
• I wonder how long it will take the government to block the new wikileaks site dedicated to leaking documents from Thailand #
• Miss Thailand wins the "People's Choice Award" at Miss Universe 2010 http://bit.ly/bEZRfM #

The latest museum to open in Bangkok, called the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, is probably also one of the best. Located on Ratchadamnoen Road, it is not your traditional kind of museum. It is very much interactive and hands-on and uses modern techniques to teach you about the history of Bangkok in an entertaining way. The name of the exhibition hall comes from the original name of the capital before it was changed to "Krungthep Mahanakorn". Rattanakosin also refers to the reign of the Chakri Dynasty. It is situated in a renovated four storey building which has some fine views of Wat Ratchanadda's Loha Prasat building, known as the Metal Castle, and also the Golden Mount beyond.

Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall opens later than most places at 11 a.m. However, this is because it stays open later until 8 p.m. The panoramic views you can see here are in the coffee shop on the fourth floor. I am sure they will be just as beautiful in the evening with all the lights. The full price for the exhibition is 200 baht for adults and 50 baht for children. However, there is a special promotion until 31st December 2010 of 100 baht for adults and 30 baht for children. This is definitely worth the money and encourages you to go again. I am sure you will be happy to hear that there is no double pricing and everyone pays the same admission fees. The majority of the exhibit is bilingual in Thai and English. However, a wireless audio guide is essential for the video presentations. There is a 1,500 baht deposit for this equipment.

The museum was designed by the people behind the Dragon Generation Museum that I visited in Suphanburi Province. It uses the same concept where you go on a guided tour through the exhibition hall. At present you are taken through seven rooms but there will be two more next year. Personally I prefer to wander around museums by myself, but the tour guide gives you plenty of time to study the exhibits and also interact with them. Our entry and exit from each room is timed to perfection as most rooms have a multimedia presentation. The names of the rooms are: Grandeur Rattanakosin, Prestige of the Kingdom, Remarkable Entertainment, Renowned Ceremonies, Graceful Architectures, Impressive Communities and Sight-seeing Highlights. Before I forget, the museum is wheel-chair friendly.

The Prestige of the Kingdom Room contains this impressive model of the Emerald Buddha Temple and the Grand Palace complex. There are exhibits that tell you about palace life and also Royal ceremonies. You can learn about the performing arts such as the masked Khon dance, lakhon plays and puppet shows. There is fruit carving, Thai silk and different Thai architectural styles. At one of the last rooms they take your picture and then you are shown a cartoon presentation of the sight-seeing highlights of the area. Amazingly the faces of our group were placed into this cartoon which made everyone laugh. The tour lasted just under two hours. The time went very quickly as the tour was both informative and entertaining. I definitely want to go again as there was so much to take in and one visit wasn't enough. I might go in the evening next time.

You can reach the Exhibition hall by public buses such as numbers 2, 3, 9, 15, 31, 33, 39, 42, 47, 59, 60, 64, 68, 70, 79, 82, 86, 157, 201, 503 and 509. It is close to the Golden Mount and Loha Prasart, the Metal Castle, so you could visit these places at the same time. Click here for map location. I was at the museum as a guest of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and they also took us to the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall to see the magnificent Arts of the Kingdom V exhibition. This nicely complimented our morning tour of Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall. If you have already been to the Grand Palace, then you should have a free ticket for the throne hall. If not it doesn't matter as it is only 150 baht and 50 baht for the audio tour. I wish to thank the TAT for being such kind hosts again and for inviting me to take part in this product testing trip.

Darkest Isan (where decent thais fear to tread), Part Three

Thailand's greatest ancient monument, the 900 year old Khmer temple complex sitting on top of a volcano with a panoramic view stretching to Cambodia's plains and mountains.

After Buriram where watching paint dry is better than the town's day life (don't mention nightlife) tiny Nang Rung with absolutely no redeeming features whatsoever is a step up in the world. If the word ugly could drawn, planned, paid for, a gang of labourers hired to build it and me forced to go there to see it, it would be called Nang Rung, and I'd still be there going thank God I'm here not in Buriram anymore.

Nang Rong will forever have a special place in my heart reserved for it. You may find this hard to believe but it was the place for the very first time (not wearing a crash helmet) I drove my motorcycle the wrong way up an eight lane highway then mounted the pavement zigzagging in and out of pedestrians and parked outside the 7/11 to buy a beer, previously having drunk two, and all this after missing a U-Turn spot. This manoeuvre is of course part of the traffic police's driving test and, I'm also pretty sure it fulfils section 'A' of the Thai citizenship test too.

The only real reason to go to Nang Rong is as a launch pad to the ruins of Phanom Rung, which is bloody difficult to get to, as I'll explain.

Options for visiting come in several forms, a gruelling day trip from Bangkok, a 5 hour van ride or 6 hour bus ride, each way. Trips from guest houses in Surin, Korat and Buriram sharing the price of car (2700 baht) or van (3,600 baht) hire for the day, 2 hours each way. Independent travel by buses and motocycles taxi from these towns, 3-4 hours each way or the last option which I chose, staying couple of nights in the small town of Nang Rong just 30km from the ruins. Then hiring a motorcycle for the day (250 baht) and driving there myself.

Phanon Rong's location is either its greatest burden or greatest asset. Outclassing the over touristed Ayudthaya in every respect, it should dwarf it as tourist hotspot but located in the middle of southern Isan far from any tourist route and also far from any convenient large town in that province to use as a launch pad to visit it from, only a dedicated traveller can get there. This has kept Phanom Rung largely unspoilt unlike Ayudthaya which turned it from a pretty 4th rate ruin on a world scale into 1st rate temple to Mammon. On the day I went only a dozen western tourists visited the whole day according to the ticket lady, however there were hundreds of Thais, mostly Isaners, but as it was a Saturday I would guess this would drop off greatly on weekdays.

The temple itself isn't exactly amazing or too dissimilar to Phimai, I'm not sure what the Ankor complex's out house looks like, but I'm sure it would not be too different. What makes Panong Rung worth the trek is the location atop a mountain and the ceremonial walkway to the temple. Starting at one end one can pretend one is an ancient barbaric Siamese tribesman on a trip to sack the temple and try and as you walk along the ceremonial parade to imagine how this guy would have felt charging down it 1000 years ago as he gradually drew closer to this beacon of civilisation with its structure looming over him.

Dotted around the mountain top are several view points which are worth visiting as the most direction are obsucred by bushes at Phanom Rung itself. If you came by motorcycle like I did myself, you may wind up thinking Phanom Rung is only the icing on the cake and the 30km journey through small villages and farms was the real sight. If you came from a surrounding town by car or bus (as most do), the visit may seem rather tepid as you are really missing the whole experience.

Sign translates to 20 baht entry fee for Thais. By the way the Thai numbers appear to be stickers hastily stuck on I guess it previously had English numbers printed on it and it was recently decided to cover them up with Thai numbers. I guess the TAT really doesn't want tourists to know this and feels people reading this may decide not to go to Thailand on their holidays, but China instead where they outlawed double pricing in 1996......... So it would be rather naughty of me to translate it.

This is a review of what happened in Thailand during the last week based on topics that I tweeted. You can follow me live for latest news about Thailand @RichardBarrow.

Friday 6th August 2010:

• The Bangkok Post today, including the front cover picture, is in 3D. http://twitpic.com/2by5kt #
• King Power is going ahead with it's deal to buy Leicester City FC, an English football team, for 2 billion baht /BkkPost #
• Singha paid Chelsea 400 million baht & Manchester United 350 million baht to be it's official beer supplier /BkkPost #
• I'm at Samut Prakan Provincial Court for student activities for Rapee Day. http://twitpic.com/2byv4g #
• Picture of Chief Justice of Samut Prakan. A judge told me they have 8000 cases in one year. http://twitpic.com/2bywuj #
• Students inside a courtroom in Samut Prakan. http://twitpic.com/2bz81r http://twitpic.com/2bz80d #
• The witness stand inside a Thai court. http://twitpic.com/2bz8ct http://twitpic.com/2bz8d0 #
• Samut Prakan Provincial Courthouse has 36 judges, 20 courtrooms & about 8000 cases per year. http://twitpic.com/2bzgbb #
• VDO of witness in court being questioned. Verbal notes are taken by judge after each question. http://twitvid.com/4REMG #
• In a Thai court they don't have a jury. http://twitpic.com/2bzvt9 http://twitpic.com/2bzvsh #
• Here is a story I wrote about "A Day in a Thai Court" http://bit.ly/anf8zg & a foreigner in court http://bit.ly/bOFiq1 #
• Photo album of students activities at Samut Prakan Provincial Courthouse this morning http://bit.ly/d7m81X #
• PM to meet with PAD leaders today to discuss Preah Vihear. They plan to rally at Govt House tomorrow /BkkPost #
• Video I shot this morning inside a Thai court room showing procedure during a courtcase http://bit.ly/bohDPS #
• CRES confirms PAD rally doesn't violate emergency decree; gov't prepared to listen to all parties on Phrea Vihear /TANN #
• After deadly clashes, Thai opposition regroups (Reuters) http://bit.ly/9xiZtg #
• Thai elephant believed to be one of the oldest in the US has died at Missouri Zoo http://bit.ly/dAxMrZ /via @babyfishie #
• Thai Kings “Rain Making” Technology Set for Australia http://bit.ly/91v8I2 #
• CRES bans PAD's Saturday rally at Government House, citing law violation, group can send rep to talk with govt /MCOT #
• Bangkok Dangerous Map updated with places to avoid this weekend due to yellow shirt rally http://bit.ly/b1nolL #
• 6 companies of police and 3 companies of soldiers will be deployed to maintain law & order at Government House /BkkPost #
• Thai police arrest Japanese man accused of faking own death for millions in insurance money http://bit.ly/94K8dQ #
• Thailand aims to have the largest solar farm in Southeast Asia (CNET) http://bit.ly/aAMHw9 #
• NATION: Yellow Shirt Rally will now be at the Thai-Japanese Stadium in Din Daeng on Saturday. Map – http://bit.ly/agh1GG #
• Map showing restricted area around Government House. Face 2 years in prison if you enter now http://bit.ly/aRAJMK #
• Civil society groups move to gather at Dindaeng's Thai-Japanese Stadium (MCOT) http://bit.ly/bJ2tpI #

Weekend 7th-8th August 2010:

• Defiant PAD group to go ahead with rally at Government House (The Nation) http://bit.ly/crlG8s #
• PM Abhisit said he would go to the yellow shirt rally in Din Daeng & listen to PTN's demands this afternoon /BkkPost #
• Will PM Abhisit be arrested for attending a political rally today? Did he go to listen to the demands at Ratchaprasong? #
• 7th August: Today is Rapee Day (??????) commemorating Prince Rapee Pattanasak, father of Thailand's modern legal system #
• US Embassy warns of possible bomb threats against foreign embassies on Wireless Rd. Map: http://bit.ly/cklRAm #
• I'm at the Provincial Courthouse in Samut Prakan. Everyone is wearing black for the wreath laying ceremony for Rapee Day. #
• I seem to be the only media here so far. The Chief Justice came over to thank me for coming which was nice of him. #
• RT @swongjitt: He didn't go to Rachaprasong but he did invite those leaders to discuss live on tv. #
• Small crowd at Government House in Bangkok despite SOE http://yfrog.com/necu5vj /via @vaitor #
• Two rallies going on in Bangkok at the moment by yellow shirt supporters. Map marks places to avoid http://bit.ly/a1TqCq #
• 10.15 a.m. Chaiwat on mobile stage at Government House http://tweetphoto.com/37303689 /via @nikhon_ #
• Veera Somkwarmkid at the barricade at Government House http://twitpic.com/2cb3vf /via @_Willowtree_ #
• Civil groups start gathering at Thai-Japanese Sports Complex and Government House (MCOT) http://bit.ly/98aOYf #
• So far a low-key turnout of 100-150 protesters in front of Anti-Corruption building near Government House /via @thaicam #
• Some great pictures from Government House rally by @_Willowtree_ Also there @thaicam & @fishmyman. #
• Chamlong: PM Abhisit will come to meet members of TPN rallying against Cambodia at Thai-Japanese Stadium /BkkPost #
• Police will allow protesters to rally at Government House until noon & will take action after the deadline /BkkPost #
• Crowd with large flag moving to Police HQ http://twitpic.com/2cbq2x /via @_Willowtree_ Also map: http://bit.ly/c1sRIg #
• RT @champkris: What does TPN stand for? ==> Thailand Patriot Network #
• Live pic and map for Region 1 Army base in Bangkok http://tweetphoto.com/37327963 http://bit.ly/duQp5m /via @nikhon_ #
• Activist Veera says his group ready to prolong its rally, gives PM 7 days to answer on Preah Vihear dispute /MCOT #
• 12.35: PM Abhsit arrives at Thai-Japan Stadium in Din Daeng, ready to talk with Chamlong-led group via @veen_NT #
• RT @forestmat: At Rama V monument approx 300 people. None at Gov House. Just saw a man with PAD guard shirt #
• Photo album by @thaicam of the yellow shirt rally this morning in the Government House area http://goo.gl/photos/afh7 #
• RT @Juarawee: PM is going to answer the Preah Vihear issues with protesters of Love the Nation network in a few moments #
• PM Abhisit confirms that both protesters and government have same stance to protect the land /via @Juarawee #
• Abhisit: "If I don't protect our territory, I don't deserve to be a Thai PM nor to be in this country /via @Juarawee #
• I am on my way now to Ancient Siam for their Thai Culture Fair. But it looks like a storm is coming. Wind is picking up. #
• Thailand Patriot Network rally confirms overnight stay on Ratchadamnoen Road near Government House (MCOT) #
• Not easy to take pictures in the rain holding an umbrella! http://twitpic.com/2cey65 http://twitpic.com/2cey68 #
• Parade about to start at Ancient Siam. Still raining. http://twitpic.com/2cfaai #
• Rainbow at Ancient Siam. Waiting for the Governor to come so we can start the parade. http://twitpic.com/2cfgxg #
• Sun setting behind the palace building at Ancient Siam, Samut Prakan. http://twitpic.com/2cfjz1 #
• Governor of Samut Prakan has to go to the airport every time a member of the Royal Family comes or goes. Even at 3am! #
• It's raining and I am wet and cold. No fun taking pictures in the dark. I wonder if I can sneak away? #
• Photo album for the wreath laying ceremony this morning for Rapee Day (??????????????????) http://bit.ly/aEbTnY #
• Someone asked if I could post comings and goings of the Royal Family which I will do for a couple of weeks starting today. #
• Today, HRH Princess Srirasmi, returned from a trip to Chiang Mai http://bit.ly/b01gRe #
• Bangkok Post: Thai tobacco officials 'took B62m bribes' from US companies – http://is.gd/e804p #
• Bangkok Post: Kicking drugs the army way – http://is.gd/e80JO #
• There are more than 500 volunteer firefighting teams in Bangkok http://is.gd/e814S #
• The Nation: PM reminds PAD Thailand lost Preah Vihear in 1962 – http://is.gd/e81Gt #
• Shawn W Crispin, a "social danger" to Thailand & rep for Committee to Protect Journalists http://bit.ly/a5nC6r #
• I'm at the Old Bang Phli Riverside Market in Samut Prakan for the opening of a new museum. http://twitpic.com/2cpp28 #
• 'Thailand Patriot Network’ continues rally outside 1st Army Region HQ, will announce next move this afternoon /MCOT #
• Month long Thai-Myanmar border closure leads to shortages in Yangon – http://is.gd/e8lyv #
• Phuket Lifeguards Search for Tourist off Karon – http://is.gd/e8tNv #
• Network of Thai Patriots ends its rally in front of Army Region 1 HQ due to low number of demonstrators /BkkPost #
• RT @netphoto: Red Shirt at a parkl near victory monument. http://twitpic.com/2crkeb #
• PM: Can't deliver response to activist temple demands within week http://bit.ly/9LHltQ #

Monday 9th August 2010:

• Phuket Day of Beach Tragedies: One Tourist Drowns, Another is Missing, Feared Dead http://is.gd/e8tNv #
• Global tourism industry wooing Indian weddings including Thailand's TAT http://is.gd/e8RcS #
• David Thompson, a world expert on Thai cuisine, opens a new restaurant in Bangkok http://bit.ly/cpQ4Ve #
• Cambodia has written to the United Nations saying it's ready to defend its territory http://bit.ly/9iQOaB #
• Opening of Airport Link on August 23 a Potential Tourism Bonanza http://bit.ly/cmBVLA #
• Teaching Thai orphans not to fear strangers by Richard S. Ehrlich (@CNNgo) http://bit.ly/bDzX2J #
• Suthep: Foreign Ministry will inform UN that Thai troops are prepared to protect the country's sovereignty /BkkPost #
• ABAC Poll: Gross domestic happiness of Thai people increased slightly from 6.52% in June to 6.77% in July #
• 18.8 billion coins are in circulation in Thailand, half of which are 1 baht coins /BkkPost #
• Suthep denies govt used double standard in favor of PAD demonstrators (The Nation) http://bit.ly/b8Zz53 #
• Thai Treasury expects to issue 1.2 billion new coins into the economy in 2011, a 15% drop from this year /BkkPost #
• Finance Minister Korn has ordered a probe into the alleged tobacco scam at the Thailand Tobacco Monopoly /BkkPost #
• Thai court opens trial against ruling party http://bit.ly/avsTxF #
• Yet another drowning in Phuket http://bit.ly/a0Dikv (and yesterday's story updated http://bit.ly/cqndRn) #
• Police arrest Iranian man after 10kg of crystal methamphetamine, worth Bt30 million, found in his room in Asok area /MCOT #
• Thai Superstar Bashed & Robbed on Pattaya Beach Road http://bit.ly/cXt3NU #
• Wichean voted as next Chief of Police in Thailand (Bangkok Post) http://j.mp/bvZ122 #
• Thai police arrest German graduates in Pattaya for internet banking theft http://bit.ly/9q64Il #
• Thai health authorities are urging women not to wear fashionable black leggings to avoid mosquitoes http://bit.ly/agSAWD #
• 25 Juvenile detainees escaped from a detention Center in Nakhon Pathom last night. 15 still on the run /via @Tulip_Oum #
• 17 Red-shirt Leaders Face More Charges http://bit.ly/9lvQEK (TANN) /via @Juarawee #
• Aussie chef (David Thompson) takes on the Thais by opening a restaurant in Bangkok http://bit.ly/cR1C9E #
• Why is the David Thompson book "Thai Street Food" 2,295 Baht but in USA it's only $37 (1,200 Baht)? http://amzn.to/9sDm7V #
• Thailand all set to fight Somali pirates (Bangkok Post) http://bit.ly/b2lpBY #
• According to Metropolitan BKK, Nahm will open beginning of September due to construction delay /via @ChrisWidmer #
• Cambodian PM warns of possible violence over border dispute: "It may cause bloodshed" http://bit.ly/aQMuc4 #
• A darling at Cannes for his starring role in “Uncle Boonmee”, Thanapat is a field hand in Thailand http://bit.ly/aX2jtJ #

Tuesday 10th August 2010:

• Popeye encourages Thai children to eat fruit and veg, study – http://is.gd/eaeUE #
• A German flew a yellow-and-red kite in front of Government House yesterday (The Nation) http://is.gd/eaCw1 #
• Democrat dissolution trial begins (Bangkok Post) http://is.gd/eaCJF #
• Canada briefed about a Thai ship of asylum seekers from Sri Lanka that could be carrying terrorists http://is.gd/eaD3W #
• KBank adds Burmese language to some of it's regional ATM's to help migrant workers /BkkPost #
• Bangkok 2010: Phetkasem, Ramkhamhaeng & Kanchanaphisek are most dangerous roads with 9, 8 & 6 fatal accidents /BkkPost #
• The most dangerous intersections in Bangkok are Asok-Phetchaburi, Soon Wijai and Bang Na http://bit.ly/99c17H #
• Thai students practicing for Mother's Day ceremony where they will prostrate to their mothers http://twitpic.com/2d9hdc #
• Workers preparing the stage for the Queen's Birthday ceremony this Thursday in Samut Prakan. http://twitpic.com/2d9y8u #
• Massive traffic jam of coaches coming off expressway at Bang Na. 1000's of students heading to BITEC for Science Fair. #
• The National Science and Technology Fair 2010 is on now until 22 August 2010 at BITEC – http://bit.ly/d6NRKG #
• They're expecting 1 million people to come here to the Science Fair at BITEC. I believe it! http://twitpic.com/2danb8 #
• Central World to re-open at the end of September after 2,800 million baht renovation http://is.gd/eaTfW /via @bangkok #
• I posted 47 photos on Facebook in the album "National Science & Technology Fair 2010" http://bit.ly/cyGWsY #
• RT @bm_: Is there an off peak for science fair? Looks interesting but also very full. => I guess weekdays more school kids so try weekend #
• NIDA poll: 69.55% want the government to push Cambodians out of the overlapping area near Preah Vihear temple /BkkPost #
• ICT minister gets suspended jail term for defaming wife of former deputy prime minister Surapong http://bit.ly/9JWB83 #
• School girl from Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan wins 10 million baht in the World Cup postcard draw #
• The name & full address of the Thai schoolgirl who won 10 million baht has already been published on the net #crazy #
• Teachers face death in Thailand's troubled south (AFP) http://bit.ly/bJYuFw #
• RT @GlobalMouthful: Someone should do a story on what she will spend it on! => I am sure she will have plenty of long lost relatives helping #
• Body of drowned foreign tourist found on Phuket's Karon Beach this morning http://bit.ly/9nxKfa #
• PM affirms Thailand's adherence to peaceful means in resolving the border dispute with Cambodia. http://bit.ly/blhlof #

Wednesday 11th August 2010:

• 34 cultural Thai heritage items named (The Nation) http://is.gd/ec7SF #
• Thai schools all over the country are holding ceremonies this morning for the Queen's Birthday & Mother's Day. #
• No Thai visa for more short-stay visitors: Romania, Bulgaria, Malta, Andorra and San Marino http://bit.ly/c4AguZ #
• Thailand ranked 21 in global malicious activities in 2009 (Bangkok Post) http://bit.ly/9jde9I #
• Everyone wearing blue at school today for the Queen's Birthday ceremony. http://twitpic.com/2djloi #
• Blue is the colour for H.M The Queen of Thailand. Her Majesty turns 78 tomorrow. http://twitpic.com/2djnuf #
• Short video clip of Thai dancing at Queen's Birthday celebration at Sriwittayapaknam School. http://twitvid.com/0ZVWN #
• Some students have already started to cry while listening to the mother's day speech & songs http://twitpic.com/2djwe7 #
• Thai students prostrating at the feet of their mothers. http://twitpic.com/2djz84 #
• Burmese language on ATM's in Thailand is supply & demand but Thai media slant says "Burmese takeover" /via @Thai_Talk #
• Early this morning, Her Royal Highness Princess Soamsavali returned from her trip to Denmark http://bit.ly/8X4f01 #
• I'm on my way to Samut Prakan Immigration to do my 90 day reporting. I didn't forget this time so don't need to pay the 2,000 baht fine! #
• RT @alexqrbkk: 2,000 Baht fine if you forget to report to Immigration every 90 days. 4,000 baht if you are arrested. #
• You can report to Immigration for your 90 days, 7 days early or 7 days late. Someone can go for you or can send by EMS. #
• If you leave Thailand for a brief holiday & come back, you start counting the 90 days again from zero. #
• How we bully our migrant workers (Bangkok Post) http://bit.ly/9uTmpb /via @Giles_iPresume #
• Supreme Court rejects an appeal filed by Thaksin against the seizure of his assets worth 46.37 billion baht /BkkPost #
• Officials at Samut Prakan Immigration office hard at work this morning http://yfrog.com/5j7kjlj http://yfrog.com/caecsj #
• RT @thomasgires: 90 days reset is for residence reporting only? => Nothing to do with visa, it is for anyone staying longer than 90 days #
• I'm working on official website for Samut Prakan Immigration, but difficult getting accurate info! http://bit.ly/az8Ezq #
• Villagers work their farms in fear due to tense situation at Thai-Cambodian border (MCOT) http://bit.ly/b0f5hs #
• Minimum wage from 151 Baht/day ($4.87) in Phayao, Phichit, Phrae & MaeHongSon to 206 B ($6.65) in Bangkok & Samut Prakan #
• 19 Red Shirt leaders & supporters indicted on terrorism charges but not Thaksin yet (BkkPost) http://bit.ly/cyL5NI #
• Greepeace were out protesting yesterday about contaminated water in Samrong Canal, Samut Prakan http://bit.ly/bjsNcN #
• Contract killer from Thailand 'may die in prison' for murder of disabled divorcee http://bit.ly/bAtRsi #
• This weekend is "Smile@Siam" where there will be stages set up at Siam Square, Paragon, Siam Center and MBK #
• What happens when your motorcycle is stolen in Thailand by @freakingcat http://bit.ly/bK58kC #

Thursday 12th August 2010:

• Happy Mother's Day to all mothers in Thailand & around the world! Happy Birthday to The Queen, mother to all Thai people #
• At 7am a lot of people in Thailand will make merit for the Queen by giving alms to monks. http://twitpic.com/2dtn40 #
• Live pic from Samut Prakan Provincial Hall of local people getting ready to make merit. http://twitpic.com/2dto1w #
• Live pic of giving food to the monks in Samut Prakan to make merit for the Queen's Birthday. http://twitpic.com/2dtwsw #
• Video clip of merit making this morning in Samut Prakan http://twitvid.com/4UVYX #
• Releasing 1 million tiny marine animals into the Chao Phraya River for the Queen's Birthday. http://twitpic.com/2dtz6r #
• The merit making ceremony for the Queen is over. Next is a formal event at 9am to pay homage to portrait of the Queen. #
• Photo album of merit making activities this morning in Samut Prakan for HM The Queen's 78th Birthday http://bit.ly/bNjwGH #
• [Blog] Merit Making Ceremony in Samut Prakan for H.M. The Queen's 78th Birthday http://bit.ly/cL3DXP #
• I am now rushing back to the City Hall for the next ceremony where local government officials will pay homage to a portrait of HM The Queen #
• The Governor of Samut Prakan & other government officials for ceremony for Queen's Birthday. http://twitpic.com/2duq2m #
• Video clip of ceremony going on here now in Samut Prakan for Queen's Birthday. http://twitvid.com/X7JU0 #
• In full dress including ceremonial swords for Queen's Birthday ceremony. http://twitpic.com/2duwqr #
• The ceremony is now over. Time for a quick breakfast then to Ancient Siam for their Mother's Day event. #
• Picture of the waterfront & Chao Phraya River from Samut Prakan Provincial Hall http://twitpic.com/2dv6c6 #
• Despite it being a public holiday in Thailand today, all shopping malls & tourist attractions are open as normal. #
• BMA: Sukhumwit is the dustiest road in Bangkok with the worst air quality at Udomsuk Intersection (297mpcm) /BkkPost #
• RT @ruxoz: http://twitpic.com/2dv6c6 – Color in this picture's really interesting! => I used Pro HDR on my iPhone #
• Air Quality in Bangkok is looking good at the moment. The PM10 column shouldn't exceed 120 http://bit.ly/bjrLh2 #
• Air quality charts for the rest of Thailand looking good. The PM10 column shouldn't exceed 120 http://bit.ly/9LpgSf #
• I'm at Ancient Siam in Samut Prakan to take pictures of their Mother's Day activities. http://twitpic.com/2dwrpe #
• This is a replica of the famous Preah Vihear at Ancient Siam which is in a border dispute now. http://twitpic.com/2dx752 #
• RT @taprumy: Is the flag on the temple Cambodian or Thai? => Old Thai flag; White elephant on red background #
• Wonderful views from top of Preah Vihear at Ancient Siam http://twitpic.com/2dxc6y http://twitpic.com/2dxc6w #
• Prasat Phra Wihan at Ancient Siam is built on an artificial hill. http://twitpic.com/2dxctm http://twitpic.com/2dxcto #
• RT @LisaMajesty: So we can stop the tantrums by starting rumour that TAT has moved the temple from the border to Bangkok? #
• On my way to Erawan Museum (giant 3-headed elephant) to take pics of Mother's Day activities. Today is free for mum's! #
• Internet is Latest Battleground in Thailand's Heated Political Landscape (Voice of America) http://bit.ly/bhNiDi #
• I'm on my way now back to City Hall Plaza in Samut Prakan for the final ceremony for the Queen's birthday. #
• Teachers from Sriwittayapaknam School getting ready for the Queen's Birthday ceremony. http://twitpic.com/2dymql #
• It looks very much like we are going to get VERY wet very soon! http://twitpic.com/2dyor2 #
• Everyone running for cover. Are they having better luck elsewhere? http://twitpic.com/2dyrwd http://twitpic.com/2dyrwe #
• Fireworks show is over and we are now having a performance of Thai dancing. http://twitpic.com/2dzee6 #
• Leicester City Football Club have been bought out by a Thai-based consortium (BBC) http://bit.ly/9Z5EH9 #
• Mass candle-lighting ceremony marks Queen Sirikit’s 78th birthday (MCOT) http://bit.ly/dCRqcz #
• I was lucky with this pic as I was on the right side. But I think I might find myself in a few local newspapers! http://yfrog.com/nb5jjj #

You can follow me on Twitter @RichardBarrow for all the latest news about Thailand. I post about Thailand travel, food, festivals, major events and of course breaking news. Visit my Twitter Archives for everything that I have posted on Twitter over the past five months.

Darkest Isan (where decent thais fear to tread), Part Two

An 800 year old Khmer ruin, the most ferocious mosquitoes in Thailand, the friendliest of provincial towns, crazy coffee and drinking Lao Khao with Rickshaw Drivers till way past 10 o'clock bedtime. If this has you wetting your pants, Phimai is the place for you.

After passing through hilly Khao Yai and some of the prettiest scenery in Thailand, venturing onto the plains of southern Isan, drought, subsistence farmers, water buffalo, Morlam, Rot Tumada, Khao Niaw and all, then surviving the sprawling Lao speaking Metropolis of Korat partied out and verging on dipso, some R&R in the sleepy town of Phimai offers some more than welcome respite. A sort of Betty Ford for travellers.

The town is a surprisingly mis-touristy touristy town. Boasting the Phimai ruins (a small outlaying Cambodian Ankor temple), actually inside the town, travelling out of town to see stuff is for plebs, someone obviously thought this place would be a tourist Mecca, but who this someone is still not identified and he has most likely gone into hiding from the locals. The prima estate row of shop facing the ruin aren't tourist shops at all and sell no souvenirs and look exactly like any Thai road, drug stores, food for monks, soft drinks at regular prices, except the shops selling coffee which have tripled their prices to 40 baht......... not only in the touristy bit of town but the whole town, and the outskirts of a town where a buffalo is more likely to wander by than a tourist and even in the country road way out of town. Why do you build and overpriced coffee shop on a road with no other buildings, in the middle of nowhere surrounded by rice fields. Do the farmhands pop in to spend their entire daily wage on a Mochachino and a blueberry muffin?

Phimai temple is nice and sedate, nice in a way sipping tea on a patio on a summer's day is nice, if it was a boy it would be the kind of boy you would want your teenage daughter to date, it's an unchallenging hedgerowed trimmed park, a smilingly polite visitors centre, Mormonly demure admission staff and Scandinavianly healthy tourists, it's sooooo nice....... you just want to get an automatic rifle and run up and down between the bushes blowing away every muvva with a simperingly nice grin you see.

Maybe having been to Ankor Wat has jaded me. This small temple does pale beside it in my mind or maybe it's just if your going to have a evocative ruin, it has to be clinging to the side of a mountain or buried deep in a jungle, somehow putting it in the local park doesn't work. As I wondered between the walls I found myself wondering where the swings, roundabouts and the duck pond were. It's like holding a barekuckle boxing match in a mother's and toddler's picnic area, location, location, location, it just doesn't work. It was the reason why I hated Sukhothai.

The entry fee has recently gone up from 30 baht to 100 baht. With the Thai economy in a worse state than an England World Cup campaign and Newsweek Magazine saying there is more chance of Barack Obama fulfilling an election promise than it getting better in the foreseeable future, what solution does the Thai government have to solve this self inflicted economic suicide of a nation, more than triple tourist prices......................

..........Then again, what's the average IQ of tourists who visit Thailand? Perhaps they have a point, I tend to think if they raised the price to 300 baht there would still be a row of Gunthers and Gertrudes running around with their plastic Minoltas like they own the place and, their two anorexic impersonating unisex blond beast brats in dayglo orange t-shirts and asinine grins getting in the way of my every shot and making me think can't we just neuter the entire population of Denmark and end the race.

If Saturday night is anything to go by, I wouldn't give up your trip to the Full Moon Party to come here. There aren't many nightlife options in town, depending upon really how you define the word 'night' that is. If you are of the school that considers night to be the time from 8pm to around 10pm then there is a plethora of exciting activities for you, including the opportunity to sit alone or among the odd tourist in the town's tourist bar, eating fruit from the late night fruit stand or you could buy a bottle of Lao Khao (Rice Whiskey) from the 7/11 and venture round the corner and sit in the road with the night rickshaw drivers, the conversation can be surprisingly stimulating..... Incidentally from the fruitful evening I gleaned the wisdom that rickshaws in Thailand are called 'Samlors', (sam = 3, lor = wheels) because if you can count three wheels on your rickshaw you still haven't drunk enough Lao Khao and shouldn't be driving the thing. Just like their motorised counterparts pedal samlors require distilled fluid as fuel, only with pedal samlors you put the distilled fuel in the man not the machine. On the other hand if you are someone who regards nightlife something that occurs after 10pm sadly is this is somewhat of an alien concept in Phimai where the townsfolk as a rule race the cockerel to see who can wake up who first, the all night water stalls strangely dotted around town are your best option for that wild Ibiza time.