This year I am lucky to have 15 wonderful students in my Year 1 classroom. That's fifteen 5 and 6 year olds that are members of the Echidna class. Can you pick out the 11 different countries represented? I definitely work at an international school.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Happy Thai Mothers Day
August 12 is Queen Sirikit's birthday. It is a national holiday, and is also when Thailand celebrates mothers day. With neither of our mothers around to celebrate with, I chose to do the next best thing. Go watch another steam train! Steam train specials run a number of times each year in Thailand, including on Mothers day. Today's trip left Bankok's Hua Lamphong Station at 8:15 AM and for a round trip to nearby Nakhon Pathon. Riders can spend the day on an organized tour around the area before returning on the train in the evening.
After catching an extra hour of sleep this morning, I headed down our street to the train station around 6:30 AM to catch some pictures of the train leaving the station. It was a sunny morning and I was glad to be back to our air conditioned condo by 9:30 with a handful of decent pictures.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
My Summer Holiday
I'm not sure why, but I really haven't caught the "blogging bug" again since returning to Thailand. However, I think it may starting up again...
I've truly been blessed this summer to have a long holiday away from teaching. I've done quite a bit and feel rested and ready to return to my Year 1 classroom at The Australian International School Bangkok in a few weeks. This summer for me has been about three things; 1) Finishing my master's program. 2) Working on completing requirements for my Wisconsin teaching license and 3) Researching what it means to be having a baby! (Let alone a baby in Bangkok!) We also went to the beach! I've also watched a lot of TV, but it's summer!
Finishing My Master's
I have received notice that I have completed all requirements and in August I'll officially graduate from the State University of New York (SUNY)- Buffalo with a MS in Multidisciplinary Studies. My degree program focused on preparing me to a more professional-qualified teacher, especially in an international environment with a diverse student body. I started the program in 2011 when we lived here previously and was forced to stop when we returned to the US in January 2012. It's unique international program that's only offered in co-horts all across the world. Most of the classes met over the weekends at a local school. Professors were either already working in Thailand or nearby countries or were brought to our location just to teach their class. While there were things I did not like about the program (like needing to complete an extra class this summer because I was never notified that some transfer credits would not count), but overall it was an excellent source of professional development and time/$ well spent. I met a great group of friends and other teaching professionals. My professors prove to be great resources and contacts as I continue my career. I'd definitely recommend the program to someone interested.
License Requirements
I would not change my teaching career experiences for anything, however I'm not sure I'd recommend my exact path for everyone. Since graduating in December of 2006 in my BA in Elementary Education/Special Education I have taught full time 5 1/2 years and substitute taught 2 years. All of this across three states and in Thailand. Three different teaching licences= three different hoops of requirements to jump through. That's how after nearly 7 years of experience and being finished with a masters, I'm still working on qualifying for an initial teaching license without any stipulations. Currently, I'm finishing up my minority relations and a environmental education professional development classes to satisfy Wisconsin's unique requirements. If I were a politician I would make professional licensing (teachers, nurses, etc) my issue- it's ridiculous and expensive for everyone involved. Ok, excuse me why I step off my soap box. I love being a teacher and that's why I will jump through hoops. (but I do really hope we never live in any other state!!)
We're Having a Baby!
I'll definitely post on this more (my plans for work, gender, expected visitors, etc) soon, but we are having a baby. It still seems surreal to me, but as I post this I'm already 18 weeks along. I found my doctor and my hospital through a friend's recommendation (and our insurance approved list!) and couldn't feel more comfortable and happy.
The only baby items we've purchased are a used pack-n-play and maternity clothes. Baby things are SO expensive here it's not even funny. I've connected with different mom (usually spelled mum here, but I won't let that slip into THIS blog) groups here through facebook mostly and realized that buying used is the way to go.
I've also joined a Mom to be/Mom & Baby Group that offers classes, resources, and events. I've attended two Babies and Bumps meetings where I learned about baby wearing (a must in a big city that sidewalks aren't stroller friendly) and hypnotherapy techniques to use during pregnancy and labor (very interesting and included a 45 minute session with the therapist). I hope to go to a moms who work get together to get the advice from those moms on how they did it as well. Overall, I've been able to connect with a few other new moms and pregnant ladies which as been great. I'm looking forward to their huge yard sale in September.
There's an update on my summer! Teachers go back to school in 1 week, kids come on the 19th! Time to get into school mode.... after I take a nap!
I've truly been blessed this summer to have a long holiday away from teaching. I've done quite a bit and feel rested and ready to return to my Year 1 classroom at The Australian International School Bangkok in a few weeks. This summer for me has been about three things; 1) Finishing my master's program. 2) Working on completing requirements for my Wisconsin teaching license and 3) Researching what it means to be having a baby! (Let alone a baby in Bangkok!) We also went to the beach! I've also watched a lot of TV, but it's summer!
Finishing My Master's
I have received notice that I have completed all requirements and in August I'll officially graduate from the State University of New York (SUNY)- Buffalo with a MS in Multidisciplinary Studies. My degree program focused on preparing me to a more professional-qualified teacher, especially in an international environment with a diverse student body. I started the program in 2011 when we lived here previously and was forced to stop when we returned to the US in January 2012. It's unique international program that's only offered in co-horts all across the world. Most of the classes met over the weekends at a local school. Professors were either already working in Thailand or nearby countries or were brought to our location just to teach their class. While there were things I did not like about the program (like needing to complete an extra class this summer because I was never notified that some transfer credits would not count), but overall it was an excellent source of professional development and time/$ well spent. I met a great group of friends and other teaching professionals. My professors prove to be great resources and contacts as I continue my career. I'd definitely recommend the program to someone interested.
 |
| My final in class session with Professor Kim (pink shirt) surrounded by some great friends who are either just beginning the program or just finishing with me. |
I would not change my teaching career experiences for anything, however I'm not sure I'd recommend my exact path for everyone. Since graduating in December of 2006 in my BA in Elementary Education/Special Education I have taught full time 5 1/2 years and substitute taught 2 years. All of this across three states and in Thailand. Three different teaching licences= three different hoops of requirements to jump through. That's how after nearly 7 years of experience and being finished with a masters, I'm still working on qualifying for an initial teaching license without any stipulations. Currently, I'm finishing up my minority relations and a environmental education professional development classes to satisfy Wisconsin's unique requirements. If I were a politician I would make professional licensing (teachers, nurses, etc) my issue- it's ridiculous and expensive for everyone involved. Ok, excuse me why I step off my soap box. I love being a teacher and that's why I will jump through hoops. (but I do really hope we never live in any other state!!)  |
| We spent a long holiday weekend in Koh Chang in July as well. We love this island and are loyal customers to a resort on the south side. I think this was our third or fourth time there. We had one beautiful day at the beach and other rainy day spent reading on hammocks under a shelter at our hotel. We enjoyed evening dinners on the pier and even found a shop selling Iowa State T-shirts. It was a lovely get away!! |
We're Having a Baby!
I'll definitely post on this more (my plans for work, gender, expected visitors, etc) soon, but we are having a baby. It still seems surreal to me, but as I post this I'm already 18 weeks along. I found my doctor and my hospital through a friend's recommendation (and our insurance approved list!) and couldn't feel more comfortable and happy.
 |
| My doctor is located at this highly respected and well-known hospital. |
The only baby items we've purchased are a used pack-n-play and maternity clothes. Baby things are SO expensive here it's not even funny. I've connected with different mom (usually spelled mum here, but I won't let that slip into THIS blog) groups here through facebook mostly and realized that buying used is the way to go.
.JPG) |
| New in the US: $80-$100. New in Thailand: $600, Used (can't tell at all) in Thailand: $170 (See what I mean about outrageous!) Here's our pack-in-play set up. I wanted to see it in our space, measure it, etc. However, it's not out permanently yet. It has an infant level and came with a mattress to use as well. It's about as neutral as I've seen advertised and goes quite well with our color scheme. |
I've also joined a Mom to be/Mom & Baby Group that offers classes, resources, and events. I've attended two Babies and Bumps meetings where I learned about baby wearing (a must in a big city that sidewalks aren't stroller friendly) and hypnotherapy techniques to use during pregnancy and labor (very interesting and included a 45 minute session with the therapist). I hope to go to a moms who work get together to get the advice from those moms on how they did it as well. Overall, I've been able to connect with a few other new moms and pregnant ladies which as been great. I'm looking forward to their huge yard sale in September.
 |
| Bangkok Babies and Mothers International |
There's an update on my summer! Teachers go back to school in 1 week, kids come on the 19th! Time to get into school mode.... after I take a nap!
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Part 2: A Tasty City
Have no fear, we are still here! Sorry for the long delayed conclusion to the June post: A Tasty City. We accomplished what we set out to do; never repeating a dinner throughout the entire month. We definitely ate more western food in June than a typical month and ate at overall nicer establishments. It was a treat. Kudos go out to you who noticed I wasn't drinking in any of the postings! We are expecting our first baby around New Years. Enjoy reading this conclusion of our month of eating our way through Thailand! (Pictures in a collage or with one of us we took ourselves, while pictures by themselves were pulled from the internet.)
14 June- Bei Otto (Greg only)
Detail: Traditional German Restaurant on Sukhumvit Soi 20 (same soi as my school). 10 minute walk from MRT/BTS trains at Asoke.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Maibock Beer and Spatzel
Cost: $26
Review: Bei Otto is a great place to meet friends. They offer inside and outside seating and great food. We also like their little market where you can pick up homemade pretzels or sausages to take home. Highly Recommended.
15 June- Chu Chocolate Cafe
Detail: This cafe features all day breakfast as well as lunch/dinner options. Great coffee and other drinks. Located in Interchange Building directly off of BTS skywalk at Asoke.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Roast Beef Panini, Ham and Cheese Panini, fresh lemonades
Cost: $24
Review: Chu is amazing! Everything we've ever had there is divine! Highly Recommended
16 June- Pala Pizza
Detail: Italian Restaurant located between MRT and BTS at Asoke. Offers a small area for sit down service, but there is often a line at their street side window where you can pick up pizza by the slice.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Pizza (Diavola, Brie and Speck, Margarita)
Cost: $10
Review: Our favorite pizza in Bangkok! Highly Recommended.
17 June- Vincent's
Detail: Connected to a small guest house on Soi Ngam Duphli it can be found easily from Lumpini MRT.
Meal: . Dinner
Our Food: Masaman Curry and Som Tum (with rice of course!)
Cost: $15
Review: Vincents is one of our favorite Thai restaurants. They have a lovely covered garden area as well as air conditioned inside seating. Highly recommended.
18 June- Boccone Trattoria
Detail: Restaurant located inside the Ramada Hotel, which is about a 7 minute walk down Sukhumvit Soi 12. We won a gift card to this restaurant in a charity raffle.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Virgin Mojito, Wine (buy 1 get 1 Happy Hour), Fish, Chicken Parmesan, Chocolate Mouse
Cost: $14 (drinks and tip, would have been much much more without the gift certificate)
Review: It was a peaceful setting just off one of Bangkok's busiest roads. However, any environment can be peaceful when you're the only customers. Many of our first choices were not available, but the food we did get was good quality. Not recommended.
20 June- Rich Man Poor Man
Detail: Restaurant and Guest House in Jomtien Beach, hole in the wall with a local feel. Decorated in sports paraphernalia from the US as well as old US license plates.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Pizza, Jalapeno Poppers
Cost: $21
Review: We visit Rich Man Poor Man almost every time we go to Jomtien, which is a few times a year. The owner is from New York and makes wonderful pizza. Honestly everything that comes out of the kitchen smells delicious. Our first time visiting was a few years ago when flash flooding extended our stay by 1 day. As the rain continued to fall we sought shelter inside the same way we enjoy a cozy bar during a snow storm in Wisconsin. Highly Recommended.
21 June- Just Burgers
Detail: Semi-Permanent street stall in Jomtien Beach.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Burgers and Fries
Cost: $16
Review: Another place that we are very loyal to in Jomtien.. Yes, we go to a beach town for burgers and pizza. This is another place we discovered a few years ago on our first trip down from Bangkok. Flame charred burgers fresh off the grill with your choice of imported cheese (including pepper-jack) makes this place great. Highly Recommended.
22 June- Sunrise Tacos
Detail: Mexican food chain in Thailand and Cambodia. Easily accessible from the Saladaeng BTS Station/Silom MRT, we visited the location at the corner of Silom Soi 4.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Tortilla Soup, Taco Salad in a tortilla bowl, Southwestern Taco Salad, water
Cost: $22
Review: We thought the salads were pretty good and with fresh ingredients. We liked the free salsa bar to doctor up our salads to our liking. Recommended.
23 June- Snapper
Detail: A Kiwi owned upscale restaurant known for Fish & Chips. Located just inside Sukhumvit Soi 11 a short walk from Nana BTS.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Fish Fingers, Fish and Chips, IPA beer
Cost: $40
Review: Drinking good beer at a restaurant really adds up fast! However, Snapper is known for it's Fish & Chips for a good reason. Recommended.
25 June- Kenny's
Detail: Thai Bar serving mostly Thai food. Located just behind us on Soi Sribunphen.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Chicken Green Curry, Sun-dried Fried Pork, Local beer and Sprite.
Cost: $13
Review: We love Kenny's and it's one of our go-to Thai places to take visitors. Good service, outside (but covered) setting is perfect for a week night meal or weekend night out. Highly Recommended.
26 June- Pizza Company
Detail: Just like Pizza Hut, a pizza restaurant that offers delivery to your home on a motor bike. What's not to like?
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Hawaiian Pizza (served of course with your side of red pepper flakes, oregano, and of course a Thai favorite: ketchup packets.)
Cost: $12
Review: Pizza Company is our go-to delivery pizza place. We especially like it when they run their buy 1 get 1 deals. Delivered to our door in less than 30 minutes, we can't complain!
27 June- Trajai
Detail: Thai style western steakhouse located on Soi Sribunphen (just opposite Kenny's). 15 minute walk from Lumpini MRT or a short motor bike ride.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Crispy Scalloped Salad, Ham Steak with Baked Potato, Beer Lao Dark, Mango Smoothie
Cost: $16
Review: This is one of our neighborhood favorites for when we want western food. Great service includes peanuts when you sit down, hot bread and butter, and a consistently great meal. Covered outside seating and indoor air-con section make it perfect for any type of weather. Highly Recommended.
28 June- AmCham Picnic
Detail: Picnic/Fair hosted by The American Chamber of Commerce Bangkok at KIS International School. There was a convenient free shuttle from the Huai Kwang MRT station. We paid an entrance fee and then it was the one of those buy tickets, use tickets to get food and drinks. Very American in organization!
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Hot dogs, Cheesy Fries, Beer, Ice Cream cones (free from DQ!)
Cost: $30 (food) $15 (Tickets for entrance)
Review: As with many events like this, it was the friends we were with and the live music that made it fun. A bit overpriced, some really good food, some not, and beer on tap made it feel just like home. Recommended.
29 June- O'Brien's Pub (previously called O'Reilly's)
Detail: Located just off the Saladaeng BTS/Silom MRT spot, this is what you think of when you think of a pub: Dark, yet cozy. Soccer on the TV.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Beef and Guinness Pie, Fish Sticks, Beer and Water
Cost: $32
Review: O'Brian's is one of our go-to pubs in the Silom area. We took my dad here a few years ago for St. Patrick's Day. Good food, a good place to watch sports, and some import beers on tap. Recommended.
30 June- Le Petit Zinc
Detail: French Crepe restaurant located on Yenakart Road about a 15 minute walk from our condo.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Spinach/feta/tomato crepe, Tuna Crepe, Red Wine and Mint Soda
Cost: $30
Review: This cozy little restaurant offers a wide variety of food featuring sweet and savory crepes. This was our first visit and it won't be our last. Highly Recommended.
3 July- Just One
Detail: Thai Seafood restaurant located on the corner of Sathorn Soi 1 and Soi Sribunphen. 15 minute walk from Lumpini MRT.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Steamed Sea Bass with Lemon (limes are called lemons here) and Garlic, Shrimp rolls, coconut Smoothie, Beer
Cost: $18
Review: This place offers a great outdoor atmosphere and can be crowded with tour groups. There is a small indoor setting, but we have never sat there. Highly Recommended.
6 July- Beirut
Detail: Lebanese Restaurant with a few locations throughout the city. Our usual location is on Silom Road just off of the Saladaeng BTS/Silom MRT walkway, but this night we opted for delivery.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Chicken Shawarma wraps and hummus fata
Cost: $17
Review: After visiting Lebanon this past summer, we can say the food here tastes authentic. The only Thai influence is a spicy Thai chili mix that is served with the traditional yogurt and garlic mouse that comes with every meal. Between visiting in person and having it delivered, this may be are most frequented restaurant in the city. Never had a bad meal, Highly Recommended.
14 June- Bei Otto (Greg only)
Detail: Traditional German Restaurant on Sukhumvit Soi 20 (same soi as my school). 10 minute walk from MRT/BTS trains at Asoke.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Maibock Beer and Spatzel
Cost: $26
Review: Bei Otto is a great place to meet friends. They offer inside and outside seating and great food. We also like their little market where you can pick up homemade pretzels or sausages to take home. Highly Recommended.
15 June- Chu Chocolate Cafe
Detail: This cafe features all day breakfast as well as lunch/dinner options. Great coffee and other drinks. Located in Interchange Building directly off of BTS skywalk at Asoke.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Roast Beef Panini, Ham and Cheese Panini, fresh lemonades
Cost: $24
Review: Chu is amazing! Everything we've ever had there is divine! Highly Recommended
16 June- Pala Pizza
Detail: Italian Restaurant located between MRT and BTS at Asoke. Offers a small area for sit down service, but there is often a line at their street side window where you can pick up pizza by the slice.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Pizza (Diavola, Brie and Speck, Margarita)
Cost: $10
Review: Our favorite pizza in Bangkok! Highly Recommended.
17 June- Vincent's
Detail: Connected to a small guest house on Soi Ngam Duphli it can be found easily from Lumpini MRT.
Meal: . Dinner
Our Food: Masaman Curry and Som Tum (with rice of course!)
Cost: $15
Review: Vincents is one of our favorite Thai restaurants. They have a lovely covered garden area as well as air conditioned inside seating. Highly recommended.
18 June- Boccone Trattoria
Detail: Restaurant located inside the Ramada Hotel, which is about a 7 minute walk down Sukhumvit Soi 12. We won a gift card to this restaurant in a charity raffle.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Virgin Mojito, Wine (buy 1 get 1 Happy Hour), Fish, Chicken Parmesan, Chocolate Mouse
Cost: $14 (drinks and tip, would have been much much more without the gift certificate)
Review: It was a peaceful setting just off one of Bangkok's busiest roads. However, any environment can be peaceful when you're the only customers. Many of our first choices were not available, but the food we did get was good quality. Not recommended.
20 June- Rich Man Poor Man
Detail: Restaurant and Guest House in Jomtien Beach, hole in the wall with a local feel. Decorated in sports paraphernalia from the US as well as old US license plates.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Pizza, Jalapeno Poppers
Cost: $21
Review: We visit Rich Man Poor Man almost every time we go to Jomtien, which is a few times a year. The owner is from New York and makes wonderful pizza. Honestly everything that comes out of the kitchen smells delicious. Our first time visiting was a few years ago when flash flooding extended our stay by 1 day. As the rain continued to fall we sought shelter inside the same way we enjoy a cozy bar during a snow storm in Wisconsin. Highly Recommended.
21 June- Just Burgers
Detail: Semi-Permanent street stall in Jomtien Beach.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Burgers and Fries
Cost: $16
Review: Another place that we are very loyal to in Jomtien.. Yes, we go to a beach town for burgers and pizza. This is another place we discovered a few years ago on our first trip down from Bangkok. Flame charred burgers fresh off the grill with your choice of imported cheese (including pepper-jack) makes this place great. Highly Recommended.
 |
| After a day reading at the beach a burger can hit the spot! Greg also enjoyed a drink at the Aussie bar on the way back our guest house. |
22 June- Sunrise Tacos
Detail: Mexican food chain in Thailand and Cambodia. Easily accessible from the Saladaeng BTS Station/Silom MRT, we visited the location at the corner of Silom Soi 4.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Tortilla Soup, Taco Salad in a tortilla bowl, Southwestern Taco Salad, water
Cost: $22
Review: We thought the salads were pretty good and with fresh ingredients. We liked the free salsa bar to doctor up our salads to our liking. Recommended.
23 June- Snapper
Detail: A Kiwi owned upscale restaurant known for Fish & Chips. Located just inside Sukhumvit Soi 11 a short walk from Nana BTS.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Fish Fingers, Fish and Chips, IPA beer
Cost: $40
Review: Drinking good beer at a restaurant really adds up fast! However, Snapper is known for it's Fish & Chips for a good reason. Recommended.
25 June- Kenny's
Detail: Thai Bar serving mostly Thai food. Located just behind us on Soi Sribunphen.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Chicken Green Curry, Sun-dried Fried Pork, Local beer and Sprite.
Cost: $13
Review: We love Kenny's and it's one of our go-to Thai places to take visitors. Good service, outside (but covered) setting is perfect for a week night meal or weekend night out. Highly Recommended.
26 June- Pizza Company
Detail: Just like Pizza Hut, a pizza restaurant that offers delivery to your home on a motor bike. What's not to like?
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Hawaiian Pizza (served of course with your side of red pepper flakes, oregano, and of course a Thai favorite: ketchup packets.)
Cost: $12
Review: Pizza Company is our go-to delivery pizza place. We especially like it when they run their buy 1 get 1 deals. Delivered to our door in less than 30 minutes, we can't complain!
 |
| We weren't using the English version of the site, so this Google translate's take on Pizza is in the Oven. |
27 June- Trajai
Detail: Thai style western steakhouse located on Soi Sribunphen (just opposite Kenny's). 15 minute walk from Lumpini MRT or a short motor bike ride.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Crispy Scalloped Salad, Ham Steak with Baked Potato, Beer Lao Dark, Mango Smoothie
Cost: $16
Review: This is one of our neighborhood favorites for when we want western food. Great service includes peanuts when you sit down, hot bread and butter, and a consistently great meal. Covered outside seating and indoor air-con section make it perfect for any type of weather. Highly Recommended.
28 June- AmCham Picnic
Detail: Picnic/Fair hosted by The American Chamber of Commerce Bangkok at KIS International School. There was a convenient free shuttle from the Huai Kwang MRT station. We paid an entrance fee and then it was the one of those buy tickets, use tickets to get food and drinks. Very American in organization!
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Hot dogs, Cheesy Fries, Beer, Ice Cream cones (free from DQ!)
Cost: $30 (food) $15 (Tickets for entrance)
Review: As with many events like this, it was the friends we were with and the live music that made it fun. A bit overpriced, some really good food, some not, and beer on tap made it feel just like home. Recommended.
 |
| Gotta love the 4th of July Picnic having wrist bands made in China. Our friend Jamethon is showing us the power of his beard. |
29 June- O'Brien's Pub (previously called O'Reilly's)
Detail: Located just off the Saladaeng BTS/Silom MRT spot, this is what you think of when you think of a pub: Dark, yet cozy. Soccer on the TV.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Beef and Guinness Pie, Fish Sticks, Beer and Water
Cost: $32
Review: O'Brian's is one of our go-to pubs in the Silom area. We took my dad here a few years ago for St. Patrick's Day. Good food, a good place to watch sports, and some import beers on tap. Recommended.
30 June- Le Petit Zinc
Detail: French Crepe restaurant located on Yenakart Road about a 15 minute walk from our condo.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Spinach/feta/tomato crepe, Tuna Crepe, Red Wine and Mint Soda
Cost: $30
Review: This cozy little restaurant offers a wide variety of food featuring sweet and savory crepes. This was our first visit and it won't be our last. Highly Recommended.
3 July- Just One
Detail: Thai Seafood restaurant located on the corner of Sathorn Soi 1 and Soi Sribunphen. 15 minute walk from Lumpini MRT.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Steamed Sea Bass with Lemon (limes are called lemons here) and Garlic, Shrimp rolls, coconut Smoothie, Beer
Cost: $18
Review: This place offers a great outdoor atmosphere and can be crowded with tour groups. There is a small indoor setting, but we have never sat there. Highly Recommended.
6 July- Beirut
Detail: Lebanese Restaurant with a few locations throughout the city. Our usual location is on Silom Road just off of the Saladaeng BTS/Silom MRT walkway, but this night we opted for delivery.
Meal: Dinner
Our Food: Chicken Shawarma wraps and hummus fata
Cost: $17
Review: After visiting Lebanon this past summer, we can say the food here tastes authentic. The only Thai influence is a spicy Thai chili mix that is served with the traditional yogurt and garlic mouse that comes with every meal. Between visiting in person and having it delivered, this may be are most frequented restaurant in the city. Never had a bad meal, Highly Recommended.
Monday, June 16, 2014
New Links
If you want to see photos from our recent adventures to Chiang Mai and to Australia you can click on the links to the right. Enjoy!
Saturday, June 14, 2014
A Tasty City
One of our absolute favorite things about living in Bangkok is the food. Bangkok has an amazing street food scene, but also has a seemingly endless supply of Thai and international restaurants. For the month of June we are going to make an effort to document our dining experiences. We eat out a lot here. Our kitchen at home is small and does not have an oven, and Bangkok's dining options are both plentiful and generally affordable. We'll leave out some of our less exciting meals at work and school, but we'll fill you in on some of our outings around town. We'll visit some of our favorite hangouts and try some new places as well. Pictures will be included if we remember to take them.
June 1, Hansaah
Detail: French-Thai Guesthouse and Restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo on Soi Sri Bamphen
Meal: Breakfast
Our food: Home made yogurt, fresh fruit, bread and jam (both made in house), fresh orange juice, actual coffee (not instant coffee which is the norm in Thailand).
Cost: $10
Review: Best breakfast in our neighborhood! Not a huge menu, but everything we've tried has been exceptionally good.
June 1, Street Vendor
Detail: Middle Eastern kebab cart, near BTS Ratchathewi train station
Meal: Supper
Our food: Chicken kebab wraps
Cost: $4
Review: When your menu consists of only 1 item, you better do it well, and they do.
June 2, Bangkok Bagel Bakery
Detail: American bagel shop, near BTS Chitlom train station
Meal: Lunch
Our food: Bagel sandwiches and raspberry lime-aid
Cost: $17
Review: Expensive by Bangkok standards, but the food is great. Besides excellent bagels, the house cured meats are of uniquely high quality for Thailand. Most of the recipes were created by our friend Brock who was the chef when we live here the first time. He's no longer in Bangkok, but his bagel legacy lives on.
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June 2, Om Yim
Detail: Thai Restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo on Soi Sri Bamphen
Meal: Supper
Our food: Ginger chicken, spicy garlic and lime pork, rice, one beer.
Cost: $10
Review: Decent Thai food at a good price. The tables are outside and only a few meters from a busy intersection so there is a fair bit of traffic noise and no air conditioning. The menu is large and while we haven't been blown away by the food here, everything we've tried has been fairly good.
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June 3, Little Italy
Detail: Italian pizza by the slice, near BTS Asok and MRT Sukhumvit interchange station.
Meal: Supper
Our food: 2 large slices of pizza
Cost: $3
Review: This is the first time we've tried this place, and probably the last. It tasted like really cheap pizza.
June 4, The Londonder
Detail: English pub and microbrewery near BTS Phrom Phong train staion.
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Shepherd's pie, baked macaroni and cheese, and two pints.
Cost: $27
Review: It was the first time we've been here, and we'll be back. Good pub food and the beer was decent as well.
June 5, Everything Food and Drink
Detail: Thai restaurant, 5 minute walk from our condo on Soi Ngam Duphli
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Spicy fruit salad, coconut chicken soup (Tom Ka Gai) with rice
Cost: $8
Review: This tiny shop is on a busy side street and is easy to miss just walking by, but the food is good. Seating is inside and you get air conditioning which is rare for a lower cost Thai restaurant.
June 6, Mali
Detail: Western / Thai pub restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo on Sathorn Soi 1
Meal: Supper
Our Food: "Fish burger" for Mary and the "Super Burger" for Greg. One large Chang beer and one lime smoothie.
Cost: $16
Review: Mali has a somewhat bizarre mix of Asian and western food in an eccentrically decorated pub style restaurant. Menu options include pasta, burgers, Thai and Malaysian dishes, pancakes, and chimichangas. This is my neighborhood go to place for a burger. The "Super Burger" is not the best burger in town, but it is acceptable and within walking distance of our condo (I'll review the best burger in town later on). It comes with a fried egg, cheese, and a thick slice of pineapple. The "Michigan Potato Salad" is my preferred side dish. They have both indoor and outdoor seating options.
June 7, Fatty's Bar and Diner
Detail: Wisconsin dive bar, 10 minute walk from MRT Rama 9 station on Thanon Din Dang
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Jalapeno poppers, Fatty's Fat Sandwich (buffalo chicken and sausage), Cream Cheese Burger, beers
Cost: $25
Review: Tastes and feels like you could actually be in Wisconsin. For us that makes this the greatest restaurant in Bangkok. Meeting up with other displaced Americans helps complete the atmosphere.
June 8, Sizzler
Detail: American chain restaurant, near BTS Sala Daeng
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Salad Bar and water
Cost: $13
Review: We go here for the salad bar only. They have steak, pasta, baked potatoes, and other American food on the menu as well, although we've never tried any of these items. A good salad bar is tough to find in Bangkok and that's what brings us into Sizzler every time.
June 9, Sun Moon House
Detail: Chinese restaurant, 5 minute walk from our condo on Soi Ngam Duphli
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Pork dumplings, garlic brazed green beans, stuffed peppers, iced green tea
Cost: $13
Review: This is one of those places you walk by and based on the look of the place would probably never stop. The dingy tile floor, wobbly utilitarian tables, and bare fluorescent lights don't create much of an atmosphere. Go inside and you find a staff that often seems unhappy to see you. Yet, this place is always packed! And with good reason, the food here is famously delicious. Their dumplings in particular make this tiny hole in the wall restaurant one of Bangkok's top dining destinations. It's convenient that it's just a few minutes from where we live, so we only stop when there's no wait for a table (which doesn't happen very often).
June 10, Home
Detail: Yes we can still cook, we just don't do it very often
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Home made chicken and avocado wraps, sweet potato fries, milk
Cost: Ingredient cost of about $12
Review: Delicious and slightly cheaper than going out for western food. Comes with a great view.
June 11, Lido
Detail: Italian restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Pizza, baked spinach with mozzarella, 1 cantaloupe shake, 1 Chang beer
Cost: $18
Review: One of the better Italian restaurants in Bangkok. The location on a quiet dead end ally makes it a little hard to find, but they have a large and loyal customer base that has been built by providing great Italian food for many years. Their prices are quite reasonable compared to many other Italian places in Bangkok. We like their pizza, but they have many great pasta dishes as well.
June 12, Tacos and Salsa
Detail: Mexican restaurant, Sukhumvit Soi 18, 10 minute walk from Asok BTS Station
Meal: Supper, just Mary with school friends.
Mary's Food: Tortilla soup, lemonade
Cost: $8
Review: Probably our favorite Mexican restaurant in Bangkok. We visit regularly. Mary met for dinner and a book club with some other teacher friends.
June 13, Beirut delivery
Detail: Lebanese restaurant, delivered by motorbike
Meal: Supper for Greg at home
Greg's Food: Shawarma chicken sandwich
Cost: $6
Review: Delicious and convenient. Mary had an end of the school year buffet lunch and wasn't hungry for supper. I was busy finishing up some things for work, so delivery sounded like a good idea. Beirut has a whole menu full of delicious Lebanese food and we enjoy going in person, but it's nice to live in a city where delivery services are cheap and abundant when you need it.
June 14, Firehouse Pub and Restaurant
Detail: American restaurant, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 10 minute walk from Nana BTS Station
Meal: Lunch
Greg's Food: California Burger (cheese, tomato, onion, avocado), potato wedges, chicken wings, 1 beer, 1 soda water
Cost: $26
Review: The Firehouse has the best burger in town. Hands down, if you want an amazing burger in Bangkok, this is the place to go. The prices reflect their premium product, but it's worth the cost once in a while. We met up with some US co-workers for lunch. Everyone seemed quite satisfied with their meals.
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June 1, Hansaah
Detail: French-Thai Guesthouse and Restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo on Soi Sri Bamphen
Meal: Breakfast
Our food: Home made yogurt, fresh fruit, bread and jam (both made in house), fresh orange juice, actual coffee (not instant coffee which is the norm in Thailand).
Cost: $10
Review: Best breakfast in our neighborhood! Not a huge menu, but everything we've tried has been exceptionally good.
June 1, Street Vendor
Detail: Middle Eastern kebab cart, near BTS Ratchathewi train station
Meal: Supper
Our food: Chicken kebab wraps
Cost: $4
Review: When your menu consists of only 1 item, you better do it well, and they do.
June 2, Bangkok Bagel Bakery
Detail: American bagel shop, near BTS Chitlom train station
Meal: Lunch
Our food: Bagel sandwiches and raspberry lime-aid
Cost: $17
Review: Expensive by Bangkok standards, but the food is great. Besides excellent bagels, the house cured meats are of uniquely high quality for Thailand. Most of the recipes were created by our friend Brock who was the chef when we live here the first time. He's no longer in Bangkok, but his bagel legacy lives on.
June 2, Om Yim
Detail: Thai Restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo on Soi Sri Bamphen
Meal: Supper
Our food: Ginger chicken, spicy garlic and lime pork, rice, one beer.
Cost: $10
Review: Decent Thai food at a good price. The tables are outside and only a few meters from a busy intersection so there is a fair bit of traffic noise and no air conditioning. The menu is large and while we haven't been blown away by the food here, everything we've tried has been fairly good.
June 3, Little Italy
Detail: Italian pizza by the slice, near BTS Asok and MRT Sukhumvit interchange station.
Meal: Supper
Our food: 2 large slices of pizza
Cost: $3
Review: This is the first time we've tried this place, and probably the last. It tasted like really cheap pizza.
June 4, The Londonder
Detail: English pub and microbrewery near BTS Phrom Phong train staion.
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Shepherd's pie, baked macaroni and cheese, and two pints.
Cost: $27
Review: It was the first time we've been here, and we'll be back. Good pub food and the beer was decent as well.
Detail: Thai restaurant, 5 minute walk from our condo on Soi Ngam Duphli
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Spicy fruit salad, coconut chicken soup (Tom Ka Gai) with rice
Cost: $8
Review: This tiny shop is on a busy side street and is easy to miss just walking by, but the food is good. Seating is inside and you get air conditioning which is rare for a lower cost Thai restaurant.
June 6, Mali
Detail: Western / Thai pub restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo on Sathorn Soi 1
Meal: Supper
Our Food: "Fish burger" for Mary and the "Super Burger" for Greg. One large Chang beer and one lime smoothie.
Cost: $16
Review: Mali has a somewhat bizarre mix of Asian and western food in an eccentrically decorated pub style restaurant. Menu options include pasta, burgers, Thai and Malaysian dishes, pancakes, and chimichangas. This is my neighborhood go to place for a burger. The "Super Burger" is not the best burger in town, but it is acceptable and within walking distance of our condo (I'll review the best burger in town later on). It comes with a fried egg, cheese, and a thick slice of pineapple. The "Michigan Potato Salad" is my preferred side dish. They have both indoor and outdoor seating options.
June 7, Fatty's Bar and Diner
Detail: Wisconsin dive bar, 10 minute walk from MRT Rama 9 station on Thanon Din Dang
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Jalapeno poppers, Fatty's Fat Sandwich (buffalo chicken and sausage), Cream Cheese Burger, beers
Cost: $25
Review: Tastes and feels like you could actually be in Wisconsin. For us that makes this the greatest restaurant in Bangkok. Meeting up with other displaced Americans helps complete the atmosphere.
Detail: American chain restaurant, near BTS Sala Daeng
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Salad Bar and water
Cost: $13
Review: We go here for the salad bar only. They have steak, pasta, baked potatoes, and other American food on the menu as well, although we've never tried any of these items. A good salad bar is tough to find in Bangkok and that's what brings us into Sizzler every time.
June 9, Sun Moon House
Detail: Chinese restaurant, 5 minute walk from our condo on Soi Ngam Duphli
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Pork dumplings, garlic brazed green beans, stuffed peppers, iced green tea
Cost: $13
Review: This is one of those places you walk by and based on the look of the place would probably never stop. The dingy tile floor, wobbly utilitarian tables, and bare fluorescent lights don't create much of an atmosphere. Go inside and you find a staff that often seems unhappy to see you. Yet, this place is always packed! And with good reason, the food here is famously delicious. Their dumplings in particular make this tiny hole in the wall restaurant one of Bangkok's top dining destinations. It's convenient that it's just a few minutes from where we live, so we only stop when there's no wait for a table (which doesn't happen very often).
June 10, Home
Detail: Yes we can still cook, we just don't do it very often
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Home made chicken and avocado wraps, sweet potato fries, milk
Cost: Ingredient cost of about $12
Review: Delicious and slightly cheaper than going out for western food. Comes with a great view.
Detail: Italian restaurant, 10 minute walk from our condo
Meal: Supper
Our Food: Pizza, baked spinach with mozzarella, 1 cantaloupe shake, 1 Chang beer
Cost: $18
Review: One of the better Italian restaurants in Bangkok. The location on a quiet dead end ally makes it a little hard to find, but they have a large and loyal customer base that has been built by providing great Italian food for many years. Their prices are quite reasonable compared to many other Italian places in Bangkok. We like their pizza, but they have many great pasta dishes as well.
June 12, Tacos and Salsa
Detail: Mexican restaurant, Sukhumvit Soi 18, 10 minute walk from Asok BTS Station
Meal: Supper, just Mary with school friends.
Mary's Food: Tortilla soup, lemonade
Cost: $8
Review: Probably our favorite Mexican restaurant in Bangkok. We visit regularly. Mary met for dinner and a book club with some other teacher friends.
June 13, Beirut delivery
Detail: Lebanese restaurant, delivered by motorbike
Meal: Supper for Greg at home
Greg's Food: Shawarma chicken sandwich
Cost: $6
Review: Delicious and convenient. Mary had an end of the school year buffet lunch and wasn't hungry for supper. I was busy finishing up some things for work, so delivery sounded like a good idea. Beirut has a whole menu full of delicious Lebanese food and we enjoy going in person, but it's nice to live in a city where delivery services are cheap and abundant when you need it.
June 14, Firehouse Pub and Restaurant
Detail: American restaurant, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 10 minute walk from Nana BTS Station
Meal: Lunch
Greg's Food: California Burger (cheese, tomato, onion, avocado), potato wedges, chicken wings, 1 beer, 1 soda water
Cost: $26
Review: The Firehouse has the best burger in town. Hands down, if you want an amazing burger in Bangkok, this is the place to go. The prices reflect their premium product, but it's worth the cost once in a while. We met up with some US co-workers for lunch. Everyone seemed quite satisfied with their meals.
We'll add more updates as June progresses. For now, I'll end with a map of the places we've visited so far this month.
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Coup Update
A week ago I made fun of the poorly informed news coverage from Vancouver on the recent military coup in Thailand (no, there was not a coup in Taiwan). While I do love a good opportunity to poke fun at Canada, the U.S. really isn't much better. The L.A. Times got the headline okay, but the caption under the picture in the article below gave me a good laugh. The picture of the supposedly empty Bangkok airport was not taken at the airport at all, but rather at the Terminal 21 Mall in central Bangkok. And yes, the mall was closed at the time of the photo (malls do close at night, even in Bangkok).
On a side note, if you ever visit Bangkok and need to go to a mall, Terminal 21 is a cool one. Every floor is designed to represent a different international city, with the escalators in between the floors designed to be airport gates. My favorite floor is Istanbul where all the shops are done like Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, although I do also enjoy stopping for a bathroom break in Tokyo, or catching a movie in Hollywood.
Getting back on topic, the military has been in control of Thailand for a week and a half now. Recent statements from the military leaders indicate elections could be 15 months away, so it is quite possibly we will live out the rest of our time here under military rule. Initially the 10 PM curfew felt a little bit like I was back in high school, but now that the curfew has been relaxed to midnight I can return to my self imposed 9PM bed time.
The military has stopped much of the political protesting, although some isolated anti-coup protests have popped up. Some have involved gatherings of hundreds of people, but most have been very small. Any public gathering of 5 or more people is technically banned right now. So is saying anything negative against the military. Gatherings of 4 people, silently reading books in public locations are how Thais have taken to expressing their sentiment.
Small gatherings like the one above have not drawn much response from the military, but larger gatherings have drawn a strong military response. The Victory Monument area in Bangkok has been the focus of a number of demonstrations followed up by the military making arrests. When news of a demonstration hits social media the military is usually not far behind.
For us, life is still continuing as normal. There have been no protests in our neighborhood, and the military is busy elsewhere in the city. The army bunker that was stationed outside our condo gate for months is now gone, and I haven't seen any military in our neighborhood in a few weeks now.
On a side note, if you ever visit Bangkok and need to go to a mall, Terminal 21 is a cool one. Every floor is designed to represent a different international city, with the escalators in between the floors designed to be airport gates. My favorite floor is Istanbul where all the shops are done like Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, although I do also enjoy stopping for a bathroom break in Tokyo, or catching a movie in Hollywood.
Getting back on topic, the military has been in control of Thailand for a week and a half now. Recent statements from the military leaders indicate elections could be 15 months away, so it is quite possibly we will live out the rest of our time here under military rule. Initially the 10 PM curfew felt a little bit like I was back in high school, but now that the curfew has been relaxed to midnight I can return to my self imposed 9PM bed time.
The military has stopped much of the political protesting, although some isolated anti-coup protests have popped up. Some have involved gatherings of hundreds of people, but most have been very small. Any public gathering of 5 or more people is technically banned right now. So is saying anything negative against the military. Gatherings of 4 people, silently reading books in public locations are how Thais have taken to expressing their sentiment.
Small gatherings like the one above have not drawn much response from the military, but larger gatherings have drawn a strong military response. The Victory Monument area in Bangkok has been the focus of a number of demonstrations followed up by the military making arrests. When news of a demonstration hits social media the military is usually not far behind.
For us, life is still continuing as normal. There have been no protests in our neighborhood, and the military is busy elsewhere in the city. The army bunker that was stationed outside our condo gate for months is now gone, and I haven't seen any military in our neighborhood in a few weeks now.
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