Unavowed
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Posts posted by Unavowed
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I've only flown Singapore regionally but I would be pretty annoyned had I paid for a full service airline and got a crap experience. Thai fly the A350 between Sydney and Bangkok and I find economy to be more than bearable as someone around 178cm and 90(ish!) kgs. Pretty good food and service too, and while it's business class is not in the top tier it's pretty good especially when there are sale fares. Qantas and the Finnair wet-lease A330 is pretty terrible by comparison even though the price is comparable to Thai. Tighter seating, noisy cabin, and poor to average service and food. I'll only use Qantas/Finnair if I have points to burn.
FYI - the Thai authorities have released the "Thim" app (Thai immigration bureau) where you can pre-fill your personal details, including a scan of your passport and then when you're ready to travel you can put in the dates against your profile for your travel declaration. It saves having to put in all the details for every trip on the website and is similar to the Singapore immigration app if you've used that before.
Long John and Markm reacted to this -
I only wanted to add this as a notice because you are hoping for some "stability" right now while planning to travel in the near future, and I would love myself to see that "stability" as well (we all want that), but in addition to the visa getting reduced soon (or at least that's what they say everyday for a couple of months now already), the "stability" seems a little uncertain, still.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3257580/thailand-ends-60day-visafree-stay?tbref=hp
Not law just yet but expect the changes to go through soonMark22 reacted to this -
Hotel rates will depend on the season. In Bangkok I will spend most of my stay at the Mecure on Soi 11 and rates have varied between AUD$140 in the low season to $210 over New Year. The Hyatt Regency and Sofitel seem to be anywhere from AUD$240 to $300+ for a basic room (more if you want lounge access). In Pattaya I'm more than happy with the Holiday Inn Express which can range between AUD$65 to $85 a night. Personally, I do like the extra luxury at the end of a trip, but as a minimum I do want a modern, quiet and clean room with decent bedding, towels, good cleaning service and air conditioning - and all in a good location too. A good gym and pool is nice too.
I won't compromise much as I'm past the age where I'm out all night and day and being able to have a comfortable space to rest and relax is important to me. But everyone has their own priorities and budgets.
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With my frequent visits to Thailand to see the temples and eat street food (*cough*) it has made sense for me to sign up to the Accor+ program as it more than pays for itself. One of the main benefits is the free nights offer and I used this recently to stay at the Sofitel.
I usually stay in mid-level hotels like the Mercure on Soi 11 and the Holiday Inn Express in Pattaya but often like a nicer hotel to finish my trip when the rates are good in the off-season. My usual go-to is the Hyatt Regency which I very much like, and this was my first time at the Sofitel where I spent 4-nights. I booked a 'luxury' room with club access so I could compare it to the Hyatt, but I was upgraded to a junior suite which makes it an unfair to compare rooms.
What I will say is that the size of the bed, its comfort and the quality of the bedding is on par with the Hyatt. The bathroom amenities are similar as is the quality and responsiveness of the cleaning services. The main difference was the rooftop bar area, lounge, gym, and overall quality of service.
- Spectrum at the Hyatt is a more 'showy' place, it's got spectacular views and its where tourist like to visit for the skyline and the vibe. Belga at the Sofitel is really an outside terrace and lower key with a discreet service sort of vibe. I've taken LB guests to both and they enjoyed it and the staff treated them with respect. Also, you can get a 30% discount on food and drink at Sofitel with Accor+ which is a good benefit. I have been given a couple of free drink vouchers at the Hyatt but not always.
- The lounge at the Hyatt is small and can get busy, but the lounge at the Sofitel is one can get lost in and takes up an entire floor, but most people congregate near the food area. Food and drink offerings are broadly on par, maybe the wine is better at the Sofitel
- The gym at both hotels are good, but the Sofitel is far better for my needs. Unfortunately the pool at the Sofitel was closed for refurbishment so can't compare those.
- Service standards are very good at both hotels, but I would put Sofitel ahead here. Its just that bit more attentive and personalised.
- You can also walk direct from Nana BTS to the Hyatt under the covered skywalk, and from Asok to the Sofitel using the footbridge but the Sofitel access is covered all the way so you won't get caught out if its raining (although not sure if that access is 24/7).
I will still be using Hyatt as part of my points collection strategy and to maintain my current status but the main driver when deciding between either will be the cost, including club access. Hyatt is usually cheaper but using Accor+ benefits and reward points can balance this out. Overall, both are very good hotels that you can spend all day in especially if you have lounge access, and of course its very guest friendly! It's a case of give each one a try and see which one gives you the best value. Either way I don't think you will go to far wrong if you want a better standard of accommodation near the action.
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It’s scary how good it’s getting. Still a lot of contextual clues give it away, but no doubt it will get better and better.
With that video it reminds me of a joke:
My son told me he’s dating a model. You can imagine how disappointed I was when I found out he meant AI
SAGuy reacted to this -
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If you're a regular traveller and like Accor hotels then the Accor Plus membership is a good option. It's been refreshed recently and the main benefit is if you book two nights or more, you can get one night free (the most expensive night). You get two of these, plus 15% off above your usual member rate, discounts on dining (never used) and higher status which can give you late check-out options. I've used it to book a few nights at the Sofitel for the first time to end my upcoming trip (I'm curious to see how it compares to the Hyatt). I've found that Accor Plus has more than paid for itself, but of course you need to run your own numbers to see if it benefits you.
taaseesanuk reacted to this -
9 hours ago, Mark22 said:Thanks for that, have had a look and it does seems a straightforward inexpensive option.
My concern would be getting rumbled at Thai Immigration and then as you've basically cheated the system getting refused entry.
Has anyone heard of that ever happening ?
Just checked my last Digital Arrival card and onward travel is definitely required on the form.
Unless you have history of overstaying you will be fine. I've been asked once or twice when I'm leaving Thailand and have showed them my (genuine) return flight booking in an app. They're not going to get it forensically analysed, all they want to know is if you're a genuine tourist and not going to overstay. If you're really worried then book the cheapest flight you can find to Cambodia, Malaysia or Indonesia.
Mark22 reacted to this -
I've travelled before to BKK on a one way ticket, but also had a ticket out booked as well. However no one asked about the return ticket, so how did they know it existed or would it somehow appear on the airlines systems even though I was using different airlines ?
Reason for asking is I want to book another one way but as I'm not sure how long I'm staying and so would prefer not to book a return until I'm ready.
I'm guessing booking the fully refundable return ticket is probably still the best option.
Just checked with Emirates and a Flex Plus ticket states Complimentary Cancellation/ or 300US Cancellation charge if you're a no show. Seems you have to go to Modify My Booking to request the cancellation and then complete an online refund form as well.
All this seems a pain and of course have to shell out the 37,565 Baht for the ticket as well.
Try this: https://onwardticket.com/enMark22 reacted to this -
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They normally charge 1k THB deposit per night. But, 19k sounded little high to me, so we agreed on 5k
Thanks for the review@Denbosch1971
Asking for a 1k deposit per day is ridiculous. You mentioned that you used loyalty points so assume you use Accor hotels regularly in which case I can only guess the deposit request is due to the location and perhaps some ‘difficult’ guests!
I’ve stayed at the Novotel in Soi 22 (or was it 24) and find this brand to be a solid choice. -
Sometimes ciproflaxacin will clear prolonged symptoms at least for me. Cipro was first recommended and prescribed to me by my doctor ahead of my first trip (along with a typhoid vaccine). I usually don't have issues however over the three years that I lived in LoS it occasionally happened. When it did cipro almost always did the trick.
During my three years in LoS I also learned to be very careful with dairy products. As anyone who has visited a Thai market has probably noticed, Thai people have very casual attitudes when it comes to refrigerating food. On several occasions I've had GI issues after eating cheeses, yogurt etc from Tops, Big C etc. - places you'd think would be safe. My take was that just because something is cold in the deli case doesn't mean it didn't sit out on the loading dock in 90+ degree heat for a few hours.
I had a Thai doctor prescribe Norfloxacin 400 some years ago and when I asked a pharmacist for this time ago he recommended Ciprofloxacin as this was a more potent antibiotic for more persistent cases.
With the changes in time zone, more boozing, different food etc stomach issues are not uncommon but avoid antibiotics unless it really is persistent.
Another good option are charcoal tablets you can pick up from 7/11 which is helpful to settle your stomach after a rough night!steve54 reacted to this -
Hello. I have booked a flight to Bangkok for November. Is it possible to complete the arrival information now or do I have to wait until 3 days before I travel?
Thanks
Strictly three days before. Same for Singapore and Malaysia tooCJ-BLF reacted to this -
The Ban Rak area is also great to visit. Short walk to Talat Noi and then up to China Town. It’s good to have these reviews as I like to take a break from lower Suk.
One of my favourite spots even though focused on tourists is Jacks Bar which is not far away. Just a great spot if you want a few relaxed afternoon beers by the river. Cheap prices, decent food and opposite Icon Siam where you can watch the comings and goings on the Chai Phraya.Genghis reacted to this -
A vaguely related question since the OP asked about travel, but is the (supposed) crackdown on not wearing helmets on moto taxis being enforced or has this gone back to normal now? If I go to Thonglo I usually take the BTS and then a moto from the corner and don’t fancy a 2,000 baht fine!
Edisto reacted to this -
I stayed at both the Soi 11 and then Soi 8 locations for around 3-4 nights each recently. I would say you get good value for money, and if I had to choose I would go for the Soi 11 location despite the street noise simply because I found the Soi 8 location too far down the way (and I couldn't get the tuk tuk to collect me using Line!). The gym at each location was pretty basic, but good enough for a decent workout.
That said, it's unlikely that I would book either of these again as I think there are better options for the same or marginally higher prices that make up for either the street noise (Soi 11) or distance to the action (Soi 8). For Soi 11 I would go for the Mercure every time, especially as they always put me at the back of the building where its quiet. But as @Denbosch1971 points out in the review above, for a long stay you get a big room for a reasonable price, but don't expect 5 star quality.
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Just to add to this, I stayed here for five nights at the end of my recent trip. It was my first stay at this particular Hyatt hotel and it was very good. I had a standard room and found it to be a good size and well laid out; the fixtures and fittings were in good condition; big and comfortable bed with nice bedding, and for they also took account of my request for plenty of towels (I just need to shower more in the heat and I also have guests!). The room service team were responsive and excellent too.
I didn't bother with breakfast or go to the restaurant area with all the options available locally, but they had a pretty decent gym, but could do with dumbells heavier than 20kgs but at least you can load the machines up more. The pool area is nice to chill, especially in the evening and I even spotted a video games corner if you're into that too. I went up to the rooftop bar twice. The first on my own where I used a discount voucher I was given when I checked in. The staff gave me an extra discount on a second drink without asking, and the second time with a LB guest. The staff there were nothing but polite, respectful and always helpful. Front desk and concierge were excellent, and of course absolutely no issue with bringing back guests.
Sure its pricey, but its in a great location and while it wouldn't be my 'primary' hotel its definitely somewhere I would go if I wanted a bit more luxury.
sydney69er reacted to this -
This forum, built on ancient technology, so it’s no wonder it barely functions or, in some cases, doesn’t function at all.
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Maybe so but it’s free and I don’t imagine the mods make a baht giving up their time to give us a space to share our ‘unique’ interests! -
They’ve finally finished the terrace at the Landmark. I walked past earlier and seems to be a few bars and restaurants.
The Landmark is at least quieter if you’re a light sleeper but the Adelphi is not if you get a room facing the Soi. I also remember the water temperature and pressure being temperamental at the Adelphi. But the rooms are bigger and better laid out in the Adelphi. At a push I’d go for the Adelphi and hope for a quieter roomEdisto reacted to this -
I was surprised there weren't any direct flights from the US. It must have been a pain getting to Thailand especially with most US companies offering so little personal leave.
I'm glad that it's "only" a 9 hour flight from Australia. The daytime Thai airways flights are fine, but I'm definitely getting to the point that I need to book business class or a stopover for anything longer than that or when it involves an overnight leg.
sydney69er and dododog reacted to this -
It can happen. Even though they are ‘working’ LBs get horny and sometimes test the boundaries or maybe just drunk. It’s happened to me and it’s about maintaining your boundaries. If it’s consensual then that’s up to you to weigh the risk.
I expect most do take PrEP but of course that doesn’t prevent other STDs. Despite always using condoms I will get checked when I arrive home.
I have had one situation where she told me that the condom broke (this can happen) and I was happy that she was honest with me about it.mike746 and Jairockz reacted to this -
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On 2/2/2025 at 5:25 PM, Mr Barron said:There is a $150 difference between the Hyatt regency and the Mercure. I love the Hyatt chain generally and prefer a nice hotel, but I’m leaning towards the Mercure given the big price gap.
anyone think I should spurge and go for Hyatt? I can afford it but I’m thinking just in terms of best place. I’m keen to be close to the action but also value a good sleep and feeling of cleanliness.
No problem with the cleanliness and getting a good sleep at the Mercure if that important. But do ask for a room at the back of the hotel to avoid the noise from Soi 11. The Hyatt is more central in terms of being close to CIB, Cindy's and WN. Mercure is barely 60-seconds from Cindy's and still an easy walk to the other bars. I've not stayed at the Hyatt Regency to given an opinion (I did stay at the Grand Hyatt Erawan), but it's your money and while you can expect better quality at the Hyatt, I would say its for you to decide if $150 a night is better spent on accommodation or entertainment.
Mr Barron reacted to this -
I had a good deal on this hotel when I booked early, about a 20% discount compared to the other Marriot hotels that I stay in. It is of course in a great location, especially to CIB and an easy walk to Cindy's too. The room was spacious with a good layout, the bed and the bedding very comfortable (and a good size for company) with decent storage and a desk area too. No additional sofa like you find at the Mercure on Soi 11 though.
The bathroom had a bath but nothing supplied to add to it, the shower was small and awkward to get into and with a fixed head which was annoying. The sink plug didn't work either. The gym was basic, but not the worst (dumbells only and up to 50lbs) and the swimming pool small. I didn't bother with breakfast or go to the bar. It does have a good cut through out the back to Asok station which was useful.
Overall, I think this is a pretty average hotel for the price and compared to other (comparable) Marriot hotels. I didn't really take advantage of the location to bring LBs back (only twice) so others might value the location more, but I think you can get better value elsewhere. I won't be back and will stick with Phrom Phong or Chit Lom in the future.
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in Technology and I.T Forum
Posted
I buy a roaming pack from my local provider in Aus. It’s not too expensive and i know i might get a better deal with a Thai eSim but I’m too lazy to figure out how it works and if I have to somehow switch between two different numbers e.g. if I get 2FA texts to my home number etc.