The Sanctuary of Truth | Pattaya, Thailand

The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, Thailand, stands as an awe-inspiring testament to traditional craftsmanship and philosophical depth. Constructed entirely of wood, this massive structure soars to a height of 105 meters, embodying a fusion of art, culture, and faith. The sanctuary, a brainchild of Thai businessman Lek Viriyaphant, is a unique architectural feat, showcasing intricate carvings that depict stories and teachings from Buddhism and Hinduism. It’s more than just a building; it's a reflection of the complex interplay of Eastern spiritual beliefs, portrayed through stunning sculptures and design elements that capture centuries of religious art and mythology.

This majestic structure is not just a place of worship, but a monumental artwork that transcends conventional religious boundaries. Each carving, each pillar tells a story, weaving a tapestry of moral and philosophical teachings. The Sanctuary of Truth is a reminder of the universal truths that underpin different faiths, emphasizing the commonalities in the quest for meaning and enlightenment. Its location by the sea adds to its mystical allure, with the ocean's vastness complementing the grandeur of this architectural marvel.

However, despite its grandiosity and deep symbolism, the Sanctuary of Truth can be a conundrum for visitors. It's not a temple in the traditional sense, nor is it an ancient site imbued with historical legacies. This recent construction, an amalgamation of various religious beliefs, might puzzle those seeking a pure, singular religious experience. But it’s worth acknowledging the vision and ambition behind its creation. It's commendable how Lek Viriyaphant utilized his resources, not just for personal gain, but to create something that sparks deep thought and appreciation for the diversity of spiritual narratives. While it may not fit neatly into conventional categories, the Sanctuary of Truth stands as a testament to human creativity and the pursuit of philosophical and artistic excellence.

*I had to wear those brown pants because my gym shorts were “too short” despite acknowledging the fact this was indeed, not a temple.

Donating Clothes

In the last weeks of 2023 and the beginning of 2024, I set a simple goal: gather 50kg of clothes for charity. Little did I know, this journey would turn into an avalanche of generosity, leading to a mountain of over 80kg of clothes, shoes, belts, purses, and more, thanks to the incredible support of friends and the local community.

I placed a donation box in my gym, which became a small beacon of communal goodwill. The response was overwhelming, and the box quickly filled.

The next hurdle was finding the right charity. My criteria were specific: no religious affiliations, just a direct, human-to-human connection. That's when I stumbled upon Eiamdee Recycle. This morning, as the founder himself picked up the donations, he shared his plan to collaborate with a local laundromat. Every piece we collected will be washed, sorted, and then find a new home in orphanages, schools, and with those in dire need.

This experience was a reminder of the power of community and the impact of collective action. I set out to gather 50kg of clothes, but ended up with something much heavier: a profound sense of connection and the undeniable proof that when we come together, we can create waves of positive change.

For those inspired to join this wave, reach out at +66 093 132 9168 or visit Eiamdee’s Facebook page: เอี่ยมดี.

2023 New Year’s Eve

New Year's Eve in Chiang Mai was an eclectic mix of tradition and mild chaos, where even the anarchists couldn't resist scaling Tha Phae Gate. The city buzzed with energy, teeming with people, pulsating live performances, and an endless playlist of music. We clinked drinks under a canopy of lanterns, which painted the sky in hues of hope and adventure, although a few rebellious ones chose the embrace of trees, much to the audience's dismay.

For my personal 2023 escapades, I embraced the art of brevity through daily haikus. You can sneak a peek at these mini-literary escapades here.

I read 5 books, though not my best effort. Condo renovations took up a lot of my time in 2023, so I’ll work on upping that number for 2024.

1. Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World — Haruki Murakami

2. Never Split The Difference — Chris Voss

3. Fugitive Pieces — Anne Michaels

4. Atomic Habits — James Clear

5. The Godfather of Kathmandu — John Burdett

As we embark on this new orbit around the sun, I extend a heartfelt wish for a splendid 2024 to all. Here we are, standing at the threshold of a fresh chapter, ready to fill its pages with new adventures, lessons, and laughter. Let's dive into this year with the enthusiasm of explorers and the wisdom of sages. Happy New Year, and here's to a journey worth sharing every Sunday! 🌟🗓️🎉

2024 Goals

2024 Outlook:
I don't have major plans for 2024. My focus will be on simpler, more grounded goals, avoiding substantial changes or large-scale expenditures. Notably, I don't intend to purchase additional property, embark on significant travels outside of Asia, or undergo other major life alterations. However, I do anticipate seeking a new job, a prospect that doesn't excite me, but I recognize as a part of life's unpredictability.

Financial Reflections:
Lately, my thoughts have been centered on financial matters — strategies for earning, optimizing, and understanding the essence of "good" income. In Chiang Mai, where I reside, discussions about wealth are uncommon, and ostentatious displays of affluence are rare. Yet, questions about financial security, such as adequate savings for retirement and ways to increase my income, frequently occupy my mind. While I earn enough for a comfortable life in Thailand, I'm conscious of not getting overly fixated on finances, as this has previously added unnecessary stress. In 2023, such concerns were a source of tension, and I aim to be more mindful of my attitude towards money in the coming year.

Recent Purchase:
I upgraded my laptop in mid-December, buying a new 14” MacBook Pro (M3) to replace my slowing 2020 13” MacBook Pro (M1). With the trade-in, the total cost was around $1,500. As a professional reliant on my computer, especially while traveling, this purchase represents an investment in my future.

Finances:

• Save $50,000

• Buy and frame two signed jerseys in Chiang Mai

• Invest $6,000 into my Roth IRA

Travels:

• Visit Brunei

• Travel to another destination in Asia/Oceania

• Explore various locations in Thailand: Koh Kood, Koh Mak, and Surin

• Oceania cruise (if the price is right)

Shopping:

• Buy new gym shorts (preferably from LuLuLemon)

• Avoid fast-fashion retailers

Life:

• Renew my visa in August

• Potentially change jobs

• Read at least one book per month

• Venture outdoors every Sunday, exploring new cafes/lunch spots

• Publish a weekly blog post and share updates on Twitter every Sunday

• Organize a clothing donation drive, aiming to collect and donate 50kg of clothes

• Complete Google Project Management Certificate

• Expand LinkedIn connections to over 500 (current count: 449)

• Update my professional photo on LinkedIn

• Attend at least one networking and one entertainment event in Bangkok

• Get a new website logo from 99 Designs

Merry Christmas!

Sunset at Melia Skybar

I initially visited the Intercontinental, which has recently completed its construction. However, their rooftop is still under construction, so I went over to Melia, another hotel, to check out the view from there.

New Directions: Revamping My Blog for a More Focused 2024 Adventure

Dear Readers,

I'm thrilled to share some big changes coming to my blog as we step into 2024. Your support and engagement have been the cornerstone of this journey, and it's time to shake things up a bit to enhance our shared experience.

First, I’ll be moving all Thailand posts from 2023 into the Thailand country blog. Alongside that, I’ll move country-specific travel posts to their respective blogs as well — for 2023, namely Maldives and Sri Lanka.

I'm excited to announce the launch of a fresh blog exclusively for 2024. This space will be a canvas for all my new adventures, thoughts, and experiences throughout the year. Expect vivid stories, deeper insights, and perhaps a few surprises along the way. To provide a consistent rhythm to our journey, I plan to post every Sunday for the rest of the year. This regular schedule not only helps me stay disciplined in sharing my adventures with you but also ensures you have something to look forward to each week.

In an effort to increase readership, I’ll also be posting each blog on my Twitter (which I rarely use) but I figured 2024 was as good a year as any to increase my social presence.

Depth matters in storytelling, and with that in mind, I'll aim for at least 500 words in each post. Whether it's detailing my week, covering my travels, or delving into topics that have caught my fancy, these longer posts are meant to provide a richer, more immersive experience.

Expect a mix of content — some posts will be travelogues from my 2024 adventures, while others might be reflective pieces or discussions on topics that have sparked my interest. The goal is to keep my content diverse and engaging.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your continued readership and feedback are what make this blog a treasure trove of shared experiences. Here's to a year of new stories, discoveries, and connections!

Warm regards,

Degen

Chiang Mai Night Safari

Chiang Mai Night Safari, located in Northern Thailand, is a distinctive wildlife park that operates primarily at night. Covering over 300 acres, it's segmented into three zones: Savanna Safari, Predator Prowl, and Jaguar Trail. The Savanna Safari and Predator Prowl offer guided tram tours, allowing visitors to observe nocturnal animals like lions, tigers, and giraffes in an environment resembling their natural habitat. The Jaguar Trail, a walking path around Swan Lake, provides a closer look at animals such as jaguars and flamingos.

The safari emphasizes educational and interactive experiences, featuring shows like the Night Predators and Tiger Show, which illuminate the behaviors of these animals. Chiang Mai Night Safari focuses on both conservation and visitor engagement, making it an informative and exciting experience for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists.

This Past Weekend

2nd Bathroom Partial Remodel

The original bathroom setup had the waterworks shoved way off to stage left of the mirror, which, let's be honest, was a bit of an eyesore. The last owner tried to pull a fast one with a wonky, triangular countertop to hide the mess — I finally got tired of dealing with it. I decided to call in the cavalry and had a guy shift the pipes to where they made sense, right smack under where the new mirror would go.

I hit up HomePro, Thailand's answer to Home Depot, for some new white tiles to match the rest, but they were fresh out. Instead of playing Tile Matchmaker, I thought, why not switch gears and slap on some black tiles? And there you have it: moved pipes, snazzy black tiles, a sleek counter, and a new mirror.

If you’re looking at the picture closely, one of the tiles in between the black tiles is an extra blue flower tile that was used in the shower. I only bought 10 black tiles, and since you won’t be able to see it anyway, I thought it would be a fun surprise if someone decides to remodel in the future.

The whole shebang—demolition, new tiles, sweet-talking the handyman, the vanity unit, hot & cold faucet, and the mirror—set me back around $500. All in all, for a bathroom that doesn't look like a jigsaw puzzle gone wrong, I'd say it's a steal.

Loy Krathong 2023 (Part 2)

The twin elements of water lanterns (krathongs) and sky lanterns (khom loi) during the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals in Thailand carry deep symbolic and cultural significance:

Water Lanterns (Krathongs):

• Spiritual Cleansing and Renewal: The act of releasing krathongs on water bodies is an emblematic gesture of letting go of negativity, anger, and misfortunes. It's a symbolic cleansing of the soul, allowing for a fresh start.

• Honor to the Water Goddess: Traditionally, this practice is also a way of paying respects to Phra Mae Khongkha, the Thai goddess of water. It's a gesture of gratitude for the life-sustaining water and an apology for polluting it.

• Reflection and Meditation: The gentle floating away of krathongs encourages a reflective state, where individuals ponder upon their actions, thoughts, and the transitory nature of life.

Sky Lanterns (Khom Loi):

• Aspirations and Prayers to the Heavens: Releasing lanterns into the sky symbolizes sending prayers and wishes upwards, closer to the divine. It's believed that as the lanterns ascend, they take worries and problems away with them.

• Illuminating the Darkness: The sky lanterns, lighting up the night, represent knowledge, enlightenment, and the dispelling of ignorance. It's a beautiful metaphor for the light of wisdom overcoming the darkness of folly.

• Community and Unity: The collective release of lanterns creates a sense of community and shared experience. It's a visually stunning moment that unites participants in awe and joy.

Both rituals, deeply entrenched in Thai culture, exemplify a blend of animism, Buddhism, and local customs. They offer a profound experience where physical actions – releasing the lanterns on water and into the sky – are intertwined with spiritual and emotional journeys of letting go, honoring nature, seeking blessings, and fostering communal harmony.

Loy Krathong 2023 (Part 1)

Loy Krathong, a significant festival in Thailand, holds a special charm in Chiang Mai. Celebrated on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month (usually in November), it's a time when Thai people pay respects to the water spirits, thanking them for their bounty and seeking forgiveness for any pollution.

Historical Significance: The festival, with its roots in ancient Brahmin rituals, was later integrated with Buddhist traditions. It symbolizes letting go of grudges, anger, and impurities, allowing one to start afresh.

The Krathongs: Central to the festival are the 'krathongs' – small floating offerings traditionally made from banana leaves and decorated with flowers, incense, and candles. People release these on rivers, canals, and lakes, creating a mesmerizing sight as they drift away carrying wishes and prayers.

Chiang Mai’s Unique Celebration: Chiang Mai's celebrations are particularly enchanting, given its rich Lanna culture. The city's Ping River becomes a focal point, lined with thousands of candlelit krathongs. Moreover, the Yi Peng festival coincides with Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai, where thousands of paper lanterns (khom loi) are released into the night sky, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.

Cultural Events: The festivities in Chiang Mai include parades, beauty contests, lantern displays, and traditional Lanna dances. Temples and public spaces are ornately decorated, and there's a pervasive sense of joy and unity.

Environmental Consciousness: In recent years, there's been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of the festival. Efforts are made to use biodegradable materials for krathongs and lanterns, and campaigns are run to clean up waterways post-celebration.

Experience for Visitors: For tourists, Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai is an opportunity to immerse in Thai culture and witness a blend of spiritual reverence, traditional practices, and communal celebration. It's advisable to respect local customs and participate responsibly in the festivities.

Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai exemplifies the harmonious blend of spiritual, cultural, and environmental consciousness, making it a unique and must-experience event.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Nothing fancy, just went out with my friend to a restaurant for a full Thanksgiving meal. We had pumpkin soup, white wine, stuffing, turkey, green beans, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, and finally, pumpkin pie. Left feeling stuffed, just as one should after Thanksgiving.

Beach Pro Tour 2023 — Chiang Mai, Thailand

The 2023 Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour is the second edition of the prestigious global professional beach volleyball circuit. It is organized by the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB).

The tour for 2023 has been planned to travel across four continents, visiting new, familiar, and iconic locations. The season kicked off with the Elite16 event in Doha, Qatar, on February 1​​. Some notable events include the Elite16 tournaments in Tepic, Mexico, and Uberlandia, Brazil​​. The season will culminate with the 2023 World Tour Finals, again in Doha, Qatar, from December 7-10​​.

Significantly, 2023 also sees the addition of four new events in Europe - specifically in Switzerland, Finland, Italy, and France. This expansion is particularly beneficial for elite and emerging beach volleyball players, offering them more opportunities to compete internationally.

Overall, the 2023 Beach Pro Tour represents an exciting opportunity for the world's top beach volleyball teams to compete at various international venues, further elevating the sport's profile and providing a platform for both established and up-and-coming athletes.

Life Update

I've recently passed the CAPM exam and am back to my regular work routine, though I have a hunch that the startup I'm working for might not last much longer. I'm mentally preparing myself for a potential job hunt once that happens. In the meantime, my days are filled with work, workouts at the gym, and finding decor like wooden bowls and wicker baskets to add some warmth to my condo.

I'm also planning a travel adventure for almost the entire month of December. Phuket and Koh Samui are on my radar, but I haven't finalized anything yet. I'm still deciding where to spend Christmas and New Year's. So, there haven't been many photos from Chiang Mai as I'm spending most of my time in my condo, but I'll try to share more soon.

Sunrise & Sunset

Turning 34 brings a deep sense of fulfillment, like a book brimming with chapters of laughter, growth, and hard-won wisdom. It's a testament to the journey thus far, a collection of moments that are as precious as they are profound. Yet, there's a stirring, a gentle yet insistent whisper of 'more' that lingers at the edge of consciousness. Life is good—there's no doubting that—with its steady rhythm of contentment and achievement. But the heart knows, in its infinite capacity for dreams, that good can become great. This year is about unlocking that potential, about turning the whisper into a roar. It's about charting the unexplored territories within and without, and figuring out the steps that lead to a reality even more vibrant and fulfilling. There's a world of possibilities waiting to be seized, and at 34, the adventure to grasp them is just beginning.

Took and Passed CAPM

Studying for the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) exam was a grind. Every evening after work, my desk was buried under practice test printouts, highlighter-streaked PMBOK pages, and a laptop queued up with the next project management tutorial on YouTube. With each practice test, my confidence ebbed and flowed, but the relentless routine continued until the calendar marked the day of reckoning: a Saturday afternoon exam slot. Sitting in the sterile quiet of my condo, constantly on camera to ensure the integrity of the exam process, I clicked through the questions with a growing knot in my stomach, unsure if my efforts had measured up.

When I finished the exam, I was stunned to see the screen flash “Congratulations”—though the detailed scores were not yet available. A few hours later, an email arrived confirming I’d passed—all scores 'Above Target.' All the stress and self-doubt from those endless study sessions melted away.

I’m proud of having accomplished this, as it certainly wasn’t easy. The CAPM exam, with its formidable array of 150 multiple-choice questions, is a rigorous assessment that tests a candidate's breadth and depth of understanding of project management principles. Candidates are allocated 3 hours to navigate through these questions, which not only cover the fundamental knowledge, terminology, and processes described in the PMBOK Guide but also delve into:

• Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts

• Agile Frameworks/Methodologies

• Business Analysis Frameworks

• Predictive Plan-Based Methodologies

Passing this exam was no small feat, and achieving scores 'Above Target' in every category was the icing on the cake.

All Over Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is slowly doing the same thing Beijing did when I was there — putting all the telecom/internet cables underground. It's an ongoing process, and they're proceeding at a measured pace, but it will be nice when it's finished. As much as the tangle of cables has become a staple of Thailand, I'm glad to see they recognize it's also an eyesore and a potential fire hazard.

Halloween in Your 30s

Call up some friends to see what they're up to. Head to a friend's condo with me, two other guys, and another guy with his girlfriend. Guess who were the only two in matching costumes? Sip on a tequila & tonic. Play Gin Rummy and watch New Zealand vs. Australia in the Cricket World Cup. Decide it's time to venture out. Head to a Halloween party at a co-working space, complete with a pool. One guy's taking a swim. There’s a giant inflatable alien in the pool, and the party is now engaged watching the guy swimming try to get on top of the alien while holding a beer. After several failed attempts, he swims to the edge of the pool, like he didn’t just spend 10 minutes failing to get on top of the inflatable. Grab another drink. Look around and reminisce about when Halloween used to be something I looked forward to. Chat with a guy. Ask what he does. He says "SEO." When probed, he elaborates: "Search Engine Optimization". Real helpful, bud. Book a taxi — home before 11 pm.

Nice to Be Back in Chiangmai

Not a lot has been going on lately. I've been busy with the gym, work, and studying for an upcoming exam. I won't share details until after I pass, but that's where most of my focus has been these days. The test is scheduled for November 4th. I will update once I have the results.