Back in Buriram

Landed in Buriram. Hit the gym despite no aircon. Lasted 40 minutes in 36-degree heat. Showered and watched Blade. Wesley Snipes is truly Marvel Daddy. Headed to a “rooftop” bar/restaurant on the 4th floor and spotted a rainbow. Back to the room for some reading before bed.

Next morning, gym at 7 am with three old dudes. One guy asked if I was Scandinavian—best compliment ever. Showered, taxi to immigration, got my new visa. Went to Chang Arena, but signed jerseys were sold out. Taxi to Western University for a classroom photo op, then back to the hotel for a KFC lunch. Don’t judge, I just wanted chicken.

Started Blade II, got bored. Went out for a massage. Walking back in 37-degree heat, stopped for a coconut shake—hit the spot as always. Back to the hotel for a tech standup and product sync. Pretty sure the startup I work for is going to close. Prepping for a grueling travel day tomorrow. About to finish Blade II and call it a night.

Bit of Traveling

I needed to renew my visa in Thailand, so I headed to Buriram and decided to make a short trip out of it. With only two nights in Buriram, I’m happy I’m only here for a bit. There really isn’t a lot to do.

Tomorrow, I'll start the day by tackling the visa renewal process. After that, I'm off to check out the renowned Chang Arena, where I'm hoping to score another signed jersey. To round out the day, I'll hit the gym and then relax for a bit.

On Friday afternoon, I'll be flying out to Brunei, with a six-hour layover in Kuala Lumpur from midnight to 6 a.m., which isn’t ideal, but it was the only flight to Brunei that day.

My Itinerary:

Departure

• Chiang Mai (CM) → Bangkok (BKK) ✅

• Bangkok (BKK) → Buriram ✅

• Buriram → Bangkok (BKK)

• Bangkok (BKK) → Kuala Lumpur

• Kuala Lumpur → Brunei

Return

• Brunei → Bangkok (BKK)

• Bangkok (BKK) → Chiang Mai (CM)

River Views

My New Gym — Rush

Around $350 a year

Pride Month Continues

Pride Month in Chiang Mai

Mexican Food

Money 20/20 Asia in Bangkok

Attending Money 20/20 Asia in Bangkok with my press pass felt like stepping into the beating heart of the fintech revolution. The energy at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center was electric – a buzzing hive of sharp suits and brilliant ideas. It was a stark contrast to the scrappier vibe of SEA Blockchain Week; Money 20/20 oozed sophistication and strategic ambition.

The keynotes were certainly a spectacle, but I found myself most drawn to the intimate side conversations. Over steaming cups of Thai coffee, I had thought-provoking discussions with founders disrupting remittance models, regulators navigating the crypto landscape, and investors betting big on financial inclusion. And let's not forget the exhibition floor – a dazzling showcase of the tech poised to change how we bank, spend, and invest.

Honestly, the most thrilling part of Money 20/20 Asia was the sense of possibility that permeated the entire event. It felt like the entire Asian fintech ecosystem was converging, not just to network, but to actively build the future of finance. I walked away with a bursting notebook, a stack of business cards, and the invigorating feeling that I had witnessed something truly special.

Bangkok's Blockchain Buzz: Reflections on Southeast Asia Blockchain Week

As a seasoned attendee of major blockchain conferences, I was curious to see how Southeast Asia Blockchain Week (SEABW) would measure up. Held in the vibrant city of Bangkok, the event drew a predictable yet enthusiastic crowd of Web3 proponents. While it lacked the scale of industry giants like Token2049, SEABW had its own unique charm and highlighted the burgeoning blockchain scene in the region.

A major highlight was the virtual keynote by Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum. His insightful reflections on the potential for blockchain to address real-world issues provided a stark contrast to the sometimes overly-exuberant atmosphere fueled by the ubiquitous "crypto bro" contingent. Despite this, there was a palpable energy surrounding the event, fueled by the presence of exciting projects showcasing Thailand's growing embrace of Web3 technologies.

While SEABW might not be the next Token2049 just yet, it certainly signaled a positive trajectory for the adoption of Web3 within Southeast Asia. If you're interested in the space and keen to see what this dynamic region has to offer, this event is definitely one to watch in the years to come.

*Ronald wasn't part of the event; I just appreciate how Thailand has its own design for him.

Songkran 2024

If the thought of relentless water fights leaves you cold, Songkran in Chiang Mai might not be the ideal experience for you. Yes, the festival has its roots in beautiful traditions of cleansing and renewal, but be prepared for a side of relentless revelry. Expect massive crowds and super-soaked participants armed with buckets of icy water and high-powered water guns. It's a full-on water war, and it can be pretty overwhelming for those who don't love the chaos.

Keep in mind that the entire city essentially shuts down for several days during Songkran. While the spectacle is certainly unique, it might not be the best time to explore Chiang Mai's sights or get things done on a strict schedule. If bustling crowds and a city-wide water fight aren't your thing, there might be better times to visit this charming city.

Last 2 photos aren’t mine, but I hope they help you get a sense of how wild this holiday is.

Bathroom Remodel

After enduring the frustration of the remaining outdated part of my condo, I decided it was time for a change. I enlisted the services of our building's handyman to remove the old sink and replace it with a modern one I found at HomePro. The transformation has been awesome, and I'm really pleased with how it turned out.

Weekend in Bangkok

Hopped down to BKK for the weekend to meet up with some friends. Always nice to leave Chiangmai and hangout in the capital for some shopping and skyscrapers. But for me, a weekend is enough. It’s loud and crowded and call me old, but I’m over all the hustle and bustle of cities over 10 million people.

This Past Weekend

Probably the coolest Starbucks I’ve ever seen.

Downtown Chiang Mai

I’m 70% sure that’s a Joe Rogan painting on the electrical box, but who can say for sure…

Nice Evening Out

That Golf Life

I’ve been hitting the driving range at least once a week in CM and so far, loving it. Like any sport, there are good days and bad days but I’m happy with how my form and hitting is progressing. Maybe I’m at that age where golf is cool but it’s low impact and good for engaging muscles I don’t regularly use at the gym.

Chinese Noodles

Since leaving China, I haven’t eaten a ton of Chinese food. But sometimes, I get a hankering for Chinese beef noodle soup, and this new place in downtown Chiang Mai hit the spot. The dish on the left is fried noodles with veggies.

Back in Chiang Mai

Chonburi, a city located on the eastern Gulf coast of Thailand, is renowned for its picturesque beaches, bustling seafood markets, and a dynamic cultural scene. As an important economic and tourist hub, Chonburi seamlessly blends traditional Thai culture with modern living. The city's coastal location makes it a popular destination for those seeking a blend of sun, sea, and sand, alongside rich cultural experiences. Chonburi also plays a significant role in Thailand's industrial sector, hosting several industrial estates that contribute to the country's economy. The city's vibrant street life, characterized by lively markets and local festivals, adds to its charm, offering visitors and residents alike a taste of authentic Thai lifestyle.

Chonburi FC, the city's pride in the realm of football, holds a special place in the hearts of local sports enthusiasts. Established in 1997, the club has grown in stature and success, becoming a formidable force in Thai football. Known for their spirited play and competitive spirit, Chonburi FC has garnered a loyal following, with fans passionately supporting the team through thick and thin. The club's success in domestic competitions has not only brought joy to its supporters but has also put Chonburi on the map in the Thai sports world. The team's home games, played at the Chonburi Stadium, are a spectacle of color and excitement, reflecting the community's strong bond with the sport.

Driving from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, a journey of about 9.5 hours, was an experience I'll long remember. The journey, though lengthy, was a reflection of my own commitment and passion for the things I hold dear. Traveling through diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside, the drive was as much about the journey as the destination. Finally arriving in Chiang Mai, I felt happy to be home. The comfort of being back home, coupled with the memories of the road traveled, made the entire experience worthwhile. It's moments like these that remind me of the beauty and diversity of Thailand, and the enduring spirit of adventure that keeps me exploring and appreciating this beautiful country.

Rayong, Thailand

After a whirlwind week in Pattaya, with its early morning beer drinkers and boisterous nightlife, I was ready for a change of scenery. A short drive to Rayong promised just that. En route, an unexpected stop at Navy FC in Sattahip turned into a memorable highlight. There, amidst the humble setup of the local Thai Navy team, I found myself buying a jersey. The lady at the store, sensing my enthusiasm, offered a tantalizing proposition - if I could wait, she'd arrange for the entire team to sign the jersey and then ship it to me in Chiang Mai. Thai people are the best.

Sattahip is a quaint coastal district in Chonburi Province, Thailand, known for its deep ties to the Thai Navy. It exudes a unique blend of military precision and tropical serenity, characterized by well-kept beaches and a slower pace of life. The area is rich in natural beauty, with a number of hidden coves and pristine beaches, making it a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from Thailand's more bustling tourist hubs. With a new sense of anticipation, I continued my journey to Rayong.

Rayong, in stark contrast to the unabated energy of Pattaya, welcomed me with its serene beaches and laid-back vibe. It's a blend of industrial vigor and natural allure, famous for its fruit plantations, especially durians and mangosteens. Rayong City, the provincial capital, offers a more authentic Thai experience compared to the tourist-heavy areas of Pattaya and Phuket. The province boasts unspoiled beaches along its coastline, providing the perfect backdrop for tranquil seaside vacations.

My visit to the Rayong FC stadium, while quieter and devoid of the bustling activity of a match day, was no less interesting. Wandering alone around the pitch, I felt a sense of tranquility and wondered how many people actually come to the games here. Though I couldn't find a store selling a jersey there, the quest continues. With plans to head to Bangkok on Sunday and a quiet hotel just a stone's throw from the beach in Rayong, the hunt for a Rayong FC jersey adds an exciting purpose to my upcoming adventures.

Roadtrip To Pattaya, Rayong, & Bangkok

Decided to take a roadtrip down to Pattaya, then over to Rayong on Friday, then to Bangkok on Sunday to do some shopping. It was around a 9 hour drive from Chiang Mai, which isn’t terrible, but definitely a first time, last time experience. Pattaya is cool, though I’m not drinking and need to work in hotel all afternoon, but it’s a nice change of pace from northern Thailand, at least for a bit. Will be back in Chiang Mai around January 27th.