Living like a Buddha in Thailand, part 4
In this section information about utilities and about the food in Isaan. Of course again as I experience it.
Living like a Buddha in Thailand, part 3
Fable newspaper or not? – part 19 (readers submission)
Piet is preparing for a grand birthday party in honor of a special age milestone. As he delves into party planning and foreign formalities, he faces cultural challenges and a shocking traffic accident. Delve into this fascinating tale of joy, disappointment and survival in a strange land.
Living like a Buddha in Thailand, part 2
In this part and in parts 3, 4 and 5 I will describe how I experience Isaan or rather Ubon. Ubon is of course not Bangkok with all its facilities. And no Pattaya, Hua Hin or Chiang Mai either. There are no mountains or beaches, but rivers and lakes. Also the climate is different, the people are different, the food is different and there are hardly any farangs here.
Living like a Buddha in Thailand, part 1
Live like a Buddha in Thailand. No, not like a monk, like a Buddha. Something like living like a God in France, having a pleasant and carefree life. Is that reserved for farangs?
Fable newspaper or not? – part 18 (readers submission)
In Thailand's vibrant nightlife, Piet, a charismatic 'old geezer', navigates massage parlors, mysterious offers and unpredictable friendships. As he finds his place among the temptations and pitfalls of the big cities, Piet discovers both the joys and dangers of this exotic world. Read more about his experiences, dilemmas and the inevitable culture shocks.
Fable newspaper or not? – part 17 (readers submission)
Piet's life in Thailand is one of contrasts and reflections. From ideas about setting up a street stall, to reflections on friendships and relationships. As he explores the challenges of the Thai market and everyday life, his fascination with local customs and the influence of foreign delicacies emerges. This narrative journey provides deep insight into his daily worries and dreams.
The history of Thai cuisine
Until 1939, the country we now call Thailand was known as Siam. It was the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized by a Western country, which allowed it to cultivate its eating habits with its own special dishes. But that does not mean that Thailand was not influenced by its Asian neighbors.
A temple in Isan, beautiful in ugliness
Tastes differ. One thinks the Phra Maha Chedi Chai Monkol in Phu Khao Kiew is a magnificent building, the other considers it a clear example of 'super kitsch'.
Fable newspaper or not? – part 16 (readers submission)
Piet discovers his green fingers in a recently completed house in Thailand. As he transforms a deserted corner of his house into a lush vegetable garden, he delves into the world of local horticulture. From desert roses to hydroponics, follow Piet's journey from experimental gardening to the potential of a thriving business.
Isaan's one-two punch
During a long visit to his in-laws in Isaan, Lieven decided to spend his days more actively than the average family member. He opted for morning jogs in the village area. But what started as a simple routine took a mysterious turn when an unknown cyclist started shadowing him every morning. What followed was a discovery that Lieven never expected and a lesson in Thai care and protection.
Rice pudding
Anyone who has ever been to Isaan knows it. The endless rice fields, stretching from village to village. Often small plots, surrounded by an earthen wall where - depending on the season - you can see the rice stalks swaying in the wind.
Fable newspaper or not? – part 15 (readers submission)
Balancing was just too difficult for Piet. It had all gone from one thing to the other just too quickly. Piet had become a bit depressed because of all the activities in the last period.
Fable newspaper or not? – part 14 (readers submission)
An evening was of course fooling yourself, Piet soon found out. Booked a cheap hostel where the question of how many nights remained unanswered by Piet. Piet had been here in the past, a ball pit for big boys. His first evening was one of sitting quietly at the bar and watching more of the level while sipping beer.
Wat Phra That Phanom: Pearl of the Mekong Valley
Before you know it you've already driven through: The somewhat sleepy town of Nakhon Phanom now seems unsightly, but it was once the center of the mythical principality of Sri Kotrabun that ruled from the 5th to the 10th century AD along both banks of the Mekong asserted. The most important relic that can be found in the area from this glorious period is without a doubt the temple Wat Phra That Phanom.
Fable newspaper or not? – part 13 (readers submission)
In Piet's captivating saga, adventures unfold in exotic Thailand. Together with his family, Piet navigates both the physical landscapes of bustling cities and serene coasts, as well as the emotional realms of family ties and self-reflection. This introduction serves as a window into a journey that highlights not only geographic discoveries, but also the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a foreign land.
'Songkran and neighbors rumor'
This story takes us to the celebration of the Songkran festival in a small Isan village in Thailand. Lieven treats us to a lively portrayal of the festivities, humorous events and personal encounters. Among the rice fields and dancing partygoers, an anecdote unfolds about a mysterious German neighbour, Otto. With a mix of humour, nostalgia and a touch of self-mockery, this story invites you on a journey through the land of smiles and the idiosyncrasies of its inhabitants.