Podcast appearances and mentions of emerald buddha

  If there was ever a podcast where you're better off seeing the video, this is it! It features lots of footage that I shot the first time I visited. In mid-November 2024, hear me speak at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, Thailand! Timeline 00:00 Intro 00:50 History 03:05 Temples 04:10  Islands 05:38 Snorkeling, SCUBA diving, & fish 07:15 Lodging 08:15 People 09:00 Dance & nightlife This video gives you an exciting overview of Thailand! You'll learn about Thailand's history, beaches, aquatic sea life, temples, languages, culture, nightlife, and dancing. Subscribe to watch my video kissing a Thai elephant! Video script Welcome to the Land of Smiles! Thailand is a country that tantalizes your taste buds, tickles your senses, and leaves you wondering if you've accidentally stepped into a vibrant dream. Thailand has got to be one of the most aptly named countries on the planet. The “Land of Smiles” delivers grins at every turn with its beautiful scenery, delightfully eccentric cultural experiences, and some of the most blissed-out, friendly people you'll ever encounter. Just be prepared for lots of bewildered head-scratching and delighted laughter as you embrace the organized chaos and tongue-in-cheek whimsy that makes traveling here such an endlessly entertaining adventure. A History with More Spice Than Your Pad Thai Thailand boasts a history as rich and complex as a bowl of tom yum soup. Kingdoms rose and fell, leaving behind a trail of magnificent temples and enough intrigue to make a soap opera jealous. We won't bore you with dates (because, let's face it, remembering your anniversary is hard enough), but here's the gist: powerful empires, epic battles fought on elephant back (seriously!), and a whole lot of cultural exchange. The Thais like to refer to their nation as the “Land of the Free” since they proudly managed to avoid getting colonized by myopic European powers who were too distracted trying to invent terrible ideas like bloodsports and obesity. The origins of this glorious nation trace back to the ancient Sukhothai kingdom, which ruled large swaths of present-day Thailand from the 13th to 15th centuries and essentially laid the groundwork for all the mischief to come. They invented the Thai alphabet, converted the nation to Theravada Buddhism (a spirituality that preaches detachment yet somehow birthed the Muay Thai boxing culture), and kick-started a prolific period of temple construction that persists today. Thailand maintained a rich, quirky cultural identity through a delightfully convoluted pageant of kingdoms and capitals. Thailand's history is like a spicy curry – full of twists, turns, and unexpected ingredients. Imagine a time when Ayutthaya was the New York City of Southeast Asia, bustling with trade, culture, and probably a few epic food fights. Then came the Burmese invasion, like a hangry Godzilla stomping through the city. But fear not! The Thais rebuilt, and today, Ayutthaya's ruins are a testament to resilience and the importance of investing in sturdy walls. Thailand's history is as colorful as its temples and diverse as its cuisine. From ancient civilizations to modern-day monarchy, this country has seen it all. Fast forward to today, and Thailand is a vibrant mix of tradition and modern life. You'll find glittering skyscrapers sharing the skyline with ancient temples, monks in saffron robes browsing smartphones, and grandmothers selling mango-sticky rice beside sleek cafes. The Grand Palace complex is a must-see if only to check off “tour the wildly ornate milieu of one of the world's most eccentric, propaganda-addicted royal dynasties” from your bucket list. The palace grounds feature the famous Emerald Buddha sculpture - a diminutive jade figure that looks like something you'd win at a county fair but is priceless to Buddhists. Nearby sits the aptly named Wat Pho, home to the epic Reclining Buddha statue that's so colossal you half expect it to pop up and start rapping about all the golden donuts it ate. Temples and Religion: Where Buddha Takes Center Stage Thailand has more temples than there are grains of sand on its beaches. Wat Pho's reclining Buddha is so chill it's practically horizontal. And the Grand Palace? It's like a wedding cake made of gold and gemstones. As for religion, Thais blend Buddhism with a dash of animism, like adding chili to mango sticky rice. It's a spiritual cocktail that keeps the universe in balance. Thailand is steeped in Buddhism, and the magnificent temples testify to the country's rich spiritual heritage. Wat Pho will leave you speechless with its reclining Buddha and towering golden chedis. In Ayutthaya, explore the crumbling ruins of ancient temples, remnants of a once-great kingdom. Island Hopping: The Aquatic Adventure Now, let's get to the good stuff: the islands! Thailand's coastline is dotted with gems – Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Krabi – each offering a slice of paradise. But getting there is half the fun (or mild terror, depending on your seafaring tolerance). Imagine yourself crammed onto a longtail boat, the wind whipping through your hair (and possibly carrying off your hat). The turquoise water stretches out before you, but don't get too mesmerized – keep an eye out for the inevitable spray that might leave you looking like a contestant on Wipeout. Thai's islands are like a buffet of paradise, and you're the hungry traveler with a plate (or boat) to fill. The joy of island hopping is like speed dating with beaches – each has its personality. Some are shy and secluded, while others flaunt limestone cliffs and party vibes. And let's not forget the snorkeling – it's like attending a marine masquerade ball, where fish wear sequined scales and dance to the rhythm of the tides. The Andaman islands like Phuket, Ko Phi Phi, Ko Lanta, and Ko Lipe have appeared on approximately one zillion desktop wallpaper screensavers with their sugar sand beaches, cliffs of swirled limestone karsts, and forests of coconut trees casually minding their own bad hair day business. Offshore, the islands offer some of planet Earth's most insane snorkeling and diving thanks to absurdly vibrant coral reefs and a psychedelically promiscuous marine life community. Marine Life: More Than Just Nemo The minute you slip beneath the waves in Thailand, you enter a technicolor wonderland. Let's talk fish – we're not talking goldfish crackers here. You've got graceful angelfish gliding by and maybe even the occasional grumpy-looking moray eel poking out of a hole. For the more adventurous, vibrant coral reefs are teeming with life. Picture schools of shimmering blue tangs, trumpetfish with their Pinocchio noses, and perhaps a majestic manta ray gliding past like a giant underwater spaceship. Underwater, Thailand's marine life is a kaleidoscope of colors. The Phi Phi islands have emerged as the undisputed snorkelers' playground thanks to their rockin' reefs populated by residents like the omnipresent clownfish–yup, the one that found Nemo – but also the elusive seahorse, basically the James Bond of the sea. And then there's the triggerfish, with a face only a mother could love. But hey, beauty is subjective, right? The coral reefs are like underwater cities, bustling with activity. Remember, don't touch the coral – it's like graffiti on the Mona Lisa. With 4000 km of coastline, Thailand's incredibly biodiverse marine ecosystems delight snorkelers, divers, and beachgoers alike. The warm, clear waters of the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand allow optimal visibility to witness vivid coral gardens and drifting schools of tropical fish. Some of the most colorful aquatic life you may spot includes the electric blue-and-yellow regal angelfish, the aptly named clownfish darting in and out of swaying anemones, vibrant parrotfish, and powder blue tang swimming through staghorn coral mazes. Stay very still, and you may even catch sight of free-swimming moray eels slithering across the reefs or skillfully camouflaged scorpionfish. Luxury Hotels: Where Dreams Come True (and Wallets Cry) Craving a touch of luxury after your island adventure? Thailand has you covered. We're talking opulent beachfront resorts with infinity pools that seem to melt into the horizon, private plunge pools big enough to host a pool party, and service so good you might start questioning your ability to tie your own shoes. The best part? These luxury digs won't leave you needing a second mortgage. Thailand offers incredible value for money, so you can live like royalty without needing to win the lottery. Thailand's luxury hotels redefine opulence. Imagine waking up in a floating villa. Or sipping champagne in a rooftop pool overlooking Bangkok's skyline – it's like swimming in liquid stardust. And the spa treatments? They're so relaxing, you'll forget your own name. Friendly People: Hugs, Smiles, and Tuk-Tuk Negotiations Thais are the friendliest folks on this side of the Milky Way. They'll greet you with a wai (a respectful bow) and feed you until you waddle.. Thais are renowned for their hospitality, their smiles as warm and welcoming as a bowl of khao tom (chicken rice soup – trust us, it's amazing). Communication might be a challenge sometimes but don't worry, a little game of charades goes a long way. Plus, the locals often appreciate the effort, rewarding you with a hearty laugh and maybe even a discount on that souvenir elephant keychain. Of course, there's always the grumpy taxi driver, the one who seems to have forgotten the “Land of Smiles” motto. But hey, even grumpy adds flavor to the experience, right? Dance Performances and Entertainment: Hip-Shaking Extravaganza Thailand's dance performances are like a fusion of Cirque du Soleil and a tropical storm. The traditional khon dance tells epic tales of gods, demons, and love triangles. Meanwhile, the ladyboys of Pattaya leave you questioning your hip flexibility. And the nightlife? It's a neon jungle where cocktails flow like waterfalls, and neon signs promise enlightenment (or at least a blurry selfie). Thailand's nightlife is as vibrant as the orchids at every market. Want to be dazzled by elaborate dance performances with glittering costumes and gravity-defying moves? Head to a cabaret show – just be prepared to have your gender stereotypes playfully challenged by the stunning ladyboys. For something a little more low-key, wander through a night market, where you'll find street performers juggling fire, musicians filling the air with soulful melodies, and puppet shows that will transport you back to your childhood. So there you have it – Thailand, where elephants roam, tuk-tuks zigzag, and every street corner smells like a stir-fry adventure. Pack your sense of humor, an empty stomach, and an extra pair of flip-flops – you're in for a wild ride!

Welcome to the Instant Trivia podcast episode 1127, where we ask the best trivia on the Internet. Round 1. Category: Asian Capitals 1: This capital is named for a religion. Islamabad. 2: In 1959 this city was designated to replace Karachi as the capital; its construction began 2 years later. Islamabad. 3: On Jan. 6, 2005 an international summit on tsunami relief opened in this city. Jakarta. 4: King Rama I built this city's Grand Palace, which contains the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Bangkok. 5: The Ming rulers gave this city its name, which means "northern capital". Beijing. Round 2. Category: At A Loss For Worlds 1: This 1963 work was published in English with the title "Monkey Planet". "Planet of the Apes". 2: This 1963 work was published in England with the title "Monkey Planet". Planet of the Apes. 3: At the end of Arthur C. Clarke's "Childhood's End", this world is destroyed. Earth. 4: Anne McCaffrey's written about "The Dragonriders of", "The Skies of" and "The Renegades of" this imaginary planet. Pern. 5: It's the real name of the planet referred to in the title of a 1965 Frank Herbert novel. Arrakis. Round 3. Category: At The Dentist'S Office 1: Drill speed is measured in these; Dr. Morrison's in 1871 did about 600, today's turbine-powered ones about 300,000. RPMs. 2: The ADA says this is perfectly safe as the basis for amalgam fillings--it combines with other materials to make it stable. mercury. 3: Cavities form when bacteria break down sugars, forming this substance that dissolves enamel. acid. 4: Modern lead aprons worn during X-raying have a collar to protect this gland from the radiation. the thyroid gland. 5: From the Latin for "to close", it's the alignment and spacing of your upper and lower teeth when you bite. occlusion. Round 4. Category: Everyone Into The Pool! 1: "Swimming World" magazine named him Male World Swimmer of the Year eight times. Michael Phelps. 2: One of the most popular swimming pool games bears the name of this Venetian traveler. Marco Polo. 3: He found relief from his polio swimming in the mineral pools of Warm Springs, Georgia, where he had a little "White House". FDR (Franklin Roosevelt). 4: Once known as water ballet, it became an Olympic sport in 1984. synchronized swimming. 5: You can enjoy some spectacular backdrops from this type of pool, also called a vanishing or negative edge pool. an infinity pool. Round 5. Category: Hits Of The '80s 1: This song by Olivia Newton-John "worked out" to be No. 1 longer than any other song in '81. "Physical". 2: The only #1 pop hit for Kenny Rogers, it has a 1 word title. "Lady". 3: The profits from this Sager/Bacharach Grammy-winning 1986 single go to AIDS research. "That's What Friends Are For". 4: Diana Ross dedicated "Missing You" to this late singer with whom she had 2 Top 40 hits in the '70s. Marvin Gaye. 5: "All Out Of Love", "Lost In Love" and "The One That You Love" were 3 hits by this Aussie group. Air Supply. Thanks for listening! Come back tomorrow for more exciting trivia!Special thanks to https://blog.feedspot.com/trivia_podcasts/ AI Voices used

Paul Lay and Alastair Benn calmly discuss the uses and misuses of anger. Image: Thai mural in the temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok. Credit: Sabena Jane Blackbird / Alamy Stock Photo

Lusciously located at the confluence of the mighty Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, the very name Phnom Penh conjures up an image of the exotic. I recently visited Cambodia's capital with Emerald Cruises on their magnificent week-long float from Ho Chi Minh City. From the fluttering saffron robes of passing monks to the glimmering spires of the Royal Palace, Phnom Penh struts its Buddhist stripes at every turn. But the Cambodian capital's shine was egregiously tarnished by the ravages of the Khmer Rouge regime. Forty years on, Phnom Penh aspires to be as electric as Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, with swanky new developments and the hip, edgy design boom revving up the city centre's allure, and eye-catching skyscrapers extravagantly reframing the skyline. Come nightfall, there is no question that Phnom Penh is one of the most illuminated cities in Asia, radiantly aglow in the city's insatiable obsession with playful, escapist light shows. The city is lit! But the shameful shadow of Pol Pot and his abominable regime is a stain that cannot be airbrushed away – or joyfully dressed up in fairy lights. The past bastardry is still central to the city narrative. Remarkably, when the Khmer Rouge grabbed power, it forced most of its three million residents into the countryside, apart of its grand vision for a classless agrarian society. Today, Phnom Penh resembles a city of startling contrasts, from extreme poverty to ostentatious wealth. It's a city gripped by entrenched state corruption and the reaffirming kindness of locals you meet. Virtually everyone I chatted to was scathing of Cambodia's slavish dependence on China. Nearly 50% of their public debt is owed to China, with more “debt trap” loans in the works. Phnom Penh is a city where the streets have no name – merely numbers. The legacy of the Khmer Rouge looms large as one of the central reasons to visit the city and to reflect on history's epic horrors, dipping into the darkest corners of the country's traumatised past. It's an unvarnished, gut-wrenching experience. My first shore excursion with Emerald Cruises was to one of Cambodia's biggest Killing Fields. Under Pol Pot's maniacal rule from 1975 to 1979, roughly a quarter of Cambodia's population was murdered, the genocide of roughly 2 million people. Tens of thousands of Khmer Rouge prisoners who had been tortured at the infamous S-21 prison were then taken just out of town to the Choeung Ek extermination camp, which was previously a Chinese cemetery and longan orchard. Prisoners would arrive blind-folded unaware of the brutality that was about to unfold. Our guide pointed out the tree named the Killing Tree, which is where children would be beaten to death. Another tree has been named the Music Tree. The Khmer Rouge executioners would hang speakers from the tree and blast out loud music to drown out the screams of people being bludgeoned to death, so that those awaiting their fate remained oblivious to the evil about to be unleashed. The Killing Tree. Photo / Mike Yardley My guide soberly remarked that most people were viciously bludgeoned to death by farm implements, because the Khmer Rouge didn't want to waste precious money on bullets. The most sickening spectacle at this site are the shards of bones and clothing sticking up from the vast mounds of dirt that mark the mass graves. Every time it rains, the earth reveals more and more of its sinister secrets, lurking beneath the surface. Most mass graves have been left untouched. Today the camp is a memorial site. A monumental 17-storey glass stupa, built 25 years ago, rises up from the centre, filled with 8,000 skulls, exhumed from the mass graves nearby. It's a harrowing spectacle – steel yourself. Many of the skulls, which are grouped according to age and sex, bear the holes and slices from the blows that killed them. Photo / Mike Yardley Back in town, we visited the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, another horrific reminder of the cruelty humans are capable of inflicting. Once a neighbourhood high school, the building was seized by Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge and turned into a prison and interrogation centre, the dreaded S-21. During the prison's four years of operation, an estimated 20,000 Cambodians were tortured here before being transferred to the Killing Fields for execution. Initially it was the previous governments officials, academics, doctors, teachers, students, factory workers, monks and engineers that were imprisoned. The regime was paranoid about educated Cambodians becoming CIA spies and went to outrageous lengths to interrogate inmates and force out confessions – many of which were false confessions. Prisoners were routinely beaten and tortured with electric shocks, searing hot metal instruments and hanging. Some were cut with knives or suffocated with plastic bags. Other methods for generating confessions included pulling out fingernails while pouring alcohol on the wounds and waterboarding prisoners. Even a Kiwi, Kerry Hamill, was tortured in the prison, before being executed. He was imprisoned along with his friends after sailing off the coast from Thailand and inadvertently straying into Cambodian territorial waters. The four school buildings that made up S-21 have been left largely as they were when the Khmer Rouge left. The prison kept extensive records and photos of the victims, and many of the documents are on display; particularly chilling are the representations of torture scenes painted by S-21 survivor Vann Nath. He is just one of a handful inmates who walked out of the prison alive. His painting skills were his saving grace. Another survivor is Chum Mey. His life was only spared because of his ability to repair sewing machines for Pol Pot's soldiers. The 93 year old has appeared in numerous documentaries and still greets visitors most days in the museum courtyard. S21 Prison in Phnom Penh. Photo / Mike Yardley For a welcome change of scenery, we also headed to the bejewelled splendour Royal Palace, the official residence of current King Sihamoni. The residential areas of the palace re strictly off limits, but within the pagoda-style compound are several structures worth savouring, including the Silver Pagoda; the Throne Hall, with a tiered roof topped by a 200-foot-tall tower; and a pavilion donated by the Emperor Napoléon III and shipped here from France. Photo / Supplied The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, built from 1892 to 1902 and renovated in 1962, is one of Phnom Penh's greatest attractions. It's referred to as the Silver Pagoda because of the 5000 silver tiles—more than 5 tonne of pure silver—that make up the floor in the main temple hall. It's also home to the Emerald Buddha—some say it's carved from jade, while others maintain that it's Baccarat crystal. In front of the altar is a 90kg solid-gold Buddha studded with over 2000 diamonds. Serious bling! Just out of Phnom Penh, we also headed to Uodong, the former royal capital of Cambodia until it moved to Phnom Penh in 1886. It's home to the burial sites of numerous Khmer kings and the Oudong Monastery. It was fascinating to interact with some of the nuns who live here – many who lost their husbands during the insanity of Pol Pot's regime. Best of all, entering the grace and gorgeousness of the main temple, we received a traditional Buddhist blessing from a couple of resident monks. Photo / Mike Yardley Shop up a storm in Phnom Penh. Bartering is expected and part of the fun at markets - just watch your wallet doesn't go walkabout with a fleet-footed pickpocket. Colourful krama (checked headscarves), weird and wonderful fruit, gemstones, fried grasshoppers -- it's all under one enormous Art Deco roof at Central Market. Haggle for handwoven silk, silver animal trinkets and Buddha carvings in the Russian Market's warren of dark alleys, which takes its name from the Russian wives who would previously sweep into town for a buying binge. Street 240 and Street 178 are the city's chicest boulevards, dotted with fashion boutiques, art galleries and bookstores. Phnom Penh has a reputation for booming nightlife. Booming it is, but a large part of that is actually pretty seedy. As in Thailand, in some parts of town, child prostitution is rife. The main nightlife area, nicknamed The Strip is on Street 51, spills forth with young Khmer girls from the countryside, soliciting on the footpath, waiting for large old white men with fat wallets. I felt sick. For a classier, cleaner experience, head to the riverfront scene on Sisowath Quay, where the restaurants and bars party deep into the night – without the sleazy sex trade atmos. Down on the quay, enjoy sizzling city views, cool breezes, cook-your-own-meat Khmer barbeque and rooftop cocktails at FCC, the Foreign Correspondents Club, a city institution housed in a French colonial gem. It is currently undergoing a major refresh, but the history runs deep here. Photos on the wall date back to the Khmer Rouge invasion, as taken by war correspondents who used to hang out at FCC back in the day. Photo / Supplied You'll have a world of fun taking in the trippy night lights on a remork ride, as Phnom Penh spangles itself silly in splashy light displays. Good-cause dining is also big deal in town, whereby numerous restaurants are run by aid organisations to help fund their social programmes and train new recruits to the hospitality trade. One of the best is Friends, on St 13, which offers former street children a head-start in the restaurant business. Explore the wonders, horror and history of Vietnam and Cambodia on Emerald Harmony's 7 night Majestic Mekong river cruise. Your cruise includes 21 meals with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks accompanying lunch and dinner on board. Knowledgeable local guides will bring each destination to life in small group excursions. It's an enchanting way to savour a truly heady pocket of the world. Book direct at www.emeraldcruises.co.nz Jet your way to Phnom Penh with Malaysia Airlines, who offer super-convenient, one-stop services from Auckland via Kuala Lumpur, eight times a week. With well-timed overnight flights, to and from KL, the award-winning Malaysia Airlines is a full-service carrier, renowned for competitive airfares, exceptional service and quintessential Malaysian hospitality. Bag some great fares and seats to suit with the Malaysia Airlines Explore the World Sale. www.malaysiaairlines.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thailand news is abuzz with exciting updates for locals and tourists alike. Bangkok has been voted as the third top destination for backpackers in 2023, and the city is gearing up for the annual Songkran festival celebrations. While a Thai man won 5000 baht for his best outfit at the office's Songkran party, a senior Buddhist monk has criticized dressing like the Emerald Buddha as inappropriate. Aerothai has reported a 66% increase in domestic and international flights facilitated over the Songkran holidays, from today until April 17. Meanwhile, the South Korean Ambassador to Thailand and embassy staff got into the Thai New Year festive spirit by taking part in the traditional “Ram Thai” dance, which went viral with over 400,000 views on social media. In other Songkran news, Silom Road in the Bang Rak District, a popular destination for water fights, will remain open this year. Both locals and tourists can participate in the water fights on the streets and sidewalks of each Soi. With so many exciting events taking place, it's no wonder Thailand remains a top tourist destination for people from all over the world. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thaigerpodcast/message

Photo:  Wat Phra Keo, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok Edward Carr @EWRCarr Deputy editor @TheEconomist Middle-Class Pandemic; & What is to be done. . . .  IT'S CATCHING: The pandemic has exacerbated existing political discontent. The problem is worst in middle-income countries.  https://econ.st/3BULYqz  .

Colleen & Catie's Picks for Exotic Getaways Colleen Destination: Bangkok, Thailand Accommodations: Grand Hyatt Erawan - Bangkok - 9 restaurants on site and it’s centrally located to restaurants and activities. Meal/Restaurant: Supatra River House - Two-story traditional Thai house on the Chao Praya River. Activities: Grand Palace - The residence and administrative base of the kings of Chakri Dynasty. Pak Klong Talad - Bangkok’s oldest and busiest wholesale market where flowers, spices and vegetables are sold Wat Pra Kaew (Emerald Buddha Temple) - The chapel houses the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred image for Buddhists in Thailand. Long tailed boat ride - Through the klongs or canals of Thonburi on the west side of the river from Bangkok. When to book: International flights go on sale about 11 months in advance, but airline tickets to Asia tend to be cheapest right around 3 months (90 days) in advance, 7-9 months out can be cheaper as well, if you can book that early. Cost of flights: Delta Air Lines offer the cheapest average flights to Thailand from the United States at around $1,052. China Eastern Airlines, Air China, and Cathay Pacific all offer flights for $1,200 or less. Some flights from New York City (JFK) to Bangkok can be found for as little as $739 on China Eastern From Boston to Bangkok for as low as $844 on Air China Airport to fly into: BKK - Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok (Colleen had one layover in Dubai), the cheapest airport in Thailand to fly into. It’s about $200 cheaper to fly into Bangkok than to fly into Phuket! How to get around: Tuk-Tuk (3-wheeled local taxi) Some hotels also offer hotel cars to drive you around Best time to travel there: Summer is expensive in Thailand, with flights in mid-July peaking around the $1400. Travel in late April, the beginning of May, and late September, when flights drop to $844 or less. How to find things to do: www.tourismthailand.org Tips to keep in mind: International Plan for AT&T or an app for international calling through WiFi Get Thai Cash ahead of time Download a language translator app before you go on your trip, so you can more easily communicate with locals (iTranslate, Google Translate, TripLingo) Catie Destination: Florida Keys Accommodations: Hawks Cay Resort Meal/Restaurant: The Fish House - Features local seafood including yellowtail snapper, mahi mahi, grouper, Florida lobster, and stone crabs. Activity: Swimming with the Dolphins - Dolphin Cove When to book: The best time to visit Key West is between March and May. The winter crowds will die down and the hotel rates become reasonable but the weather is still very pleasant. Cost of flights: $100-$250 round trip, with Tuesday being the best day to fly and Tuesday Around Midnight being the Cheapest Time to Book (saving about 6%). Airport to fly into: Key West International Airport (EYW): Florida Keys Marathon Airport (MTH): Miami International Airport (MIA): Ft. Lauderdale International Airport (FLL): How to get around: There are shuttle services between both Fort Lauderdale and Miami International Airports and Key West, but if you want to get around and explore more, you’re better off renting a car. Best time to travel there: Peak tourist season in the Florida Keys begins in late December and the area remains busy through May. If you can handle the humidity, the summer months offer an opportunity to take advantage of smaller crowds and cheaper hotels. How to find things to do: www.fla-keys.com Tips to keep in mind: If you’re planning on attending one of the The Florida Keys’ many events, make sure to book your trip way in advance, as these can get very popular and crowded. "What's" with the "Trip Sisters" What’s in Your Suitcase? Eco-friendly Ceramic Travel Tumbler from ACERA Starts around $50 - www.aceraliven.com Award winning travel mugs from ACERA. Eco-friendly, double wall ceramic travel mugs, enriched with tourmaline on the ceramic glazed (not dangerous metals or plastics) . Better for you and the environment, plus they are reusable so you can save on paper or plastic cups. Come in a variety of colors, and designs, all classic and ceramic styles. Wowe Health and Earth Awareness Straws $10.97 for a pack of 8 - www.wowelifestyle.com These Straight or Curved Stainless Steel Straws are designed to last a lifetime. They are made from food-grade 18/8 stainless steel, are BPA free, dishwasher safe and will not rust. Each set of straws come with a straw cleaner made from metal and cotton so you can ensure you’re cleaning the inside thoroughly. What’s on your phone? WhatsApp - Free - Android/iPhone Fast, simple, secure messaging and calling for free, available on phones all over the world. No fees - WhatsApp uses your phone's Internet connection (4G/3G/2G/EDGE or Wi-Fi, as available) to let you message and call friends and family. What’s the tip? Packing for an International Trip Pack your light coloured clothes are packed inside out to avoid stains Use disposable hotel shower caps to cover the base of your shoes Roll and vacuum pack your clothes for more space and less wrinkles Pacl a small bag of potpourri or scented bounce sheets to stay fresh Separate toiletries, medication, electronics, cords, etc. with ziplock bags Use lightweight packing cubes to keep organized Pack in-flight essentials (some Tylenol, earplugs, headphones, phone, wallet, etc.) in a separate bag on your carry-on Place a cotton wool pad between your makeup sets to prevent the cases from cracking Pack by outfit, so you’re all ready to go each day of your trip Download any books you want to bring to your kindle or iPad/Tablet before your trip, so you don’t have to carry them with you, and you’re sure you’ll be able to access it even if WiFi isn’t strong. If you’re worried about valuable stuff in your hotel room, hide it in an empty sun tan lotion container (or something similar) to avoid theft.

Number 3, Wat Arun. Even though it’s name means temple of dawn this is a wonderful site best enjoyed at sunset. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, some consider it the most beautiful temple in Thailand. It’s prang or spire on the banks of the river is a world-class landmark. At the time of my visit, Wat Arun was undergoing major renovations as you can see by the scaffolding. Wat Arun held the great Emerald Buddha before it was transferred to Wat Phra Kaew at the Grand Palace. In fact the temple was part of the grounds of the royal palace where it was located before it was moved in 1785. Number 2, Wat Pho. Wat Pho, home of the reclining Buddha. This temple complex is perfect for just wandering as most people will show up, check out the 46 meter long Buddha and immediately leave. You’ll have lots of space to enjoy the atmosphere of a world-class heritage site and the largest collection of Buddha statues in Thailand.Wat Pho is within walking distance of the number one temple to visit in Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew or the temple of the Emerald Buddha, located within the Grand Palace complex. Because Wat Phra Kaew doesn’t house any monks it is more like a personal chapel for the royal family than an actual templeWrite a Review:https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/adventure-travel-far-east-inspired-by-rick-steves-lonely/id1079513943?mt=2  Indore Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Mystic Force Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Mystic Force Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0  

How do you figure out which temples to see in Bangkok when there are over 400 of them? Here are the top 3 that should be on anyone’s list. I’ll explore more in another episode but here’s where to start. This may be enough for your first trip to Bangkok, Thailand. Let’s start the tour! Number 3, Wat Arun. Even though it’s name means temple of dawn this is a wonderful site best enjoyed at sunset. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, some consider it the most beautiful temple in Thailand. It’s prang or spire on the banks of the river is a world-class landmark. At the time of my visit, Wat Arun was undergoing major renovations as you can see by the scaffolding. Wat Arun held the great Emerald Buddha before it was transferred to Wat Phra Kaew at the Grand Palace. In fact the temple was part of the grounds of the royal palace where it was located before it was moved in 1785. Wat Arun glistens in the golden hour at sunset. It’s intricate craftmanship of tiny pieces of glass and Chinese porcelain artfully placed on the prang and other structures is an unforgettable site. You can get to Wat Arun via Tha Tien Pier also called Pier 8 right after you visit the number 2 temple. Wat Pho, home of the reclining Buddha. This temple complex is perfect for just wandering as most people will show up, check out the 46 meter long Buddha and immediately leave. You’ll have lots of space to enjoy the atmosphere of a world-class heritage site and the largest collection of Buddha statues in Thailand. Wat Pho was the first public university in the country and is also home to the top massage school. This is where you can experience a more therapeutic rather than soothing massage. Book ahead otherwise you may have a long wait which can eat into precious exploring time. Of course you also want to savour the presence of this incredible reclining Buddha that’s covered in gold leaf. This image is the Buddha entering Nirvana thus ending reincarnations. The statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters high with the soles of the feet at 3 meters height and inlaid with mother of pearl. There are 108 bronze bowls in the corridor representing the 108 auspicious characters of the Buddha. You can purchase a bowl of coins you can use to drop in the bowls for good fortune, which also aids the monks in preserving the reclining Buddha and Wat Pho. The sound the coins make when dropping is pretty cool in the giant hall. Wat Pho is within walking distance of the number one temple to visit in Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew or the temple of the Emerald Buddha, located within the Grand Palace complex. Because Wat Phra Kaew doesn’t house any monks it is more like a personal chapel for the royal family than an actual temple. The emerald Buddha is considered the palladium of the Kingdom of Thailand. It is made of a single block of jade and is 66 centimeters or 26 inches high, cloaked in three different gold costumes appropriate for the three seasons, wet and hot, and winter, the cool season. No photographs or video are allowed inside the chapel but you can spend as much time as you like enjoying the Buddha and interior of the structure. This is the spiritual heart of Thailand and the top tourist attraction of Bangkok with thousands of visitors daily. There is a dress code and you will be stopped by officials if your clothing is deemed inappropriate. I’ll leave a link in the video description for your reference. In fact most if not all Buddhist temples in Thailand have specific requirements for appropriate clothing. The Grand Palace is crowded and most of the time, an extremely hot place with no air conditioning so pace yourself. To avoid some of the bigger crowds it’s best to start as early as possible, the complex opens at 8:30 everyday. Conceivably you could see all top 3 temples in one day. Starting out at The Grand Palace, then stopping for a coffee or tea beak in a cool cafe around Tha Thien or Pier 8, which is close by Wat Pho and the reclining Buddha. Then visiting Wat Pho before a leisurely lunch around Tha Tien. Then finishing off your tour with a river crossing to Wat Arun in the late afternoon and perhaps enjoying the sunset from one of the best spots in the city. Help others discover Far East Adventure Travel in iTunes! Write a Review: Dress Code For Royal Urn at Grand Palace-Bangkok, Thailand: Regular Dress Code: Music Credits Indore Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Mystic Force Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0

Once the home to the kings of Siam and Thailand The Grand Palace is the number one tourist attraction in Bangkok[/caption] The Grand Palace is the busiest tourist attraction in Bangkok. It has been home to the Kings of Siam and Thailand since 1782. It is not one building as the name implies but a series of buildings, halls, and pavilions set around courtyards, open lawns, and gardens. On first approach to the complex you are literally assaulted by it’s stunning array of colors, shapes, textures and symmetry, overwhelming in it’s sense of beauty. The gold statues and chedis gleam in the intense sun and are almost a distraction from the massive crowds. Arrive early to see the top sight of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha. Carved from a single piece of jade the Emerald Buddha has been on an interesting adventure in the past few centuries. Said to have been discovered by the Abbot of a monastery in Chiang Rai Northern Thailand in the 15 century, the emerald buddha has spend time in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Luang Prabang, Laos before moving to a shrine near Wat Arun in Thonburi before it’s final home at the Grand Palace. The Emerald Buddha is considered the palladium of the Kingdom of Thailand. Perhaps it’s for this reason that photographs are not allowed inside the chapel. The building is considered a personal chapel of the royal family and not a temple as monks do not reside there. The emerald Buddha statue is 19 inches wide and 26 inches high and is adorned with 3 gold seasonal costumes, one for the rainy season, summer, and cool season. They are exchanged by the King in a ceremony at the change of each season. A duplicate of the emerald Buddha can be seen a photographed in Chiang Rai. The Grand Palace is filled with adornments including the gold mythical Aponsi, half-woman, half lion, demon guardians supporting the gilded chedi and the Kinnon, half-human, half-bird. Phra Mondop, at the base of which sit stone carved Buddhas in the Javanese style. Sixteen twelve corner columns support the multi-tiered roof that houses the Buddhist Canon, or sacred texts. The gold gilded chedis are among the most striking structures of the Grand Palace especially on a bright day with a blue sky. The star creatures of the grounds are the giant Yaksha of the Thai Ramakian , Thailand’s version of the Ramayana, an epic Hindu poem. Many murals inside the walls of the Grand Palace feature images of the Thai Ramakian, the story of Rama, whose wife, Sita is abducted by Ravana, the King of Lanka, or Sri Lanka. The Ramayana or Thai Ramakan explores human values and the concept of dharma. On most days the Grand Palace will seem like the hottest place on the planet. So pace yourself. The extra clothing you will have to wear to cover your shoulders and legs as part of the dress code will add to the discomfort. Drink lots of water, wear a wide brimmed hat and do as the Asians do, use an umbrella as a barrier to the intense sun. At the east wall of the Wat Phra Kaew sits eight Phra Atsada Maha Chedis. Each chedi is decorated with a different shade of Chinese porcelain representing the eight elements of Buddhism, Right Understanding, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Concentration and Right Mindfulness. The porcelain creates a glowing effect fitting for their significance. There are still many buildings to admire and visit outside the walls of the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha including the Central Court. Here is where the king resided and where all state business was conducted. The Phra Maha Monthien Group are a series of buildings near the eastern edge of the central court that were the main residence and audience hall for the king. During the week you can visit inside and see the gilded thrones used by the kings. Next to the Dusit Group is the Chakra Maha Prasat, nicknamed the westerner with the Thai hat due to it’s mixed styles of architecture. Today Chakra Maha Prasat is mainly used for state banquets and receptions for foreign ambassadors. It’s closed to the public but there is a weapons collection on the ground level that can be viewed on weekdays. The base of the Chakra Maha Prasat houses the royal guards who you can see standing at attention throughout the day in front of it’s VIP main entrance. And yes you can take pictures with them, just don’t expect any conversation or engagement as they are on duty. Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall is the only building that is open to the public within it’s group. No photographs are permitted inside but you can enjoy the features including a mother of pearl throne and a large mother of pearl throne bed which was used by the king for relaxing between audiences. Today the throne hall is used for lying in state for kings, queens, and favored members of the royal family. Thai kings stopped living in the palace full time at around the beginning of the 20th century but the Grand Palace is still considered the spiritual center of the Thai Kingdom. The inner court where the Thai kings resided and their royal consorts and daughters lived is no longer used but is still closed off to the public. Most of the important sites of the Grand Palace can be seen in one visit. This is probably not a full day trip as the heat and crowds can be overwhelming to most and the exhibits that can be viewed and open to the public are easily seen during a morning or afternoon . If you arrive at the main entrance gate by the 8:30 opening you have plenty of time to see The Chapel of The Emerald Buddha and the buildings of the Central Court with time for breaks in the shade and be finished before lunch. You might be able to squeeze in a visit to one of the on sight museums as well. Like the Taj Mahal and Angkor Wat the Grand Palace is a tourist bus magnet. Though worth every bit of patience to quickly immerse yourself in the history of Siam and Thailand and understand the importance of the King, the royal family, and Buddhism to the Thai people.

Bangkok, Thailand is full of history, exciting street life, notorious red-light districts, fantastic food and enough stimulation to call it one of the most exciting cities to visit on the planet! It's actually the second most visited city in the world following by London as the top spot and preceding Paris in third place. On my most recent whirlwind visit through the city I took in the top sites including The Grand Palace where Thailand's palladium, the Emerald Buddha, can be found as well as Wat Arun, and Wat Pho, two other top temples that shouldn't be missed on a stay in Bangkok. Because I'm a travel broadcaster it's hard to overlook a backpacking center like the legendary Khao San Road, even if just for watching the street entertainment of joyous travellers pushing the partying limit. Check out the latest Far East Adventure Travel Podcast for highlights of live streams this year from Bangkok, Thailand.

Chiang Rai, Thailand is one of the those places you end up staying longer than planned. Even though it's the largest city in the most northern part of the country there is a wonderful "chill vibe", evident in the slow place, the numerous cafes, wonderful Buddhist temples, including the original home of the Emerald Buddha. It's so easy to settle in to the slow place over coffees, beers, and lazy walks to the day market, the "Gold Clock Tower", and the walking streets that take place on Saturday and Sunday. There's lots of tasty local dishes to try, you may even sample your first cricket like I did at one of the "walking street" markets. If you get the urge to venture a little ways out of town you can visit Chiang Rai's two top attractions, The "White Temple" and "Black Temple", more art exhibits and artistic interpretations of Buddhism, then true temples, they are usually swarmed by tourist buses loaded with travellers and their selfie sticks. Go early in the day and you'll have more room to wander and enjoy the settings, especially at the "Black Temple". I definitely plan to spend more time in Chiang Rai on my next visit, and like my last stay, I'll probably end up extending it by a few more days. Check out the latest Far East Adventure Travel "Live" and highlights of my recent trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand.

OK, I don’t want to mislead you, this is not the busiest street in Chiang Rai and there is lots of traffic in the city but it’s easy to feel like it’s not busy in this town and surrounding area with a population of around 200,000. To start your exploration of the town there are at least half a dozen temples worth visiting in Chiang Rai including Wat Jed Yod built in 1844. Jed Yod means 7 peaks represented by 7 chedis on the site. In keeping pace with the town the gatekeeper is pretty laid back and once you get past him you are greeted by an impressive giant Buddha in the main hall. Wat Jed Yod is probably the least visited of Chiang Rai’s most significant temples so you usually have lots of space to yourself. The temple is a copy of one by the same name in Chiang Mai which is a copy of an Indian temple, Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, the very same spot where the Buddha found enlightenment. You will find some of the traditional features of Thai temples including the typical red and gold colors and naga serpents, above all a quiet spot for peace and reflection. The favorite part of my visit? Seeing the glowing sunset shine directly on an ornate window at Wat Jed Yod. Chiang Rai sees many people extend their stay in the town I think because there’s such a huge selection of cafes and places to eat for a town of this size. Once you’re done having a coffee, which could be from beans grown in Northern Thailand move on to the market which pretty much operates all day and through the evening. Perfect for self-catering you can get everything from seafood to cheap noodle dishes. This market is located close by Chiang Rai’s most famous landmark, the gold clock tower. This tower was designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the same man who created the White Temple. Check out the special show of music and lights every evening on the hour from 7 to 9pm. Wat Phra Kaew is Chiang Rai’s most important temple, the place where Thailand’s Emerald Buddha was discovered. Now and since 1784 Thailand’s palladium, the Emerald Buddha has been kept at Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok. In the last almost 600 years the Emerald Buddha has been on a epic trip with stays in Lampang, Northern Thailand, Luang Prabang and Vientiane, Laos before eventually ending up in the Royal family’s private chapel at the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The one here was carved out of Canadian jade in China in 1990 in honor of the princess mother’s 90th birthday. It’s an exact replica of the original. Wat Phra Kaew is a tranquil spot and only a short walk from the clock tower, worth setting aside a hour or so to enjoy the many statues, ponds, and buildings that are in the complex. Within the Wat Phra Kaew site is it’s museum which houses many gifts from it’s followers seeking merit over the past few hundred years. Being one of the most important temples in Chiang Rai province it owns many significant religious art works, some of which are on display in the museum. Each item is labeled in English, Thai, and Lanna, the language of Northern Thailand. Chiang Rai is charming, laid back and full of friendly Thai people. If you do decide to linger around the town a bit longer than your stay, try to plan it around the Saturday Walking Street Market. A chance to get up close to the locals who love to visit the market, see some of the hill tribe goods on display for sale and enjoy the music of Northern Thailand. How about a snack of bugs? Insects are very much apart of the diet in Southeast Asia, I’m actually a non-meat eater, but I’m not really an insectivore, but I guess I’ll try it. Didn’t taste like chicken, just kind of crunchy and salty, but they do have chicken if that’s what you’re craving. Maybe something sweet to kill the cricket taste. These Thai doughnuts look tasty! You’ll find the Chiang Rai Saturday and Sunday Walking Street markets are far less crowded than the ones in Chiang Mai and other large cities so there’s lots of places to stop and eat and listen to the birds, thousands in this park. Head back for the light show at the clock tower and you’ve completed your day in Northern Thailand’s haven and retreat from the speedier pace of the rest of the world, charming Chiang Rai.

Out of all of the capitals in Southeast Asia Vientiane takes the prize as the most laid back. You’d never believe it was the center of commerce, government and transportation. It’s a testament to the attitude of the people of Laos. Not taking anything too seriously and having little or no sense of urgency. They do appreciate their leisure time  and even though the Mekong River is the center of social activity in the evening it never felt too crowded there-the population of Vientiane is less than 800,000. Hell, there’s even enough room for paragliding.Vientiane became the capital of Laos in 1563 and was the administrative capital during French rule. Vientiane has seen it’s share of adversity from being burned completely to the ground in 1827 by Siamese armies, Thailand is right across the river, to passing over to French rule in 1893, Japanese occupation in World War 2., back to reoccupation by the French in 1945 to being established as the center of power for the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in 1975.  Laos, and it is properly pronounced without the s, is a communist country.Vientiane is a mix of French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples and the odd leftover Soviet style building.A great place to get started on your exploration of the city is a visit to one of the country’s most impressive Buddhist temples, Wat Ho Phra Keo, otherwise known as the temple of the Emerald Buddha. Once the royal family of Lao’s personal chapel it was here where the precious emerald buddha statue was reclaimed by the Thai army in 1778 after being snatched by the Laotian king.  Today the Emerald Buddha resides at the Grand Palace’s Emerald Buddha chapel in Bangkok. Excerpts from "The Slow Groove/Cafe Culture And Sights Of Vientiane, Laos". 

Patuxai, one of Vientiane, Laos' most important landmarks is dedicated to those who fought for independence from France Out of all of the capitals in Southeast Asia Vientiane takes the prize as the most laid back. You’d never believe it was the center of commerce, government and transportation. It’s a testament to the attitude of the people of Laos. Not taking anything too seriously and having little or no sense of urgency. They do appreciate their leisure time and even though the Mekong River is the center of social activity in the evening it never felt too crowded there-the population of Vientiane is less than 800,000. Hell, there’s even enough room for paragliding. Vientiane became the capital of Laos in 1563 and was the administrative capital during French rule. Vientiane has seen it’s share of adversity from being burned completely to the ground in 1827 by Siamese armies, Thailand is right across the river, to passing over to French rule in 1893, Japanese occupation in World War 2., back to reoccupation by the French in 1945 to being established as the center of power for the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in 1975. Laos, and it is properly pronounced without the s, is a communist country. Vientiane is a mix of French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples and the odd leftover Soviet style building. A great place to get started on your exploration of the city is a visit to one of the country’s most impressive Buddhist temples, Wat Ho Phra Keo, otherwise known as the temple of the Emerald Buddha. Once the royal family of Lao’s personal chapel it was here where the precious emerald buddha statue was reclaimed by the Thai army in 1778 after being snatched by the Laotian king. Today the Emerald Buddha resides at the Grand Palace’s Emerald Buddha chapel in Bangkok. The temple is adorned with carved features, Khmer stone carvings and several Buddha statues. Wat Ho Phra Keo is no longer in service as a place of worship but acts as a museum and monument. Wat Si Muang is also another worthwhile temple visit for the fact that it’s where the city pillar is located and the guardian spirit of Vientiane. Wat Si Muang is considered the mother temple of the city. Round out a temple run with a look in at Wat Si Saket believed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Vientiane still standing after the sacking of the city by Siam in 1827. It’s also believed because the temple was built in the Siamese style rather than Laoation style it was spared by the army who used it as their headquarters and compound. You can check out more than 2000 silver and ceramic Buddhist images, there’s also a museum on site. Take a break at one of the many cafes or French bakeries in town. This is really one of the highlights of a visit to Vientiane. A coffee, French pastry, and relaxing to the slow groove of this unique capital experience. There’s tons of dining options in Vientiane as well. I love sticky rice and fish larb, a mix of fish, greens and herbs, there’s also meat and veg versions. But it’s nice to know there’s lots of options out there like sushi, western, I really do love sticky rice though. Afterwards grab a bike from your hotel or guesthouse and head out for ride around the town, enjoying the buddhist temples, quieter charming tree-lined streets and their French colonial homes. Enjoy the slow pace, that’s what it’s all about in Vientiane. OK, so that was too slow for you? Grab a motorbike then. I personally wouldn’t attempt this in most major cities in Southeast Asia but the streets of Vientiane are pretty quiet, even in the midday and you can cover alot of ground and sites in a short period of time. It gets pretty hot depending on the time of year pedalling around here so a motorbike is a good option if you’re comfortable driving a two wheeler. After that it’s back to the cafe culture of Vientiane. Coffee is Laos’ 5th biggest export.

Subscribe on iTunes SHOW NOTES: www.5dollarplanet.com/016 In the Mapping Megan episode: Want to make cash for posting articles on your blog? Megan Jerrad from MappingMegan.com makes a full time income from writing on her blog. She shares her top tips for finding paid assignments and how much you should charge for your words. Feature Topics in this episode: The importance of making direct contact with readers/listeners How to know what to write about to get people loving your content How to know if someone likes your pitch, without having to ask them What are sponsored posts and how do you make an income from sponsored posts How to avoid being google slapped and losing your page rankings. How to avoid pissing off readers when publishing lots of sponsored content How to choose what sponsored content is right for your site Guest posting for exposure What are contact swaps and why should you do them Getting covered in puffin shit in Iceland Pitch to big blogs for paid writing work Is it easier to be a freelance writer than it used to be? How much should you charge for freelance writing? How to know if sponsored posts you get offered are spammy? Should you charge more to include a social media campaign with each guest post How to find a PR Agent who will get you sponsored post work Having a template of prices so you can respond to PR quickly How to get the word out that you are accepting guest posts How to avoid "Super Hero Syndrome" and free up time Quotes: [tweetthis]Make your blog a business and turn writing into a full time career[/tweetthis] [tweetthis]It comes down to you to reach out and make opportunities for yourself[/tweetthis] OR tweet suggestions to @5dollartravel or #5dollarplanet   Mentions from Mapping Megan Episode World Nomads Insurance - Specifically designed for digital nomads, flashpackers, adventure & long term Travellers - Get a 5% Discount with our coupon code: WN5DP Trusted Housesitters.com - Use discount code 5DP to get a 15% discount on membership How to become a housesitting pro in just 3 months. TBEX - The Largest Travel bloggers event in the world. MONDAY TOOL: Sidekick by Hubspot Mentions: Chris Ducker - the founder and CEO of Virtual Staff Finder and the Live2Sell Group of Companies Gary Arndt - Everything Everywhere The Mid Game - PR Network - connect with influencers. LAN Airlines Cision - PR software and services including content marketing, media monitoring, media list building, distribution The Real Name of Bangkok - "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit." Which Means....... “The city of angels, the great city, the residence of the Emerald Buddha, the impregnable city (unlike Ayutthaya) of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous Royal Palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukarn.” Matt Gibson - Newsletter for finding PR leads and guest post opportunities

David and Scot are back for a fifth season of, let's face it, the same stuff. There's a look at the new signings, the boardroom situation, a surprising new audience, the Danny Zuko Select, giant emerald buddhas and sexy athletes. Yep, straight back into the groove then! Produced by Paul Myers and Mike Leigh A Playback Media Production iPhone App - http://bit.ly/STAUNCH

Donald M. Stadtner, Independent Scholar