I had a few really hot & sexy dates on this trip.
Also, made a few selections that had me shaking my head.
Showed courage at times.
Showed fear and trepidation at others.
For the most part, didn't really concern myself with what the girls, or what the meals cost.
But, I also did a couple of "Cheap Charlie" routines.
Actually I started thinking about if and when I would return. Probably 3 nights before departure.
I have enough points - as I could never, ever survive in Economy.
So I'm thinking a return in 3 years (or less).
Bangkok - for sure!
Pattaya - never again!
Kuala Lumpur - not worth the effort.
Singapore - absolutely!
Jakarta - No thank you! - once was enough.
With the above in mind, I may venture back to Macau and the Philippines.
Thank you for reading and insightful comments.

Dr. J.

In all fairness, Jakarta has much more to offer than what you experienced. Most of the mongering opportunities there are concentrated in north Jakarta. From your report, you stuck with the south Jakarta hotel club scene. If you ever change your mind and go back, just remember to "head north."

Thanks for posting the big report!

Mr. Murasaki,

I have absolutely no doubt, what you say is true.
Jakarta, is an enormous city, with terrible traffic, resulting in massive grid-lock.
At this juncture in my life, I have little desire to "beat my head in" getting to those other opportunities.
I would much rather, jump in a cab, and head to where I know the "pickings" are Good!
But thank you for your feedback.

Dr. J.

I agree, Jakarta has horrible traffic - it's the number one thing I hate about the place. That's why I stay in north Jakarta, making it much easier to get to the local venues. So if you ever did go back, book yourself a room at the Grand Mecure Harmoni or the Harris Vertu Hotel Harmoni. Both are walking distance to Malioboro/Malio Club (Harris Vertu is almost directly across the road), and much shorter rides to other places.

I almost forget to mention one thing!
While over there, got multiple messages from Tony the pimp.
Seems he has turned very ill.
He needs money for medicines.
Tried to get me to send him some cash.
It didn't work.
But he did also send these few pics.





Dr. J.

This morning watching the rain come down I decided to go on-line early.
Found a charter flight to Cartagena, return.
The Price?
Just under $ 350.
Booked it, and an internal flight to Medellin, as
Avianca also had a Biz class promo.
It's good to get up extra early sometimes.

Dr. J.

Thanks for the report Dr. J. We really appreciate you taking the time and effort to post one.

.

Sweet report Dr J! Much appreciated!

I have been limiting myself to Pattaya, AC and Medellin lately but itching to check out either a new place or revisit an old haunt.

I remember totally digging Singapore and maybe is time to go back. Jakarta was good for me but I certainly need to research matters since TC and Stadium are gone and those, plus the Kota Inda bars were the places to go on my only trip thus far.

JB,

Foodie question.

Walking distance from your hotel. Have you eaten at L'Appart at the Sofitel yet? You can have dinner out on the balcony with a killer view, if you like the warm weather.

I'm so used to small petite south east asian woman I don't think I'm man enough to cope with the above ones.

mr.JAGGERBOWSKI...........you wrote NEVER PATTAYA AGAIN .......

may I ask why ? curious to see as to what turned you off

I find Pattaya to be one hell of a place to monger

Mr. The_happy_monge,

I see that you have visited Pattaya on 4 trips. Good for you.
This last one, was also my 4th, and that is enough.
What turned me off?
The crowds, the sleaze, the filth, the very poor water quality at the beach, the over priced food of mediocre quality (other than "Smokin" Joes"), too many crazy Ruskies & Turks, very few higher end clubs, the (mostly) awful music from bands who could not play anywhere but there, the young/underage girls(?), and the fact that the place is a magnet for sportsmen of dubious character and appearance from the far corners of the world.
How's that?.

Dr. J.

Mr. Ceenotes,

No I have never eaten at L'Appart.
I did a quick check.
Noticed that it is French. It is also not open for lunch.
But I have made myself a note for when I return to Bangkok, nevertheless.
Thank you for the recommendation.

Dr. J.

JB,

Your welcome.

I see you like "Smokin" Joes" in Pattaya. I should of walked away since its owned by Steak Co which both are overpriced for what quality I'm getting.

Smoking Joe's is borderline ok (same goes for Steak co). I love BBQ! But smoking joe's cook short ribs in the OVEN with no sauce rubbed and then spoon some sauce on top your ribs before served. My short ribs came with sauce only center of my rack. I guess they expect me to dip my ribs in the saucer like fries with ketchup.
I don't even smell that strong BBQ aroma as a real BBQ joint holds.
Personally..Costco deli makes a better BBQ then them.

Your right..I cannot find decent non-thai restaurant in Pattaya.

Here's my usual dining spots for non-thai.
Pattaya- The Kitchen (but quality differs on each trip)
BKK - Soi 8, Viva and Monsoon.


Just calling it a steakhouse is a big money maker in Thailand. El Guacho Steakhouse on Soi 19. Each primecut is at least 3000+ THB and it's no where close to Ruth Chris for $50 USD here in the states. The entire steak scene is just way overpriced for what they offer. El Guacho went one on Soi 19 to over 4/5 in BKK, expanding in the islands and a handful in Vietnam. 24oz porterhouse sells for 7000 THB ++

The steaks are decent but should no way be double/triple the price of Ruth Chris, Del Frisco's or Gibson's

Mr. Ceenotes,

I don't know if you read my Day 25: Return to BKK post.
The "Rib Room & Bar Steakhouse" at the Landmark is very good quality.
I had the "Wagyu" Ozzie rib-eye that was allegedly aged for 400 days. Superb!
From your post I would surmise that you live in Chicago. I have been there several dozen times and agree that there are few places better for steak.
One place that would guarantee competition is Buenos Aires. Major difference in "grass fed" versus "corn fed" beef cattle.

Dr. J.

Hey JB,

Yeah, I checked out the RR at the Landmark but they don't have broilers. That Wagyu sounds great!

I used to go to BA after Rio a long time ago and eaten at Las Lilas, Don Julio and several others. Argentina cuts were just too lean and too tight.

I stay away from grass fed (too lean and chewy). My local butcher says corn fed is more fatty and with outstanding marble.

I'm not from Chicago but been there a few times and I think Chicago has the best beef in the nation. Good old mid-west beef! Gibson's and
Gene & Georgetti used to be my go to spots.

In Vegas the hotel steakhouse are just ok, I always go to Del Frisco's off the strip. Besides Chicago...Del Frisco is my favorite, both NYC and Vegas locations.

One thing I don't understand in Asia is folks spending $$$$ on A5 Kobe and slice it thin and drop in in boiling broth (Hot Pot). what a waste of some A5.