My flight is at 11:15am, so I plan to leave by 10:00am. It's Sunday, so there shouldn't be any traffic. We pack my bags, which are now filled with my new clothes from Louis Tailors. Gave a last look around the room and we head off. I give Nat 2,000 baht, then see how much baht I have left. Take out for the taxi (500), departure tax (500) and incidentals (1,000) and have 3,000 left, which I give to Nat as a "bonus". I call the desk to send someone up for the bags. 3 minutes later, there's a knock on the door, the bags are loaded and the door slams shut behind me. We walk downstairs, give my key to reception and the Julietaxi.com taxi is waiting. Say goodbye to Nat, quickly - like ripping off a band-aid, and get in the taxi. It's off to the airport, and on the way I snap a couple of photos of temples. Maybe next time I'll get closer.

Temple


No problems at the airport, already had my seat assignment. Flight took off on time and three hours later we were in Taipei with an almost 2-hour layover. I had read about The Moore - a type of business traveler's center. I paid $29 and that gave me access to their lounge, complete with high-speed internet access, relaxation rooms, a shower, complimentary beverages and food. A great way to spend the layover. I downed a couple of rum and cokes and two sleeping pills. I was getting off in Seattle and meeting several people from my office to prepare for a hearing in Seattle on Monday morning. Sunday was going to be an all-nighter and I needed to ensure I slept from Taipei to Seattle. Worked like a charm. Got a good 7 hours of sleep on the uneventful flight, cleared customs and checked into the Four Season's Olympic Seattle at 2:00pm. Went down to the War Room at 2:30pm and worked straight through 'till 9:00am. Vacation was over - quickly - just like ripping off a band-aid.

Conclusion

Often times when something is really, really good, no matter how many times you try to duplicate it, it's just never as good as the first time. Well, this trip was not as good as the first one. IT WAS BETTER. Knowing what to expect, how to move around, and not having the fear of the unknown made this the best vacation ever. I'm definitely going back in December, but if the stars are aligned, I'll get back sooner. Already eyeing the week of July 4th, usually quiet for me in New York. Until then, I'll be watching the board with envy, waiting to make the inevitable return.

Wallstreet, my past visit was my 4th trip, and it was my best ever. I've known some guys who've been going ten years and having their best trips ever. It is possible in our fantasy land. Sounds like LOS has you hooked, bad. LOL

Great job on the overall report. Your temple pictures in today's post had me howling! You really should get over to the grand palace and Wat Po.

Murasaki,

Is it that obvious that I'm hooked? I've read the reports on Rio and Buenos Aries, and the women look much better in the photos than the Thai girls, but when you add up the whole package: cost, food (I love Thai food), clothes, golf - for me there's no question. When I can get a week off - it's off to Bangkok. Still not sold on Pattaya, went the 1st time, not this past trip - maybe I'll give it a shot next time. BTW - always liked your trip reports - brought them along with me - invaluable info - just trying to give a little something back here.

I always say my next trip will be the best. so far so good after 15+ years.

Even some of the not so good times are good.
( especially when thinking about them back in farangland)

Wallstreet, a very nice, thoughtful report. Only fellow posters can truly understand why we will brave repeatedly 19+ hours of flight, jet lag, language difficulties and (now SARS) to go out to LOS every chance we get.

Merlin,

Very true. Is the Rio trip still on for you? I've just started reading the Rio reports and following the South America Board and I have to tell you, the termas in Rio sound almost too good to be true. If you do go, I'll very much look forward to your report, knowing you are such a proponent of Thailand.

Wallstreet, the RIO trip is a sure thing now. I'll have the benefit of a couple of vets to show me around, so I'm truly looking forward to it. I'll take some good notes for all. Merl.

Wallstreet,
I enjoyed reading your report, particularly the details.Do you by chance have an address on Louis Tailors on Sukhumuit or what it is near? Thanks