Showing 1 - 5 of 5
Roger Crutchley, Published on 26/04/2026
» Last week's item regarding the wonderful world of maps and atlases sparked memories of how a map played a key cameo role during my early days in Bangkok. It was 1969 and I was teaching at a commercial college. One of the subjects I was assigned was geography. After the first lesson it was clear there was a language problem. None of the Thai class understood a word I was saying.
Roger Crutchley, Published on 19/01/2025
» By Thai standards the weather has definitely been on the chilly side in recent weeks. Or to use the correct meteorological term, it's been "a bit nippy" in the early morning and evenings.
News, Roger Crutchley, Published on 01/08/2021
» One of the first things a visitor to Thailand is asked is probably what town they come from back home. My response of Reading invariably brings blank looks, so I usually add "just west of London" which admittedly doesn't make things any clearer. It would be nice if I came from a place that sounded a trifle more intriguing, such as the wonderful Nempnett Thrubwell in Somerset or Booby Dingle in Herefordshire.
News, Roger Crutchley, Published on 09/02/2020
» Venturing into central Bangkok these days is bit of a weird experience with nearly everyone, Thais and foreigners alike, understandably wearing face masks as protection from the double threat of caronavirus and dust pollution. The City of Angels is transforming into the City of Masks, but it is encouraging that people are taking the situation seriously. However, it is a strange feeling being in the Land of Smiles but not seeing many grins, owing to the masks. But do not despair. You can still see those Thai smiles in the eyes.
News, Roger Crutchley, Published on 09/09/2018
» Earlier this week a veteran taxi driver told me he was a great fan of Elvis Presley. He proceeded to sing Love Me Tender for most of the journey. He wasn't too bad either -- Elvis would have been proud. The crooner cabbie said singing took his mind off the horrors of Bangkok's traffic.