Well I have to make another trip out of Thailand in order to “try” to obtain an extension to my visa…….

We are still under Martial Law – for over a month now – and there are still no serious plans to remove it.

There still seem to be quite a few undercurrents regarding Thaksins possible return to Thailand – with some even suggesting that if he comes back he will be put under house arrest – quite similar to another neighbouring country who also have a military junta ruling!

Its also hard to access the impact that the new government is having.  All press freedom has been completely curtailed and that means that it is difficult to know what really is going on.  THe sooner the press can report freely the sooner the country can get back to normal.

As it is now, there is a lot of talk about “sufficiency economy” with a lot of international observers interpreting this as “THailand wants to go on its own” and not rely on international investment.  But it appears that the government are at pains to point out that they DO want international investment and FDI.  But before that can happen they will have to give some more assurances regarding foreign ownership and the nominee shareholdings of Thai companies.

I, like most foreigners, am taking a “wait and see” attitude to THailand.  I still dont think we are over the worst of the political mess and I think the economy will continue to suffer. 

THe real estate market still seems to be holding its own but how long this can continue is anyones guess.  Traditionally, the following few months are key to the real estate industry – as many foreigners come to visit and buy during the winter months.  I think we will all have a bigger understanding of the direction come next January/February.

As for my own story, it looks like the real estate agent has over promised again – and in fact my Villa is not booked out for the next 4 months.  I am still going to move to Hua HIn and am getting my Hi Speed internet installed tomorrow.  That means I will be online a lot more and will be able to do a lot more work.   I really have missed being online! 

I still think my 2 investments in THailand are very sound and I am always on the lookout for possible bargains……… now I actually have the time to research things thoroughly. 

Father Dougal McGwyer – aka Ardal O’Hanlon is coming to Bangkok next week for a comedy show.  I already have my tickets and I’m really looking forward to it.  Father Ted is one of my alltime favourite programmes and “My Little Horse” is my favourite Eurovision song – ever!

United are on fire these days – really impressive stuff against Blackburn at the weekend.  We should have won by more – perhaps Rooney should have scored those 2 sitters!!

As for Wenger – man, that guy is such a joke.  He didnt even apologise for his tantrum and deserves to be punished harshly by the FA.  THere is no need for sore losers!

OK – well things are still ticking on nicely here in Thailand but all in all it looks like I will be back home in Ireland next February!  Whether I stay for good is another story!!!!

Thats all for now!