Learning

Driving in Thailand, How I Learned to Love the Terrifying Thrill

Vehicles are locked in gridlock on a road in downtown Bangkok, Thailand.

BANGKOK – The first time I drove a car in Thailand, I had lived there – as an English teacher on a tiny island off Phuket – for years. On the island, I walked everywhere, but when I got a new job at an expat newspaper on Phuket, I needed to commute. I had no choice; I had to drive. And I was terrified.

The World Health Organization had yet to rank Thailand’s road fatality rate the third deadliest in the world, but four of my Thai colleagues had already died in motorcycle accidents. I wondered how I’d manage to navigate among barreling 22-wheelers, pickups stacked with hogs, cement trucks hurrying to keep up with the new housing estates and condos, tourist buses, vans and taxis, not to mention the motorcycles, as plentiful and omnipresent as the plastic bags used by vendors in the local fresh market.

When I first got behind the wheel, for a test run down quiet early-morning streets, I had two fervent wishes: that I not kill anyone and that I remember to stay on the left.

A year and a half later, when I quit the newspaper job, I’d racked up three minor accidents (but no casualties) and driven on the wrong side a handful of times. I’d also edited dozens of accident stories – many gory, some miraculous, most sad – and routinely associated locations in Phuket with the accidents that had occurred there: The wide road with the pretty mountain view was where three boys on a motorcycle rammed a pickup truck. The noodle restaurant near my apartment was where a woman was struck while crossing the street. The bottom of the hill in Patong was where an out-of-control bus crushed a car.

Yet, strangely enough, I’d also come to enjoy driving in Phuket. I loved wending along curving roads through rubber plantations, past small hamlets where I’d see neighbors gathered to buy food from a traveling vendor or drinking together at a corner shop. I liked having the freedom to visit different west coast beaches or calm Yon Bay, on the southeast side, where I went kayaking with a friend.

“There’s a good flow,” an American friend said of traffic; drivers tend to be courteous and accommodating; and in a country where so much happens outside, every excursion brings a lot to see.

Still, I never lost track of the fact that driving was dangerous. The US State Department’s Web site says that “speeding, reckless passing, and failure to obey traffic laws are common in all regions of Thailand,” which is why visiting friends often assumed there were no rules of the road at all.

There are rules, of course, but it’s true that some are routinely broken. What I soon realized was that they’re often broken in predictable ways. To stay safe on the road, I set about learning how to predict the unpredictable.

U-turns, for example, are improperly made in regular ways. There is the “forced pull-out” of motorists who inch forward into oncoming traffic until they block the lane and must be allowed to turn; the “tandem turn” of drivers unwilling to wait in line who rush to the head of the queue to turn with the front-runner; and the “crowd push” executed by a swarm of motorcyclists who mysteriously communicate the moment they should all turn in front of traffic together.

Motorcyclists make up almost 75 per cent of road fatalities in Thailand, and I was always alert for them, especially when I changed lanes or made turns. They, too, could be counted on to be unpredictable in predictable ways, but not unerringly predictable – they were involved in two of the three accidents I had. They pop out of side streets onto main roads without stopping, dart around blind corners in residential areas and in parking lots (my second accident) and drive against the flow of traffic (my third).

Vehicle speed is another aspect of road culture that is reliably inconsistent. On Thepkrasattri Road, Phuket’s north-south artery and the main route from the airport, motorists reach high speeds on the long straightaways past rubber and pineapple plantations. Speed cameras set up there at the end of 2013 were programmed to photograph cars going faster than 120 kmh but soon had to be rejiggered – the images of license plates from the cars going 200 km were too blurry to read.

Exactly how these speeds could affect me became clear one day as I drove home along a fast section of the road. I had just moved into the passing lane to overtake a vehicle when I heard a prolonged shuddering and long honk behind me; the van that I’d seen in my rear view mirror as a speck on the horizon had narrowly avoided rear-ending me.

It was one of the few times I was honked at in anger. I rarely heard Thais use their horns to express frustration or send aggressive messages; their main purpose is to give warning. The tinny beep of motorcycles means, “Hey guys, I’m over here, be careful please.” The ponderous bass of mega-wheelers as they barrel towards a stale yellow light says, “I’m going through this intersection, don’t make me run over you.”

Not everyone is speeding, though, and puttering vehicles pose their own risks. Usual suspects are ice trucks on delivery runs; small local buses trolling for passengers; and the ones everybody loves to hate, motorcycles with sidecars. Whether toting people, mammoth pancake griddles or huge half-barrel barbecues, these saleng never seem able to reach the median speed.

It wasn’t only motorists that I watched for the unexpected, but the roadways themselves. Road hazards may not be marked: During a recent rainy season, after a huge pit dug for drainage pipes in Patong was left improperly marked, two motorcyclists rode into the flooded hole and had to swim out. In some places, power poles extend into the street. One in Phuket Town may still bare traces of the silver paint of my rental car, not yet a month old when I scraped along it as I parallel parked (the first mishap).

But it’s not all horror stories on the streets of Phuket. There’s that flow that my friend mentioned, the product of a driving style that values “Yield” over “Stop”. Signage is good, in both English and Thai. Gas stations are full-service, and car wash staff members do an excellent job, even removing hubcaps to get to the grime underneath, for less than NZ$8. And if you do have an accident, it will likely be handled well – insurance reps will come to the scene, usually within half an hour, and investigate, attribute blame, settle and fill out all the paperwork. Most important of all: There’s so much charm and loveliness to see if you get out and about.

Some of my favorite drives are the coastal route stretching from Kata Beach in the southwest to Surin Beach in the middle, which winds through lush greenery and back out to the sea, looping along cliffs; Route 4027, which meanders through charming countryside in the relatively undeveloped northwest quadrant; and routes 4023 and 4129, which lead away from the hustle-bustle of Phuket Town to the peaceful and less frequented areas of Cape Panwa. There are plenty of tourist sites to visit as well: temples, vistas, botanical gardens, a bird park, cashew factory, aquarium.

But you’d see plenty even if you missed the beaches and every tourist spot. If you drive out very early, about 6am, you’ll find grandmas and grandpas exercising in small local parks. You may pass monks blessing devotees kneeling by the roadside or catch the flicker of a rubber tapper’s headlamp as he finishes work before breakfast. In the dry season, you might glimpse rows of bird cages suspended in empty roadside plots: a bird-singing contest in progress. And you’ll be sure to start a mental list of wondrous things seen on motorbikes: whole families, men carrying large panes of glass and ladders, and my personal favorite: two women, the driver pressed forward against the steering column, the passenger leaning far off the rear of the seat, spread-eagle against the huge TV that separated them.

If you look carefully at the vehicles around you, you’ll notice religious icons dangling from rear-view mirrors or mounted on dashboards: representatives of the divine protection many Thais seek from road accidents. The best insurance for the foreign driver, however, is to be alert, always, to the unexpected.

By Leslie Porterfield

Learning

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.

Understanding Your Financial Position

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.

2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.

3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.

4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.

Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.

Deciding What You Want

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.

3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.

4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?

Starting the Property Search

With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:

1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.

2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.

3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.

Making an Offer

Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.

2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.

3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.

The Legal Process

If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.

2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.

3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.

4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.

5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.

Moving In

Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:

1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.

2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.

3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.

Settling In

Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.

Here are a few final tips:

1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.

2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.

3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.

Conclusion

Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!

Learning

5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!

Smoother Skin

One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.

After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.

Softer Skin

After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.

Healthier Nails

After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.

Increased Blood Circulation

While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.

Reduced Infections

A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.

These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.

Learning

Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.

The Importance of Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:

Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation

When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:

Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.

Choosing the Right Installation Service

Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:

Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.

In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

Conclusion

Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.

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