New Condo

It was a bit of a whirlwind, moving into my new condo and then trying to make it to the Expat party that same evening. I really did not want to go. But I forced myself to get unpacked, somewhat organized and then slapped on my Happy Hour shirt to make the best of it.

I had to take a cab, knowing I was going to be drinking. Costs about 20$ each way- which seemed like a lot to me. But I guess better than driving Tia drunk and ending up in the hospital or Thai jail. I felt awkward arriving to the party. There seemed no place to sit that wasn’t taken by what looked to be close knit groups already conversing.

I ordered a drink and sat next to a rocker looking dude who was alone. He was a 67 year old Aussie, who was very clear about liking to hook up with Thai women. “The darker the better.” He had stunning blue eyes and seriously looked much younger than his actual age. He retired in Phuket also, leaving a ex wife and 15 year old son behind. Later an Indian man sat with us, who came over 6 months ago to run a hotel business. He was very quiet about a lot of subjects, but bought the Aussie and I drinks.

After the Aussie left, Abishek and I talked for another hour and I found him completely insightful, quiet mannered, ambitious and diverse. I enjoyed our conversation and it made it worth my trip out. He told me about a street famous in Patong which I hadn’t been to yet, so I wandered down to check it out before ending my evening.