Last year I was shocked and saddened to hear of the death of my friend and former neighbour Claire. I met Claire when I moved into my new home. She and I were different in outlook, but I could see that she was a good person. We shared an interest in computers, hers was at a complete starting point. To begin she knew nothing, however, over the next few years she mastered the wintel computer and learned to use sophisticated photographic software far better than I ever could. She also taught herself digital photography, mastering the skill, and turning her hobby into a business. She left two sons. You are missed. Claire RIP.
First, some advisories: A. ADVISORY: For the last few years and decades there has been an ongoing insurgency in the provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat (the 'deep south' of Thailand). An average of 600 people have been killed per year between 2004-9. The Australian government strongly urges its citizens not to visit these provinces: "do not travel". Having said this there is no blood on the streets, and life goes on normally for the vast majority of people. In comparison approximately 400 people die every year from traffic accidents in the same region. You have been advised. B. Getting there. There seems to be a scam carried out by the local tour operators to persuade travellers to take mini-buses on journeys between the towns in southern Thailand. These mini-buses cost several times as much as a normal bus. For example, I was quoted 1000 baht (~$35) between Trang and Pattani ~250kms, as compared to 200 baht for a VIP bus. A clear difference. Take the l
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