28 May 2006
By Mr Brian

Twice this year year

I have been coming to Thailand since 1998. I usually travel to BKK since 1998. I usually travel to Bangkok, Chiang mai, Chang rai, Mae Sai and Phuket. My most enjoyable time in Phuket is staying @ the Connect Guesthouse in Patong. Connect has virtually everything I could ever need for a most enjoyable holiday. From its excellent restaurant to the WiFi computer Connections “Connect” is the key word here. Located in the heart of Paradise Complex it is convenient to anything you desire. I enjoy the room, food service, the cable TV and mini bar. The in room safe is a must for me and I feel secure with the security cameras through out the complex. Patong Beach is a 5 minutes walk and the gay beach is fantastic.

I was here 6 months before the Asian Tsunami so I am able to compare the gay beach and surrounding areas before and after the devastating Tsunami and I also came for the 1 year anniversary of the Tsunami and was impressed with all of the positive changes. My experience has been somewhat limited to the Paradise Complex and I must say that it is refreshing to see the recovery in progress. I would say that my visit to the temple Tsunami memorial was a good eye opener as the 1 year memorial on the beach was. The Thai people have such a way of expressing themselves that is touching in a way that’s hard to explain. I can just say that the experience left me breathless and I will forever remember that day.

I have been at the Connect two times this year and plan a 3rd trip in December. My dream is to stay here long term while also keeping my flat in San Francisco. I have a Thai Boyfriend in SF who recently graduated from the University there. It is easy to be separated from him as there are a lot of Thai men in Patong to keep my mind off of my true love. If you ever get the time to come to Phuket you have to check out the Connect and all it has to offer. Its funny but I brought a friend of mine from SF for his first trip to Thailand and it changed his life literally forever. He is back home now but calls me everyday to live vicariously trough me and fantasizes that he is still in Patong. He has never been out of the USA and vows to return with me to Phuket in December – So, like I said, If ever get the chance, come to Phuket, don’t let the memories of the Tsunami stop you from experiencing the land of smiles. Everything here is up and running and is 100% or even better than before the Tsunami. Patong Beach boasts the first early warning system for emergency notification. Come here, It will change your life forever!!