For years I have been contemplating and dreaming of traveling to the Dark Continent. Not just anywhere in Africa, to places like the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and Burundi. For the life of me, I have no idea why I find these places so appealing. Clearly, these are some of the most corrupt, dangerous, wild countries in the world. All I can come up with is that they are four of the least known, undeveloped countries in our day. Or maybe I'm nuts. How may people do you know who have photos from these countries? Better yet, how many people do you know who have really good or great photos from them? My guess is no more than one or two—if you're lucky. 

Myanmar is another place that, aside from the major cities, remains free from tourists. After a dozen trips to Myanmar, I remain enthralled and eager to explore more of the country. My trip to Africa is now scheduled for the end of May. To me, this is a long way off. I may attempt to squeeze in another trip to Myanmar in February or March, but it depends on the status of my funds. Few people, including Burmese, ever experience or see the northern portion of Myanmar where I plan on going, a pristine area that time seems to have forgotten. It is just the sort of place I am looking to explore. It is an adventure. ​

A week ago I started making some changes to everything related to An American In Bangkok. The changes may not be visible at first, but in time, I do believe people watching my YouTube channels and frequenting this site will see the differences. Like always, I have a long list of things to do and I never seem to get as much done as I want to—but eventually I will. At times it can be frustrating, depressing, and tiring, but there's no other way to make changes than to just continue making them until you reach your goal.

Today I received a package from a long time subscriber and good buddy Mr. Billy. Mr. Billy needed to go back home to the United States a few months ago so he's no longer in Thailand. From what I understand, he plans on coming back and should be back in a few months. Anyway, below is a short video I made showing what he sent me in a care package.

BTW - tomorrow I am contemplating a livestream from the Talingchan Floating Market. Going there means waking up around 4:30-5:00AM. Normally I would do this without giving it a second thought, however, for the past few days, I've felt lethargic and in more pain than usual. So...I may go, I may not, it really depends how much sleep I get and how I feel in the morning. My mind says do the stream, my body is telling me otherwise. We'll see in a few hours.

Just a quick update...everything is changing. I'm changing my YouTube channel to focus more on Thailand and travel, this blog will reflect this new direction, and while I will continue to assist those interested in Thailand and elsewhere, a revamp is long overdue. More photos, more streams, more videos, and more information geared towards those looking to travel or move to Southeast Asia. Every so often I get the feeling I'm stagnating, or spinning my wheels, and this is where I am now. It's time for a few changes, so stay tuned. Thanks.

Okay, so I have not done the blogging thing in a couple of months. I admit, my discipline's been lacking. But the beginning of the new year is as good a time as any to get refocused and back on track. So here I am again. The plan is to start blogging at least once a week again, more when necessary. I can do once a week without becoming overwhelmed, so come back every Monday evening (BKK time) for my weekly update. 

Last year was a pretty good year for myself and my family. We took several family trips in Thailand and I took a couple trips to Cambodia and to Myanmar. This year should be even better. If all goes as planned I'll journey around Thailand and head back in Myanmar and Cambodia two, possibly three times. I'll also make my first sojourn to the African continent, visiting at least two countries, possibly as many as five. 

Livestreaming has become a regular gig for me, and from what I've been told, people seem to like them as much or more as videos. I like them too, although they can be distracting when out and about in the middle of a river or jungle. Much to my surprise, the quality of 4G coverage in Myanmar was fantastic. Thailand's coverage is generally very good, Cambodia's is not. 

Anyway, thanks for coming to my website, watching my videos and streams, and becoming a VIP member of this website. I hope 2018 will be great year for you and yours!