Pattaya Mail — Letters
It is noticed that the letters herein in no way reflect the opinions of the editor or writers for Pattaya Mail, but are unsolicited letters from our readers, expressing their own opinions. No anonymous letters or those without genuine addresses are printed, and, whilst we do not object to the use of a nom de plume, preference will be given to those signed.
Letters published in the Mailbag of Pattaya Mail will also be on our website .
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Dear Editors:
Please publish this letter. We cannot know if this problem has ever been discussed in your newspaper. Surely it is a question of public health... (It) could motivate the authorities in charge of this matter to launch a chemical (medical) test, or maybe get the quality of water here tested and verified.
Concerning the quality of delivered water provided by Pattaya companies: we are living in a remote building in the Jomtien area that is not connected to the Pattaya public water supply. Therefore, we are forced to call on a company to come with a tank-truck to deliver us about 7,000 liters for 200 Baht during most months of the year. During the rainy season our water is clean and fresh, because the rainwater fills our tank directly from the roof; but sorry to say, ‘normally’ the water we get delivered is dirty, dark (if not quite black) and stinks. You need some fantasizing to use this water with the idea of cleaning, that is even though we use a filter-machine that is quite well maintained.
In short, the water provided by this particular company, and, as friends tell us, by most companies, is very bad. The pump usually shows problems for the first few days due to many material parts in the water. What we see disturbs us, but what we cannot see (but smell) frightens us. To shower becomes an act of self-defence.
So, some questions arise. First, does somebody know a source of useable house (not drinking) water? Please help us; name the company and its telephone-number! Second, do such companies need something like a license? Maybe the origin of the water they are licensed to provide is not the origin of the provided water? Never ever, even in amazing times, can somebody be licensed to sell such a liquid. Moreover and idealistically spoken, should water being sold to households sometimes be checked? I really fear the result of a chemical test, but as long as there is no alternative vendor I prefer to press my lips together while being in the bathroom. This is an emergency.
Martin Arker
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Dear Sir,
I read a few letters and I heard quiet a few people complain about driving in Thailand and most of them believe there are no rules. This is absolutely wrong and as for myself, I love to drive in Thailand. True. It reminds me a little of the way we used to drive in Belgium or France in the fifties... with a small difference: we used our horn much more (see Art 9).
Of course there are rules but a lot of Europeans seem to misunderstand them. Maybe its because they are too logical for a Caucasian mind.
1. The more wheels you have, the more rights... (Two legs = one wheel, but the four legs of an elephant count for six wheels).
2. The older your car is the more rights you have (because the drivers of nicer cars will stay at a safe distance from you).
3. By self respect, never keep to the left of the road unless you can’t do otherwise (also because you never know who or what might come out from the next side road).
4. A Thai may drive on the right side of a road or highway if it is more convenient.
5. Never enter a street with a No Entry sign unless it is the shortest way to reach your destination.
6. A "one way" sign has to be respected by other drivers, not necessarily you.
7. ...On the highway, it is safer to drive a brand new Volvo or Benz or you may have to pay a fine of 100 baht for speeding.
8. If you are a Caucasian, always expect the other drivers to have reactions opposite to yours.
9. Never use the horn because it is rude, unless you are a taxi driver. In this case you may honk twice to notify a passerby that he HAS to hire you.
10. Unless you have real high relations, never argue with a police officer. Pay the fine and leave without asking for a receipt.
11. When raining don’t splash pedestrians or motorcycles. But this last one is common sense and valid in almost (?) all countries.
As you can see, they are really not difficult to remember. Another thing that should help you drive safely in Thailand is to memorize the following: "Thailand means the land of the free. A free man is his own and only master... and he follows only the leaders he did choose himself. Why should it be different with rules?
Welkomm Inn
Editor’s note: This letter was written "tongue in cheek" and is not intended to be followed to the tee, nor is it intended to offend. Pattaya Mail strongly encourages all drivers in this and any country to drive safely, obey all traffic laws, and use common sense when behind the wheel. Drive safely, the life you save could be your own.
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The following are actual excerpts from classified sections of city newspapers, contributed by our good friend Jeep. (Part 1)
Illiterate? Write today for free help.
Auto Repair Service. Free pick-up and delivery. Try us once, you’ll never go anywhere again.
Our experienced Mom will care for your child. Fenced yard, meals, and smacks included.
Dog for sale: eats anything and is fond of children.
Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel.
Stock up and save. Limit: one.
Semi-Annual after-Christmas Sale.
3-year old teacher needed for pre-school. Experience preferred.
Mixing bowl set designed to please a cook with round bottom for efficient beating.
Girl wanted to assist magician in cutting-off-head illusion. Blue Cross and salary.
Dinner Special — Turkey $2.35; Chicken or Beef $2.25; Children $2.00.
For sale: antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers.
Now is your chance to have your ears pierced and get an extra pair to take home, too.
We do not tear your clothing with machinery. We do it carefully by hand.
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