ya think?

I got back home earlier this week after a three-week absence. I made an unusual daytime arrival, while the lobby is staffed with the receptionists. The lady at the desk sees me get out of the airport limousine. As I haul my two roller suitcases, one big tote carry on in addition to a backpack and purse, I find her waiting for me by the elevators, presumably to greet me.

Receptionist: Excuse me, Madam.
Me: Hello. Yes?
Receptionist: You ask about the satellite for your tv.
Receptionist: I try to call you many times but you don't pick up.
Receptionist: I think maybe you travel?

There are several English words that I hear the Thais use often. Finish is one. Maybe is the other. The Thais' frequent use of maybe struck me comical that moment as I stood there, laden with luggage. Really? Where did she think I was coming from then?

There probably were some in the soles..

... but I prefer them removed, not repaired.
Seen on the directory listing by the elevator in the Emporium mall.

Appetite suppressant

File this under Lost in Translation.

Renaissance Woman

There I was, on a Thai Airways flight to Taipei, on my way to visit relatives.

I had laid in front of me, a French newspaper, listening to Italian opera on my iPod, filling out an immigration form in English.

The attendants started distributing breakfast. When they reached me, I seized the opportunity to practice my Thai. I registered the first selection as "omlette" and the second I didn't make out. I asked "ruu mii arrai?" Repeated when the attendant gave me a blank face. And repeated. And repeated, after each attempt lacked a proper response.

I then looked down and realized she was the one Chinese-speaking attendant onboard.