Steve Van Beek has written numerous books about Thailand, and has a particular fascination for the way rivers and the sea have shaped Thailand’s history and culture. This culminated in an intrepid exploration of Thailand’s longest river, the Chao Phraya, solely by kayak.
Name:
Steve Van Beek
Age:
63
Nationality:
U.S.
Time in Thailand:
Since 1969
What brought you here?
Stopped to visit a Thai friend and forgot to leave.
What do you most love about the place?
Its diversity.
Where do you live in Thailand? Why did you choose to live there?
Central Bangkok. Proximity to everything. That said, we are looking for something upcountry because we also like peace and quiet, a commodity in very short supply in Bangkok.
Some of Steve’s books
What irks you?
The general annoyances of living in a crowded city.
Thailand is the Land of Smiles. Discuss.
My wife reminds me that there are 13 different Thai smiles. Sorting them out is an interesting challenge.
Cultural recommendations (ie getting over culture shock):
Learn the language. Live among Thais. Ask questions.
Steve kayaking on the Chao Phraya
Explain the passion and idea behind your latest book in 100 words:
About the upper portions of the Mekong River, unknown because it is so remote. It continues my lifelong love of rivers but keys off four first-descent expeditions in which I participated as a kayaker. Rivers have always fascinated me and have been the subjects of three of my books. I’m primarily interested in how the people who live along them relate to them and how that affects the manner in which they use or abuse them.
Favorite hangout:
Coffee shops (and there are several scattered through the city) where I can relax, read, write, watch and, ideally, boast wi-fi so I can surf the internet on my laptop.
Favourite bar:
Living Room for great jazz
Favourite restaurant:
Too numerous to enumerate but those in Arab Street are favorites.
Steve Van Beek
Favourite Thai getaway:
Northern rivers or forests
Favourite Thai meal:
Gaeng Karee Kai, if well prepared.
Hidden gem:
Bangkok’s backstreets, especially those in Chinatown.
Books published:
23, among them Bangkok Then and Now, Thailand Reflected in a River, Slithering South.
Steve’s website:
www.stevevanbeek.com
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