Phat Monkey reflects my Melodic Techno sound as a Welsh producer, where drifting pads, uplifting melodies, and gentle grooves create a cinematic sense of escape, music built for moments that feel suspended in light.
When I step away from the studio, I find balance and continuous creative inspiration by traveling to Thailand twice a year. The energy, warmth, and vibrant coastal culture of the country serve as a key influence on my creative outlook, providing the space to reset, gather new perspectives, and recharge.
Peace, love, and endless groove. May your journey take you exactly where youāre meant to be...
Phat Monkey xXx
The Best Of Me is a vocally driven, 128 BPM Uplifting Melodic Techno track currently in production by Phat Monkey, blending the atmospheric depth of Artbat with the emotive, narrativeāfocused style of Jan Blomqvist
At its core, the track explores the moment when someone drifts so far from themselves that they begin to lose their sense of direction. Yet even in that freefall, there is always that one person who reaches out, pulls you back from the edge, and becomes the connection that saves you. Itās a reminder that even in the dark, someoneās presence can guide you home making that person the best of me
An exclusive workāināprogress video, uploaded on September 6th 2026, offers a first glimpse into the evolving sound and direction of the track. More updates and behindātheāscenes insights will be shared soon as the project continues to take shape ā(ļ½„oļ½„)ā
Thailand captured my heart beyond any place Iāve ever known. It is a land of breathtaking landscapes, matched only by the deep warmth and open-hearted kindness of its people. For more than two decades, Thailand has been so much more than a holiday destination. It has become a true home away from home.
My travels started over 21 years ago, bringing me to so many special corners of the country:
~ Coasts & Islands: Enjoying the energetic coastal vibe of Pattaya and relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Koh Chang.
~ City Life: Exploring the incredible energy, food, and temples of Bangkok.
~ The Heart of Isan: Traveling through the Northeast to experience authentic local life across Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Roi Et, and Buriram.
Over the years, Iāve managed to pick up a bit of basic Central Thai and a few Isan phrases, just enough to share a warm smile, order a meal, or share a lighthearted laugh with the locals.
And, of course, I canāt leave out the food. I love Thai cuisine, but my absolute favorite will always be a fresh, spicy Som Tam Thai.
The genuine tolerance, gentle spirit, and hospitality of the Thai people keep me coming back year after year. Whether taking in a quiet moment on the coast or sharing stories over a meal in Isan, Thailand will always hold a very special place in my soul.
Quick Links: Visitorās Guide to Thai Etiquette ~ Thai Wai
One of the best parts of traveling in Thailand is the food culture where every meal is a vibrant spread of bold flavors. This table is a classic example: a balance of fiery Som Tam, golden crispy spring rolls, savory deep-fried pork strips, and comforting chicken fried rice served with fresh lime and cucumbers. Itās a sensory overload in the absolute best way possible
Paradise found on the shores of Koh Chang. White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao) delivers that effortless island magic where lush, jungle-covered mountains drop right into calm, clear waters. Strolling along the soft shore at low tide with the calm tide lapping at your feet is the ultimate reminder of why island hopping in Thailand never gets old
Tucked away along the coastline, the Sanctuary of Truth feels like stepping into another era. Rising above lush greenery against the backdrop of the Gulf of Thailand, its soaring wooden spires and detailed carvings are breathtaking from every angle. Watching local artisans continually carve and restore this monumental structure makes a visit here deeply inspiring easily one of the most awe-inspiring architectural sites in all of Thailand.
Thailand is famously known as the "Land of Smiles," and Thai people are exceptionally forgiving of foreigners who make honest mistakes. However, showing awareness of a few core cultural boundaries goes a long way toward showing respect and ensuring warmth wherever you go.
Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Treat the Monarchy with Utmost Respect: The Royal Family is deeply revered in Thailand. Avoid making light of, criticizing, or joking about the King or Royal Family in public, online, or in conversation. It is both socially taboo and legally protected by strict laws.
Keep Your Feet Grounded (Literally and Figuratively): In Thai culture, the head is considered the highest and most sacred part of the body, while the feet are the lowest and least clean. Avoid pointing your feet directly at people, religious items, or images of the Buddha.
Never step on money (banknotes or coins feature the Kingās image).
Refrain from touching anyone on the head, even children, unless you are extremely close with them.
Mind the Temple Rules
When visiting temples (Wat):
Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Take off your shoes before entering main chapel areas or homes.
Avoid climbing or stepping directly on sacred structures or statues for photos.
Women should not directly touch or pass items directly to Buddhist monks (items can be placed on a table or passed through a male intermediary).
Keep Cool in Public
Losing your temper, shouting, or creating a public scene causes everyone involved to "lose face." Thais place a high value on maintaining harmony and composure (Jai Yen, or a "cool heart"). Resolving issues calmly and with a smile will get you much further than raising your voice.
Public Displays of Affection
While holding hands is common among younger generations, overly passionate public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in traditional settings.
My incredible Thai friends were up at 3:00 AM preparing hot meals from scratch so we could deliver food and snacks to two local schools. Visiting this school was a deeply grounding experience. The facilities are minimal and resources are scarce, yet the children welcomed us with the warmest smiles and pure kindness.
Seeing their genuine joy over something so simple puts everything into perspective. It made me feel incredibly humble and deeply appreciative of the life and comforts I so easily take for granted. Days like this stay with you for a long time. ā¤ļø Lopburi
Most foreigners come to Thailand and get given the standard, polite nickname "Chang Noi" (Little Elephant)... but my Thai friends skipped right past that and have been calling me Phra Sangkajai for over a decade now.
For those who don't know the legend, Sangkajai was originally so dangerously handsome that he had to transform himself into a rotund, big-bellied monk just to stop people from falling in love with him on sight.
So today, I finally stood next to the statue for a proper side-by-side comparison... and honestly? The resemblance is scary. The physique, the posture, the absolute dedication to maintaining the belly, they hit the nail right on the head 5555! I guess I'm not overweight, I'm just deeply spiritual. šš
Deep within Lopburiās lush arboretum lies Wang Kan Lueang a hidden natural spring waterfall where cool, turquoise waters stream endlessly over soft limestone steps. Surrounded by a dense canopy of ancient trees and dappled sunlight, itās a tranquil oasis where the pace of life slows down and the air feels instantly lighter. Just be mindful of where you step or rest in the surrounding forest centipedes love the damp shade, and you definitely don't want to get bitten!
The Wai is the traditional Thai greeting consisting of a slight bow with the palms pressed together in front of you (similar to a prayer posture). It signals respect, greeting, appreciation, or apology.
The Basics
The Basic Greeting (Peer to Peer / General Use): Press your palms together at chest level with your fingers pointing upward. Touch your thumbs lightly to your chest and bring your chin slightly down toward your fingertips with a warm smile.
Showing Higher Respect (Elders or Monks): Place your hands higher, bring your thumbs to the tip of your nose or between your eyebrows, and bow your head slightly lower.
Good Rules of Thumb
Don't Wai Service Staff: You do not need to return a Wai to hotel staff, waitstaff, taxi drivers, or shopkeepers. A warm smile and a polite phrase like "Khop Khun Krub" (Thank you) is the natural and friendly response.
Elders Initiate: Younger people or lower-ranking individuals typically initiate the Wai to older or higher-status individuals. If an elder Wais you first, always return it.
Keep Your Hands Free: If your hands are full of bags or drinks, don't try to force a Wai, a polite head nod and a smile is completely appropriate.
"At its core, music is a harmonious bond that bridges all differences, bringing us together through the true essence of unity. It transcends culture, language, and time, reminding us beneath all our surface divisions, we all respond to the exact same vibration
Yet it is far larger than humanity. Music resonates in countless forms throughout the known universe and beyond. It is the fundamental pulse of creation itself, an infinite symphony that governs the movement of space. It is an undeniable, eternal force existing long before we were born, echoing through the silence of the cosmos, and enduring long after we become dust among the stars"
- Ryan Anthony / Phat Monkey - September 2026 -
(Song: Dust Among The Stars - written and produced by Ryan Anthony)
'Some letters take years to arrive. But when the right chord strikes, the years collapse, and the silence finally makes sense'
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