Thailand. Land of a thousand smiles

The best part about Thailand – the people. By far.   The Thai people are very warm,wonderful people.   It’s hard to describe.  Maybe it’s the Buddhism lifestyle and way of life.

Jan and I spent 2 weeks in Thailand during the Rotary International convention in Bangkok.    We really enjoyed Chiang Mai, a city of 250,000 north of Bangkok.

Bangkok was hot, sticky, crowded, noisy, busy.  It was also exciting, a lot of fun, great shopping,  fascinating,  mind expanding, educational.

Chiang Mai and area was peaceful for sure.

 

Top thoughts on Thailand.

• The Buddhism way of life is fascinating.  Monks, temples, respect,  peace.
• Sure is cheap there.  Bought a custom fitted blazer for 10o Canadian.  Meals are inexpensive.  Cab rides are $4.00.
• It’s not easy getting used to paying five thousand baht’s for something.  You think “OMG that is a lot of…….” then you figure it out.   5,000 is one hundred and sixty six dollars Canadian.
• In both cities we rarely heard sirens or saw police.  We always felt safe.
• 

  A hot, dusty, bumpy ride.

  On a 40 degree day an elephant ride may not be the most comfortable activity.

• We never paid for the same amount for the exact same cab ride more than once.
• Tuk tuk rides are a hoot.
• I did not know there was so many foods I could not recognize.
• Flying in Thailand is far more civilized.
• I thought I knew what hot was.  I didn’t till I went to Thailand.
• Jan and I did many massages.   They jump right up on top of you.  Fun for $4.00 CDN.
• We will be back for sure.  Thailand,  Asia, Korea…  we will.  Absolutely.  Okay Japan, too.  What a bucket list.