Thailand

Thailand is a wonderful country to visit. It is often known as the Land of Smiles, and to those in the golfing world as homeland to Tiger Woods' mother. (I guess that has something to do with his name. Anyhow, he is a great role model and represents his heritage well.)

I have not had the opportunity to get far outside of Bangkok while in Thailand. That in itself is a great destination full of surprises. If you let your guard down, two things can happen to you, one you will be taken advantage of by taxi drivers, and two, you will meet some incredibly wonderful people.

The culture in Thailand is such that you will unlikely end up in an argument with a local. As a traveler, one must be careful to adhere to the customs of the Thai people so as to not offend them. Things we think nothing about while in western countries would be taboo in Thailand. Yelling and arguing is not "cool" there. Bargaining for good prices on items is a good quality as long as it is kept clean and polite.

Not only does Thailand have some big cities filled with people and the associated problems, one will find some great beach towns. Great diving is found off the coast also. (See my dive operator information on dive charters around the world, including Thailand.)

Thailand is a land where the King rules supreme and is very well liked by his subjects. Not only is he well liked, doing or saying anything against him will quickly cause others to disrespect you. Most of the people in Thailand are by western standards, poor at best. This is one reason that Thailand has earned a certain "Red Light District" reputation. (I do not support nor do I believe it is appropriate that the prostitution industry in Thailand exists. However, for economic reasons many young girls are sold into sex slavery to take care of tourists dating back to the soldiers from the Vietnam War.)

Put aside the bad wrap Thailand has for exploiting women, and you find a country filled with joyful people willing to make your stay enjoyable. Jewelry, Tailored Clothes, Massages, and good food are all part of what will make your stay even more enjoyable. Some of those items can be purchased for prices much lower than what one would pay in the United States.

Overall, I rate Thailand as a must visit country for those who like adventure. You will find both large modern cities such as Bangkok and more rural areas you imagine when you see pictures of Asia on TV. One can ride Elephants or modern boats on the river all within a few minutes of each other. Go forth and enjoy your visit to Southeast Asia.

LINKS TO THAILAND

	Thailand Info
	Thailand 1999 Info
	Royal River Hotel
	Thai Massage
	Thai Square Fashion
	Patrick's Fashions
	Thai Airways
	Northwest World Vacations
	Lonely Planet Thailand Info
	Bangkok Information
	More Bangkok Travel Info
	Bangkok Lodging Info
	Diving in Thailand
	Bangkok Nightlife
	Bangkok Dining
	Phuket Information
	North Thailand
	Buddhism
	Thai Tours
	Thailand Lodging Info
	US State Department Travel Info

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