We have been in Thailand twice for the period of two months. We understand why it has become such a tourist destination, it’s really the-place-to-be to have a hassle-free holiday. In the north, we especially enjoyed our motorcycle rides through the mountains, offering stunning views. In Southern Thailand we enjoyed the exotic islands: palm trees, white sand beaches and crystal clear water. Thailand has a different era than us. We were here in the year 2557 (2014).

Traffic
In Thailand the roads are good, even in the more remote areas. On major roads you can find your way easily by following the signposts and there are always signs to tourist destinations with photo. The Thai driving pretty fast, but are generally disciplined drivers. It is and remains Asia so scooters riding in the opposite direction remain a problem.

Food
The food in Thailand is delicious. After eating fried rice and fried noodles for half a year, we have really enjoyed the food here. We especially liked the curry soups and stir-fried dishes. What is strange, in less touristy areas you will find these almost impossible to find. In these places you will often find nothing but noodle soup.
You will never starve in Thailand. When everything is closed, you can always go to7-Eleven for a microwave dinner. They warm it for you and you also get some cutlery.

The people
The people are, like everywhere in Southeast Asia, friendly and helpful. However, on the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, we were sometimes really shocked by the rudeness and laziness of the staff in some hotels.
The Thai love their king. All over the country you will see portraits of him. You can’t leave Thailand without knowing how their king looks like.

Language
In Thailand you will always find someone who can speak English, even in the less touristy areas. Thai writing is illegible to us, but the important info is also displayed in English.

Prices
Prices are never shown, unless you go to a supermarket. On the markets it is necessary to have some negotiation skills, you can sometimes reduce the price by more than half! Thailand was the most expensive country in which we have travelled so far. Especially on the islands in the south, they adjust their prices to the tourists. As a tourist you also have to pay more for a tourist attraction, such as the national parks (5 instead of 1 euro), a waterfall (2.5 instead of 0.50 euros),...

Hotels
In Thailand we never have to search long for a hotel, even outside the tourist areas. The Thai people are also avid travellers, so everywhere in the country you will find bungalows with private garage. These are inexpensive and usually of a good standard, with air conditioning and television. The hotels on the islands can be really expensive, especially if you want a nice view.

The Wai
Thais greet each other with a wai. Foreigners are not expected to initiate the wai gesture, but it is an insult not to return the wai. If a wai is not offered to you, shake hands with men and smile and nod to women. A Thai businessperson may shake hands with a foreigner. Subordinates should offer a wai first. The only people who never have to answer the greeting are monks and members of the royal family.

Ronald McDonald Also Knows the Wai

The Thai King and Queen

Thai Bath

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