While in Thailand you should know one very important fact, one national peculiarity Thailand. Tai, this is a kingdom and King Rama the 9th is almost a god. In any case, he enjoys boundless respect among the local population. Therefore, I simply do not advise joking about the king in the presence of Thais, and such things as painting a portrait of the king or relieving oneself under a portrait are generally criminally punishable. And since portraits are almost everywhere, be vigilant. At the same time, they say that he has a good sense of humor and a European education, which is probably why he usually grants amnesty for such tricks. After the court verdict comes into force, of course. Before that, you will have to get acquainted with the local penitentiary system. Maybe Victor Bout will tell about it someday. In general, the king treats these barbarians from the west condescendingly, who have completely lost their sense of tact and respect.
Since the king is elderly and very ill and practically never appears, it would be the height of politeness to ask a Thai about the king’s health. In fact, you can talk a lot about the king, entire books have been written and anyone interested can easily find it on the internet. By the way, among monarchs, the richest monarch in the world. After reading more about the king, you won’t even notice how much you respect him. And you will willingly stand up, along with everyone else, when a 2-minute clip about the king appears on the screen in the cinema, and they show it before every film showing. Yes, friends, show respect and you can boldly stand with everyone, otherwise you will not, at a minimum, be understood by those around you.
As a souvenir, you can buy his image for yourself or give it to friends, he’s quite a nice guy. 
In terms of the number of images, only Buddha can compete with the king; you can read about these amazing animals in a separate article.
And so, there are two persons in this amazing country in relation to which caution and special tact must be observed are the king and Buddha and two topics are the royal family and religion. I didn’t notice that the Thais were particularly religious, much less fanatical, but they definitely take these relics of theirs seriously, which is what earned my respect. This is still better than when nothing is sacred at all. And I advise everyone to be prudent and not joke with the feelings of local residents. I hope I answered the main question: “what not to do in Thailand?”
Well, we will continue to study other features of Thailand and now let’s talk about dogs.
Enter your email in the form below. address and Google will notify you of all updates on the site.
Important point: from November 22 to citizens of Ukraine for a tourist trip to Thailand for up to 30 days.
Who is this article for?
- for those who are going to visit Thailand for the first time and do not know where to start planning their trip;
- for those who are traveling to Thailand, but do not know what to expect from this country;
1. How to choose a time for a trip?
When going to, it is worth remembering the peculiarities of the local climate: it is tropical here, but the length of the country from south to north is large, and therefore the weather in different parts of Thailand can differ significantly.
1 /1
The best time for tourists to travel to Thailand is from November to February-March. From May to November there is a rainy season, but again it can occur differently in different parts of the country: there are times when tourists come in the middle of summer and hardly ever see the rain.
From March to May, it is not recommended to travel to the central and north-eastern parts of Thailand, as at this time it is very hot here: the temperature can rise to +40°C, forests can burn, and in the cities there is smog, which makes it difficult to breathe .
The only thing that needs to be taken into account for those who are interested not only in the beach, but also in excursion holidays: While in the southern and central parts of Thailand the temperature rarely drops below +25-30°C, in the north it is much cooler from November to February. At night the temperature can drop to +10-15°C, so you should stock up on warm clothes and take this into account when choosing housing.
1 /1
The most comfortable period for a holiday in Thailand is the winter months. It is for this reason that if you decide to go to Thailand in winter, you should worry about tickets in advance, preferably several months before the intended trip.
2. How to plan a trip and do I need a visa?
One of the most cost-effective ways to get to Thailand is to fly to Bangkok, from where you can get to the coast and islands. Many people plan their trip in such a way as to fly to Bangkok (tickets usually cost 400-450 euros round-trip), spend several days there, as this is one of the most interesting metropolises in Asia, and then head towards the beaches. This can be done using domestic flights, or by bus or bus with ferry.
1 /1
Flights to Pattaya, Phuket or Krabi usually cost more (500-550 euros round trip per person).
If you are interested in the history and culture of the northern part of Thailand, then pay attention to Qatar Airways flights to Chiang Mai for 350-400 euros.
For a stay in Thailand of up to 15 days, you can apply for a visa upon arrival, right at the airport. To do this, you need to have with you: a foreign passport with a validity period of at least 6 months as of the date of entry into the country, 2 photographs 4x6; a migration card - it is usually issued on the plane, a copy of an air ticket from Thailand (if you flew from Kiev, the air ticket may be to a third country, for example to Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur - the very fact of departure from the country is important), a visa application form issued by migration services Thailand.
If you are traveling for the purpose of tourism for a period of more than 15 days, then a visa must be issued in advance through the Consulate.
The visa fee is 2,000 baht (approximately 53 euros).
3.
Local etiquette rules
Perhaps the first thing Thailand is interesting for tourists is the differences in lifestyle and traditions. But this is exactly what can become the “fly in the ointment” of your Thai vacation if you don’t at least know the basic cultural features of the exotic country.
For example, in Thailand it is not customary to gesticulate loudly and excessively in public places, or indeed on the street. Locals may simply consider you unrestrained and ill-mannered. Excessive display of romantic feelings in public will also cause disapproval among decorous Thais.
This rule applies to communication in general: Thais are very calm and reserved people. Any fussiness and aggression is simply incomprehensible to them, and therefore, even in conflict or controversial situations, it is recommended to maintain an even tone and be respectful towards the interlocutor.
You should also avoid touching another person's head or shoulder, as this will be considered an unfavorable sign (the head is considered a sacred part of the body among Thais).
1 /1
When visiting temples, as well as when entering a house, it is customary for local residents to take off their shoes. You will show your respect for local traditions if you do the same. And if you decide to go to one of the temples (or any other sanctuary open to the general public), remember that clothing must be appropriate: no bare shoulders or legs for both women and men. Ladies should also avoid clothes with a low neckline.
The country professes Buddhism, hence another feature of the Thais - a very reverent, respectful attitude towards Buddha. Therefore, any offensive or disrespectful actions or gestures towards statues or any other images of the Great Enlightened One will be frowned upon. The same goes for the ruling royal dynasty of Thailand: any disrespectful attitude towards their images (even on money) will definitely not endear you to the locals.
It is not customary in Thailand to treat our smaller brothers rudely - according to the canons of Buddhism, any life is considered sacred and animals are treated with the same respect as people.
4. Safety rules
Thailand, of course, is not a wild jungle, but even here it is worth remembering basic safety rules that will help save your nerves and leave only the most pleasant impressions of your trip.
So, when going for a walk (especially in large tourist cities), leave all valuables in the hotel safe. It is better to have only copies of your passport and insurance with you in case of a police check. It is also better to keep bags, purses, and laptop cases with you.
If you are going not to check into a hotel, but to rent housing from the owners, be sure to make sure that this person is reliable, and also enter into a rental agreement with him and take a receipt.
Be wary of meeting new people, especially if it happens in nightclubs, cafes or bars. Cases of fraud and serious “scams” from neighboring residents or posing as locals are not uncommon.
1 /1
On many beach resorts There are quite free morals - almost 24-hour discos and bars, street food, cocktails with dubious composition, soft drugs and other entertainment that force tourists to go all out. We advise you to refrain from suspicious places, since, among other things, such clubs are often subject to raids.
The official penalty for drug use in Thailand is the death penalty, but most often tourists here get away with a lot. They also have the right to fine and deport you for any violations, but most likely they will simply demand a bribe.
By the way, for tourists there is a separate tourist police, representatives of which speak good English, and it is better to contact them if something happens.
5. What to consider?
Be sure to take out insurance before departure. This is universal advice that applies to everyone traveling to Asia. Firstly, due to unusual food there may be problems with digestion. Secondly, sanitary standards in Thailand do not correspond to European ones. Thirdly, even if you are only going to relax on the beach, exotic insects, animals and local diseases have not been canceled. When going to these parts, many people ask about malaria - well, it practically does not occur here, but the risk of contracting, say, Dengue fever, which is carried by mosquitoes, is not excluded.
However, one of the most common insurance cases in Thailand is injuries from falling from a bike. Before renting, consider whether you are confident in your abilities, or whether it is better to move around in a more traditional way.
Make a copy of your passport in advance - this is often necessary to rent a car or even a bike. For some reason, they usually don’t ask for your rental license, but if you are stopped by the police and it turns out that you don’t have a license, you can get a fine.
1 /1
If you are going to Thailand for a long time - on vacation for several weeks or going here for the winter, it is best to immediately get a local SIM card (costs about $4).
6. Getting to know the country
Thailand is a real treasure trove for a traveler; there are so many interesting and unusual things to see here. In addition to the intricate architecture of Thai temples and shrines, it is also worth appreciating its other beauties.
For example, in the Nong Nooch Orchid Park, in addition to these fragile beautiful flowers, you can also see colorful tropical butterflies and birds, admire the subtlety of the work of gardeners in the bonsai park and the exquisite geometric designs in the flowerbeds of the French Park. This is the hill Big Buddha with an impressive statue on its top, and the island of Koh Larn is a real piece of paradise on earth with the purest azure water and snow-white sandy beaches. You can feel the spirit of Thai culture in the magnificent, carved Temple of Truth, and you can completely immerse yourself in the atmosphere and way of life of the Thais at the Pattaya Floating Market - even if you are not going to buy anything, a simple walk through this colorful place will bring a lot of impressions.
There are probably people who, just like that, for no reason at all, can fall off a plane to Thailand for permanent residence. Here, as they say, either self-confidence is off the charts, or indifference.
Most of us, sensible people, before making a decision to change location, first come to Thailand on vacation and conduct online reconnaissance. If one trip is more exciting than another, and there is peace and grace in your soul, then the thought comes to settle in this warm place for a longer time.
Look, touch, try - this is the only way to move. Are the plumbing and household appliances fixed, is there Internet access, are there termites in the house (ants escape after special treatment, termites never). Look at the condition of the pool and the surrounding area, whether there is a construction site nearby - evaluate these and other points and try them on for yourself. Arranges?
Make a deposit and live healthy. Advice - go straight to the realtor's office management company. Meet the employees, usually one or two people, and write down the office's mobile number. Just in case. The faucet is leaking, the sink is clogged, the refrigerator has stopped freezing, the heater in the bathroom is not heating - you really can’t do without English.
Write down the necessary words from the dictionary in advance to simply explain the problem. It is possible that you will have to wait several days for a specialist. Call or come to the office and calmly remind them of your problem. Thais are generally smiling and friendly, but they become disoriented if they hear an emotional conversation in a raised voice. In addition, slowness and regularity are a purely Thai trait. And why should they rush? It's always +30 outside!
Safety is in your hands
In Thailand, like in any country, there is crime. This unpleasant fact should not be forgotten. As a rule, tourists are targeted by various scammers. They are robbed, robbed and this is reality. Tourists have their bags snatched, gold chains torn off, money stolen from their rooms, apartments, etc. To avoid becoming a victim, protect yourself.
The main thing is not to carry your passport with you, make a copy and always keep it in your bag or pocket. If you lose a copy, it doesn’t matter if you have a passport, it won’t be a hassle. By the way, choose small bags with a long strap and wear them over your head and shoulder. This bag has enough space for mobile phone, a compact camera and money. Gold chains that you won't part with are best worn under a T-shirt or shirt. “Don’t wake up Dashing while it’s quiet,” says popular wisdom!
Decide for yourself where to store your savings. Either rent a locker in a hotel or open an account in a Thai bank. If you rent an apartment, buy a padlock for the front door. If you periodically order room cleaning, be careful. Staff stealing petty items in hotels and condominiums is not a rare occurrence.
If you don’t want trouble, don’t bring prostitutes and katoys (lady boys) to your place. Most often these are criminals and friendship with them can end badly, naturally, for you. But if you still contact the police, know this! First of all, the law is on the side of the Thai citizen. Yes, they will accept your statement and assure you with a sincere smile that the offender will be found and punished, but the matter may end there.
And most importantly. God forbid you to contact! This potion is not only prohibited - the law of the kingdom stipulates execution for its use and trade. Moreover, how many grams were discovered and for what purposes is not important.
About Thai food
To be honest, I don’t know much about Thai food yet, because I’m in a pleasant state of familiarity with unusual tastes and aromas. I advise you to introduce yourself to new food slowly, remembering the names of the dishes. This way you will have your own Thai menu. At the same time, do not forget the main principle of a gourmet: “How many people, so many opinions.” For example, the stars of Thai cuisine are and. Most foreigners like these dishes, but there are those who can't stand them. So try, try and try again!
You can do this useful activity not only in good restaurants, but also in street cafes, of which there are many everywhere. You can also eat deliciously and cheaply at makashniks. These are street cooks. They fry and steam on cart stoves, which Russian tourists call the field kitchen.
Don't be surprised when you taste a mixture of flavors in Thai dishes - hot, sweet, sour, salty and bitter. This typical mix is achieved using different spices. These include lemon grass, kaffir leaves, different varieties of ginger, chili peppers, garlic, cilantro, basil, coconut milk, lime juice, etc.
The fact is that Thai cuisine was formed under the influence of India, China and Portugal. The traditions of these countries have evolved over time into Thai culinary uniqueness. Describe numerous local dishes and their dignity I am not at all going to. You will find out and feel everything yourself.
However, my job is to warn. The abundance of pepper is the first shock that the taste buds of our compatriots receive. Therefore, remember, like our Father, the phrase “no spice!”, which means “no pepper!” No, pepper is in the dish, of course, but in a more edible quantity.
Traditionally, Thais extinguish pepper fires in their mouths with unleavened rice. I tried to calm the burned receptors in this way, but it didn’t work. The native, familiar method is a few sips of cool water, which is also not a special help. Watermelon juice with ice turned out to be more effective.
Today, in any restaurant and even a small cafe you will be offered a menu in Russian, where there is a wide field for imagination. Read carefully, choose and “kin khao” for you, which means “bon appetit”!
Roads and means of transportation
In the resort of Pattaya you will not see buses or trolleys that are familiar to Russia, but you can quickly and easily get to any point in the city you need. From early morning until late at night, fast pick-up minibuses, nicknamed “tuk-tuk” by tourists, scurry through the streets. Transport specialists grumble, they say, a real “tuk” can only be seen in Bangkok and it looks completely different - it’s a miniature four-seater carriage attached to a moped. Practically the great-granddaughter of a Japanese rickshaw puller. A pickup truck with benches in the back is a songthaew.
What is true is true, but experts realized it too late. The Pattaya version of the tuk-tuk has been adding up kilometers of roads for many years and will not change its name. Nimble, reliable, convenient and cheap - this is why both tourists and local residents. Just 10 baht and you will travel through the entire central part of the city, and with one transfer you will get from one end to the other.
Connoisseurs of time and speed can use another equally popular transport - a motorbike. Guys in bright vests with numbers can be seen on every corner. While waiting for clients, they sit in armchairs, sleep in hammocks, read, listen to music and drink energy drinks. The price is negotiated on the spot and depends, of course, on the distance. Remember - it is appropriate to bargain with a motorbike driver.
And further. Throw your hotel's business card into your wallet at English language. This is in case the buyer doesn’t understand where to take you. For example, the Caesar Hotel is pronounced “Cesar” in English, etc.
Tourists who are not in Pattaya for the first time and are confident in their bearings prefer to rent vehicles. Some choose motorbikes, others cars. The common advantage of these options is complete independence, and the only difference is the amount of rent.
Smiles in Thailand!
Many years ago, when Thais saw a European, they bowed their heads and raised their folded palms up. This traditional greeting is “wai”. Today there are so many foreigners that they no longer qualify for the status of prominent people, and the modern rhythm of life in Thai cities has made familiar relationships easier. Thais now say “hello” to each other, and “wai”, as they say, is for holidays or very important people.
Only the smile on the faces of the Thais remained as wide. It’s true that not everything is clear here either. It's no secret that hiding real feelings under a smile is an Asian and Buddhist tradition. Sources claim that they are officially recognized in Thailand, which means that even in case of extreme dissatisfaction, a Thai will smile. Getting him to openly show irritation or anger is not easy, but some of our compatriots manage to do it. This reduces the authority of everyone Russian tourists. Alas. Although most Russians, naturally, relax here according to the principle “man pei rai!”, which in Thai is “no problem!”
Tourists who have recently arrived in Tai Russo are immediately given away not by their burnt noses, but by their facial expressions. They resemble soldiers at a military parade. Well, very serious. Amazing metamorphoses occur in two weeks. People open up like lotus buds, smile, laugh, and even the intonations of their voices become soft. An acquaintance of mine from Ussuriysk in Thailand often vacations and once again, getting ready to go to Russia, he told me: “Here again, for the first few days, I’ll be smiling on the street like a fool. Then people will start looking at me askance and I will close my mouth. I’ll become like everyone else.”
In fact, the Thai sun and air filled with joyful lightness melted many impregnable ice floes. Russians come to Thailand again and again to immerse themselves in a wonderful state of serenity and spiritual comfort.
About taboos
King. A particularly respected and revered personality in Thailand is His Majesty Rama X. The Kingdom is developing along a democratic path, but the personality of the monarch is inviolable in every sense. If you want to find out more about his respected person, look on the Internet, but there is no need to discuss the Majesty with his subjects, or joke about him. A well-known example is when one foreigner, for the sake of laughter, drew a mustache on a portrait of the king. The result is a real prison sentence.
Temples. The majority of the Thai population professes Buddhism. Even in resort towns there are many temples and behavior in them is strictly regulated. For example, it is not recommended to enter there in short shorts and T-shirts. Shoulders should be covered. When seeing a monk, a woman is forbidden to speak to him, touch him or give him anything. If you absolutely want to give a gift to a minister of worship, give it through some man, for example, a guide. If you are taking a photo in or near a temple, do not sit or lean on the Buddha statue.
And one more thing – people go into temples and other public places barefoot. Most often these are spas, hairdressers, massage parlors, photo studios, Thai homes, etc. In a word, take off your shoes wherever you see shoes at the doorstep.
Children. Residents of Thailand love small children, including strangers, and are not shy about expressing this. They look at the babies with adoration, say kind words to them and can gently touch the child, but not his head. Touching the head or familiarly patting the shoulder of a Thai of any age is not a good idea. This again ties back to the basics of Buddhism.
Beer. In Thailand, it is not customary to drink beer on the street, but if you meet a person with a bottle in his hand, rest assured, this is a Russian who is here for the first time. It is noticeable that our people quickly switch to local rules and become regulars at beer bars. In Pattaya they are at every step. An open view of the street, comfortable chairs - what else is needed for a pleasant beer drinking experience. Interestingly, there is no beer bacchanalia in local stores, as in Russia. There are only a few varieties on sale, but they are of very decent quality.
Pattaya has been given the status of a sexual libertine, but this does not mean that sin rules the city. For Thais, all aspects of life are regulated, that is, everything has its place, time and rule.
In Thailand, it is not customary to show feelings in public, as well as to swim and sunbathe in the nude. It is considered completely unacceptable to appear in public in dirty clothes and drunk. If your feet are dirty, no one will pay attention to it, but if you point your foot at objects or a person, you will be called a rude person. And another important taboo. In Thailand, it is indecent to loudly sort things out in a raised voice and raise a hand against children. This way you risk losing your authority forever.
About carrots and Thai customs
In Thailand, everyone sees what they want to see. Some enjoy the sea, elephants and waterfalls, while others spend their entire vacation testing local alcohol and drinking in bars with carrots (as the Russians call prostitutes).
Pattaya is a city without complexes and the Thais here can hardly be called puritans. Sex services here are relatively cheap and you can rent a girl or boy not only on the famous Walking street, but also in any bar. After dark, in popular tourist areas butterflies of different sexes attack clients under every bush.
We found something to surprise you, you say, this side of Thailand is known to the whole world. I agree and will add several Pattaya characters to your Thai collection. Here, at every step, young Thai women walk hand in hand with elderly Europeans - a common picture, interesting only to Russians. Until they get used to it. These girls are often girlfriends, but in any case, their work is paid - sexual relations in Thailand are placed on a financial basis.
In shops, salons, in tuk-tuks, and anywhere else, other girls catch your eye, but completely different ones. A low voice or, on the contrary, squeaky, male hands, knees, a mannered gait, but at the same time makeup, a short skirt and heels. This is a ladyboy, which in local terms is “katoi” - a village guy who has partially changed his gender, either the lower part of the body or the upper part. In the hierarchical hierarchy of prostitution, they are at the lower levels, but there is also a demand for this product.
Sometimes on the streets there are even comic specimens - aged trannys who have long gone into circulation. But life goes on with the grandfathers and they shop in stores, relax, ride bikes with the usual long hair and... impressive female breasts. What a spectacle!
You may need it in this case.
Tattoos from the heels to the top of the head and an indigo-colored body, a close-cut haircut, piercings wherever possible, a leather vest with chains - this is what German fans of hard rock, Harleys and other metal paraphernalia most often look like. The motley crowd in Pattaya is a reflection of the whole world.
This is far from paradise, but at the same time the feeling of lightness and freedom does not leave you. People for the most part are smiling and friendly, compliant and reserved, calm and helpful. Russians look at many things with bewilderment and slight envy. For example, the Thais who, after a hard day’s work, gather together at tables in street cafes.
By the way, in Thai families, fathers are more likely to care for children and elderly parents live with children. There are no shelters for the elderly in Thailand. And further. In the evenings, you won't see teenagers hanging around the city's faces. From idleness they do not break benches and kiosks. But if you find yourself in a crowded tuk-tuk, don't be surprised if a teenager gives you his seat. The more often you come to the Kingdom, the more you understand that we have a lot to marvel at and learn in Thailand. That's for sure.
Thailand won't surprise anyone these days. One of my favorites tourist destinations among our compatriots. A relatively inexpensive, but very cool holiday will appeal to those who want to wander through tropical forests and admire waterfalls, and walk around the city in heels and have fun in bars. For every tourist, Thailand is an exclusive piece of paradise.
What exactly is worth doing in Thailand? Climb to the top of the fog-shrouded mountains; be amazed at the diversity of flora and fauna; plunge into turquoise waters; relax in the coolness of a coconut palm; ride on the backs of elephants; drink delicious fresh cocktails on the white sand beach; enjoy the romantic atmosphere while enjoying the perfect luxury honeymoon; get a luxurious tan; hang out and meet people from all over the world. This and much more. 
Thailand has been on the list of favorite resorts around the world for the last couple of decades, and the number of tourists is increasing due to the ever-increasing number of budget flights to Thailand and improving tourism infrastructure. 
From delicious Thai cuisine and cool resorts to temples and cultural monuments, Thailand definitely has it all to offer. And also, Thailand - country with a rich and fascinating history that today enjoys economic growth that began in 1960.
More than 10 million tourists come here every year these days, following the beaten path of their predecessors. Many areas of the country have long been explored, but some remain wild, although their life is short-lived. 
The country's capital, Bangkok, is brilliant madness! These are the most beautiful temples on the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River, next to fashionable shopping centers and clubs. The main tourist street, the most fun street - Khao San Road
- the epicenter of tourism activity in Southeast Asia. 
Plus, Thailand is a lot of fun. For example, the famous party Full Moon Party
on Koh Phangan, or world class diving in the coastal waters of Koh Tao. History buffs will revel in the beauty of ancient capitals Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, and will also be able to explore the ruins of Khmer structures scattered in the northern and northeastern parts of the Thai kingdom. 
Popular excursions from Bangkok include visiting Koh Samet islands, which are just a few hours away by car and then by boat, while in Kanchanaburi tourists come to see the infamous bridge over the River Kwai, as well as beautiful waterfalls and the Tiger Temple, which is surrounded by gossip. Families can go to a beautiful Lanta Island, A Krabi will appeal to those looking for secluded wild beaches on islands. 
Southwestern coast of Thailand, including Khao Lak and Phi Phi Today it has fully recovered from the terrible tsunami of 2004 and is ready to welcome guests again. And if you want to find a stretch of secluded beach without any identifying marks on the maps during your holiday, or want to climb to the top of a mountain or hill on your own - well, with a little effort you will, because the possibilities are still there there is, and many parts of the country (in particular the center of the islands) still remain unexplored wild. 
Sip a beer and watch the sun set over the winding Mekong River in Nongkhae, explore the impressive National parks Nan, meditate in the forest temple in Isane, restore strength in prestigious resort in historical Hua Hine
, or even learn basic Thai phrases at your local school - the possibilities are endless! The south of Thailand, inhabited by a Muslim population, contains almost no popular tourist routes, which is a pity, because this is a very beautiful area with a unique cultural heritage. 
In addition to the attractions that you can admire here, Thailand is world famous for its cuisine. Enjoy delicious street food for next to nothing, or spend a little more at a high-end restaurant. But no matter how much you spend on your lunch or dinner, authentic Thai food is always delicious and filling. Thai healing secrets are some of the best in the world, so you simply must try Thai massage with all sorts of bells and whistles. 
As you can see, there are a whole lot of advantages! There are also disadvantages, but you don’t think about them at all when you see these heavenly landscapes! In general, instead of flying to stuffy Egypt or Turkey again, save up and fly to Thailand - you won’t regret it. Is it worth going to Thailand? Of course it's worth it!
Internet cafe
They are everywhere, on every corner. All proper Thais sit in Internet cafes in the evenings. I don’t know what they’re doing there, they’re probably playing games. It is still a mystery why not do this at home, since the Internet is accessible to everyone.
Water and laundry
There is a very convenient way to buy water - there are vending machines on the streets where you throw a coin and you get a cheap one and it seems like clean water(1 ruble - 1 liter). They are less common in the south, but everywhere in Chiang Mai. You can also buy large white bottles of water (15 liters inside).
Laundries are no less common. You can immediately notice them by the large number of clothes hanging on hangers; at first I confused them with stores. There are two types - just self-service washing machines (20-30 rubles per wash, found everywhere in Chiang Mai) or a full service - washing + ironing (50-70 rubles / kg, found everywhere). We didn’t try the second option, because someone told us that the Thais add a lot of washing powder, and somehow there was no need.
Food
Most of Thailand's population is engaged in food production. It is impossible to stay hungry, food is everywhere. The streets are lined with makashnitsa (motorcycles with sidecars) selling everything from fried meat to fruit. The stove is also located in this stroller, and, as a rule, it consists of a gas cylinder and a burner. Cafes with tables are no less common. I know not everyone likes Thai cuisine, but we made it through our time. Read about it in our article.
Offering to Buddha in every home
Housing for local residents
Many Thais live in simple housing, or, more roughly, in barracks. As I understand it, this is due to the low standard of living of the local population. On the other hand, how much is needed when all year round It's warm, and only rain brings inconvenience. By the way, several times I looked into non-barracks Thai houses when the door was slightly open, and was surprised at the almost empty room without furniture.
Unsanitary conditions and garbage
Regarding unsanitary conditions, rumors are exaggerated. Yes, of course, there is garbage, sometimes there is a smell on the streets (next to food pantries, as a rule), and in some places waste is poured into sewers, but all this pales in comparison to what you feel and get in this country. I want to visit India again to compare. They say that everything in this regard is completely unusual. In any case, Asia is Asia, you either like it or not.
Holidays
Thais have many holidays and, accordingly, weekends a year. They celebrate both their own holidays and some European ones. All holidays are large-scale and celebrated throughout the country. An indispensable attribute of any event is food and the launching of sky lanterns. Most of all, of course, I remember it with its splashes, fun, and watering each other.
Exhibitions and all sorts of hand made fairs are generally held every week.
Temples, monks and landmarks
The main attractions are the temples different forms and colors, each more beautiful than the other. Some of them are significantly different from the rest, such as or. Honestly, after a while you stop perceiving them as a tourist attraction, and even if you come there, you just want to stay there for a while, sit, think, and not take pictures and look around.
There are also all kinds of parks with sculptures on religious and philosophical themes, as well as national natural parks with waterfalls and hot springs.
Typical temple in Chiang Mai
Farangs and sex tourism
The view of Thailand as a country of sexual depravity is also exaggerated. Sex tourism, of course, is developed, but this is mainly in Pattaya, while in other parts of the country it is little noticeable or not noticeable at all. The most conspicuous, of course, are couples that differ greatly in age... And ladyboys (also called electronics), on the contrary, are not noticeable at all, and sometimes you can only understand by their voice who you are dealing with.
It may well be that this is a ladyboy. Thai girls are all short
Smiles, safety and people
They really smile, just like that. And it's very nice. In general, in my opinion, they do it sincerely, for the most part. Perhaps because they are not at all aggressive due to their Buddhist religion. In Thai, drunk Thais came at me to kiss, and not to sort things out. This atmosphere of friendliness is sorely missed here in Russia. Yes, there are crimes there, and attacks on foreigners, and theft, how could we live without it, but I have never felt as safe anywhere as in Thailand.
Of course, I cannot judge what Thais are like in general, since we were not friends with any of the Thais and did not penetrate deeply into their lives. Therefore, I don’t know what it’s like to live side by side with them for a long time. From the point of view of wintering, it is quite comfortable.
Such an ordinary Thai blond
Thailand Photos
And after that, some photographs that were taken simply along the way, not related to any specific features of Thailand. Without special words, just short captions.
I love Chiang Mai
» height=»600″ class=»size-full wp-image-14911″ />
