I have been visiting Thailand since 1992 and often spending several months in this utterly spectacular and awe-inspiring country. Many people repeatedly ask me what is it that I love most about Thailand and my answer is always the same: The Thai People.
Yes Thailand is amazing and I could spend forever writing about its endless wonders, but what really makes a visit to this country worthwhile are the people.
Often called "The land of smiles" Significant with all the beautiful smiling faces of the Thais. Wherever you go you will be greeted by the biggest and friendliest smile you will ever see. When you offer these people warmth and understanding it will be returned a thousandfold. I can honestly say that never, have I received so much kindness, care and love from anyone as I have from the Thais.
The men and women are proud, hard-working people. When the little Tuk Tuk man or the street vendor calls out to try and generate some business I try to take the time to reflect and realize that they are struggling to make a living and earn a few bahts. If they slightly overcharge me it's no big deal! it won't break my bank! I tell myself that if I was living in a little tin shack with absolutely nothing. I too would most probably add a bit on to the price in order to make a little bit extra.. and it would be in the only way I knew how.
Kindness and understanding are my rules of thumb, I know I don't have to be rude to say no! and as always once I have conveyed my respect and consideration to these people, they immediately respond showing me just how lovely they are. Sometimes I even have the pleasure to know them better and become their friend. Which I consider an honour.
I find that the Thai people are too polite to complain about any ignorance on my part towards their ethics and codes, as I am also fully aware that if I really would like their respect, I should conduct myself in a proper way. I am a firm believer in doing the correct thing wherever I may be.
I always respected the king of Thailand and the whole royal family. Not only because the Thai people were extremely fond of and loyal to their monarchy but also because of what I have learnt and heard, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which means "Strength of the Land, Incomparable Power" known as Rama IX was a wonderful person. Sadly this incredible man passed away on October 13th, 2016. Now his son Maha Vajiralongkorn is the present King of Thailand.
I accept their religion. Temples, Buddha, statues, and monks (plus I know that it is never allowed for a woman to touch a monk,) Buddha images are held sacred and sacrilegious acts are punishable by imprisonment which can even apply to foreign visitors.
I have since learnt that it is incorrect to touch somebody's head (even children) as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. The feet are classed as the dirtiest part of the body, so again I try to avoid pointing them at anyone as it is taken as an insult. The last thing I would ever want is to offend these wonderful people.
I hear many foreigners complaining about the Thais, insulting them and categorizing them all in the same group. I find it very offensive and unacceptable. These people are Not crafty, They are Not false, They are Not rude, They are Not cheats, and most certainly Not stupid and idle. And if any visitor thinks they are. It's so simple. Leave!
People stand and criticise the sex scene of Thailand, but should I do that, firstly I would have to have the courage to enter into the deep, seedy and sinister bowels of the underworld of London, Paris, Rome, New York and many other cities on this planet to witness for myself the sordid, perverse, bizarre and often heroin, crack filled dens where any type of debauchery can be purchased. Then and only then would I know if Thailand was any worse. But I truly doubt it!
The locals readily welcome us to their county with open arms, hopefully, we can be forever, deserving receivers of their incredible hospitality.
I love the Thai people so very very much - and can only say thank you to Thailand and your people for taking me to your heart.