Why Thailand? Dreams and Elephants!

Realize a Dream! Spending time with elephants has long been one of my dream adventures. In January of this year, I realized that dream (and more!) with a group of amazing women on a journey to Thailand organized by Mary of Living Big Travel.

Here are some of my experiences and tips for this beautiful Southeast Asia destination:
Have an adventurous palate! Trying new foods and beverages are one of the top reasons I travel. Look for the local specialties and then put aside your trepidation and dive in! One of my favorite dishes in Chiang Mai was Khao Soi, a specialty of Northern Thailand, full of egg noodles swimming in a spicy broth of coconut milk, curry, ginger, chilis, soy sauce and fish sauce, garnished with lime and pickled cabbage, topped with crunchy noodles. It is typically filled with chicken, but I also tried it with shrimp and beef. Yum – I can taste it now! 

Khao Soi

You don’t have to be as brave as my friend Becca, who tried the famous incredibly stinky, Durian fruit, but do venture out of your comfort zone.

Roasted eggs at the Night Market!

Tempting dishes at the Night Market

​Don’t count on fine wines…Thailand doesn’t have any wine-growing regions and isn’t known for a great selection of fine wines at most restaurants. You can certainly find a decent but limited choice of white or red at most restaurants and hotels, as I did since I do like wine! But why not do as the locals do? There are so many great selections of refreshing juices, teas, including the delicious Thai Iced Tea, all great choices in the hot, humid Thai weather. There is also a good selection of Thai beer. Or like our group did, start the evening with a classic Gin & Tonic. Always keep hydrated with bottled water too. 

​Plan a side trip…traveling to Thailand isn’t a short journey. Take advantage of your airport transfers to visit another location for a few days before or after your Thailand adventure. Consider destinations such as Singapore, Vietnam, or one of the many relaxing Thai islands for a beach visit (like we did on our Living Big tour.) 

Koh Lanta Island Girls

My side trip was two nights in Hong Kong, a city I'd dreamed of for years. Two days was not enough time. I hope to go back soon!

The night lights of Hong Kong Harbor

​Be respectful…Thailand has a rich culture so different from ours, but the country is filled with the warmest people you’ll ever meet. Be respectful of the differences and learn the etiquette to treat your hosts well. Some of the things I learned:

• Smile and return the Thai Wai. The Wai is Thailand’s prayer-like greeting with hands together and a slight bow. You might even learn a few common greetings.
• Remove your shoes when entering a temple or a private home. There may be some businesses which ask you to do so also. You can tell by the pile of shoes by the door.
• Eat with your right hand and use a spoon. In Thailand, as in many other countries, it is impolite to eat with your left hand as it is considered dirty (for toilet use). Thai people use their spoon for eating and the fork for pushing food onto the spoon, or spearing large chunks of fruit, for instance. Chopsticks are usually reserved for noodle dishes.
• Respect the Royal Family. The Thai Royal Family is revered and respected. It is illegal to make any disparaging comments about the Royal Family. Their much-loved King passed away in 2016 and his likeness is on the Thai bhat, the local currency. Do not step on the currency or use your foot to stop a rolling coin.
• Keep your cool and don’t point. It is impolite to be loud, aggressive or pushy in public. If you must indicate someone, it is best to nod in their direction with your head. To indicate objects or animals, point with your entire hand, not your finger. 
• Mind your feet, head, and shoulders. The bottoms of your feet are considered dirty so don’t put your feet up on tables or chairs, or step over someone on the ground, or point your bare feet toward anyone in a temple. But the top of the head is considered sacred so refrain from touching anyone on the top of the head. When entering a temple, cover your arms and your legs to your knees.
• Respect Monks. Monks are revered in Thailand. They receive a deeper Wai and eat first in public places. You’ll often see them on the streets or in cafes. Keep in mind Thai etiquette, particularly at temples. But monks are interesting people too – maybe you’ll get a chance to chat with one of them like we did. Note the covered arms, legs, and enlightened faces!

(photo courtesy of Living Big Travel) My last tip is – don’t be intimidated by these customs. Thai people are very warm and friendly. There is a good reason Thailand is called “The Land of Smiles.”

I’m excited to share the Thai culture and culinary surprises with my Global Palate Adventures travelers in January 2020. We have a few spots left! Here are the details for our trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand 2020.