Thailand Travel
Hi everyone.. a brand new member.... I am an expat retiree now living in Thailand the past 7 years.. Been holidaying here nearly every year for some 10 years prior to that. Travelled throughout most of the country, from North to South, East to West.
Have to say, in that time I have seen many changes, most of them bad. Pollution is terrible, most of the beaches are filthy with sewage allowed to discharge direct into the ocean. Chiang Mia and all the northern parts of the country are presently experiencing dangerous levels of air born polluton. While down south in Phuket prices are exorbitant for everything... But even sadder is the attitude of the people in general towards foreigners. We are mainly seen as just a means of making money, the Land Of Smiles tag in the past is just that, in the past, more likely you will get a snarl for not buying some grossly overpriced item, and charged double or triple rates to vist a park or touristy area... As for government and various official bodies, dont go near them if possible. The police , even amongst the Thais , are held in contempt for their blatant corruption and incompetence. Its sad a once beautiful country is set on destroying itself, considering some 10 per cent of the countries G.D.P is derived thru tourism. However, I will continue to stay here, and just try to find the good bits, as I am too settled in my ways now..
Well, travellers, just saying - why not try Uruguay, South America. True, it's a very small country wedged in between Brazil and Argentina but what it lacks in size it makes up for in fantastic beaches, beautiful scenery, amazing food and cafes and friendly locals. No jungle or hostile natives here!! Montevideo is a great, modern city and the countryside is picturesque and peaceful. Weather is mild in summer and cool in winter but no extremes. Public transport is abundant so you can get from A to B very easily. South America has a reputation for drugs and crime but don't believe everything you read - this only applies to small areas of the continent and, for goodness sake, what country doesn't have areas of drug abuse? At least in Uruguay, any crime is quickly dealt with and the perpetrators put behind bars - no fines or parole there!!