Arguably, Thailand has the most beautiful and friendliest beaches. Aside from Myanmar, it has the most number of temples, too. Furthermore, its culture is so diverse that many foreigners are attracted to come and visit. Customarily, you would see most people lowering their head and placing their hands together and holding them close to their chest as greeting to someone. But there are more, yet little indications that are easily recognizable when you are in Thailand. When you see or experience these, it is definite that you are in The Land of Smiles. Let's check them out:
1. When night falls, some mobile stalls in front of popular establishments start to come out. Most of these stalls offer food at affordable prices. Noddles, budget meals which include rice, vegetable, and meat. You can see them in front of 7-11, malls, or even hospitals.
2. When you go to department stores or some boutiques, expect that most whitening products are the bestsellers. Wait! You could possibly see either women or men are scrutinizing the back of the products. I just wonder what do they look for. (wink)
3. When you turn on a TV, you'd only see Thai channels. It is very rare that you see English channels on a national broadcast. But if you stay in hotels, you may be lucky because you can watch a couple of English or foreign channels. Oops! Wait! Menus, too. It is like a guessing game when you order some food in some restaurants. There may be translations in English but you are lucky when they are not Google-based. Good luck!
4. Don't be surprised when you are in a club or pub and you see a throng of people glued on TV while they are in the middle of their drinks. What does it mean? It's football time! Yes, they must be watching a match of their most favorite football teams.
5. When you walk around the city, or even in some provinces, there is a big possibility that you can see a massage shop. But don't be misguided because their are some massage shops with red flickering lights in front. (Not unless this is really what you look for!)
6. When you are on a public or private transportation, expect that you can see motorcycles on your left or on your right. Can I say that they are the kings of the road?
7. Shoes, slippers, and sandals are seen in front of the doors or entrances of all temples. Never bring in your foot attire. However, socks are ok if you don't want your sole to get dusty.
8. Before a movie is being shown in theaters, be sure to stand up and give reverence to The King as The Royal Thai Anthem is being played. Don't get caught seated or else you'll be fined and get behind bars.
9. 7-11 stores are almost everywhere. Even in the remotest part of Thailand, 7-11 is mostly your life and energy. So don't worry if you go to an island, probably, you can find a 7-11 where you can buy a bottle of water or even disposable undies. But be sure to bring a penny.
10. If you want to buy discounted bread or food, an hour before closing time (that is most likely 8:00 pm), supermarket bakeries and kitchens sell goods on a 50% off. Sometimes you can bring home 2 packs of loaf bread for 20 Baht only!
