Thailand: the non-diabetes bits
We left Thailand yesterday to head to the neighboring country of Laos. I am so excited to check out a new country, but Thailand has most certainly earned a special place in my heart. I know I’ve spent a fair amount of air time on the blog here bitching about traveling with diabetes, but make no mistake: this trip is worth the d-hassle, a thousand time over.
Thailand is special for so many reasons. But the most important one for me is the people. Thai folks are some of the kindest, most helpful, most altruistic, and joyful people I have ever met. I’ve never traveled in a country where, when I open a map on a street corner, a local stops and asks where I’m going. Then he gives me directions, tells ME “thank you” with a huge smile (like I did him a favor) and sends me on my way. Every restaurant wants nothing more than to make a table out of nothing for you when they’re already beyond packed, just to make sure you eat there and like it. They also appreciate any attempt at using the Thai language, no matter how bad your pronunciation. I learned to say “that was so delicious” in Thai (pronounced “a roy mak!” In case you were wondering), and each time I said it I was met with smiles and laughs and a big thumbs up. I can think of many countries I’ve visited where use of the local language is met with an eye roll and “English, please” (Not naming any names though. *cough* France.)It’s a gift to be so welcome as tourist in any country, and I don’t take that for granted.
Thailand also has an abundance of natural beauty that makes you want to keep exploring. The north has glorious mountains and winding rivers and gorgeous countryside, while the south has island after island with white blonde sand, turquoise waters, and reggae bars up an down the coast stocked with cold Singhas and lots of Bob Marley. Numerous times we rented a scooter and explored national parks, waterfalls, and small towns, often passing the odd elephant camp along the way. Whatever you are into, be it scuba or rock climbing or partying the night away or going on a culinary adventure, Thailand has something for everyone.
I couldn’t possibly pick a highlight of this portion of the trip. From our cooking class in Bangkok to riding elephants in Chiang Rai to passing through monkey world a.k.a Lopburi, to the mountains of Doi Inthanon national park to the sleepy beaches of Ko Lanta and Ko Phangan, the only word that can describe it all is “awe.” If you’ve already visited here, you can’t wait to come back again. And if you haven’t been yet, let me tell you, Thailand is a treasure trove of amazement.
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