Answered3 years ago
Are Thai people really dishonest or is it just a stereotype?
I hear a lot of people say Thai people are dishonest and only after your money
I've barely had any bad experiences since I got here 2 month ago. The only bad experience I had was in Bangkok dealing with tuktuk and suitshops lol
I cycled from Bangkok to Chiangmai and once I was 100km away from Bangkok the people were so friendly and accommodating even if I didn't want anything from them.
I had a guy give me free orange juice just because he wanted to speak to someone from the UK.
I dated a Thai chick and okay maybe I was unsure about a few things that could have been lies but I mean you gotta be careful with relationships anywhere.
Landlords have been great and helpful.
Massage ladies flirt with me, kaaaaaa good night I love you.
I don't partake in prostitution btw.
Saying that I checked out a hooker bar and made it clear I didn't want to partake and just had a drink there, host still treated me well and I made one of the escorts laugh on stage cause I was being awkward ahhhaa
I went for a joint and the owner gave me a free. Bong Rip of his premium bud lol.
Old ladies let me washup at there's cause I got muddy and I had a leg rash so one of them called their English speaking relative to tell me to go to the doctor lol.
Idk people were friendly in Bangkok for the most part but the more north or out of tourist areas I go the friendlier I found.
People welcomed me to shop with them and recommended me buy like pastries and stuff and let me eat them at their place.
Ye that's my experience so far.
As far as fitting in with the locals, I recon it's not that hard to get Thai friends and Thai girlfriends but I mean as long as you aren't broke and working a Thai job the money separation isn't something I'd even want to fix.
If me having money is what separates me from fitting in then so be it ahha.
Living here has made me want to make even more money though so I can spend even more money on local businesses. I ain't trying to be broke in a 3rd world country. That doesn't sound like fun anywhere.
I haven't tried the south out yet like Phuket and Pattaya, maybe they're different. I'm currently in Chiang Mai and having a blast tbf
I've barely had any bad experiences since I got here 2 month ago. The only bad experience I had was in Bangkok dealing with tuktuk and suitshops lol
I cycled from Bangkok to Chiangmai and once I was 100km away from Bangkok the people were so friendly and accommodating even if I didn't want anything from them.
I had a guy give me free orange juice just because he wanted to speak to someone from the UK.
I dated a Thai chick and okay maybe I was unsure about a few things that could have been lies but I mean you gotta be careful with relationships anywhere.
Landlords have been great and helpful.
Massage ladies flirt with me, kaaaaaa good night I love you.
I don't partake in prostitution btw.
Saying that I checked out a hooker bar and made it clear I didn't want to partake and just had a drink there, host still treated me well and I made one of the escorts laugh on stage cause I was being awkward ahhhaa
I went for a joint and the owner gave me a free. Bong Rip of his premium bud lol.
Old ladies let me washup at there's cause I got muddy and I had a leg rash so one of them called their English speaking relative to tell me to go to the doctor lol.
Idk people were friendly in Bangkok for the most part but the more north or out of tourist areas I go the friendlier I found.
People welcomed me to shop with them and recommended me buy like pastries and stuff and let me eat them at their place.
Ye that's my experience so far.
As far as fitting in with the locals, I recon it's not that hard to get Thai friends and Thai girlfriends but I mean as long as you aren't broke and working a Thai job the money separation isn't something I'd even want to fix.
If me having money is what separates me from fitting in then so be it ahha.
Living here has made me want to make even more money though so I can spend even more money on local businesses. I ain't trying to be broke in a 3rd world country. That doesn't sound like fun anywhere.
I haven't tried the south out yet like Phuket and Pattaya, maybe they're different. I'm currently in Chiang Mai and having a blast tbf
Answer summary
The post discusses the author's positive experiences in Thailand, contrasting them with common perceptions of Thai people being dishonest or primarily interested in money. Highlighting friendly interactions while traveling from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, the author shares anecdotes of kindness encountered along the way, including free gestures from locals, supportive landlords, and memorable cultural exchanges. The comments reflect a mix of agreement and skepticism, with some emphasizing the importance of being aware of potential scams, especially in tourist areas, while others share similar positive experiences with local Thais.
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Khun ******
newbie
Dirk **************
My Thai wife and I live in Bangkok and we have honest people here, too 😂😂😂
T ****************
Chiang Mai is my favorite place, go up into the mountains and visit the mountain people’s village, above the Chiang Mai temple. Cheaper goods, less tourists, friendly people.
Pattaya is the sex capital.
Pattaya is the sex capital.
Sam ******
Is this sattire?
Alex *********
Dont go to Isaan!!!!!
Terry ********
@Alex ********
Why?Alex *********
Give me farang all your money, and go back to your country!
Charles *****
Stay away from tourist areas and it's a wonderful country
Dan ********
"Living here....." 🤣🤣
Dan ********
"Nearly two months.." 🤣
John *********
Well said
Brian *******
Great story yes I had been in Thailand 7 years the Thai people are the best .You have a great attitude all the very best to you in your travels.
Murray *******
Many of the guys that get ripped off, are so so desperate and naive. It's unbelievable when most of these guys have been married at least once before and mostly 50+.
Grow up guys, sober up..
Don't be so pathetic. Enjoy the female company in Thailand..
Grow up guys, sober up..
Don't be so pathetic. Enjoy the female company in Thailand..
Toon **********
TLDR. No one cares.
Oliver *********
OP@Toon *********
clearly you do bb boy
Dâu ********
It's all fun and games until the other shoe drops.
Spend long enough and the rose colored glasses come off. You'll be asked, you'll learn that you've been paying without even realizing it, you'll be in need of help and see how you're treated, give it time. Humans are humans and in a money based world, choosing to go to a developing nation where life is cheap and salaries are cheaper only increases the need for the searching eye. It'll land on you one day and slowly over time or swiftly, you'll see why so many find themselves the target and feeling like nothing more than an opportunity for those around them.
Spend long enough and the rose colored glasses come off. You'll be asked, you'll learn that you've been paying without even realizing it, you'll be in need of help and see how you're treated, give it time. Humans are humans and in a money based world, choosing to go to a developing nation where life is cheap and salaries are cheaper only increases the need for the searching eye. It'll land on you one day and slowly over time or swiftly, you'll see why so many find themselves the target and feeling like nothing more than an opportunity for those around them.
Oliver *********
OP@Dâu *******
if your such a loser you can't make it in a country 4x cheaper than your own you can't be helpedOliver *********
OP@Dâu *******
wasn't talking about you personally just in general about what you're talking about I don't know anything about you lol
Nor do I care
Dâu ********
@Oliver ********
then I'll rescind my comment, although it sounded specific and targeting my comment above.
Paul **********
its the same in any country, in tourist areas you get ripped off, go outside the city, you pay the same as the locals. I live here in Nan in the North. no rip offs, everyone is friendly if we go to Phuket or Pattaya, we know we'll pay more even though my wife is Thai. it's all about accents they know the out of towers 555
Werner ************
2 months eh? Seems like you figured out the secret to life…Keep it short no one going to read all that
Oliver *********
OP@Werner ***********
then don't read it Mr joker
Mika ********
Prehaps put down the pipe and go outside for fresh air
Jorge ****
@Mika *******
a pipe dream? ... no way. It's symptomatic of "culture shock". He'll come down and recover. 😃Mika ********
@Jorge ***
a dream wasn’t actually what the pipe in my comment was referring in too lolJorge ****
@Mika *******
I think I get it. Have heard the term "pipe dream" before... so I thought there was a connectio. No harm.
Boglárka ********
2 months? Woow. 😅👍
Dag *****************
Love thai people
อาจารย์ *******
@Oliver ********
wins the wanker and tosser commentary contest this month, what a champion !! He wins a pint of VB at the Coogee Beach Bar in Sydney, if he can get another Working Holiday Visa … Cheers !!Oliver *********
OP@อาจารย์ ******
I'll see you there once my visa gets accepted!
Robert ******
You heard right then you can not trust any thai some find out a very hard and expensive way Iam afraid to say you can live with one for years & they will still lie & cheat you & the kinder you are to them the bigger mug they take you for.
Oliver *********
OP@Robert *****
ahh good thing I don't live with one. Not really interested in Thai wife lolRobert ******
@Oliver ********
That’s good mate you can not trust any of them believe me best use them pay them and leave them where they are Hire them is the best when you need them
Zoe ******
2 months is hardly enough time and experiences to share your words of wisdom. Surface interaction can all be great until a real situation happens and people start to show their true colors. In Thailand as well as other countries (speaking from experience of living as an expat in Europe for 5 years) Also Thailand is NOT a third world country. 🤦
Oliver *********
OP@Zoe *****
I believe up, just sharing my experience so far.
Nika ********
Im 30 years here and fully agrre with you..if your attitude is warm and open this I what you will attract. Keep up your positive thoughts. Even in bug cities and touristy places there are so many lovely Thai people..as in any other country, there are the ones who will try to rip you off and double pricing can also be annoying, yet the majority are helpful and kind.
Vitico ********
In general the people that complain about Thais, are the ones that hang out at tourist traps and make relationships with girls they met at hooker bars and massage parlors (for real, what did they expect was going to happen?). Most people who deal with normal Thais, are going to have a good impression of them.
Mario *********
I was in Thailand 🇹🇭 10 times, ranging from 1 month, 2 months, 3 months and twice for 12 months.
Never had any problems.
I never set foot in Pataya only cycled through it.
Been to Phuket Island a few times and always stayed in Old Phuket Town. From there visited around the island.
In Bangkok always stayed in the Banglamphu area.
I have been in all areas except the Deep South so far.
For curiosity I walked through area llike Cowboy Soi and the like but never hang around for long in those.
So all that to say it all depends where you hang around.
Anywhere in this world you can find trouble or not.
That being said I love Thailand 🇹🇭, his people, his food, how cheap it is for us westerners and more.
Never had any problems.
I never set foot in Pataya only cycled through it.
Been to Phuket Island a few times and always stayed in Old Phuket Town. From there visited around the island.
In Bangkok always stayed in the Banglamphu area.
I have been in all areas except the Deep South so far.
For curiosity I walked through area llike Cowboy Soi and the like but never hang around for long in those.
So all that to say it all depends where you hang around.
Anywhere in this world you can find trouble or not.
That being said I love Thailand 🇹🇭, his people, his food, how cheap it is for us westerners and more.
Luc ************
First timer?
Oliver *********
OP@Luc ***********
tbf yes
Terry *******
I have bad experience with tuk tuk drivers, not dangerous but rip off types. Suit shops are dishonest, brought 2 suits for couple hundred dollars, scam probably, but it cost that much in USA. Hotels and shop owners are friendly and honest overall
ฉันเป็นทางของประชาชน *********
It’s life in general!!! No matter where you’re at in the world, someone always want your money 👊🏽. I’m Thai and I love my country. If you can’t adapt GET THE F..k out of my country
Rusty ************
@ฉันเป็นทางของประชาชน ********
I understand where you're coming from, but voicing legitimate concerns is one way which a society can have the good fortune of moving forward. Pretending that everything is perfect because I wasn't born here does nothing but protect the feelings of nationalists and allow progress to stagnate, and who cares about the feelings of nationalists tbh. Come to my country and talk all the shit you want about legitimate issues which should change. I mean it, I would appreciate it as would anyone who truly cares about the state of their society.
Terry ********
I have been scammed far more times in the USA than I have in Thailand
Andrew *******
Haha, give it time.
Bent *************
Aha
Alan ******
I stopped reading after the 154th line ZZZZZZZZZ
Oliver *********
OP@Alan *****
glad you made it to the end
Diedy **********
We come across very very many honest and friendly people in Thailand. Just forget Pattaya, Phuket etc. Why go where all the tourists go when you already see how beautiful Thailand is outside the redlightdistricts? Go to Koh Chang, Chantaburi, Thai Meuang, bike along the Mekong or via Tak to Kanchanaburi. By the way, tourists coming to the UK find nice and honest locals too 😉
Richard ********
@Diedy *********
A LOT more to Phuket than "redlightdistricts."
Richard *********
@Diedy *********
why forget phuket? spent 34 of my last 38 years living here< wonderful place and peopleI also have travelled over much of the country in that time
Diedy **********
@Richard ********
I know, I love Phuket too. Especially Yanui and Phuket Town. I did not mean do not come to the island but more don't get stuck in the Bangkok Chiang Mai Pattaya Phuket circle with the Bangla road, Patpong, Soi Cowboy, Walkingstreet crowd. He did not mention Phuket and Pattaya in the same sentence because he had been given some cultural or typical bikefriendly advise I think.Richard *********
@Diedy *********
He's already on the bangkok -CM circuit>🙂
I've cycled much of thailand over the years , the far north on the Burmese border, along the Mekong south from Nong Khai and far south are the best
MUCH more bike friendly
Andy **********
Ordinary Thai people are great, if you're going to spend extended periods of time in Thailand, I would recommend staying in the major Thai cities (not the tourist cities) the only thing that you don't have is western style bars, most of the scammers, and the people after your money, are in the in the tourist resorts, if you haven't got to involved in the tourist resorts with ladies etc, that's probably why you haven't experienced it yet.
Oliver *********
OP@Andy *********
so hookers bad 😅Andy **********
@Oliver ********
they are not all bad, but a very high percentage of the girls that are working will only want you for one reason "money" the general advice is, if you spend time with a working girl, don't break the 3 day rule.Andy **********
@Oliver ********
don't stay with the same girl for more than 3 days, then change the girl for a new one, then just carry on repeating the process, it's suggested to do this so there is no emotional attachment, and therefore you don't fall in love with a brass 😂😂🤷🙆🤦Oliver *********
OP@Andy *********
don't see them more than 3 days a week?
Paul ******
Wake up fool 🤡
John *******
LolThai.s probably Think your poor and crazy lol
Your safe
Your safe
Oliver *********
OP@John ******
based
Evan ******
Try Pattaya soi 6
Oliver *********
OP@Evan *****
unfortunately other end of the country 🤣
Ian *********
Fair post mate. There’s good and bad everywhere. Keep your wits about you, enjoy the good stuff, be aware of the risks, that’s it. I started work here in 2010 and it feels just as much home as my own country, in some ways more so. I don’t look at Thailand through rose-coloured glasses, neither do I view it as a negative place. It’s what you make it. For me, it’s home 😊
Oliver *********
OP@Ian ********
honestly I'm just grateful to not be in the UK lol That's enough for me to wake up with a smile
Ian *********
@Oliver ********
personally I don’t feel that way. I love, and have served, my country. In some things, UK beats Thailand hands-down, in others it doesn’t. I find ‘UK-born UK-haters’ as disagreeable as those who whinge about Thailand. I like both equally, and for different reasons.
Martin ******
You can live like the people in this thread thinking everyone around them are crooks, or you can live like the author of the post. This is karma. If you're not getting ripped off from time to time, then you're too defensive and untrusting, and you'll find people the same, and waste your time here. Sure it stings getting ripped off from time to time, but it is the only way to find the genuine and trustworthy people, and what sheer delight that is.
Vinod *********
So there have been many incidents which made me realize Thai people are very nice and kind.
Recent one when I was looking for the running track in ramkhamhaeng university and wasn’t able to find it. And I asked for directions from someone in the university and he dropped me on his motorbike to the entrance of the track.. which made me think I choose the right place to settle down..
Recent one when I was looking for the running track in ramkhamhaeng university and wasn’t able to find it. And I asked for directions from someone in the university and he dropped me on his motorbike to the entrance of the track.. which made me think I choose the right place to settle down..
Sonny **********
Yes, indeed. Often very friendly. Last week I was running alone at a track at noon here in Korat. I saw two men walking across the field both carrying long ladders on their shoulders. They saw me, I saw them and their big friendly smiles. I must have been moving three times their speed or more and most certainly was "using the track". As we neared each other I noticed that our paths were about to intercept as they were nearing the track. Yes, at the very last second I put the brakes on hard so as to not collide with them and their ladders. They never slowed or stopped but continued walking and kept up with the smiling. The smiling part sort of reminds me of something I remember as being associated with friendly. I have seen a lot of polite behavior and cheeriness in Asia but not a whole lot of courtesy. Still, I have had many more good experiences than bad and also hate carrying ladders.
Jorge ****
@Vinod ********
the majority of people are very friendly and hospitable. I noticed that four decades ago, and have been here for the last 20 yrs. Been inmensely happy on my decision. The problem are the usual suspects, then the newbies who ain't seen nothin' yet. Heaven can very easily turn into a living hell, and all because of distorted views, and very poor judgement. This place is still a paradise. "Know before you go" becomes a reality here.
Yiba *******
The answer is hidden in your post:
".... I got here 2 months ago."
".... I got here 2 months ago."
Oliver *********
OP@Yiba ******
tell me your worst experience
Mike ******
I dislike farangs being proud of scoring "freebies". Even if the girl doesn't ask for money, unless she's rich (which is very rare for a farang), they appreciate the help. You can be a gentleman about it, eg I'm not good at shopping so thought you may like to get something you like. Or just put the money into her handbag when she's not looking. Don't be an uncaring cheap charlie
Oliver *********
OP@Mike *****
oh I literally tried handing some of them money and they refused it. I'm not trying to get free shit they just give me it. In return I often go back to their business though if they have one
And it's not about being proud of it, it's expressing kindness of some people
David ************
You lost me after the first sentence. Do you have the shorter abridged version in paperback perhaps.
Marc *******
Satire Deluxe😂😭🤣
Oliver *********
OP@Marc ******
hehe yes I did write it cause other were complaining how Thailand is evil lol so thought would be funny to write some autistic postBut also everything here is true
Chris ******
Thai people in general are amazing , every country in the world has some amount of shxt people / serial killers . So nowhere is perfect . Easy to get a Thai girlfriend you say ? Well seen as though most Thai ladies can't speak English ,unless you can speak Thai ,it's sex workers that will be in your dating pool. They call them self freelancers amongst their friends and fellow colleagues. No money , no honey is not just a famous saying ,but a way of life . Enjoy.
Andy **********
@Chris *****
you suggest most Thai women are sex workers if they speak English, some are well educated, having been to university etc, some have just worked in hospitality, but yeah if her English is very good, I would question why.Jorge ****
@Chris *****
this new FB post is making the rounds now, on the news too. "A Canadian man and his Thai wife were stabbed to death by a neighbour who rented a house next door in Muang district of this northeastern province in the small hours on Friday"
Marc ********
@Jorge ***
how many times you want to mention it?Jorge ****
@Marc *******
sorry, I thought this was going to two different people.
John *******
Congratulations on you post and more for your life story iam sure someone out there will be proud of you 👏
Seb ***********
Living in a bkk suburb gives you the friendless plus the advantage of a short commute to the capital. Although perhaps not pretty, Samut Prakan is friendly
Phillip ********
What the fxxks that about🤔
Quinn ********
It’s like everywhere else. Give respect and you’ll get respect. Anytime money comes out of your pocket keep your eyes open. Women are selling you a dream. A beautiful girl in paradise. Who doesn’t love that? Is she selling that dream to 3 other guys? Possibly. But it happens back at home as well. I love it here in Asia. But I’m from Chicago. I don’t trust anybody except for my mother. But I’m a cynic by nature. Enjoy your time in Thailand.
Oliver *********
OP@Quinn *******
haha don't get me wrong I enjoy every moment but I don't truly trust anyone like that. Even back home only my close friends
David ***************
Being a foreigner in Thailand while wearing your emotions on your sleeve is a sure bet to being taken later. Fresh fish alert, 555.
Oleg **********
Yeah... But you're buddies with the pope.
Oliver *********
OP@Oleg *********
tbf I am blessed
Us *****
You just don't understand the long game rookie. You pay for it one way or another.
Richard ******
Yes the Thai people are the friendliest people I have ever met. Most are very helpful, friendly and trying to make a living.
Stuart ***********
Glad you are enjoying it.
I have lived here for nearly 2 years and my experience reflects yours. I even had good experiences in Bkk, where a guy just wanted to speak english with me because he had previously lived in England, so he walked around showing me a temple then got me a tuktuk telling me and the driver how much he should charge (something like 40 baht).
Another time I asked an old lady for directions and she physically walked me there (maybe 200 metres) and would not take anything from me to say thanks.
In Ubon a lady at a garage replaced my punctured car tyre and only wanted 100 Baht, she looked astonished when I gave her 200, but it was worth every baht to get mobile so quickly.
I can't think of any bad experiences.
I have lived here for nearly 2 years and my experience reflects yours. I even had good experiences in Bkk, where a guy just wanted to speak english with me because he had previously lived in England, so he walked around showing me a temple then got me a tuktuk telling me and the driver how much he should charge (something like 40 baht).
Another time I asked an old lady for directions and she physically walked me there (maybe 200 metres) and would not take anything from me to say thanks.
In Ubon a lady at a garage replaced my punctured car tyre and only wanted 100 Baht, she looked astonished when I gave her 200, but it was worth every baht to get mobile so quickly.
I can't think of any bad experiences.
Jody *******
Away from tourist areas it's usually ok & can be quite pleasant, but you still get the odd shocker.
In tourist areas it's like swimming in a shark tank with a meat suit on...
In tourist areas it's like swimming in a shark tank with a meat suit on...
Jarek ************
@Jody ******
doesn't the same goe for most of countries nowadays? Even worse, try London or Paris...Jody *******
@Jarek ***********
Countries are not the same, otherwise we wouldn't travel.It's not the locals who are a problem in London or Paris...
Jody *******
@Jarek ***********
I would prefer to communicate with them in a less pleasant & more physical way about the issue but not enough citizens are ready to wake up & stand up yet! ;)Jarek ************
@Jody ******
talk to your government about the multicultural enrichment 😂😂😂Oliver *********
OP@Jody ******
ye that's why I left them 🤣Jody *******
@Oliver ********
Learning fast then... ;)
Loretta *******
I was at a Thai funeral....I have family that's Thai...small village town ...funeral was 5 days....
Sad to say ....I witnessed so much theft.... Just among each other there ...my perception changed during those days!!!!.....
I think we need to remember.....
Everything looks great up front!!!
In every country
Sad to say ....I witnessed so much theft.... Just among each other there ...my perception changed during those days!!!!.....
I think we need to remember.....
Everything looks great up front!!!
In every country
Troy ***********
I was watching this post and then my neighbor came and we watched it together. He said this post really changed his life and it touched my heart. My village people are so grateful. Am proud to say cool post wow thanks for sharing.
Frank **********
@Troy **********
changed his life, 5555.Oliver *********
OP@Troy **********
wow thanks I'll be sure to cycle to your village so he can meet me.in person
Sam ******
Your experience is probably a reflection of your attitude mate. Good for you. As we all know, there's good and bad everywhere. All that trash-talk you hear is mostly from guys who've made very bad decisions like trying to save a prostitute by marrying her, or they're just bitter old gronks promoting their imagined superiority. Hope your trip continues with pleasurable experiences 👍
อ้วน *********
@Sam *****
nailed it, people see what they want to see and no matter where they travel, they always bring themselves.
Shane ************
Thais are for the most part super helpful and friendly, it is what makes vacationing here great. But living and doing business here you quickly see they are lazy AF and their brains cannot process much and multitasking and following simple instructions is near impossible. It is a very corrupt place and like anywhere money talks
Rustin *******
@Shane ***********
you sound like a colonizer.Shane ************
@Rustin ******
grow a pair bitchRustin *******
@Shane ***********
why? Do you want me to teabag you?Oliver *********
OP@Shane ***********
haha I'm yet to experience but it will be funny to see
Paul *****************
I enjoyed the read .
Stéfan ********
Just wait… 2 months is nothing. The number of batshit things I’ve experienced or witnessed in my 20 years of visiting or living in Thailand is insane. Yet, it’s lovely and beautiful, and most people are very accommodating, and I love the place. I too travel by bike and have crisscrossed Thailand a few times, and experienced several wonderful episodes similar to yours. Just a friendly suggestion to remain attentive. Btw, massage girls love ALL the men. Best of luck.
Jorge ****
Personal anecdotal experiences are hardly a reflection of a larger picture... read the local news, thethaiger, phuket news, pattaya mail, bangkok post, the nation. Last night I read about a 5 mo fetus found in the garbage, a local stabbing to death an expat and Thai wife because the expat had a few friends over... etc. The news are grim.
Andy **********
@Jorge ***
granted there is crime in Thailand, but it's at a very low level, it's obvious the way you can leave things lying around and nobody touches anything, most people are honest.Jorge ****
@Andy *********
yes, most people are honest. I have read about taxi drivers returning lost monies in their cab, as well as good samaritans helping travelers. The problem is that there are a few bad apples, as we all know, and the op made it sound like this was a paradise of goodness and innocence, which is not. I absolutely do not imply or recommend for anyone to live in fear or to walk as if stepping on eggshells, but one needs to be aware and safe. Many of the horror stories I've come across are not from the news media. The most horrifying part is that the expat, inadvertently, caused the situation.Zoe ******
@Jorge ***
"The news are grim" in EVERY COUNTRY. The world is becoming more hostil and people with more mental health issues. My friends and family are afraid to go to schools and grocery stores in the states.
Andrew *******
@Zoe *****
yep sound like venturing out to grocery stores nightclubs bars churches and schools is becoming a risky business in US 😔Jorge ****
@Zoe *****
I see that too. I would like to understand what we did (or did not do) years ago that led to today's state of things. Somewhere along the line we need to take corrective action, the proper one. Ignoring it all and hiding one's head in the sand cannot be conducive to much. Knowing and awareness is key. I will keep reading. Peace
Diana ******
@Jorge ***
Why? Why? Why read or watch or listen to the news? Always negative and ugly. I quit allowing the news to affect my life almost three years ago. Life becomes calm and peaceful when one does not partake in the news. Now I can live!Jorge ****
@Diana *****
why? Because "no man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of they friends`s or of thine own were. Any man`s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind. And therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee"-John Dunne.Jorge ****
@Diana *****
well, am glad for you! Please note, my comment/response was not directed at you or your life endeavours. You asked me why and I gave you my response based on what I believe and do for myself. I watch where society is going, the wars, the inhumanity, and the apathy because I am partially responsible, and I want to understand. Peace.Diana ******
@Jorge ***
I am not an island, I am involved, kind, accepting, I volunteer where we travel to and I give of self and more. I choose to not allow the media to influence my life negatively. And since this choice fmy life has lost much of the distress and gain room for eustress. My news comes from the people I meet, befriend, and organizations I help. Human to human. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜🤙✌️Jorge ****
Jack Mc Connoron thanks for the heads up.
Jarek ************
@Jorge ***
and where aren't the news grim? Most of the world is FUBAR.Jorge ****
@Jarek ***********
yes, I agree, but the news are manifestations or symptoms of a deeper problem. It is imperative to know and understand the causes before we can formulate a mitigating course of action. Burying one's head in the sand of a beach is positively not a conducive approach.Jorge ****
@Jarek ***********
not for long.Jarek ************
@Jorge ***
cause is very simple, forced migration to destabilize the region so that the powers to be have full control over the population. You will own nothing, eat crickets and be happy about it 😂 Sadly most still think itis just a conspiracy theory...
Bonnie *********
@Jorge ***
Nothing compared to the news in my home country, where they take assault weapons to grammar school classes.If you find it so grim, perhaps your home country is more appealing.
Jorge ****
@Bonnie ********
It is not about finding living here grim, am just flabbergasted to see newcomers make superficial judgements.Jorge ****
@Bonnie ********
a judgement must not be superficial yet it is better than a bad one. And yes, years ago, my family and I lived thru a coup d'etat where people lost home and possessions and members of the outgoing goverment were shot by firing squad without trial. Also lived and worked in countries where public decapitations are common, and was here in Phuket when a natural disater took 5,000 people. In seven days I will be remembering the loss of the other 200,000+. I lived thru that and even gave a hand in the rescue effort. Have pics, videos, and witnesses. Am still recovering. Peace.Bonnie *********
@Jorge ***
As are yours, or are you only looking at grim? Seems you are. Have you been a victim of crime? I would think solo women travelers would be more concerned; yet I find safety and ease of travel to the things women discuss.
Jorge ****
@Bonnie ********
In my home country I can have an assault weapon, but I do prefer it here in LOS where only the boys in brown carry them....Oliver *********
OP@Bonnie ********
personally I don't partake in the news, if something happened to me I'd simply handle the situation 🤷♂️Bonnie *********
@Oliver ********
I travel solo & have in Thailand for over 30 years, never a problem. News is news because it's not the norm.Jorge ****
You hit it on the nail!
Tore *********
When you venture outside the tourist areas, most Thais are friendly. Even in Bangkok.
Im also discovering how friendly Indonesians are. Perhaps even more friendly than Thais (They don’t take the saving face thing to the same extreme)
Im also discovering how friendly Indonesians are. Perhaps even more friendly than Thais (They don’t take the saving face thing to the same extreme)
Shane ************
@Tore *****************
definitely
Alessandro **********
Really heart touching, woww 😱
Bonnie *********
Don’t believe them. Have your own experiences.
Neil ********
That’s a fair distance to cycle. Best way to see Thailand slowly and get to know people
Stephen *********
GREAT post and reflects my experiences in Thailand.
Like you I cycle a lot there and the people are amazingly friendly.
We 'chat' about where I'm from, where I'm going, they admire my bike.
They want to know how much it costs (no, they don't have thoughts of stealing it).
I'm going back in three weeks and can't wait.
Oliver, do you have the ride to Chiang Mai on Strava.
I'm considering a 'road trip from the Khon Kaen area going north, maybe up to Chiang Mai or Nong Khai and then in to Laos.
Like you I cycle a lot there and the people are amazingly friendly.
We 'chat' about where I'm from, where I'm going, they admire my bike.
They want to know how much it costs (no, they don't have thoughts of stealing it).
I'm going back in three weeks and can't wait.
Oliver, do you have the ride to Chiang Mai on Strava.
I'm considering a 'road trip from the Khon Kaen area going north, maybe up to Chiang Mai or Nong Khai and then in to Laos.
Oliver *********
OP@Stephen ********
Check out oliver simpson on Strava****************************************
*****
244I've got most of them label Bangkok to Chiangmai part 1 etc lol
Stephen *********
@Oliver ********
There are some 'lumpy' rides!Oliver *********
OP@Stephen ********
ye I do I'll send you itRichard *********
fantasy land
and whats ur visa question or ......
and whats ur visa question or ......
Oliver *********
OP@Richard ********
wanted to know where the hoes are atRichard *********
@Oliver ********
an dik quote u ......."I don't partake in prostitution btw.Saying that I checked out a hooker bar and made it clear I didn't want to partake a"
Toon **********
@Richard ********
he got quiet all of a sudden.
Duncanc **********
How’s your rash healing?
Oliver *********
OP@Duncanc *********
hehe was from bites. All cleared up now
Xjwhudkwhry ********
To much text, sorry, not going to read ...
Brian ********
Keith ************
I had a woman fix my hat the other day. She sewed some stitches into the band. She didn't want to take money for her work. She said it was only a little work. I left some money on her table. Nice woman.
Edgar ************
@Keith ***********
Common 'up to you' guilting strategy... Makes the customer overpay. Very smart, dont underestimate thais when it comes to money. General knowledge, they have none - but money, they are extremely clever.
Barry *******
Landlords are friendly until it’s time to get your deposit back!
Andy **********
@Barry ******
never rent anywhere with a stupidly high deposit, I wouldn't trust any landlord with a large deposit, I've never rented anywhere with a deposit more than ฿4000 or ฿5000, and by the time they take out for water and electricity, most of has gone then anyway, so it would only be a small amount if they didn't give it you back.Barry *******
@Andy *********
The 80k was 2 months deposit. 1st and last time I’d do that.
Hence why I didn’t pay last months rent.
Kathy ********
@Barry ******
some people saying make pictures of the place before you sign the rental agreementAndy **********
@Barry ******
it's just not fair, not nice being ripped off, just try and protect yourself as much as possible in the future, I once heard of someone taking photos of every little chip/scratch, basically any damage or anything not working, then went and got them developed, and got the landlord to sign and date every photo, before handing the deposit over, he said he had been ripped off in the past, seems a bit excessive, but he got his large deposit returned when he moved out.Barry *******
@Andy *********
Scratches on the wooden floors, which I pointed out when I signed the contract. It was the first thing she said when she came to check the condo.
It was obvious I was getting screwed.
Andy **********
@Barry ******
wow sorry to hear that, it's a decent amount of money to lose, what was the landlord's excuse/reason for not returning the deposit??Barry *******
@Andy *********
your not getting much in central Bangkok with a 4000 deposit!Oliver *********
OP@Barry ******
hmm not like my UK landlord gave me it back. Difference is I'll only be losing 4000 baht this time lol fuck allBarry *******
@Oliver ********
I lost 40k on my first lease with a thai. It could have been worse as I paid 2 month deposit but refused to pay the last months rent.
Lesson learned.
Simão ****************
life outside of the USA is stunning, isn't it?
Jarek ************
@Simão ***************
nowdays life outside of North America and Europe is stunning 😂
Jae *******
@Jarek ***********
Outside any Western country, basically
Don **********
Jarek Niskiewicz Go to therapy.
Oliver *********
OP@Jarek ***********
small hatted men in chargeOliver *********
OP@Simão ***************
life outside the UK is even better. I'm grateful everyday not to be thereAndy **********
@Oliver ********
I don't think you realise how bad the UK is, until you leave.Oliver *********
OP@Andy *********
Exactly I'll take lying Thais and being an outsider anyday ahhha
Karim ***************
@Oliver ********
you’re in the honeymoon period of escaping the sh1t-ness of the U.K. and you’ve stumbled upon the magical land that we also enjoy. You’re a bit naive about a few things but, you’ve only been here two months and will live and learn. On the whole, Thais are nice people. But many of them will try to take your money, given the chance. This applies to most of the world, so it’s not something that puts me off Thailand. The relaxed pace of life, the weather, the food, the amazingly beautiful different parts of the country, the women, the affordable cost of life… It’s enough to trap us all. Enjoy your time in Thailand and never be overly trusting of anyone. 2 months is definitely not long enough to have sussed it all out.
Kieron *******
@Oliver ********
I went to Bangkok and Pattaya in October and liked it so much I'm going back in late January. I had a couple of things happen, got a little bit of coin pilfered off me but to the person that took it, it would've made a massive difference to there lifestyle and I'll make that working boxing day alone. They say Australias the lucky country but I much prefer Thailand but I feel the culture and people are much more friendly than most Auzzies tooOliver *********
OP@Karim **************
I don't think I have sussed it out I was just sharing my experience so far. I have had a few bad experiences but nothing much.But ye anything is better than the UK 🤣
Frank **********
Almost made me cry 5555.
Mike ******
@Frank *********
I am crying now..please stop..
David *******
There are good and bad every where but im in phuket and majority of people are friendly.
Oliver *********
OP@David ******
will probably head down there soon
Jon **********
Cool story
Chris ****
TLDR
Rene ******
@Chris ***
Explored Thailand, found Bangkok tricky with tuktuks & shops, but outside it's been great! Friendly folks, freebies, and helpful locals. Stereotypes about money don't bother me. Want to earn more to support local businesses. Chiang Mai's a blast!(ChatGPT)
Darren *******
Ok
Karim ***************
@Darren ******
been here 2 months and sussed it all out.Oliver *********
OP@Karim **************
I said, my experience so far lmaoToon **********
@Oliver ********
Your name is as fake as your story. You'll fit right in here.Activity
98 joined98
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