In keeping with all parts of the (civilised!) world, there are many good and many bad things about Thailand. It is what makes for a wonderful experience in life!
As with life in general, the bad things will often seek you out; but in Thailand the good things will also be very evident!
I am not yet sure, whether or not the often used phrase "Mai Pen Rai" (Khrup/Ka) is one of the good or bad things about Thailand. The basic translation means "Never Mind!" It is a way of life, not just a phrase. Be well aware before you visit Thailand.
| Best Things about Thailand | Worst Things about Thailand |
| Bangkok Taxis - Brilliant but scary! | Bangkok Pavements and Footpaths. OK for motorbikes but not for walkers. Watch out for the pot holes and other uneven surfaces. |
| SkyTrain - The UK needs to sit up and take notice! | Bangkok Traffic - Just a choked-up mess |
| MRT Underground. Never had to wait more than 8 mins for an air-conditioned run to all the major places in Bkk. | Thai Massage - ouch! |
| Shopping in Bkk Malls - Whaw! The Best | Bangkok Beggars! |
| His Majesty The King. The world's longest reigning monarch. Loved by the Thai people and respected throughout the world. | Touts! - All of them everywhere. The worst. |
| Falangs! - Some are the best. | Falangs! Some are the worst! |
| The younger generation! The future of Thailand seems to be in capable hard-working, fun-loving hands. | Politics! A small vociferous minority may yet tear the country apart. A deeply divisive subject in Thailand and best avoided by visitors. |
| The Songkram Festival Last day in Pattaya has to be one of the best days in Thailand. This is Thailand at it's best. Beautiful people, family atmosphere and genuine wishes of happiness and health for the future. Falangs would do well to try and savour the atmosphere, not create their own! | The falangs who try to hijack the Songkran festival in Thailand. they should try to be part of it. The water throwing is fine - if you accept the meaning behind it. Many just throw as much water as possible, without any thought for the greater experience. |
