Life in Thailand

It has been interesting staying in Thailand so far and there are so many things to do here that it is hard to keep track of all the places I have been to and seen.

I've noticed some things are quite different from how they are in America and yet other things are the same like we have back home.

For example, I'm living in a housing complex not too different from a subdivision in the States. Except here you have people sweeping your driveway, mowing your lawn and you also have security guards keeping out potential robbers and solicitors-all for a very cheap price. Compared to a full service subdivision that would cost most Americans hundreds of thousands of dollars to live in, it's all attainable in Thailand for only half that price.

Here in the northern part of Thailand, in Chiang Rai, there are two Universities (Chiang Rai Rajabhat University and Mae Fah Luang University) and several English, Japanese and Chinese Language Institutions.

With two Universities in the area of Chiang Rai there's bound to be a lot of entertainment around. There are many DVD and VCD movie stores and plenty of bars and restaurants to hang out in. Some places have Karaoke for an extra charge but nearly all of it is in Thai.

If you like to dance like I do then there are three discotheques in the area, some are in hotels. Many hotels have a DJ with Karaoke and actual lady singers dressed to the nine's to sing for you while you enjoy a restaurant dinner or drink in the lounge.

And of course for shopping there are numerous markets and night bazaars along the street where you can find handmade goods of clothing, textiles and home décor. There are many ethnic stalls where local artwork made by hill tribes can be found. Anything you're looking for, whether it's clothes, jewelry, home décor or gifts to send back home, can be bought on the same street or in a night bazaar in Chiang Rai.

Founder of Chiang Rai statue in downtown Chiang Rai

Credit: Image Copyright: Awana House & Tours ©2003-2006

Copyright: Awana House & Tours ©2003-2006