An Authentic Thai Experience Is Truly Worth A Visit, Here’s How To Experience It Right!

Maybe because it’s cheap - but I think it’s more because it’s happy, that we keep going back to Thailand. Everyone smilingly welcomes you. Given half-a-chance, Indians will talk about their life’s deepest secrets to strangers but we tend to put on the grimmest expressions when we are travelling. Please try to put on a smile and bow, when in Thailand. This is important to them so let’s do it.
Thailand is getting increasingly conscious of its Buddhist heritage and considers it an insult to use ‘Buddha’ images/statues for decoration. So however gorgeous those Buddha t-shirts and key-chains look, respect the country’s sentiment and do not buy them.

Our holiday was in a small village by the sea, called Khao Lak, which was one of the worst-hit areas during the Tsunami. This is the lesser known neighbour of Phuket and we were happy to contribute to the tourism trade of a place like this. Every alternate day, the town sets up a market where they sell local produce – from fresh vegetables to handicrafts. I recommend that you buy your souvenirs here rather than in large, AC shops where ‘Thailand’ souvenirs, are really factory-produced in a different country. Bamboo, coir and cotton products are indigenous to the place – buy them.

When in Thailand, drink Chang Beer. Or maybe Singha. You do not want to increase your carbon-footprint by drinking imported beer, especially when they have such good local varieties. One of the reasons why we keep going back to this country is their food. While we haven’t yet developed a taste for grasshoppers or silkworms (soon, we hope), we cannot get enough of their curries and soups. The use of coconut milk and spices such as ginger (or galangal), tamarind and turmeric, make their food very similar to Kerala food. Eat local. Be Healthy.

Our resort planned a nature walk and showed us indigenous plants and birds on the property. We found that we shared a very similar ecological heritage – thanks to similar climate and that there was just 90 kms of sea, separating this village from our Andaman Islands. This is a Prinia feeding on fruits of a Tropical Palm. If you have children with you, do take time out to show them these. A child growing up knowing nature, is happy and healthy and grows up to be an eco-conscious citizen.

Finally, switch off the AC and open the doors. There is always a pretty view outside and the non-AC air makes you pretty. Remember, what’s good for the Earth, is good for you.

--- The author, Jayati Talapatra, is a human resource manager by profession who lives and breathes nature. A green crusader, she has been promoting exploring Delhi responsibly through her Facebook page, Dilli Meri Jaan. She can be reached at dillimeriijaan@gmail.com.

Here's to driving you mad...

There has been much talk about Delhi's odd-even private car regulation that has come to effect since January 1. Several car users find the system strange and there's much to hear about the rule across the city. In fact, Ahmedabad is also planning to launch a similar traffic regulation in the days to come. Alpaviram brings you a list of strange traffic rules from around the world...

No women drivers in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the only country in the world that does not allow women to drive. A woman in the driving seat can be fined heavily, detained by the police or deported. In 2015, the King's advisory suggested that women above 30 be allowed to drive before 8 pm and without using make-up.

No shirtless driving in Thailand
The heat can be unbearable but Thai authorities ensure that you keep your shirt on while you drive in the country.

Don't splash a pedestrian in Japan
If you are driving in the rain on your visit to Japan, make sure you do not splash a pedestrian as it may cost you $65 as fine.

Auto emission car sticker in Berlin
Don't forget to ensure that you hail a taxi or private car with a proper auto car emission sticker or you could be fined $60 for it.

Don't stop for the pedestrian!
Beijing, China gives car drivers more leverage than pedestrians and you are not required to stop to allow someone to pass. In fact, if you stop for a pedestrian you could be fined and issued a warning.

Headlights on at all times
While driving through Sweden you are required to keep your headlights on irrespective of the time. Failing to do so, invites a fine.

Dirty cars off the street
In Dubai, you are not allowed to drive a dirty car. You are also not allowed to wash the car outside your own residence! And don't try to run to Russia either. It is illegal to drive dirty cars in Russia as well.

Off with the numberplate!
If you park your car illegally in Greece, the police will simply take away your numberplate. Go figure!

Full tank for AutoBahn
Drivers are not allowed to stop for fuel on the famous stretch in Germany. Make sure you have all the gas you need for the trip.

Don't drive blindfolded or on the sidewalk
USA takes the cake! Traffic rules include driving without the use of blindfolds (HUH!) and not driving on a sidewalk (yes, really!)It is also illegal in Massachusetts to drive with a gorilla in the backseat.

Know some more? Share with us in the comments box for no fine at all.