I
was lucky enough to explore this unknown and fascinating aspect of this ‘Land
of Smiles’ in the recently held FAM trip by TAT.
It
all started with the warm welcome aboard their flag carrier Thai Airways as
they greeted us ‘Sawatdee’ in that lilting polyphonic Thai language. I felt this
true hospitality right at the start of my journey which made it much more
rewarding and memorable.
After
a short 4 hrs 30 mins direct flight we landed at the gargantuan Suvarnabhumi
International Airport. Apt to its name, this spic and span airport is very well
organized and efficient as it serves as a major hub to their national carrier
and other South East Asian regions. Embedded with gold, the airport has got
many murals and Thai mythological depictions which narrate their culture. One
gets to see Thai craftsmanship right on arrival…Simply breathtaking !!!
I
did the Visa on Arrival as had heard and read a lot that is it done swiftly and
efficiently. So yes, as experienced now, it did go out well without any hassle.
It merely took around 20 mins for all the procedure to complete and we were
done.
Our
tour guide Mr Joie (Rajesh Khanna fan and look-alike) was anticipating our
arrival and whoa, we were very warmly received by him. His amicable approach
made us feel at ease and that was the start of our fabulous 5 day trip.
Apart
from the regular visited places common amongst Indian travelers like Safari
World, Dream World, Chao Phraya cruise etc. etc. we were lucky enough to
experience the new attractions in Bangkok like Art in Paradise (aka Trick Art
museum in others countries), Muay Thai stage show, Thai spa and massage (part
of their unique culture), Asiatique-The riverfront and many others.
I
was overwhelmed to see the genuinity and warmth of Thai people wherever we went
in those 5 days, as they always ensured that their guests are at ease even if
one doesn’t speak their language. They are loyal and honest and carry their
task efficiently without letting us think that Thailand is all RED……..
Tourism
is the major revenue for them and they play a loyal role in welcoming Indians
as we are the 3rd largest inbounds to Thailand.
The
unique Thai culture and its traces can been seen almost everywhere: in the
daily lifestyle of Thai people right from the fruit selling vendors to
shop-keepers and massagers, at the massive Grand Palace complex to their
countless Wats and malls...Thai ethnicity can’t be misunderstood as they have a
distinct culture much like ours and should be indulged by all atleast once in
life….
‘It
all begins with the people’ as tagged by TAT this year, there is no doubt that
Thailand will surely go way beyond the usual moreover as a family destination
and become known for its unique Thai culture as I have had an experience which
left me change my opinion that yes Thailand can also be a family destination at
par to Singapore or Hong Kong with added top ups like Thai cuisine, Thai
lukthung (music) and lastly the redefined THAI hospitality
แล้วพบกันใหม่ – Thailand, See you again as I’m
sure more people will take rewards of this distinct aspect and have a memorable
trip which will be cherished lifelong as I had….
