Thailand - The Land of Smiles. Indeed, it is. Thai people have the most genuine and heartfelt smile. There hospitality makes you feel so welcome. Smiling back is always a kind gesture but it is definetely not enough to get you around the country. To my suprise the most challenging aspect of this trip so far has been the language barrier. Interestingly enough, English seems to be the laguage of choice for Thai' and foreigners to communicate. Even so, it has been quite the challenge because neither knows each others language very well, especially coming from me. This makes it challenging at times but it is all part of the adventure.
Nevertheless, their curiosity and eagerness to help goes beyond all boundaries. The common phrase "Where you going?" and "You need taxi?" is an honest attempt to try and help.
We arrived in Bangkok, stayed for 3 days and had enough. It was very crowded, bust, polluted and confusing. I have spent most of my days on the islands of Koh Pha-Ngan and Koh Tao and it has been glorious! Who ever thought that you can still live in paradise, with the crystal clear blue ocean and powdery white sand steps from your bungalow for a mere 5 dollars a day?! I have spent my days basking in the sun, reading endless books, snorkeling, hiking and playing card games. I am off to the oldest town in Thailand called Chaiya, where I will participate in a 10-day meditation retreat with buddhist monks.
