Buzz
Monks living austere lives, pampered elephants, and Thai people eating with chopsticks are common misconceptions about Thailand.
Common Misconceptions About Traveling in Thailand
1. Thailand is a Third World Country: According to Matador Network, over 50% of Thailand's population live in rural areas, relying on agriculture. However, the remaining portion resides in modern cities like Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Bangkok, featuring skyscrapers, 5-star hotels, international-standard hospitals, prestigious schools, and a wealthy citizenry.
2. Everyone Uses Chopsticks: Many people assume that because Thailand is in Asia, everyone uses chopsticks. In reality, people mainly use spoons and forks, with chopsticks usually reserved for Chinese and Japanese restaurants.
3. Monks Live a Life of Austerity: Tourists often assume that Thai monks are solemn men in yellow robes, meditating and living a simple life. However, it's common to see monks shopping for electronics, taking photos with iPads or fancy cameras, using iPhones, and even smoking. Many young men also spend a few weeks in temple retreats.
Misconceptions About Elephant Care in Thailand
5. Pad Thai as the Iconic Thai Dish: When Americans think of Thai cuisine, Pad Thai is often the first dish that comes to mind, as it always appears on the menus of Thai restaurants in the US. However, it's not the most beloved dish in Thailand among the myriad of enticing dishes, but rather popular in tourist areas.
6. Everyone Speaks English: The wealthy elite in Thailand are often educated in English. Those who frequently interact with tourists can speak some English. However, in reality, Thailand has a relatively low level of English proficiency. Only a few students study English at public schools and learn from Thai teachers. The country is criticized for its severe lack of English teachers.
7. Anyone Can Teach English in Thailand: If you come from English-speaking countries, you may be considered a strong candidate for many positions, including teaching. However, to teach English in Thailand requires going through a selection process with official qualifications, certifications, and teaching experience. Many places require a 4-year university degree.
9. Thailand is a Seasonal Party Destination: The Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan has long been a magnet for party-loving tourists and nightlife enthusiasts. However, Thailand has many other appealing attractions for tourists.
10. Thai Food Must Be Spicy to Be Authentic: Dishes like tom yum soup and som tum are usually very spicy. However, many other dishes such as omelets, garlic chicken, noodle soup, fried rice, and many other popular dishes are not spicy at all.
11. Everything seems affordable: You can grab street food for less than $2 along with a Chang beer. However, Thailand imposes significant taxes on imported items. Electronics and cars are relatively expensive. Restaurants, bars, or luxury shopping areas are not budget-friendly either. Especially, private international schools come with a hefty price tag. Tuition fees at top international schools in Bangkok can go up to $8,000 per term.
12. Paying for any Thai girl for 'fun' is possible: Many tourists still perceive Thailand as a cheap sex paradise. However, not every girl in this country is a prostitute, some even hold respectable positions in society.
13. The weather is always scorching: Thailand has a tropical climate, but it doesn't mean it's always hot. Cities in the highlands of Northern and Northeastern regions like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have a mild climate, low humidity during the seasons from December to February. Loei province is the coldest place in Thailand. Phu Rua National Park in Loei can drop to 9 degrees Celsius during the day and even colder at night.
14. Land of Smiles: Thailand is famous for its friendly and kind-hearted people, making it a safe destination for tourists. But behind this lies some less pleasant truths.
Source: Zing News
***
Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourNovember 24, 2015
