Top Tips to a cultural blast in Thailand
Are you ready for a great time? Lets follow Dipanjan and see about daring into the cage with the tigers, eating exotic street food, strolling the markets, and relaxing at a temple or with a popular Thai massage. What will you do? Here are some tips for a memorable visit and to immerse as a local.
Language
Thai is the official language spoken in this country. However, there are several dialects such as Isan, Khmer, Mon, Viet, Karen, Akha, and Hmong. To name a few. English has become their go to, their global language. It is now compulsory in many schools. Most locals can communicate and will welcome you into a conversation with them.
Here are some tips for a successful trip–
It is forbidden to talk about the king. There are strict laws to prosecute people who criticize their king. So, avoid talking about him at all times, especially in public.
Always Cover Yourself
In a land full of monasteries and temples that are so beautiful and welcoming to come in here is a tip to keep you at ease and be sure you are always welcome-
Always carry a jacket or a scarf while sightseeing. In all monasteries and temples, you will be asked to cover your elbows and knees before entering. If you fail to abide by the guidelines, the authorities will not allow you to enter. Its their custom, a sign of respect.
This is a great place to truly emerge into their culture. Cover up, go in and sit back and quietly take it all in. Not only will you be impressed but you will feel very relaxed. Buddhism is the primary religion here, how can you not be relaxed.
Speaking of relaxing, do not miss out on a Thai massage. They are not overrated! After a long and tiring day, the massage will replenish your mind and rejuvenates your soul. Ask a local at your favorite tea house or hotel for their favorite so you can have a true cultural experience.
Looking for a daring adventure
We all want to observe wild animals closely, but are you brave enough to get too close? Thailand is one of the very few places where you can get inside a cage with a tiger. Getting so close to these ferocious beasts is an overwhelming experience. You will feel a surreal aura inside the cage. However, don’t try to touch them. The intrinsic wilderness can never be tamed.
Are you hungry yet 
The markets are a must see. You should visit Chatuchak Weekend Market, or the Ratchada Train Market. These markets offer a plethora of items ranging from showpieces, local handcrafted jewelry to various food items. Please be aware this can be enticing as well as eye opening, you are fully immersing in another culture by visiting their market. A compelling aroma of spice and flavor is felt at every corner of these markets.Vendors sell seafood delicacies to exotic foods. A must to find is the variety of exotic tropical fruits.
Street Food
Thailand is famous for the plethora of options it has to offer when it comes to street-foods.
Thailand’s cuisine is a fusion of many cuisines, mainly Burmese, Cambodian, Chinese, and Vietnamese. Regional and ethnic diversity differentiates the combination of flavors and spices used in the cuisine. In true form, not like any other you have tasted before.
Thanks Dipanjan for these tips. Sounds like a great time. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to visit during one of the many festivals such as the lantern festival. Unfortunately it was the wrong time but Dipanjan is looking for a return trip to Chiang Mai to check this out.
And remember to always travel as a local for a true experience.
