As I sat on the plane, I could do nothing but relax. The sweet smell of orchids was pumped through the air filtration system as the stewards poured complimentary wine into my glass. I looked out the window and saw the lush, tropical vegetation that was Chiang Mai, Thailand. Chiang Mai was my first stop in “The Land of Smiles”.
Chiang Mai is a major city in northern Thailand. Though it is a modern city, it is exotic in every way. Monks dressed in bright orange frocks meander in pairs down the streets. Tuk tuks (hooded motorized bicycle cabs) roar down the street – each uniquely designed with sculptured metal, bumper stickers and ornaments. Street vendors cook succulent delights beckoning hungry patrons with spicy aromas. In the outskirts of the city, wiry monkeys play in the trees and snake charmers test their luck by exhibiting poisonous cobras for wide-eyed tourists. Guesthouses are comfortable, family run retreats in Chiang Mai, and after a long day in the hot sun, people take cool showers under shabby chic metal shower heads.
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a bustling urban metropolis, bulging at the seams with a robust population. Bangkok is a mosaic of modern and traditional Thailand, both coexisting, yet competing to be the setting for a modern Thailand. In the middle of this silent struggle rises the Grand Palace. Beautiful buildings gleam in white or gold crowned by golden rooftops. Fantastically ornate design sparkles under the blazing Thai sun. Perfectly manicured lawns lay at the feet of this historic wonder. Out of respect for the Grand Palace, every woman must wear a skirt, provided at the entrance.
Other enchantments of Thailand are its famous beaches. Tall palms stand as natural sentries over ivory sand, framing a paradisiacal scene unlike any on earth. Mountains cradle Thailand‚ virgin villages and protect them from the ravages of time and technology. Warmer than any beach are the Thai themselves, known for friendliness, hospitality and smiles.
Thailand can be yours very inexpensively. The cost of travel and accommodations outside of Bangkok are quite reasonable‚ the more remote, the better the rates. Surprisingly, ATMs are everywhere, easy to use and sometimes fee free. It is very easy to access money in Thailand for your wild or whimsical Thai vacation. Cash is best when traveling to small, family- owned guesthouses or restaurants. Of course, to give you the most peace of mind on your exotic Thai vacation, it is a good idea to get travel insurance to cover anything from medical emergencies to lost baggage. Peace of mind is the perfect beginning and end to any exotic vacation.
