If you are intending to go to Thailand, either on a vacation or as an expat, you can guarantee that various concerns will be raised. You will be hit with all sorts of terrible things about Thailand to discourage you from going. The reality, however, is that most of these things are not true and they are simply said because people love you and worry about you going half way around the globe. However, with the following information, you should be able to set their minds, and your own, at ease.
Myth #1 – Thailand has a poor infrastructure
The infrastructure myth is the most common of all myths, with some people honestly believing that the Tuk-Tuks are the only method of transportation. Although you can certainly travel in a Tuk-tuk for fun, you can also use any of the 20 airports (8 international ones), the fantastic trains or bus routes, or simply hire a vehicle and enjoy the views from the highways.
Myth #2 – Thailand isn’t safe
Thailand is, in fact, a very safe country for men and women alike. Consider that tourism is one of the main sources of income here, so a lot is done to protect this. There are some scams going around, such as petty theft, pickpockets and being overcharged, but this is the same all over the world. There are, sometimes, some political protests, but these can easily be avoided and tend to be held in areas where tourists and travelers do not go to often. Do, however, be aware that traffic accidents are quite common, so wear your seat belt at all times.
Myth #3 – You will live in a dirt-floored bamboo hut
You can certainly hire a beautiful bamboo hut if you so choose, but you won’t feel as if you are slumming it. Thailand also offers various modern accommodation with bathtubs, king sized beds, flat screen TVs, and so on. Indeed, an expat could easily rent a luxury apartment for as little as $330 per month.
Myth #4 – You can only get local food
Even if this were true, it wouldn’t be a problem as local food are varied and delicious. The reality, however, is that you can enjoy any diet you normally would as well. Thailand has everything from Michelin star restaurants to McThai (McDonald’s), so you can eat to your heart’s content.
Myth #5 – You can’t get the things you need
A lot of people worry that certain Western things, such as branded toiletries, feminine hygiene products or certain types of clothing, are inaccessible in Thailand. Again, this is absolutely untrue. There are various super-centers where you can find anything you need. Most cities, including Chiang Mai, have huge western malls and there are various chain supermarkets, convenience stores and grocery stores.
These are but some of the myths that are lightly to be thrown at you. Do a bit of research and you will quickly find out that they are all untrue. If you have the opportunity to go to Thailand, make sure you don’t let any of these silly untruths stand in your way.
