Most of the countries in Southeast Asia have increased their tourism due to some film that used its beautiful landscapes as a film set. The idea of traveling to Thailand became very popular since the movie “The Beach”.
In this film Richard, the protagonist, represented by Leonardo DiCaprio, begins an adventure trip from Bangkok. Then he begins a search for the true Thailand, but finally ends up surrounded by other western travelers, and as if time had stopped, they live on an island, in a fantastic world of endless vacations, with the consequences that this brings.
When traveling to Thailand you will not be able to go to Maya Bay
Since I watch the movie “the beach”, I wanted to travel to Thailand and meet Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Island, the island of paradise. But just as my trip was approaching, Maya Bay was closed to the public and there is still no opening date. What sad news for me perhaps, but what great news for the coral reef and the reef sharks that after more than 10 years they returned to a bay that is recovering from the impact we made when wanting to visit this small and beautiful beach.
Why should you be a responsible tourist?
For Thailand, tourism is an important economic income and is fine. But you don’t realize the damage we can do to a paradise when we all want to visit it, and we do it irresponsibly.
For years, different places, people and animals have been over-exploited to satisfy the needs of tourism. It is true that the locals themselves promote it, seeing this as a source of income. But if we don’t consume, the offer will run out and sustainable alternatives will appear.
By this I mean sex tourism, child exploitation tourism, riding elephants or taking photos with tigers. In short, to any tourism that puts the needs of a tourist above, for taking a photo or obtaining pleasure, over those of another human being or those of the planet itself.
But do not be discouraged, Thailand is still a paradise and it will continue to be, because we are more aware of sustainable tourism. That is why it is important that you know what you will find when traveling to Thailand and then you choose the type of tourism that you will carry out, with the great responsibility that is to preserve this paradise for future generations.
Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia
Incredibly, Thailand knew how to take advantage of the tourist boom and, as crazy as it may seem, many of the most visited islands make you feel like in the movie. In other words, on an endless vacation, totally disconnected from reality, with everything at hand, for the friendliness and service of the land of smiles.
But that is very far from the paradisiacal and natural, with the increase in tourism also came the large buildings, Mc Donalds, travel agencies, and everything related to tourism in a small area and at very affordable prices. However, you can still find quiet beaches, and away from all the hustle and bustle. It is true that it has changed to accommodate the increase in tourists, but it is also an advantage for new travelers.
It is the easiest country in the southeast to travel
It may be that there are very crowded places, but there are also the quietest and most isolated ones. In fact, that there is so much evolution at the tourist level, makes traveling to Thailand easier, than visiting the other countries of Southeast Asia. Because they are prepared to offer you transport connections between the main cities and islands and multiple activities at a very good price.
Also, because they are fluent in English, you can easily communicate with almost any Thai and they are very willing to help you. However, it is best that you find out prices and about the place before, because likewise, if you give the opportunity they will try to put together a complete tourist plan, which will cost you several times the real price.
You must haggle
In Thailand it is important that you haggle, especially the tours, they almost always have that price, they give you “only you as an exception”, so it is worth trying and quoting in various agencies, almost all tours are similar.
Don’t forget to travel to the North of Thailand
Thailand is not just beaches, which you already know are spectacular. This country is very different from what we are used to, so give yourself the opportunity to visit its oldest temples and learn about the origin of its culture and the religious and cultural mix that exists in the country.
Food is delicious
Enjoy your food, if you love sweet and sour and spicy this is your country. Dare to explore new flavors, but better order the food, always emphasizing “No spicy” if you are not used to it. I don’t eat spicy, and I still loved Thai food, which even without spice tastes great.
By Kata Sánchez
www.elviajeeselcamino.com
Leave a Reply