Missing the “Land of Smiles”

It’s Christmas season already in the Philippines (You know, starting from the “ber” months, as in September, October, etc.)! Aside from last year’s family reunion, I reminisce about our 2006 Thailand vacation which was also some sort of a family get-together though it was not complete, as my sister from Prague and big bro from Cebu were not there, and so we missed their families’ presence.

My big sis and family, now in Finland, were still in Thailand at that time, and so with our parents who came over for a Christmas vacation to the “Land of Smiles”. We made the most of our time by going around as a family to tourist spots, even going up North to Chiang Mai for the Royal Flora Festival in Rachapruek!

The Royal Pavilion at the Royal Flora Festival 2006 in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Dad and Mom, elephant-riding at the Nong Nooch Garden in Pattaya

We thank God for my parents’ good health, that they were able to travel with no medical hitches whatsoever. Those who are concerned about their health and medical condition though can be assured that Thailand provides some of the most advanced treatments by internationally trained medical specialists. The Thai government is developing strategies as it competes with other progressive Asian countries to become Asia’s medical hub, with an eye of boosting its medical tourism.

What with medical and health care costing about only one fifth (1/5) of what one would pay in the U.S. or Europe, and with Thailand providing world-class medical services, many tourists are attracted to undergo some, if not many, medical treatments during a normal two-week vacation in this alluring Asian land, which could also add to the “come-on” for tourists. Thailand medical tourism is surely on an uptrend.

The Grand Palace

Bangkok’s cityscape as viewed from the Observation Deck at the 77th Floor of Baiyoke Sky Hotel.

After studying in Thailand for almost two years, and having worked there few years after, I’ve been its frequent visitor since then as a freelance trainor. I could say it has many exotic and fascinating places to tour around, both for cultural education/information and pleasure, and even more. It’s not only known as a tourist’s paradise but a shopper’s delight as well. I love Thai food and miss the different tastes offered in the sidewalks of Bangkok but what I miss the most are the courteous and friendly Thais who always welcome you with their warm smiles.