Monday, May 2, 2011

Pioneer-Dilli-Billi-1st.May.2011-"NOT ALL IS LOST IN THIS PARADISE"

"NOT ALL IS LOST IN THIS PARADISE"


Despite the political unrest in Thailand, the country is still the most popular weekend destination

In the last couple of years Indians have been keeping a close watch over the happenings in Thailand. After all it is a popular tourist destination for most Indians. It has got everything for everyone — the rich, poor, young, the elderly and the children. There are amusement parks and malls where one can go shopping. The Thai are friendly, polite and welcoming. It has become a hub of tourism which is a major boost to their economy. From small affordable hotels to ultra luxurious hotels to suit every pocket. The service is quick and efficient and there is nothing like cheating a tourist.

Last week, after three years I visited the country again. It was a shock to discover the change the city has undergone. In these last few years, a lot has happened in these years — from coups to demonstrations, to burning of Government buildings and shopping centers and curfew being imposed has become a life for the locals here.

On my previous trips to Bangkok there was a pleasant buzz in the city which made one comfortable. Travelling alone was never an issue. One felt safe and was comfortable sitting alone in a coffee shop; roaming in the streets or passing time in the shopping malls. It was fun and there was a lively atmosphere.

On this trip, a stark difference was staring at you in the face. There was a sense of insecurity and an undercurrent in the atmosphere which had wiped the smiles from the face of the locals. Of course the politeness and efficiency still remained but the zest was missing. If you are familiar with the place you would realise that tourism has taken a big hit due to the uncertainty. It is sad to see how the locals are reacting to the danger that seems to be lurking everywhere. It has affected them economically. And however, much they try to act as if things are back to normal, the truth is that the country is not the same anymore.

Despite this, the city gives you the best that it has to offer — skyrise hotels which have restaurants like Sirocco and Breeze. They not only offer the best cuisines in the world by internationally renowned chefs but also have the best view that leaves you awestruck. From the best wines in the world to organically homegrown vegetables to the visual delight of exotic dishes that are served to the superlative taste makes you want to go back for it again and again.

And it is not just the super-speciality restaurants that are popular. Street food in the city is a big hit as are gay bars and local shopping. Even though the local currency (Baht) of Thailand is stronger than our Rupee that makes shopping here expensive, just the experience of it is worth every extra penny.

Though Thailand may be struggling to finds its footing back again and the air has an uneasy atmosphere, for the Indians and other tourists who come here from across all over the world, the country is still the most popular weekend get away.

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