Things we have learned about Thailand

While visiting Thailand we have learned some very interesting things. We thought we would share some with you. First, there is a very gentle breed of dog in Thailand that we have never seen before. The Thai Ridgeback dog. We have seen Ridgebacks, but not the Thai version. These dogs are sweeter than sweet, strong, and know how to relax and live the island life. We see them during the day, laying on the beaches. They dig themselves a cool bed in the sand and then they are out. Nothing wakes them up. Here's a web site with more info on them, you can adopt them, and save one, as there are several strays. http://www.trdonline.com/index1.php Second, many many people are coming to Thailand for medical and dental work. It is much, much cheaper than Europe or the US. We see many ads for plastic surgery, dental work etc... In fact we have met Americans from Alaska that came over. The estimate in the US for six crowns for her teeth was about $13,000. She had the work done for about $3,000. In addition the two of them had complete physicals with EKG, blood sugar testing, bloodwork, osteoporosis testing, abi testing etc... for about $350 each person (for all). Amazing isn't it? From all reports we have heard, the care is great, the clinics modern and clean. Come on over to visit us and get a face lift! http://ezinearticles.com/?Dental-Care-for-the-Medical-Tourist&id=370531 Third, Thailand has a famous population, known around the world as "Ladyboys." This term describes a man who chooses to live as a woman. It is estimated that the Thailand population of Ladyboys is about 200,000. No one really knows why there are so many in Thailand. Guesses are that it is because Thailand is a Buddist country and tolerance prevails. Another guess is that these men dated great women in the past and wished to be reincarnated as women in their next life! Fourth, most individual homes and resorts have what's called a "spirit house." This is a small house where the Thai people place goods for the evil or mean spirits that are out there, in hopes of keeping them happy. There are many rules about where the spirit house goes, and what to offer the spirits. We see drinking water, and flowers quite a bit... here's a picture of one. http://www.kidcyber.com.au/topics/thaispirithou.htm for more info. Karoke. What can we say? The Thais love their Karoke. They love American music. We walk done the street and here Tracy Chapman, Madonna, Rod Stewart and Abba. Only one problem, they don't sound so good. Dancing Queen seems to be a favorite song. It's nice to hear, and almost, but not quite, we are tempted to sing. Sixth, we are attaching a picture of a bowl hooked on a tree. What is it you ask? Well it might just be your next condom. These are rubber trees and the rubber drips into the bowl, fills it, and then it is collected. We asked for what product and they said, condoms. Now we get it, that's why they call it a rubber! (just kidding, we got it before)

Last, it's butterfly time on Koh Chang. We have seen the most beautiful butterflies. We snuck up on one today, and after chasing it a bit (the Thai people enjoyed this part!) we snapped a great photo. If you know the name of this one, please let us know. It's an education you just can't get at home. You really should catch the next flight, you can be here in 20 hours!