13 Things People Miss When They Leave Thailand

Thai people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable. Locals will often invite you to have a drink with them, offer you some interesting food to try or guide you in the right direction if you are lost.

There is nothing worse than leaving the azure waters of a stunning Thai island to head back to winter in your home land. Thailand’s tropical climate is one of the many reasons it remains such a hot holiday destination.

This is definitely a biggy! So many people adore the flavours of Thai cuisine and let’s face it, the Pad Thai take away back home is just not the same (and much more expensive) than the one you get fresh from the local Thai street-side vendor.

Once you have worked out that there is order to the chaos you’ll be missing the inexpensive, easy and generally reliable transport in Thailand. Travelling anywhere in the Land of Smiles or beyond is super convenient.

For many, Thailand is a place where they feel they can let their hair down and shelve their responsibilities. Leaving that sense of freedom and returning to said responsibilities can leave plenty lusting for a hasty return.

After months of having your feet schlep you around in sandals, putting on shoes can feel rather odd. Your feet are likely to miss their freedom and want to rebel.

Whether you’re a fan of finding a great bargain at a local market or perusing the high-end boutiques, Thailand is a shoppers’ heaven. Prices are generally much more affordable and you can try your luck at bargaining for an extra good deal.

Paying $7 for a one-hour massage. At that price, it’s ok to justify one a day while you are in Thailand, back home it’s a different story.

Yes, we had to go there. For those who have acclimatized to using the bidet sprayer in Thailand (aka the bum gun) you are likely to have gone off only using toilet paper and are making plans to install the far-superior bum gun at home.

Thailand is the perfect jumping point to other southeast Asian countries. Many a traveller has made Thailand their base from which to explore the likes of Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and beyond.

The white sand beaches, the turquoise waters, the lush jungles … need we say more.

Let’s be honest, a Sang Som set might not be the best tasting beverage you’ve ever had but it surely is much cheaper than a round back in your local pub.

There is literally another 7/11 on every corner in Thailand. These convenience stores not only provide a sense of comfort to the average traveller they are also home to a few location specific favourites, like the iconic ham and cheese toasty, Tom Yum flavoured potato chips and sweet and salty tamarind to name a few.