There are friendly and unfriendly people in every country in the world. If you treat others as you want to be treated, you will generally find the "friendly" people to be in your life. Be miserable, and you attract miserable. A terrible choice in my opinion. Nice follow up from the last video and response to an unfriendly viewer.
I want to echo your opinions about Thai people. I'm a US expat, retired and so lucky to have lived in Chiang Mai for three years. I'm very well travelled and I absolutely believe that with a few exceptions here and there... Thais are the nicest people on Earth. You can become genuine friends with them if you learn some very simple language skills and treat them with respect. Their warmth is almost always very genuine, very sincere - I grew up in a tourist town and I know what 'tourist friendly' is - this isn't 'tourist friendly, they mean it, as you know. As to those that don't believe your opinions on this and my own, who think Thais are out to rip you off or who otherwise complain endlessly... fine, believe what you want, just go home and leave Thailand to those of us Westerners who love it here. And honestly love Thai people..
I have found that you tend to get back what you hand out . I have never had a problem with Thai people . I must confess I'm only a tourist and can't speak much Thai but I'm learning more each visit .
Chiang Mai was my #2 retirement choice. I ended up in Iloilo Philippines. Been here 6 years... I hope I made the right choice ha ha. (but I love it here)
edfou5 am Thai by birth,just be careful not everyone are genuine I have my family,s in udon,Thani I do not trust them, because I live in Canada,they thinks am richer,
I get why you live there. When I've been to Thailand I've stayed in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, a town called Tak, and a rice farming village outside of Tak. To me, the smaller it was the better. You get to experience a genuine side of Thailand most foreigners don't. No-one will try to rip you off, but instead help you if you pay too much or if you are confused. And besides, city people, are city people no matter where you are in the world. But go to rural Thailand or a smaller town and you'll just be blown away by the nice people there. Much better experience than any temple or palace every.
Yeah. Tourist areas will allways attract hustling, anywhere in the world. The real Thailand is absolutely amazing, thanks to it's people. Thanks for making such a nice video dude :)
Yet another great video, Chuck. Thanks for taking us on a very informative and fun tour of your town. It looks like it's a very progressive place with lots of construction and more to come. The Thai people there are super friendly! I don't know what the other commenters experienced, but generally, Thai folks are genuinely friendly. Oh well, I guess haters will just hate. Anyhow, keep up the great work and stay awesome! :)
25:10 The parks in Isan are brilliant. The whole community basically empties into the parks in the early evening. If you go for a fast circuit with the power walkers around Nong Prajak park in Udon Thani you feel like a local!
The lady at the noodle shop (right after your school) called him "ลูก" , which means "son". I thought that was sweet. And your friend's kids are very cute.
Hey Chuck, Jay's here welcome back from your awesome trip, I'm glad that you guys have a wonderful time, man there so much to see and do in Thailand isn't there. Thank you too for showing us your home town on your bicycle, here in USA, where I lived in Albuquerque, NM people here are nice and open too, due to diversify of all people from all walk of life. In Thailand where you lived, your neighbors and people around you will know pretty much who you are, especially being in a smaller city, like a word of mouth. Every time I come back to my hometown in Lampang, most of my neighbors know I am, even though I'm in state most of the time. Chok Dee na kap and always be happy, I know I'll be when I'm in Thailand.
Looks very busy to where I am, I have lot's of Thai people call in as she has a small business here. They are always keen to meet me and have me sit with them I find them very friendly and can't say I have had any problem's with them. In fact one of the men took me all around the surrounding villages on his sidecar to show me around. When you go to the bigger towns it is as you expect, people trying to make a living who are very busy, this should not be taken as unfriendly, just a fact of modern day living wherever you are in the world. The city is impersonal, the village is for gossip, like home.
I have been to Thailand 4 times, and the last time was 1994. You are so right about Thai people. I only wish I could learn the language and really talk to them. I bring small women's Levis with me when I come to Thailand because when you stay at a Hotel, the girls there who work hard to clean your room are so nice. So I hand them a pair of Levis and they just love them. I'm coming again in April for the water festival, and I plan on bringing many more Levis to the gals that work so hard, and I just love the smile you get when you give them some Levis. They are used, but still in good shape. So I can't wait for April of 2019,,,,,,,,,,
Only recently found your channel Chuck and have now subscribed. Just wonderful. I have an Isaan girlfriend, she lives in a village near Buriram and like you i have never found Thai people to be anything but friendly and generous even though they often have very little themselves. I'm from the UK and trust me i don't get the same welcoming attitude from my own people. I'll take Thailand thank you.
I speak it but can't read or write, I learnt by teaching English at ABAC university in BKK, used to work in tourism , so 6 months touring with USA groups and 6 months living in Thailand , did that for years but also had a few jobs there in Thailand , rep for Drager, real estate in PAttaya, ect , but always back to tourism . Love Thailand , not keen on the govt or,police, and Thais can be very racist, but still regard it as home
When you said if you can speak a little Thai it opens up a whole new world. This is so true. Small town with four 7/11's....555....I need to travel 15 minutes to my nearest. Great video
Hi Chuck just so you know. Your wife is a Thai national with a Lao ancestry. I watched a few of your VDO and i recognized that her whole family even the one in Bang kok speak Lao. I know this because my mom is from Nong kai and everyone speak Lao at home in Esan.
very cool video. It was nice seeing around where you live. I have never ran into any rude Thai people. I approach people the same as you do and always get friendly smiles
You don't need to say "hom aroy' for smells good. "Hom' already means it smells good. They have a different word for smells bad, 'men'. If you want to make the adjective extreme you can add 'mahk'. For example 'hom mahk' means it smells very good and 'men mahk' means it smells very bad. But you are learning a lot for 7 or 8 months there and doing great.
Unfriendly and hateful is found on every continent. I spend lots of time with many Thai people and I've been to Thailand 8 times, plus my brother in law is pure Thai and I love most Thai people. Of course there's always those bad apples in the mix in any large group, but over all I have found them to be very friendly and generous with their help. They love to laugh and joke around when they get to know you. They are extremely innovative and clever. They love food almost as much as me. Good video thanks! -Davy
HEY CHUCK AND PAIGE, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL TOWN. YOU KEEP CALLING IT A LITTLE TOWN BUT I THINK IT'S A LITTLE BIG. WHEN I HAD A THAI WIFE, I LIVED IN A VILLAGE WITH A POPULATION OF LESS THAN 400 PEOPLE. I WAS THE ONLY WHITE GUY THAT LOVED THERE FULL TIME. WE HAD 3 OTHERS BUT THEY WOULD ONLY COME THERE ON HOLIDAY ONCE OR TWICE A YEAR. I REALLY ENJOYED YOUR TOUR OF YOUR CITY. I ENJOY SEEING NEW PLACES AND NEW PEOPLE. YES, THE PEOPLE OF THAILAND ARE VERY FRIENDLY. I HAVE ONLY SEEN TWO PEOPLE THAT GOT MAD AND WERE RUDE. I HAVE FOUND FOR THE MOST PART, IF YOU SMILE AT PEOPLE, THEY WILL SMILE BACK. IF YOU LEARN HOW TO SAY A FEW WORDS, IT'S EVEN BETTER. AT 70 YEARS OLD IT'S KIND OF HARD TO JUST PICK UP A NEW LANGUAGE BUT I TRY. THAT LITTLE MOTEL AROUND THE CORNER FROM YOU LOOKS NICE. WHEN I COME UP THAT WAY, I THINK I'LL STAY THERE. I AM GETTING A 3 ENTRY VISA SO I WILL HAVE TO GO OUT OF THE COUNTRY AND I MIGHT AS WELL MAKE A RUN ACROSS THE LOAS BORDER FOR DINNER AND COME BACK INTO THAILAND. HOPEFULLY I WILL BE ABLE TO VISIT WITH YOU AND PAIGE AT THAT TIME. BROCK
Chuck I've lived in a village in Essen for 17 years I'm fluent in Essen Thai and I can tell your new to it mate .wait a few years and post again .be interested to see the change .
Yes I am new Nothing to hide about that. If you want to know me I have over 200 videos. I try to avoid negativity as much as possible. I have had lots of viewers that have lived in Thailand several years and don't agree with my outlook on My life in Thailand because it doesn't match there thoughts or experiences. I do not understand how a person can think others lives should mimic there's. Most of these commenters are negative about everything. If Thailand becomes unhappy for me and my Thai wife of 10 years than we will go be happy somewhere else. We are not forced to settle anywhere. Misery loves misery, and positive people only stay around positive people. I may have judged you wrong by your comment so i Leave this unusually long comment for you. If I did than I apologize. You may have done the same. Thanks for watching sir.
Haggis 087 I beg to differ with you regarding the correct pronunciation of *Laos* and *Lao*. I hate to come across as the Grammar Police, but most Lao people, do not distinguish between the correct pronunciation of the *noun* and *adjective* forms when speaking English as they don't distinguish the pronunciation in their own language. However, we foreigners should try to keep the distinction, if only to present Lao listeners with the correct forms in English. Since I'm a chef I'll give you a chef/food example: The Lao chef would likely say, "I come from /Lao/ and I enjoy cooking /Lao/ food"; when to be correct in English, he should say, *_"I come from /Laos/ and I enjoy cooking /Lao/ food."_* I hope you can see the distinction and difference. Cheers! :)
About the driving license, if you don't have international license, you can take your normal license and go to embassy that ambassador proof your license and make certification for the Land transportation department then you don't need to make all the tests to get Thai license. But with international license it is so easy just flip it to Thai license.
Really enjoy watching your video. Can't believe I'm touring my own country by Farang guide. I've learnt a lot about That phanom district from your video. Thank you.
When somebody show me around his town I call him "guide" (it's a positive meaning) Coz I've never been there. So your video can help me a lot if I go there. Most of the comments below is almost a year ago. So it's really Good to know that you still happy with life in Thailand.
WOW - what an interesting place . Thanks for the ride around town . I often wondered just how big That Phanom was . I shall try to get over that way in Nov./Dec. .
Thumb up...Chuck. very interesting tour like sightseeing. Wondering how the aquaculture and aquatic eco-system in your area....Nakhon Phanom Province..Right Love to find out more!🤭🤭
I speak it but don't read it , had 2 Thai wives , 1 daughter(21), several work permits , lived on koh samui 3 yrs before the hotel splurge, then BKK, then PAttaya , now in uk after losing all,in the tsunami
Great video, and I'm glad you normally wear a helmet while cycling. Cycling in Thailand is at beat challenging. My experience in Thailand is a mirror image of yours - nice/friendly people.
Nice tour, of your little town. Thai people can be little shy to start with but are generally super friendly and interested in what the Ferang is doing
A real slow town. Looks like it would be easy to drive a car or scooter around. Thanks great video. My wife is Thai and I use to live in Thailand Chaingmai (CM). The burning season that happens each year is deadly in CM so I left. Traffic is off the hook and I don't recommend driving a scooter in CM.
Nice clip there Chuck, I am from Isan but I must say that your town is really charming, I have been there a few times to pray at That Phanom. Cycling around the town and sitting on the bank of Mekhong river to have a hot pot is awesome! Thanks for making this clip showing and explaining how people in this part of the country perceive foreigners. I can not say on behalf of all Thai people but I can at least express an in-dept observation that Thais have no reason to hate foreigners. We may dislike those arrogant ones that ruined our temples or dirtied our beaches with their nonsense drinking spree, but otherwise, everyone is welcome. I spent half of my life in a Western country and I can say that I faced more discrimination there...unfortunately. On a finishing note, to those who made lewd comments about Thai women, not all of them extracting wealth from farang. I think it really depends on who you meet, how and where you encounter them. If you meet them at bars and clubs and expecting them to be a serene highness or a good mother of your kids, well.. wake up!
Thanks Chuck, nice video. I especially like your Tabasco t-shirt. Folks are folks pretty much everywhere. Same likes and dislikes (out in the real world). I live in Tainan, Taiwan. Been her 14 years and see it grow immensely - some good, some not so good (mostly good). Best to ya'll.
Where is the lumber yard. I love learning about Thailand. My son, Timber Mercer, teaches English and lives in Chiang Mai. He loves Thailand. Maybe 10 of our family have visited him from America. We live south of Youngstown, Ohio.
My husband is from the Isaan part as well, town called Nong Bua Lamphu. Your town is very nice thanks for sharing. I was born in the US and he is from Nong Bua himself but we reside in the us. I’ve never had an issue with Thai people yet when visiting. The only thing they ever ask really is if I can eat local food lol. They get a shock when we tell them yes I love it. That’s about it :) I do get maybe more stares because I am a white woman married to a Thai man so I do understand that is rare and is usually the other way around but people we meet seem accepting of it and of course his family is fine with it as well. I would love to retire there possibly and maybe in Udon thani or somewhere like your area which is nice
I forgot to ask how you learned to speak thai? My husband isn’t the best teacher lol. I am not fluent in it or even close. I know some words but not enough for me to enjoy talking to local town people
Thanks for watching. This video was done about a year ago and at the time was going to school for thai speaking, Learning to read and write in Thai language really made things much easier to learn. But I am yet far from getting all the tones and accents. Udon is a big town with lots to offer Farang. I enjoy being different too. Good Luck.
Hi Steph, am a native from Nong Bua Lamphu, nice to read your comments :) I think people in this part of the country rarely see a Westerner, so it's only natural that they stare at anyone that looks different. It's a naively curious kind of staring, don't worry about it :)
As far I can see and already I've seen many Chuck videos, it is more easily to learn if you are a man because soi mafia gang have great fun and enjoy trying teaching words and expressions to Chuck. Instead of men of the family who are very serious and even speak very sparse. So, yes, learning from a Thai guy it's harder. :)
I believe the safety check for cars is done after 10 years, not 5 (or is it 7? I'd have to check). For motorcycles it's 5 or 7 years. It's really only a formality though.
Great to have a city tour, I was surprised you didn't have the "mob" chasing you down the street. I have traveled all over the Asian Pacific rim and don't ever recall being treated poorly or rudely. The old saying goes: "Treat others how you want to be treated," and "good things come to good people."
Another great video, we watch them all. Like I had mentioned before we are coming in October for 3 weeks and was curious about vaccinations you might have got before you went there. CDC recommends HepA, Typhoid, DTAP and Polio. Any thoughts on those? Would really appreciate your input, thanks.
Great videos and information. I am currently in New York on Long Island. I am dating a Thai woman who is originally from Lampang. She has only been here a few months and I look forward to visiting Thailand with her and possibly living there.
never point to a person with your index finger, unless you want to fight them. it is considered very rude. just make a gesture with a flat palm toward them. the photographs also count, including the buddha statue or the king's image.
Hi Chuck, my soon to be fellow falong. Your videos are my favorite on Thailand. Thank you for showing this side of Thai. I have had the most genuine, helpful, friendly, accepting experiences in my life there. It is sometimes a bit uncomfortable as I feel as if I'm taking advantage or just not used to being cared for like that. But then, it's not even like I ask for it. But I know I would do the same for them. Me and my wife, Nong, purchased property in Ban Tat, a few years ago and are s l ow l y, building, uh, something. lol. In a tiny village about 6 miles East of her hometown of Udon Thani. It's funny, I love traditional Thai music more than her. The flutes and saw-ew, and traditional Thai dancing. It's a nice relaxing break from hard rock. I always say, when I go to Thailand, it's better than taking a Valium. Plus I don't fall asleep. Sorry for the long read, but why would you not recommend going into that Thai bar? Is it because some Thais can get fall down drunk very often? lol Thanks in advance, Paul
Thanks for sharing your nice hometown, it's amazing you done it within an hour. Most small Thai towns are the same only differ by whether they have tourist spots, railway, river and airport. And yes many nice ordinary people in Thailand, which I fondly missed.
Chuck, you have a beautiful town. I have been to Thailand many times, especially Isan, your town is very clean and more organized than many towns in the region. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I think the people who have problems with the locals, are the problem them selves. I have a house in a village, and have found that if you treat every one with respect then it comes back tenfold.
Thanks for the tour, no wonder you love the place. It looks great, reminds me in some ways of the country towns in Australia back in the 70's. Same easy atmosphere. Not as many markets though.
G'day Chuck. Mate I agree with you 100%. In all my trips too and around Thailand, I am the same as you, I say hello to every Thai person that looks at me and I have never had 1 bad experience. What I've learnt is that the moment you speak to them in Thai, all their inhibitions fade away and they smile and speak back to you. What I've also learnt is that if you don't make the time to learn nit not thai and you just be a falang tourist, then don't expect a warm reception from them. When I've spoken in Thai to people who are staring at me most instances they are blown away that I can speak Thai, and they have the hugest smiles and my partner tells me that they are so pleased to see a falang who can speak Thai. Just ignore the comments from the whingers who complain. They are most likely the cause of their own issues.
Hello chuck, thais are very friendly & quite generasly even when so many are very low payed, I'm married to a Thai but don't be blinded by a few people that are friendly to you, because in every country you have good & bad people, it's just the way the world is! don't get me wrong I love Thailand & I've never had a bad experience with them. good vlog by the way!
The fact that all Thais are polite to you is in no way an indicator of how they really feel about you. Their politeness is cultural. That said, I do find the rural Thais more real, down to earth and not jaded toward outsiders. Notice I said outsiders, because it does not matter where you live in Thailand...we are outsiders. We are not pure of blood Thai and that DOES matter!!! A friendly greeting on the street will not reveal this.
Just discovered your vids, very interesting. Reminds me of the old west in the movies with hard working decent folk being neighbourly and getting along. You refer to it as "My little town" which is kinda sweet. Greetings from a cold wet U.K.
So happy to see a falang eating the chili paste. You are an outsider but if they see you taking care of business and not perving on their daughters, they are very welcoming. The standards are the same but communication is hard. My village is WAY smaller, maybe 40 houses, the tirak is related to everyone. no 7-11, tessco is 20km for the mini and 40 for the small real store. Very nice tour, thank you.
Very cool video of rural , laid back Thailand! So many, on BKK, and this is refreshing, enjoy your life with Paige! My Vietnamese wife and I envy you, cant wait for this boy of our's to graduate ! LOL
Hey just found the video.. like it .. I don't feel like a outsider when I'm with my friends but understand some people feel like that. And totally agree I'm learning Thai and when I speak a few words haha they start talking so much I have to tell them only know nid noy haha .. keep the videos coming
I believe most people feel uncomfortable when they don't understand something especially a language. Not me I love new things and am confident in Myself.
For me all cities in Thailand are the same. I just watched one of your previous videos" tour of my new home" in this video you plan to buy gym equipment, when you get it can you make short vlog of your training session ? The title could be : How to stay fit in Isaan !
just a quick comment on your fish tank I like keeping fish particularly discus fish Thailand has some of the best breeders in the world can't wait to get over there to see that in person
Just a simple harmless opinion. People will only know and see for themselves whether Thai people dislike you because you are a foreigner, ONLY when you can speak their language fluently or when Thai people can speak your language fluently too. Works the same like in any other single language speaking country like Japan, Korea. If both parties can't understand each other, don't bother asking for the "Genuine" answers, reactions, actions or attitudes to whether they like or dislike you. You'll mostly get fake answers, reactions, actions and attitudes. I believe I don't have to explain myself further. Most people will get it by now. Take care mate. Cheers.
Hi Chuck, I think in the big cities some Thais have a love hate relationship with foreigners they see the foreigners coming into there country causing havoc, sleeping with there women, prostitution, drinking, traffic, disrespectful, on the other hand they bring in a lot of money. In the small towns they don't see that. They see a nicer class of foreigners. This is not all Thais or foreigners this is some. This is only my perspective. I also think it's not all the foreigners fault the Thais allow the prostitution because it brings in so much money. I've found most Thais are very nice but the big city and the small city people both Thais and foreigners are different but not all. For me it's a beautiful country with great food .
Chuck, what's the name of your town? Didn't quite understand it when you said it. Seems like the kind of spot I'm looking for. Far away from the crazies of Walking Street.
To all the Thais, commentating on this page, please can you search from where your parents were from based on their surnames, please? My biological mum's surname was Toomnok and my biological father's surname was Tonesuwan, though I was born in an orphanage in Bangkok. Khup Khun ka
Good video, great attitude about living abroad and "adapting". If you are friendly and polite, living in Thailand is easy. Great place to retire, I never have any problems with Thais'. Love the food, don't mind the hot weather, and the women can be feminine and kind, if you don't live in a go go bar, LOL. Enjoy your life, Good on you.
Oops, Hey my American compatriot. I am foreigner in Vietnam, and here in Vietnam some Vietnamese people put in a chunk of coagulated pork, or beef blood. It looks like liver, but its blood. Check it out. I don't think its liver my friend.
love your comment... "foreigners are not friendly".. I just stay well away from most expats they can be more trouble than they are worth.. I suppose because of that I seem unfriendly aswell...
Hi you come a cross as a sound good man i thunk its the size you are lol the guy you spoke to was from birmingham england i could tell by his accent lol there good people most of the time at his age and my age we are good guys lol best of luck and say to that guy next time aston villa fc and watch him smile lol great vlog and thank you for sharing it warm regards jamesey aston villa fc
I mailed one UPS envelope containing 2 Christmas cards and 2 birthday cards to my fiancee .... from Conroe, Tx. Price: $117.00. UPS could not find her house so she called them and they delivered to a hospital near her home. Will never complain about the U.S.Postal Service again....lol.
There are friendly and unfriendly people in every country in the world. If you treat others as you want to be treated, you will generally find the "friendly" people to be in your life. Be miserable, and you attract miserable. A terrible choice in my opinion. Nice follow up from the last video and response to an unfriendly viewer.
I want to echo your opinions about Thai people. I'm a US expat, retired and so lucky to have lived in Chiang Mai for three years.
I'm very well travelled and I absolutely believe that with a few exceptions here and there... Thais are the nicest people on Earth. You can become genuine friends with them if you learn some very simple language skills and treat them with respect. Their warmth is almost always very genuine, very sincere - I grew up in a tourist town and I know what 'tourist friendly' is - this isn't 'tourist friendly, they mean it, as you know. As to those that don't believe your opinions on this and my own, who think Thais are out to rip you off or who otherwise complain endlessly... fine, believe what you want, just go home and leave Thailand to those of us Westerners who love it here. And honestly love Thai people..
I have found that you tend to get back what you hand out . I have never had a problem with Thai people . I must confess I'm only a tourist and can't speak much Thai but I'm learning more each visit .
Chiang Mai was my #2 retirement choice. I ended up in Iloilo Philippines. Been here 6 years... I hope I made the right choice ha ha. (but I love it here)
edfou5 am Thai by birth,just be careful not everyone are genuine I have my family,s in udon,Thani
I do not trust them, because I live in Canada,they thinks am richer,
I get why you live there. When I've been to Thailand I've stayed in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, a town called Tak, and a rice farming village outside of Tak. To me, the smaller it was the better. You get to experience a genuine side of Thailand most foreigners don't. No-one will try to rip you off, but instead help you if you pay too much or if you are confused. And besides, city people, are city people no matter where you are in the world. But go to rural Thailand or a smaller town and you'll just be blown away by the nice people there. Much better experience than any temple or palace every.
Nabium well said I agree. Tourists areas are not to live in.
Yeah. Tourist areas will allways attract hustling, anywhere in the world. The real Thailand is absolutely amazing, thanks to it's people. Thanks for making such a nice video dude :)
Yet another great video, Chuck. Thanks for taking us on a very informative and fun tour of your town. It looks like it's a very progressive place with lots of construction and more to come. The Thai people there are super friendly! I don't know what the other commenters experienced, but generally, Thai folks are genuinely friendly. Oh well, I guess haters will just hate. Anyhow, keep up the great work and stay awesome! :)
Thanks Sir
I’m Thai, I live Thailand long times ago,
I went to visit,is ok, I love Canada, I live here for over 45,years,
But I still love Thailand,
thats because you dont want to see the thruthmm
25:10 The parks in Isan are brilliant. The whole community basically empties into the parks in the early evening. If you go for a fast circuit with the power walkers around Nong Prajak park in Udon Thani you feel like a local!
Chuck, yes I can see how unfriendly everyone is. You have the same experience as I do.
The lady at the noodle shop (right after your school) called him "ลูก" , which means "son".
I thought that was sweet.
And your friend's kids are very cute.
Hey Chuck, Jay's here welcome back from your awesome trip, I'm glad that you guys have a wonderful time, man there so much to see and do in Thailand isn't there. Thank you too for showing us your home town on your bicycle, here in USA, where I lived in Albuquerque, NM people here are nice and open too, due to diversify of all people from all walk of life. In Thailand where you lived, your neighbors and people around you will know pretty much who you are, especially being in a smaller city, like a word of mouth. Every time I come back to my hometown in Lampang, most of my neighbors know I am, even though I'm in state most of the time. Chok Dee na kap and always be happy, I know I'll be when I'm in Thailand.
Good balanced comment , I lived in Thailand for 22 years and I appreciate your outlook
22 years wow. Do you speak Thai? Where are you from? and what are your thought of Thailand after 22 yrs.
Looks very busy to where I am, I have lot's of Thai people call in as she has a small business here. They are always keen to meet me and have me sit with them I find them very friendly and can't say I have had any problem's with them. In fact one of the men took me all around the surrounding villages on his sidecar to show me around. When you go to the bigger towns it is as you expect, people trying to make a living who are very busy, this should not be taken as unfriendly, just a fact of modern day living wherever you are in the world. The city is impersonal, the village is for gossip, like home.
I have been to Thailand 4 times, and the last time was 1994. You are so right about Thai people. I only wish I could learn the language and really talk to them. I bring small women's Levis with me when I come to Thailand because when you stay at a Hotel, the girls there who work hard to clean your room are so nice. So I hand them a pair of Levis and they just love them. I'm coming again in April for the water festival, and I plan on bringing many more Levis to the gals that work so hard, and I just love the smile you get when you give them some Levis. They are used, but still in good shape. So I can't wait for April of 2019,,,,,,,,,,
Only recently found your channel Chuck and have now subscribed. Just wonderful.
I have an Isaan girlfriend, she lives in a village near Buriram and like you i have never found Thai people to be anything but friendly and generous even though they often have very little themselves.
I'm from the UK and trust me i don't get the same welcoming attitude from my own people.
I'll take Thailand thank you.
I will follow happy...... Thanks for coming Paul.
I speak it but can't read or write, I learnt by teaching English at ABAC university in BKK, used to work in tourism , so 6 months touring with USA groups and 6 months living in Thailand , did that for years but also had a few jobs there in Thailand , rep for Drager, real estate in PAttaya, ect , but always back to tourism . Love Thailand , not keen on the govt or,police, and Thais can be very racist, but still regard it as home
When you said if you can speak a little Thai it opens up a whole new world. This is so true. Small town with four 7/11's....555....I need to travel 15 minutes to my nearest. Great video
Hi Chuck just so you know. Your wife is a Thai national with a Lao ancestry. I watched a few of your VDO and i recognized that her whole family even the one in Bang kok speak Lao. I know this because my mom is from Nong kai and everyone speak Lao at home in Esan.
Wrong. They speak Isaan.. it look like Lao, only little different.
How can somebody ever dislike you?
You seem’s to be decent & lovely man 👍
very cool video. It was nice seeing around where you live. I have never ran into any rude Thai people. I approach people the same as you do and always get friendly smiles
You don't need to say "hom aroy' for smells good. "Hom' already means it smells good. They have a different word for smells bad, 'men'. If you want to make the adjective extreme you can add 'mahk'. For example 'hom mahk' means it smells very good and 'men mahk' means it smells very bad. But you are learning a lot for 7 or 8 months there and doing great.
Unfriendly and hateful is found on every continent. I spend lots of time with many Thai people and I've been to Thailand 8 times, plus my brother in law is pure Thai and I love most Thai people. Of course there's always those bad apples in the mix in any large group, but over all I have found them to be very friendly and generous with their help. They love to laugh and joke around when they get to know you. They are extremely innovative and clever. They love food almost as much as me. Good video thanks! -Davy
HEY CHUCK AND PAIGE, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL TOWN. YOU KEEP CALLING IT A LITTLE TOWN BUT I THINK IT'S A LITTLE BIG. WHEN I HAD A THAI WIFE, I LIVED IN A VILLAGE WITH A POPULATION OF LESS THAN 400 PEOPLE. I WAS THE ONLY WHITE GUY THAT LOVED THERE FULL TIME. WE HAD 3 OTHERS BUT THEY WOULD ONLY COME THERE ON HOLIDAY ONCE OR TWICE A YEAR.
I REALLY ENJOYED YOUR TOUR OF YOUR CITY. I ENJOY SEEING NEW PLACES AND NEW PEOPLE. YES, THE PEOPLE OF THAILAND ARE VERY FRIENDLY. I HAVE ONLY SEEN TWO PEOPLE THAT GOT MAD AND WERE RUDE. I HAVE FOUND FOR THE MOST PART, IF YOU SMILE AT PEOPLE, THEY WILL SMILE BACK. IF YOU LEARN HOW TO SAY A FEW WORDS, IT'S EVEN BETTER. AT 70 YEARS OLD IT'S KIND OF HARD TO JUST PICK UP A NEW LANGUAGE BUT I TRY.
THAT LITTLE MOTEL AROUND THE CORNER FROM YOU LOOKS NICE. WHEN I COME UP THAT WAY, I THINK I'LL STAY THERE. I AM GETTING A 3 ENTRY VISA SO I WILL HAVE TO GO OUT OF THE COUNTRY AND I MIGHT AS WELL MAKE A RUN ACROSS THE LOAS BORDER FOR DINNER AND COME BACK INTO THAILAND. HOPEFULLY I WILL BE ABLE TO VISIT WITH YOU AND PAIGE AT THAT TIME.
BROCK
Chuck I've lived in a village in Essen for 17 years I'm fluent in Essen Thai and I can tell your new to it mate .wait a few years and post again .be interested to see the change .
Yes I am new Nothing to hide about that. If you want to know me I have over 200 videos. I try to avoid negativity as much as possible. I have had lots of viewers that have lived in Thailand several years and don't agree with my outlook on My life in Thailand because it doesn't match there thoughts or experiences. I do not understand how a person can think others lives should mimic there's. Most of these commenters are negative about everything. If Thailand becomes unhappy for me and my Thai wife of 10 years than we will go be happy somewhere else. We are not forced to settle anywhere. Misery loves misery, and positive people only stay around positive people. I may have judged you wrong by your comment so i Leave this unusually long comment for you. If I did than I apologize. You may have done the same. Thanks for watching sir.
Thanks for the tour around That Pranom (I hope I got that right). I love these kind of vlogs 👍👍👍
Great vlog there mate. Very informative. I will watch this again some time.
Great informative and interesting video. Also nice to hear your pronouncing Laos correctly !!!
Thanks for uploading
Haggis 087 I beg to differ with you regarding the correct pronunciation of *Laos* and *Lao*.
I hate to come across as the Grammar Police, but most Lao people, do not distinguish between the correct pronunciation of the *noun* and *adjective* forms when speaking English as they don't distinguish the pronunciation in their own language.
However, we foreigners should try to keep the distinction, if only to present Lao listeners with the correct forms in English. Since I'm a chef I'll give you a chef/food example:
The Lao chef would likely say, "I come from /Lao/ and I enjoy cooking /Lao/ food"; when to be correct in English, he should say, *_"I come from /Laos/ and I enjoy cooking /Lao/ food."_* I hope you can see the distinction and difference. Cheers! :)
About the driving license, if you don't have international license, you can take your normal license and go to embassy that ambassador proof your license and make certification for the Land transportation department then you don't need to make all the tests to get Thai license. But with international license it is so easy just flip it to Thai license.
I love your videos..you are a very down to Earth man and very fair with your opinion
A lot of people are loud mouth rude ignorant in a hurry for nothing no wonder others don't like them. Being nice is like 🍯 everyone like honey
Harry Wolfgang I’m agree,
Really enjoy watching your video.
Can't believe I'm touring my own country by Farang guide. I've learnt a lot about That phanom district from your video. Thank you.
I am no Guide. Just bringing you along for my adventure. Everyday is wonderful here, Thanks for watching.
When somebody show me around his town I call him "guide" (it's a positive meaning) Coz I've never been there. So your video can help me a lot if I go there.
Most of the comments below is almost a year ago. So it's really Good to know that you still happy with life in Thailand.
It is not hard to see how I feel since i make daily vlogs all over Thailand. Thanks for watching us.
WOW - what an interesting place . Thanks for the ride around town . I often wondered just how big That Phanom was . I shall try to get over that way in Nov./Dec. .
Thumb up...Chuck. very interesting tour like sightseeing. Wondering how the aquaculture and aquatic eco-system in your area....Nakhon Phanom Province..Right
Love to find out more!🤭🤭
This is what Thailand use to be like in the Big Cities 20 years back, the real Thailand exists outside of Bangkok and the Bigger cities. Great video.
I speak it but don't read it , had 2 Thai wives , 1 daughter(21), several work permits , lived on koh samui 3 yrs before the hotel splurge, then BKK, then PAttaya , now in uk after losing all,in the tsunami
Great video, and I'm glad you normally wear a helmet while cycling. Cycling in Thailand is at beat challenging. My experience in Thailand is a mirror image of yours - nice/friendly people.
Nice tour, of your little town. Thai people can be little shy to start with but are generally super friendly and interested in what the Ferang is doing
A real slow town. Looks like it would be easy to drive a car or scooter around. Thanks great video. My wife is Thai and I use to live in Thailand Chaingmai (CM). The burning season that happens each year is deadly in CM so I left. Traffic is off the hook and I don't recommend driving a scooter in CM.
There is over 8,000 7-11 stores in Thailand, and half of them in Bangkok. Good stores and convenient open 24 hrs
Nice clip there Chuck, I am from Isan but I must say that your town is really charming, I have been there a few times to pray at That Phanom. Cycling around the town and sitting on the bank of Mekhong river to have a hot pot is awesome!
Thanks for making this clip showing and explaining how people in this part of the country perceive foreigners. I can not say on behalf of all Thai people but I can at least express an in-dept observation that Thais have no reason to hate foreigners. We may dislike those arrogant ones that ruined our temples or dirtied our beaches with their nonsense drinking spree, but otherwise, everyone is welcome. I spent half of my life in a Western country and I can say that I faced more discrimination there...unfortunately. On a finishing note, to those who made lewd comments about Thai women, not all of them extracting wealth from farang. I think it really depends on who you meet, how and where you encounter them. If you meet them at bars and clubs and expecting them to be a serene highness or a good mother of your kids, well.. wake up!
Thanks Chuck, nice video. I especially like your Tabasco t-shirt. Folks are folks pretty much everywhere. Same likes and dislikes (out in the real world).
I live in Tainan, Taiwan. Been her 14 years and see it grow immensely - some good, some not so good (mostly good).
Best to ya'll.
Thanks for watching us from Taiwan....
nice town there- good size and seems to have all the basics within easy reach.
Where is the lumber yard. I love learning about Thailand. My son, Timber Mercer, teaches English and lives in Chiang Mai. He loves Thailand. Maybe 10 of our family have visited him from America. We live south of Youngstown, Ohio.
You're vlogs are definitely on a sharp curve quality-wise.
My husband is from the Isaan part as well, town called Nong Bua Lamphu. Your town is very nice thanks for sharing. I was born in the US and he is from Nong Bua himself but we reside in the us. I’ve never had an issue with Thai people yet when visiting. The only thing they ever ask really is if I can eat local food lol. They get a shock when we tell them yes I love it. That’s about it :) I do get maybe more stares because I am a white woman married to a Thai man so I do understand that is rare and is usually the other way around but people we meet seem accepting of it and of course his family is fine with it as well. I would love to retire there possibly and maybe in Udon thani or somewhere like your area which is nice
I forgot to ask how you learned to speak thai? My husband isn’t the best teacher lol. I am not fluent in it or even close. I know some words but not enough for me to enjoy talking to local town people
Thanks for watching. This video was done about a year ago and at the time was going to school for thai speaking, Learning to read and write in Thai language really made things much easier to learn. But I am yet far from getting all the tones and accents. Udon is a big town with lots to offer Farang. I enjoy being different too. Good Luck.
Hi Steph, am a native from Nong Bua Lamphu, nice to read your comments :) I think people in this part of the country rarely see a Westerner, so it's only natural that they stare at anyone that looks different. It's a naively curious kind of staring, don't worry about it :)
As far I can see and already I've seen many Chuck videos, it is more easily to learn if you are a man because soi mafia gang have great fun and enjoy trying teaching words and expressions to Chuck. Instead of men of the family who are very serious and even speak very sparse. So, yes, learning from a Thai guy it's harder. :)
I believe the safety check for cars is done after 10 years, not 5 (or is it 7? I'd have to check). For motorcycles it's 5 or 7 years. It's really only a formality though.
Great to have a city tour, I was surprised you didn't have the "mob" chasing you down the street. I have traveled all over the Asian Pacific rim and don't ever recall being treated poorly or rudely. The old saying goes: "Treat others how you want to be treated," and "good things come to good people."
Another great video, we watch them all. Like I had mentioned before we are coming in October for 3 weeks and was curious about vaccinations you might have got before you went there. CDC recommends HepA, Typhoid, DTAP and Polio. Any thoughts on those? Would really appreciate your input, thanks.
Hey Chuck, you are 100% correct! Thai people are absolutely beautiful. Great vlog mate.
Interesting tour of your town, thanks. Much more laid-back than where we live in Chiang Mai.
Probably the only thai vlog ever filmed on a bicycle. Good effort.
Cheers Leigh & Toon.
Thank you. I love to eat thai food so I need to exercise.
Great videos and information. I am currently in New York on Long Island. I am dating a Thai woman who is originally from Lampang. She has only been here a few months and I look forward to visiting Thailand with her and possibly living there.
Thanks and good luck. We have many videos throughout Thailand but haven't made it there yet.
ua-cam.com/users/results?search_query=notime2bsad
never point to a person with your index finger, unless you want to fight them. it is considered very rude. just make a gesture with a flat palm toward them. the photographs also count, including the buddha statue or the king's image.
Hi Chuck, my soon to be fellow falong. Your videos are my favorite on Thailand. Thank you for showing this side of Thai. I have had the most genuine, helpful, friendly, accepting experiences in my life there. It is sometimes a bit uncomfortable as I feel as if I'm taking advantage or just not used to being cared for like that. But then, it's not even like I ask for it. But I know I would do the same for them. Me and my wife, Nong, purchased property in Ban Tat, a few years ago and are s l ow l y, building, uh, something. lol. In a tiny village about 6 miles East of her hometown of Udon Thani. It's funny, I love traditional Thai music more than her. The flutes and saw-ew, and traditional Thai dancing. It's a nice relaxing break from hard rock. I always say, when I go to Thailand, it's better than taking a Valium. Plus I don't fall asleep. Sorry for the long read, but why would you not recommend going into that Thai bar? Is it because some Thais can get fall down drunk very often? lol Thanks in advance, Paul
Thanks for sharing your nice hometown, it's amazing you done it within an hour. Most small Thai towns are the same only differ by whether they have tourist spots, railway, river and airport. And yes many nice ordinary people in Thailand, which I fondly missed.
Chuck, you have a beautiful town. I have been to Thailand many times, especially Isan, your town is very clean and more organized than many towns in the region. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Dude - I didn't know you where right on the Mekong, just like Graham - that's awesome....:-)
I think the people who have problems with the locals, are the problem them selves.
I have a house in a village, and have found that if you treat every one with respect then it comes back tenfold.
Us adopted Thais, have the Thai look, but our nurture/culture is the one of the country we grew up in. I was adopted from Thailand by Swedish parents
Thanks for the tour, no wonder you love the place. It looks great, reminds me in some ways of the country towns in Australia back in the 70's. Same easy atmosphere. Not as many markets though.
It is like time travel for me to. You can't turn back time but this is close to it.
G'day Chuck. Mate I agree with you 100%. In all my trips too and around Thailand, I am the same as you, I say hello to every Thai person that looks at me and I have never had 1 bad experience. What I've learnt is that the moment you speak to them in Thai, all their inhibitions fade away and they smile and speak back to you. What I've also learnt is that if you don't make the time to learn nit not thai and you just be a falang tourist, then don't expect a warm reception from them.
When I've spoken in Thai to people who are staring at me most instances they are blown away that I can speak Thai, and they have the hugest smiles and my partner tells me that they are so pleased to see a falang who can speak Thai.
Just ignore the comments from the whingers who complain. They are most likely the cause of their own issues.
Thanks for sharing your life...It's really good and you are making it much better....
Hello chuck, thais are very friendly & quite generasly even when so many are very low payed, I'm married to a Thai but don't be blinded by a few people that are friendly to you, because in every country you have good & bad people, it's just the way the world is! don't get me wrong I love Thailand & I've never had a bad experience with them. good vlog by the way!
The fact that all Thais are polite to you is in no way an indicator of how they really feel about you. Their politeness is cultural. That said, I do find the rural Thais more real, down to earth and not jaded toward outsiders. Notice I said outsiders, because it does not matter where you live in Thailand...we are outsiders. We are not pure of blood Thai and that DOES matter!!! A friendly greeting on the street will not reveal this.
Well said.
Just discovered your vids, very interesting. Reminds me of the old west in the movies with hard working decent folk being neighbourly and getting along. You refer to it as "My little town" which is kinda sweet. Greetings from a cold wet U.K.
Nice to see the neighborhood.
I like to see the area vice the talking head.
Keep up the great videos.
So happy to see a falang eating the chili paste. You are an outsider but if they see you taking care of business and not perving on their daughters, they are very welcoming. The standards are the same but communication is hard. My village is WAY smaller, maybe 40 houses, the tirak is related to everyone. no 7-11, tessco is 20km for the mini and 40 for the small real store. Very nice tour, thank you.
Very cool video of rural , laid back Thailand! So many, on BKK, and this is refreshing, enjoy your life with Paige! My Vietnamese wife and I envy you, cant wait for this boy of our's to graduate ! LOL
Thank you! What a lovely town, and you know a lot about it, so interesting.
Hey just found the video.. like it .. I don't feel like a outsider when I'm with my friends but understand some people feel like that. And totally agree I'm learning Thai and when I speak a few words haha they start talking so much I have to tell them only know nid noy haha .. keep the videos coming
I believe most people feel uncomfortable when they don't understand something especially a language.
Not me I love new things and am confident in Myself.
Haha that's funny I just bought michelins for my fortuner here in the Philippines. I just heard you say that
Excellent video, lots of interesting info, I enjoyed it very much! 👍🏻
Thanks you Paul
Great video Chuck. Say hello to Paige and tell her she has the best smile in the world :)
For me all cities in Thailand are the same. I just watched one of your previous videos" tour of my new home" in this video you plan to buy gym equipment, when you get it can you make short vlog of your training session ? The title could be : How to stay fit in Isaan !
Cowboy Ray sent me, nice video, looks like a nice community.
Excellent thank you so much.I have 4500.00 U.S. coming in each month so I should have no problem
Half of that is no problem......
Really nice vid! Thanks I enjoyed it 👍🏻
just a quick comment on your fish tank I like keeping fish particularly discus fish Thailand has some of the best breeders in the world can't wait to get over there to see that in person
Just a simple harmless opinion. People will only know and see for themselves whether Thai people dislike you because you are a foreigner, ONLY when you can speak their language fluently or when Thai people can speak your language fluently too. Works the same like in any other single language speaking country like Japan, Korea. If both parties can't understand each other, don't bother asking for the "Genuine" answers, reactions, actions or attitudes to whether they like or dislike you. You'll mostly get fake answers, reactions, actions and attitudes. I believe I don't have to explain myself further. Most people will get it by now. Take care mate. Cheers.
This is why it is important to try and adapt to your surroundings where ever that might be. To get respect is to give respect! For anything...
I really enjoyed this video Chuck, Thank you!
Hi Chuck, I think in the big cities some Thais have a love hate relationship with foreigners they see the foreigners coming into there country causing havoc, sleeping with there women, prostitution, drinking, traffic, disrespectful, on the other hand they bring in a lot of money. In the small towns they don't see that. They see a nicer class of foreigners. This is not all Thais or foreigners this is some. This is only my perspective. I also think it's not all the foreigners fault the Thais allow the prostitution because it brings in so much money. I've found most Thais are very nice but the big city and the small city people both Thais and foreigners are different but not all. For me it's a beautiful country with great food .
billy johnson sex with their women and lady boys feeds the economy.
Wear you helmet.. Head hits concrete, then concrete wins..
jj c Thai men are Thai prostitutes biggest customers. Not tourists.
Chuck, what's the name of your town? Didn't quite understand it when you said it. Seems like the kind of spot I'm looking for. Far away from the crazies of Walking Street.
That Phanom In the About description box.
Very similar to lots of small town in Malaysia ! Just change the language 😃
Thanks for the tour!
I understand why you like living there, it looks a great place to live.
To all the Thais, commentating on this page, please can you search from where your parents were from based on their surnames, please? My biological mum's surname was Toomnok and my biological father's surname was Tonesuwan, though I was born in an orphanage in Bangkok. Khup Khun ka
Nice video of the town and love the view and places to sit along the river
what a great vlog thankyou for sharing ill be sure to subscribe ..... cheers
Are there any pollution controls for sewage treatment in your town? 1st, 2nd, 3rd .....stage treatment?
Good video, great attitude about living abroad and "adapting". If you are friendly and polite, living in Thailand is easy. Great place to retire, I never have any problems with Thais'. Love the food, don't mind the hot weather, and the women can be feminine and kind, if you don't live in a go go bar, LOL. Enjoy your life, Good on you.
Thank You
Thanks chuck, nice to follow you on the bike :)
Anytime Thor.
seems like you have everything in that town you could need...... nice place.... nice people...
Oops, Hey my American compatriot. I am foreigner in Vietnam, and here in Vietnam some Vietnamese people put in a chunk of coagulated pork, or beef blood. It looks like liver, but its blood. Check it out. I don't think its liver my friend.
It depends ... As for me I dont have issues with Thais and one of my great grandparents were Thai.
They prefer someone can speak Thai.
love your comment... "foreigners are not friendly".. I just stay well away from most expats they can be more trouble than they are worth.. I suppose because of that I seem unfriendly aswell...
Hi you come a cross as a sound good man i thunk its the size you are lol
the guy you spoke to was from birmingham england i could tell by his accent lol
there good people most of the time at his age and my age we are good guys
lol best of luck and say to that guy next time aston villa fc and watch him smile lol
great vlog and thank you for sharing it
warm regards jamesey aston villa fc
where is this place? I have been in Khao lak in 2016.nice video
www.google.co.th/maps/place/Tropicana/@12.8329849,100.5165917,8.29z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x9c2c0e22f43ec289!8m2!3d12.8338955!4d99.9783325?hl=en
Very nice and informative video. Thank you for sharing!
31:20 British bloke, with vowel shifts all over the place. I do that as well. If you don't hear other Brits for a while your accent roams.
And it looks like he found his peace, made me smile.
Have you ever thought about teaching English to the Thai Monks as a volunteer? That is my interest. I'd like to do it.
I mailed one UPS envelope containing 2 Christmas cards and 2 birthday cards to my fiancee .... from Conroe, Tx. Price: $117.00. UPS could not find her house so she called them and they delivered to a hospital near her home. Will never complain about the U.S.Postal Service again....lol.
Hi Chuck, You know everything of this town. I think you would be perfect to run for the Mayor office - Lol ;)
Love the tour! It's too rural for me, BUT I do like the "let me show you around" type video.
Thanks Brian. It is very relaxing here Sabai Sabai
Brian Polito Rural? That metropolis is big smoke compared to my location lol.