Short stories
-
Part 7 of 14 in the Behind the Bamboo Curtain series on Derek’s Escape to Thailand. With the exception of breakfast, we seldom had a meal at home, as Toy preferred to go out for meals. Before she met me, it would have been at a roadside stall .This is where most Thais eat and the staple…
-
Beyond the Bamboo Curtain It seemed like longer, but Toy and I had been together for only nine days. Were we going too fast? Was I going too fast? Did I know enough about her after such a short time? Much of what I’d gleaned about Thailand had come from internet forums and from Richard’s…
-
Part 3: A Thai Thief I had crammed a lot into my first five days in Thailand. I had been puzzled and perhaps confused by some of the differences I noticed between Thai and Western ways. Although the people seemed happy and relaxed, maybe there was something being concealed behind the smile that was on…
-
Today’s story. Each weekday, a fresh short glimpse of Thailand In Thailand, judgement is a national pastime. You’re free to be whoever you want—but don’t expect a standing ovation. Appearances might be tolerated, but rarely celebrated. Thais are experts in social finesse: the warm smile up front, the whispered gossip once you’re out of earshot.…
-
Last night’s Thai get-together was one of those laid-back, food-filled evenings. Everyone brought something—mostly northern dishes, homemade and proudly shared. The karaoke machine sat quietly at first, but after a few drinks, it found its groove. So did we. I rolled out of bed late this morning, still humming a luk thung tune I couldn’t…
-
A wai is more than a greeting—it’s a gesture of respect. Rushing it, or misjudging the height, can signal arrogance or indifference. Behind the Bamboo Curtain: Respect is in the rhythm.
-
Why Thai shopkeepers rarely say ‘no’ In Thailand, a direct refusal can feel confrontational. Instead, you’ll hear “maybe later” or “not today” with a smile. It’s not avoidance—it’s grace. Behind the Bamboo Curtain: Saying ‘no’ without saying it.
-
From years of observation—and conversations with fellow anthropologists steeped in Thai society—I’ve come to a curious conclusion: most Thais tend to think and act just one step ahead. Not two. Not three. Just one. That’s not to say strategic thinking is absent. I’m sure there are Thai chess players who can plan a dozen moves…
-
Having had unfortunate experiences with the pouring of Guinness and presentation of the Fish and Chips at a bar/restaurant in Chiangmai, I gave it the Thumbs Down on TripAdvisor. I had learned before, as at all restaurants that serve Guinness in Thailand, to watch the bartender carefully when he pours this beautiful drink. On Sunday,…