About Thailand
Thailand is a country rich in cultural and ethnic diversity. Although rapid economic development has taken place in the country over the past 15 or so years, the dramatic economic crisis of 1997 put an abrupt check on the scramble for everything Western. From this a new awareness of and pride in local traditions has emerged, leading to something of a revival among Thai people generally.
Today, Bangkok is an enormous, modern, traffic-choked metropolis that is geographically, economically and politically at the centre of the country. The Thai capital takes pride in its 220 year old history but, compared with many Thai provincial centres, North, East and South, it is a young city. It was founded by the much venerated Chakri dynasty, of which the present King Bhumipol or Rama IX, the world鈥檚 longest reigning monarch alive today, is highly revered. The King is a focus of national unity and a remarkable social benefactor for all citizens, irrespective of their ethnic background or beliefs. Indeed, in this predominantly Buddhist country, there is little or no discrimination towards those who follow other religions. Having aided his country through political strife on several occasions during his reign of nearly 60 years, King Bhumipol has seen military dictatorships and juntas replaced by the parliamentary democracy, which the country now practises. The tussle between old social traditions, in both public and family life and modern reformism creates the fascinating blend of old versus new that is the essence of Thailand today.
Tourism has become one of Thailand鈥檚 main industries, perhaps due to the easy-going and genuinely friendly nature of the Thai people in addition to the country鈥檚 natural beauty and fascinating culture. However, most foreigners visit only a few well-known places that are highly developed and adapted to tourism in all its many forms.聽 Phu Phiang tours seek to demonstrate how some of the less visited areas can offer the traveller a truer insight of the real Thailand and its fascinating cultures.
Indeed, many of the areas we visit could benefit from greater recognition from the outside. The preservation of ancient craft skills has become largely dependent on marketplaces a far cry from the communities from which they originate.聽 Modernisation, mass production, migration and mobility are all threats to the traditional lifestyles of local communities. Yet, it is the increased ability to travel and communicate which can give a modern reason to preserve the skills of the past and seek a wider and more appreciative consumer.
Contrasts dominate our tours because Thailand鈥檚 rich cultural heritage is seen as it really is today, in our modern world. We visit some places off the beaten track, where life carries on as before and other localities where East has not only met the West but has been almost swallowed up by it. We explore how village communities cope with new values and pressures and how ancient wisdom is trying to put modern life in some perspective. Above all, we meet and talk with ordinary people on equal terms, but also as their guests, to share something of their way of life and marvel at their knowledge and skills. It is a rare insight that together with the beauty of the tropical countryside, the dignity of cultural monuments and the affability of the people everywhere, will create a lasting impression of this fascinating country few ordinary tourists can expect to experience.
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