We have just spent 3 weeks in Bangkok, and were really struck by some of the differences between Bangkok and Manila. Here are just a few...
1. Traffic They say traffic in Bangkok is bad, but Manila is honestly 100 times worse. You’re pretty much guaranteed when you go out in Manila to get stuck in traffic. After careful observation, we have deduced that this is primarily the fault of the thousands upon thousands of jeepneys (see picture), as they stop whenever and wherever they like to pick up passengers.
2. Poverty level Now, we didn’t go everywhere in Bangkok, but from what we did see, the poverty in Manila is far more widespread and commonplace than in Bangkok. In Manila, it seems like we see squatter settlements (see photo) every 2-3kms. This didn’t seem to be the case in Bangkok.3. Language Getting things done in Manila is so much easier, because pretty much everyone speaks at least some English. In Thailand, it’s difficult to find someone who can speak and understand English – more often than not, they expect that you will speak Thai.
4. Food The food in Thailand is amazing! So tasty, so cheap and so readily available! You can pick up an excellent meal at a roadside stall in Bangkok for 25-30 baht (1 Australian dollar). You just don’t get food like that here in Manila.
5. Queuing In Bangkok, people line up in neat, orderly lines, all of their own accord! People don’t push, shove or crowd. Let’s just say, it sure isn’t like that in Manila!
We really enjoyed our time in Bangkok, but it was actually quite nice to arrive “home” on Monday morning!
3 comments:
hey these piccies look familiar too :) i was surprised that given the amount of poverty that is prevalent, there was relatively little begging. or maybe i had just gotten accustomed to their approach.
What a experiences are you guys doing up. I didn't see much poverty in Bangkok but in 24 hours you can't see much. I guess there must be lots of that there too. I think you 2 should go to the Kimberly's when you come back and drive for hours without seeing anybody,no problems with being in a traffic jam. Love Mum
This is really interesting. After thinking back to our trip to Thailand (6years ago) Your thoughts are very true! I miss being in Manila with you. I have lots of fond memories that come back when I read your blog!! :)
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