THAILAND

In the "smiling country",
young women show you the right line to the hole

by R. Bourne & C. Jaricott

Thailand, the "smiling country" is well known for its various tourist attractions, cultural or natural, from the Golden Triangle to the Phuket Island. But it is also a golf destination; landing at Bangkok airport at daytime, the plane runs along golfers playing on the airport course.
Bangkok, Mars 2002 -
But before entering a golf course and enjoying the natural landscapes of the country, it is necessary to discover, even very shortly, the special Thai environment: a rich and unique culture, magnificent architectural monuments and a very specific gentle behavior of the Thai people, respectful to Bhuddist rites and faithful to Siam monarchy family.

Better known before the abolition of absolute monarchy in 1932 as the Realm of Siam, Thailand is also the "land of free" which has never been colonized and never been occupied by foreigners, out of short but cruel occupation of the Japanese Imperial Army during the World War II. (The famous "Bridge on the River Kwai" reminds to tourists, rarely Japanese, that 60000 coolies and 16000 of the 90000 prisoners of war died during the military construction of the "Death Railway".)

Thus Thai's attitude to foreigners is not governed by an inferiority complex but by respect and dignity awaiting a similar response in return. Unfortunately too many foreign visitors, mainly Japanese (who should better remind the atrocities committed by their soldiers during the war) are arrogant even disdainful; it is generally the sign of a lack of education and a disregard to others, specially the Tai people who has one of the most ancient refined and non violent culture and education.

So before going to Thailand, it is very useful to read some good guide book, not only to know where to go and stay but also to learn how to enjoy as much as possible the multiple splendor of Thailand and behave properly everywhere.

Playing golf is mainly easy. Courses have been designed by great architects and are maintained in perfect conditions. The climate allows to play year round and smiling young caddy women with their very special colored head scarves will wear your clubs and help you to read the greens. So, please, be gentle golfers and respect not only golf etiquette but local rules and behavior.
Where to play? The Thai Golf Guide divides the country in regions:

       - Bangkok and central plains
        - Kwai River and the western region
       - Chang Maï and Chang Raï
        - Hua Hin and Pattaya
        - Phuket and the southern region
         - Information

Young women caddy

Thailand map

Bangkok airport
Kwai River bridge
Respect to Buddha

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