Local Commotion

After one terrifying van ride from Lopburi to Bangkok, which included 25 people in one 12 passenger van, we have been much more inclined to take the train for our travels.  This mode of transportation has a lot of character -- many unexpected things take place that are worth sharing.  Here's a snapshot of your everyday train ride.  

Going Frugal

Third class seating on the Thai train is free for Thai people.  For the "farang" (foreigner) it costs up to 24 Baht (that's less than $1 per ticket).  We like this price, so we always try for third class.  This price guarantees a ride on the train, not a seat.  There is no air conditioning in this class, but there are rotating fans on the ceiling and the windows open offering a nice breeze.  

Dress Casual

The only downside of those nice breezy windows, is that this seems to be the season when farmers are burning their fields.  Don't wear your nice clothes on the train because you usually get powdered by some ashes as you ride through farm country.  

Evidence of a Collectivist Culture

The West is very individualistic in many ways, but here in Thailand that is not the case.  This becomes surprisingly evident on the train when total strangers take us under their wing.  Every time we have ridden the train, those around us have completely rearranged seating to ensure that Phil and I get to sit together.  They also take the time to find out where we plan to get off so that they can make sure we know when we've reached that location.  

Spare Change Pays Off

Don't forget to have 5 Baht (Thai currency) ready to hand out the window when the train stops at the Ban Phachi Junction.  In return you receive a cup of amazing coconut ice cream right through your window!  Brilliant marketing strategy.  (Not to mention that first and second class do not get this because their are sealed in their air conditioned cars).  

Ride Hungry

Aside from the ice cream, there are several dining options on the train.  Vendors walk up and down the aisles selling fresh fruit, cold drinks, and various dishes that are Thai specialties.  

Hot Season Caution for Train Passengers

Have we mentioned that it gets hot here?  Well, let us tell you that it gets really HOT. This past week a train derailed, and the cause: some news reports claim the weather was so hot that it affected the stability of the tracks.  There were only minor injuries due to this accident.  

People Watching

Watching the other people on the train... always enjoyable and a cultural learning experience.  We get to chat with lots of new people, and learn more about how Thai people interact.  We also get to use our language skills which can be great fun, and a good motivator to keep learning.  

One favorite memory from the train was watching an older woman buy a hammock from a train vendor.   She skillfully bartered for a lower price and concealed all emotion during the transaction.  Once the vendor was gone, another lady asked how much the hammock costed.  The older woman's face was priceless as she proudly announced the price of her purchase.  

STAY TUNED for more snapshots of life in Thailand.