I moved to Thailand before the internet, mobile phones and social media. At that time foreigners were still an enigma and Thai’s were fascinated foreigners wanted to live in their country.
Back in those days, Thai’s had not been exposed to western marketing and had no need of things they could not afford.
They did not worship wealth and money the way they do today.
People seemed a lot happier in those days. There wasn’t all this advertising bombarding them with expensive things like Iphones.
Fast forward to 2024 and we all know the story.
Who would have ever guessed Thailand would have giant megamalls, water parks and all kinds of expensive attractions the average Thai cannot even afford?
Rural Isaan to me, is one of the few areas that has not changed.
Still no industry or jobs outside of family farming.
I guess I can count my blessings for that.
It makes you realize you don’t need to waste a lot of money on useless things!