Behind the Scenes #8 - Back in Paradise

Thailand — the land of smiles. I once read that it officially means land of the free. The only country in Southeast Asia that’s never been colonized. Maybe thanks to Muay Boran?

Some places you only need to visit once. Thailand is not one of them. This is our second time here, and somehow I love it even more. The country of unbelievable nature, Muay Thai, Buddhism, 15,000+ Seven-Elevens (Albert Heijn, where you at?), and of course, incredible people.

Our hotel staff needs a 50star Yelp review. Can it be more friendly? Bowing, politely asking for permission before entering the room… not even slightly annoyed when I asked a stupid question about connecting my phone to the TV.

I’d also like to thank my uncle Jan, who helped me 16 years ago search all of Marktplaats in Noord-Holland to find me a Tomos scooter—those scooter days paid off here. Right hand on the Bible: I saw a hippie-looking guy on a scooter with his dog, and on top of that dog was… another dog. And no, I hadn’t had any drinks.

Something else I noticed: every Thai seems to wear a football shirt. It reminded me of back in the day when I begged Dona and Carla (hartstikke bedankt!) to bring me a Ronaldinho shirt from Spain.

Nowadays, as a married guy, I’m cautious when buying shirts. I don’t want to put one of my friends in the spotlight (Although he resisted all temptation!),  We were in Budapest, and he wore a South American club shirt… and within two minutes, he was surrounded by at least 20 Latinas. Perhaps a fashion tip for all the single males! Or maybe it was the tattoos? 

I’m no stranger myself to this kind of situation. Two years ago in Greece, many girls showed a lot of respect for my Muhammad Ali shirt. Or was it because of my tattoo… (who knows). In reality, in my own situation, it was only three girls… but still. To be sure, I walk in a wide circle around the South American shirts. Until my eyes land on possibly the most fantastic football shirt ever made — a tribute to Bob Marley. I warned my wife about potential attention, but so far, only a handful of guys have screamed “AJAX!” at me.

P.S. Don’t panic, mother, the real estate sign next to me was accidental.

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