I sat with new friends today at Salad Conception, a nice little joint in touristy Chiang Mai. It was my first time seeing the tourist spots, I live in a VERY Thai neighborhood. I am, in fact, the only farang (white person) in the nursing complex of 500 students and a plethora of staff.
We were served by a waiter of the Thai Hipster type, the hipster sandals, tight pants, the whole thing. The most basic salad (a real treat, salad!) was THB 50 (about $1.50) and on up to THB 100. I panicked at how expensive it was. An entire meal, with drinks and desserts, would easily have cost us THB 150-200. Even our simple salad was a price that could only be afforded on special occasions. I'm on a Thai salary now, with no room for such luxuries.
Although Chiang Mai has been home for less than a week, I found myself annoyed at the backpackers and tourists and shocked at the number of farang. I was possibly gawking as much as the children in my neighborhood do at me.
While walking around a wat (Buddhist temple) in Old City I almost told two tourists women that their attire was completely inappropriate for the temple, with spaghetti straps and mini-skirts. But they were speaking Russian. Plus it didn't seem like it was my battle.
One week in...I appreciate toilet paper, water bottles, umbrellas, nuts and dried fruit and fresh ground coffee. I appreciate my family and friends back home and my amazing new community here. One week in...I think I'll stick around for a while.
So how much do your cheaper, non touristy meals usually cost? And I'm glad that at least you're getting some fresh veggies, probably worth the splurge every once in a while :) Love you!
ReplyDeleteYou're such a superwoman! So glad I got to see you before you hit the road!
ReplyDeletehave you had authentic pad thai yet? I've been thinking of you!! Also, squattie potties? Don't ya love them!
ReplyDeleteSarah - A full meal is usually THB (Thai baht) 35. Fruit is 10, smoothies or coffee 15-20. My area is very Thai so much more cheep than the tourist spots.
ReplyDeleteMelyssa - It was really wonderful to see you too. Have I mentioned yet that I'm in love with your children? Kudos to you and Mike!
Meg - I don't think I've had Pad Thai, but many other authentic dishes. Although I've seen squattie potties, I have not used one yet. We'll see if that's one of the skills I acquire here! My love to Cole.