Videos From the Land of Smiles

Thailand is known as the land of smiles. This is probably in part because the people have some of the most beautiful smiles. I think it may also be because those who visit are often seen smiling. Sometimes the smiles are smiles of joy due to the amazing things that can be seen or done here. Sometimes however, they are the smiles that one just puts on to shunt aside other less healthful emotions, (like anger) and to keep from doing something rash. This comes in handy when you realize that you have been cheated. We have so far escaped that experience, but some friends visited a few weeks ago, and they were cheated often. One time they haggled with a "water taxi driver" for about 15 minutes. Once he relented to their price, he asked for the money, gave them "tickets", and then told them to wait for a minute for him to return. They waited about 20 to 30 minutes before they looked at the fake tickets, and realized that he was not coming back. What can you do in that situation? You could get anger, cry, or laugh about it. They opted for the latter, had a good long laugh, and found a real taxi driver with a smile on their faces. Finally, some smiles that come to your face here are of the uneasy variety. The type of smile that is often found on your face after seeing something that you could have gone without seeing. I am sure I had this look on my face on several occasions. Thailand is infamous for it's call girls and cross-dressers, and unfortunately we saw both numerous time, hence the uneasy smile. Below I have loaded some of the videos that I have taken here in the "Land of Smiles". Most of the smiles that we had were of joy. Some were forced smiles from seeing the the crazy guys in the cobra show. Where ever in the world you happen to be reading this, I wonder if they will bring a smile to your face? If so, what kind will it be? - Frank

Smile though your heart is aching

Smile even though its breaking

When there are clouds in the sky,

you'll get by

If you smile through your fear and sorrow

Smile and maybe tomorrow

You'll see the sun come shining through for you

Light up your face with gladness

Hide every trace of sadness

Although a tear may be ever so near

That's the time you must keep on trying

Smile, whats the use of crying?

You'll find that life is still worthwhile

If you just smile

Nat King Cole