When we are not busy working or taking advantage of everything that our neighborhood in Scottsdale has to offer, we both love to travel. Last summer, we enjoyed a lengthy sojourn in Europe that began at Lake Como in Italy, took us to the French Riviera and Monte Carlo, on to Edinburgh, Scotland for a visit with friends and finally a return flight from Switzerland. It was a great trip that we will not soon forget. 

KOH KHO KHAO, THAILAND - NOV 16: Oriental Architecture of Andama

Our most memorable travel experience to date is undoubtedly a trip to Thailand that we took in 2011. The Thai people are incredibly beautiful and their kindness and hospitality made a lasting impression on us. For those contemplating a trip to Thailand, or Southeast Asia in general, here are a few travel tips we picked up along the way.

  • Don't be afraid to eat food from street vendors. The meals are fresh and inexpensive and most vendors are happy to prepare the food to accommodate your taste buds. Sample the traditional local delicacies, of course, and save room for unique desserts. One of our favorite treats was concocted from Nutella and bananas and it was delicious!
  • When in Bangkok, be sure to visit the famous MBK Center shopping mall. The seven-story mall is home to a movie theater, bowling alley, ice skating rink and food court, in addition to multi-national retailers selling clothes, accessories and souvenirs. It's a great opportunity to stock up on designer clothing for pennies on the dollar. 
  • Take advantage of free taxi service in Bangkok. The driver will shuttle you around the city with drop-offs at local vendors - jewelers, restaurants, etc. The vendors pay the driver a commission to user business in their direction. For the price of a tip, you'll have your own local tour guide for the day.
  • Before departing for Thailand, we strongly suggest travelers check out the website www.agoda.com. Agoda is one of Asia's largest on-line booking agents for accommodations of all types and their services are available in 38 languages. We like to keep a flexible itinerary, book our hotel for one or two nights only and then decide to stay or move on. This has worked very well for us.

Finally, do not leave Thailand without enjoying a luxurious massage on a beautiful beach. For just a few dollars, you'll have an experience you'll never forget.