The Sound of Silence is beautiful but not in Thailand….
In the land of smiles and serene temples lies a less peaceful reality: Thailand is plagued by persistent noise pollution. From loud music in urban centers to roaring motorcycles and endless construction sounds, noise pollution is a daily challenge for both locals and disappointed tourists, who seek peace and quiet but find themselves in a sea of noise.
Watch keepers
When we were still living in Chiang Dao, we met a French woman who had been looking for a place to live for a few years. At first we thought that it would apparently be very difficult to find a home here, but when we toured around with an estate agent for an afternoon, she told us (privacy is not an issue in Thailand) that one of her requirements was that there should be absolutely no noise from neighbors or other surroundings. He knew such places, but was afraid to recommend them to her. Much too dangerous for a single Western woman, he thought.
Noise, why noise?
Can I break a lance for the silence in Thailand? Linked to this is the question where it can still be found? Thais don't seem to have an eye (or ear) for (dirty) noise. Wherever you go, the amplifier is blaring at full power. Go into the city and experience the following: the taxi driver often not only has his radio on loud, but also watches the DVD screen while driving. Protesting doesn't help, getting out does.
