Can't say I read all of this, but I didn't really come up with a question either...
Everyone has a past, many Thai people don't want to share their entire past - -
so, you are left w/what you see is what you get... it's really up to you. Right?
ps - You don't seem to show any particular affection for her...
My first biz was as an antique dealer long ago... had shops in West Village NY... I didd try exporting some of the Thai woodwork crafts but US customs chainsawed 40% of my first shipment...
My wife prefers modern. I did get a great buy on a 100 year old Chinese shaman robe that is gorgeous and hangs in our home... Even my wife respects the age and condition..
I have never heard of a Thai flea market if you are talking about garage sale type items... most anything of value is passed along to family members. I have been to villages that sell craft type items but they are a bit touristy.. I have also been in hilltribe villages that are just villages, not in touristy areas...
I never wash my hands at a public rest room... I always assume my thing is much cleaner than the faucet.. at least I know where it has been and who might have touched it, as opposed to a public faucet..
After rolling stone magazine moved to nyc i would go to central park once a week to play softball on their team. I was a ringer center fielder. That was abt it for going past 14th street.
I was from Philly for 4 years of University...
Delancey Street, Bookbinders, Cheesesteaks, Ronnies, Drink a highball at nightfall, Hy Lit...
what more would you need to know...
Most of what you want is easily done by yourself.. I really don't think you need a buddy to sit w/you... and I am someone who loves using an agent to fill out my visa forms...
ps - Summer is March and April which is hot season and when school kids have their summer vacations...