Party Or Settle?

Your story sound similar to my first visit to my wife's family in Issan.

I had been forwarned however and was expecting much like this and more.

There is a good book out called "Thailand Fever"

I suggest you read it.

It explains both cultures in both languages (equally on each page so that both you and your girlfriend can read it and understand the other's culture)

I do believe that most of your questions will be answered.

I see that you can even read the first 35 pages of this book for free on some website.

You'll have to google it cause i didn't copy and paste it. (sorry too lazy)

Good luck.

ps. 7 years later, i am happy here in Thailand but also do miss the travelling i used to do (we have a 4 year old son so, it's virtually impossible)

Also, I still am trying to teach the family members how to work and make money. It takes a long time.