What's the deal here? Are they really interested in where one is going? Or is it just a way to start a conversation

or is it a way to say hello? Any ideas?

Edited May 26, 201115 yr by Semper

They're just being polite. A Thai equiv of saying "how are you" when you meet someone. You don't really wnat to know how they are, but ask out of politeness. The same when a Thai asks you if you've eaten 'gkin khao rouyang' or the like. Again, it just a polite thing to say. No big deal at all.

I often reply with " I am going shopping !" and then counter with a " How old are you , Do you have children , How much money do you earn in a year ?" . I put on a clipped BBC accent for these interactions .

I often reply with " I am going shopping !" and then counter with a " How old are you , Do you have children , How much money do you earn in a year ?" . I put on a clipped BBC accent for these interactions .

It’s just an Ice breaker, that’s all. We English say; “allright”…………..to anyone….anytime.

When someone says 'what's up', are they really interested in what is up?

I often reply with " I am going shopping !" and then counter with a " How old are you , Do you have children , How much money do you earn in a year ?" . I put on a clipped BBC accent for these interactions .

Maybe he should be saying "going to bank to get loan"

I often reply with " I am going shopping !" and then counter with a " How old are you , Do you have children , How much money do you earn in a year ?" . I put on a clipped BBC accent for these interactions .

Maybe he should be saying "going to bank to get loan"

How much are you offering mate ?

Me go ATM.

Sorry mate, i am no bank..or a walking ATM..although a few thai girls have mistaken me for one

Edited May 26, 201115 yr by ozzieovaseas

Probably more in hope, that the OP is going somewhere far away.

When someone says 'what's up', are they really interested in what is up?

Then you reply:

My wife has left me and taken the kids, last night my house burned down, the dog died, I lost my job, the banks have closed all my accounts and I’m bankrupt and the doctor has given me 6 months to live.

By what type of response you receive from the what’s up or how are you enquirer will determine if they really care or not.

Probably more in hope, that the OP is going somewhere far away.

Cynic!!

"Bai nai?"

"Shhh! Bai mia noi." .........................

DIG

Probably more in hope, that the OP is going somewhere far away.

Any suggestions?

Edit . Mistake. Sorry.

Edited May 26, 201115 yr by Semper

So, if we exclude the American posters. How many of you would give a tip for a normal

purchase in Thailand?

Random post was it or wrong thread?

Possibly one of those senior moments.

Probably more in hope, that the OP is going somewhere far away.

Any suggestions?

Buffalo sick