Here is something I've always wondered about and hope someone can shed some light.

Why are simple question/answer discussions between Thais often lengthy exchanges?

Example:

Farange A: "Where is Central Plaza?

Farang B: "Go straight. Take a left at BigC. Then two kilometers down on the left.

Thai A: thirty second question.

Thai A and B: five minute rapid fire exchange.

Thai A to Farang: "About BigC."

After 15 years, my lingering question: What was the five minute discussion?

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Hmm... good observation on your part. My guess would be that Thai people probably add lots of fillers to the conversation to make sure that "asker" receive all the info (even though some of the fillers are not necessary). For example,

Thai A: "Where is Central Plaza?

Thai B: "Go straight. Take a left at BigC. Then two kilometers down on the left. Are you going there now? I don't think today is a good day to go because they have big sale going on now and the traffic is horrible. However if you really need to go, I suggest you to go before 6pm. That's when people get out of their office and some do shopping. Oh one more thing .... blah blah blah

Ok, when it comes to Farang, Thai people don't speak good English. So you get a short concise answer "Next to Big C". Does it make sense? :-)

In my experience, especially in Bangkok, it's EXACTLY how Zero Desire calls it.

Thais are obsessed with traffic much as we Brits are obsessed by the weather and that is usually the "filler".

I've also regularly heard someone recommend a certain en-route food stall/restaurant, especially if the other Thai isn't from that locale.

Makes sense. Buddies and I always found it humorous.

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