CHICAGO — This letter is in regard to the article March 15 (“Thai Buys”) written by Yvette Cardozo and William Hirsch.
The information seems misleading, especially the parts about the wood carvings, wood in general and gold.
My wife and I recently returned from a fabulous three-week tour of Thailand, Laos and Korea (Jan. 24-Feb. 14). The American dollar went very far, and bargains were everywhere. The outdoor markets in both Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai offered bargains in wood carvings, silk and handicrafts; even the inexperienced traveler would marvel at both the price and the exciting atmosphere. Yes, you will find the person that will offer special bargain and then proceed to fool you, but you will find that in Chicago. The traveler that does not go to a reputable jeweler in Thailand is asking for trouble just as you would in Chicago.
Furniture stores in Chiang Mai offer a variety of fine teak and rosewood furniture. The workmanship is exceptional, and the prices are a bargain compared to the States (that is, if you could even find solid wood here). Contrary to the authors’ statement, teak is less expensive and less scarce than rosewood. A dining room set (table, six chairs) sells for about $2,000 in teak. The same set in rosewood costs double, or approximately $4,000. The quoted prices include shipping and insurance to the port of Chicago.
We found the gold prices to be unusual in Thailand. The Chinese gold merchants do not negotiate on the workmanship of the piece; the price is based strictly on the weight and the official daily gold price. The reason to buy gold in Thailand is to obtain 24 carat quality.
— John and Dale Roberts
FRIENDLY AUSSIES
CHICAGO — We have always enjoyed your Travel section and particularly enjoyed the recent stories on Australia. However, one (American quoted in a story) suggested Aussies were not friendly. We found the opposite. They like Americans, and the country was friendly everywhere. In fact, we think that is a strong reason for going there. (The older residents reminded us that U.S. troops defended Australia in WWII while their troops were in the European theater.) On the plane ride from Melbourne to Sydney, a woman next to my wife gave us her phone number and said to call if we had any problems. When is the last time someone here extended you such courtesy?
The country is like the U.S. in many ways, but turned down a notch in intensity. They all seem more intent on enjoying their life. Go — if you like living, you’ll love Australia.
— Michael W. Rathsack
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