Reply #33: I disagree with you on the 'jamaica over thailand' thing. [View All]

I've been to Thailand; the culture there is very ancient and sophisticated (and it was the only country in SE Asia never colonized by a European power). There have been dynasties vying with each other for thousands of years, just like in Europe.

There are amazing libraries; there are monasteries with art as old as that of the European Middle Ages but much better kept up--Thailand never had a Dark Ages when most of the population was illiterate like Europe did. The traiditional music is actually kind of hard to track down on CD, but SO well worth the effort.

I hate hot weather and wouldn't go to either for the climate. Not into sitting around on the beach while I get sunburned (which happens quickly). But Thailand wins over Jamaica hands down for historical interest.