Thailand -- the land of smiles -- draws people of diverse cultures from all around the world for its multifaceted beauty and qualities. A nation that has a universal appeal that transcends borders, from its colourful nightlife to serene nature. Despite having challenges, the land of the White Elephants is able to maintain a composure that brings tourists back again and again.
Being relatively close to Thailand, Bangladesh could adapt many good practices that can make the daily lives of its people easier.
The population density is extremely high, and the mismanagement of construction work is so evident that anyone can feel the burn while inhaling. Unnecessary vehicle honking is so intense that it often exceeds permissible decibel levels.
In contrast, despite being a nightlife-heavy city, Bangkok is more controlled in managing sound and air pollution. Unnecessary honking is rarely heard, despite being one of the most congested cities in Southeast Asia.
When construction work takes place in crowded areas, proper measures are taken to prevent dust from spreading. Streets are cleaner, and construction waste is properly managed. Nightlife-related noise is largely confined to designated areas.
Without traffic police, vehicles rarely stop at crossroads or obey traffic lights. Crossing roads becomes a challenge, as drivers often speed toward pedestrians and stop only inches away.
In contrast, in cities like Bangkok or Phuket, the experience is far less chaotic. Drivers are generally patient and allow pedestrians space to cross.
This reflects a humane practice -- prioritizing pedestrian safety. It is both cultural and polite. Moreover, there are wide and accessible walkways for people to enjoy evening walks.
In contrast, looking at Bangkok from an airplane window reveals a meticulously planned city with visible green spaces and water reservoirs. With a population of approximately 5.5 million, Bangkok has over 50 public parks with large ponds -- well maintained and accessible.
Saint Martin's Island is one of the most sought-after destinations, and while the government has taken initiatives, overpopulation and unplanned development have damaged its natural beauty.
Once known as Narikel Jinjira for its abundance of coconuts, the island no longer produces coconuts of the same quality.
In contrast, tourism contributes around 18 to 20% to Thailand’s GDP. The country is also promoting community-based tourism (CBT), involving local communities in decision-making and ensuring they benefit directly.
A portion of tourism income even supports scholarships for women’s education. Bangladesh can adopt similar community-based models, empowering local communities through training and inclusion.
In public spaces, one may observe a Muslim woman working in a shop while maintaining her religious identity, while just across the street, nightlife continues with its own rhythm. These contrasting elements coexist within the same social landscape without one necessarily overshadowing or challenging the other.
Different cultural expressions appear to operate in parallel, rather than in opposition. This coexistence is reflected not only in urban life but also in the general social atmosphere, where diverse practices are accommodated within shared spaces.
While challenges may exist beneath the surface, the visible acceptance of multiple ways of life contributes to a sense of balance in public interactions. Such an environment suggests that diversity, when approached with mutual respect and tolerance, can exist without conflict.
This is an area where Bangladesh, despite its own rich pluralistic traditions, may continue to reflect on how public spaces can further accommodate diverse lifestyles in a harmonious manner.
Visible moral policing of women based on dress code appears to be rare. Interestingly, unlike local practices in Bangladesh, men in Thailand pay dowry -- known as Sin Sod -- to women as part of marriage. According to UN Women, Thai women contribute nearly 40% of the country’s GDP and make up a large share of micro-entrepreneurs, particularly in rural community enterprises.
In contrast, women in Bangladesh contribute around 20% of the national GDP, according to government estimates. However, UN Women notes that this figure does not fully capture women’s unpaid or invisible labour in the country.
It is also important to acknowledge that Bangladesh has made notable progress in expanding women’s access to education, employment, and public life over the years. Nonetheless, the more visible and widespread presence of women across different sectors in Thailand offers additional perspectives that Bangladesh could reflect on while continuing to strengthen gender inclusion.
Every country has its drawbacks. Yet, nations can learn from one another by adopting good practices to move forward.
Mathews Chiran is a development practitioner currently working in the non-profit sector.
