IN THE PICTURE #08

In ‘In the Picture’ photographers from all over the world share their 10 most favorite pictures of Thailand. See Thailand through the lens and read the story behind those pictures.

Hello, please introduce yourself.

My name is Nicolas Barbarin and I live in France. I was born in a small French village called Collonges-la-Rouge and I still live there. Besides being a professional photographer since 2017, I like to spend my free time in the mountains that I also climb.

In 2018 I made a four month trip with my family of which I spent a month in Thailand. I didn’t go there to take pictures but to discover the country with my wife and my children. We chose to stay two weeks in the north and two weeks in the south. We prefer to visit some destinations a bit longer than many short stays. This way we get to know the places we visit better.

Bangkok, February 2018
I love this picture because it reflects the ultra-fast atmosphere of Bangkok, a mega metropolis.

In the vicinity, serenity reigns during prayer in a Buddhist monastery.

What is your favorite destination in Thailand?

The Surin Islands because it is very beautiful and quiet over there.

Which place / destination in Thailand is still on your wish list to visit?

More of the northern region in Thailand.

A visit to the Akkha village in the mountains near Chang Mai. The old Akkha woman in traditional costume in a mountain village. I have wonderful memories of meeting the inhabitants of this village.

See caption at photo #03.

Which place / destination do you recommend our readers to visit and why?

Phang Nga Bay because it is an incredibly beautiful place where you can find quit spots without any tourists if you have a boat.

Where do you like to eat?

I would advise you to eat at the street stalls or at the many markets. Especially at the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok you can eat delicious and varied food. You can also find excellent fresh fruit juices everywhere.

The elephant is the symbolic animal of Thailand. Unfortunately, it is regularly treated badly because of the tourists. A truly impressive and fascinating animal.

Name a nice coffee shop or bar where our readers can drop by.

Really no idea…

What is your favorite Thai dish?

I love mango sticky rice. A dessert consisting of mango and sweet sticky rice. Even tastier if this dish is accompanied by a scoop of coconut ice cream. A true delight!

Koh Yao Noi, February 2018
A longtail boat in the Phang Nga Bay near Kho Yao Noi. A simple but so pleasant island, away from mass tourism.

Paradise, the Surin Islands! No further words needed…

What is your favorite accommodation in Thailand?

I do not really have an address to recommend because I only use cheap accommodations that are often quite average. I can share my worst night with you. This was with the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai… My best night was on the beach of one of the Surin Islands.

Do you have a (travel) tip that might come in handy in Thailand?

Take your time when visiting Thailand. Choose a few less destinations so that you have more time for the destinations where you are staying. This way you will enjoy your visit to this beautiful country all the more!

Is there a Thai phrase or word our readers need to learn?

No idea…