Thailand/Udon Still Sanuk?

[Iceman]

I don't know if it is just me, but it seems that there is not much sanuk to be had anymore? In prior times there seemed to be much more of a happy atmosphere. Now all there is to be seen are sour faced people hunched over their beers (including me). Ladies hustling drinks or looking for quick cash infusion.

Have I lost the plot or is it the same for others?

[beer monkey]

I think i know what you are trying to say Iceman....Whilst it is still 'sanuk', for me it is not the same 'sanuk' as it was when i first found Thailand in 88 when i was young and fresh, maybe because its nothing new anymore or that i am older and married could be something in it, say over the last 6 years i think it has lost a little sparkle maybe also as it has got more popular with people,lets face it everyone knows someone that has been to Thailand, where as 15-20 years ago i was one of the lucky ones, but the 'sanuk' is still out there, you just gotta know where to look....

[jingjai]

I voted yes.
However, I feel/think the same things as B.M. First visited in '90, retired here in '99, been in a committed relationship/marriage for 5 years.

A few years ago, I was talking to a long time ex pat, he made the statement:
"You know Thailand was a lot more fun as a visitor than as a permanent resident".
I tend to agree.

However, as a resident, the good still outweighs the bad.

[BKKSTAN]

I voted no because of my age and time in country.I agree that it is more fun when everything is new as a tourist!Playtime ,for me ,has diminished and now I enjoy different aspects of living here.I still live here because I prefer it to living anywhere else!