Finding connection in a concrete jungle, the Thai way

The rhythmic calls of vendors. The distinctive blend of sour, sweet, spicy and savory aromas mingling with smoke from cooking. The liveliness of Thailand's street markets — a "must-see" for any visitor — reminds me of my childhood and makes me reflect on how we connect.

The country's vast array of markets are the heartbeat of the kingdom and its importance is mirrored in its language. The Thai word talat, meaning market, can be modified with various nouns — night, day, fruit or a specific location — to denote unique markets, such as Talat Rotfai, also known as the Srinagarindra Train Market.

Food is an indispensable element. Stalls serve nearly every local specialty: stir-fried meat with basil, tom yum soup, fried fish balls, grilled seafood and even insects. Desserts and smoothies featuring tropical fruit are also abundant.

And there is so much beyond that. Some markets specialize in handicrafts — jewelry, textiles, furniture, even plants and pets. They can spring up in a variety of locations: parks, universities, fishing piers and office buildings.

The markets remind me of my childhood in Kunming, capital of China's southwest Yunnan province, where weekend markets were bustling with people. Through the 1990s and into the 2000s, before I left for college in Beijing, my memory had been full with the hustle and bustle of the markets, which were even more pronounced during holidays, drawing crowds from nearby towns for the festive atmosphere.

However, such scenes have since receded, particularly in big cities. Rapid urbanization has pushed many open-air markets aside, replacing them with supermarkets, indoor produce markets and trade centers.

The shift has accelerated in the wake of the pandemic. In China, there has been a significant shift from brick-and-mortar retail to online shopping over the past 10 years, a trend that now covers not only apparel and furniture but also daily takeout orders.

In my family, both my father and father-in-law, now in their 70s, are avid users of shopping platforms such as Pinduoduo and Douyin, drawn by low prices and home delivery. Sometimes, online options surpass what offline stores offer.

Despite the convenience, I harbor concerns about the potential downsides of reduced face-to-face interactions, such as depression, that have high incidence rates in tight, fast-paced urban life.

The World Health Organization's Commission on Social Connection recently reported that one in six people worldwide is affected by loneliness, significantly affecting health and well-being.

The report said social connection can be beneficial throughout life, reducing inflammation, lowering the risk of serious health problems, fostering mental health, and preventing early death. It can also strengthen the social fabric, making communities healthier and safer.

From this perspective, it is perhaps no surprise that many Thai people enjoy good mental health, with the nation proudly identifying itself as the "Country of Smiles". The leisurely and joyful atmosphere of its markets fosters social connections, contributing to psychological well-being.

During my three years in Thailand, I also observed the remarkable expansion of its e-commerce landscape. Beyond the rapid ascent of platforms such as Lazada, Temu and Shopee, social media-driven video commerce has also surged.

Local media reports rank Thailand as Southeast Asia's second-largest e-commerce market and the region's fastest growing, with the sector projected to reach $33 billion this year.

Despite the rise of online shopping, Thailand's offline retail sector remains robust. New malls continue to emerge, becoming iconic landmarks that draw global tourists, while traditional markets are always bustling with visitors.

This unique phenomenon — distinct from the trends in China — can be partly attributed to Thailand's still-maturing logistics networks and supply chains, as well as cultural differences in consumption habits. Physical stores often provide broader choices and more personalized services.

As a consumer, I find a sense of spiritual satisfaction in Thai markets and malls, where the atmosphere is friendly and relaxing.

I've had the pleasure of engaging with street vendors in basic exchanges, often receiving praise for my efforts. I've shared joyful moments with friends and interviewees in garden cafes that are a staple in many malls. I've even encountered fellow countrymen in morning markets, forging friendships that transcend borders.

Indeed, humans are inherently social beings, driven by a biological imperative to connect and communicate. It shapes survival, learning, mental health and overall well-being, influencing everything from our neurological makeup to our cultural practices. Our intrinsic need for social interaction is vital, underscoring the importance of family, community and collaboration.

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, Thailand's thriving offline retail scene underscores the enduring value of human connection and the simple joys of face-to-face interactions.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it is these authentic experiences that enrich our lives and anchor our sense of belonging.

Recently, I read about China's advances in AI, which could benefit the psychological health of the elderly by providing companionship and assistance through robotics. This innovation offers a smart solution for China, which, according to the WHO, is projected to have 28 percent of its population at over 60 by 2040.

Besides humanoid robotics, another initiative from Shanghai offers a different perspective. The city has been promoting public cultural facilities and landmarks with Shanghai characteristics, aiming to create physical spaces that encourage residents to gather, interact and participate in communal life.

Nationwide, live concerts and music festivals have also surged in recent years in China, expanding offline entertainment options and becoming a vital driver of the service sector.

With these initiatives, I remain hopeful that while technology continues to advance, the essence of human connection — whether through bustling markets or vibrant cultural events — will remain a cherished and integral part of our lives, fostering a sense of community and shared joy that transcends borders.

The author is a correspondent at China Daily Asia-Pacific Bureau based in Bangkok.

Contact the writer at yangwanli@chinadaily.com.cn