Globalization

Mae Sot is not a city of chains, not even Thai ones. There are a few brand names, I saw a Fuji film store, and a Sony shop, but for the most part, the shops are one offs. There are no McDonalds in Mae Sot (fortunately), and no Blockbusters or Starbucks, but on many a street corner, you can find a 7-11. But these are no ordinary 7-11. At these very popular locations you can buy standard convenient store fare, or, seaweed tempura, sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf, fine alcohol and wines, crazy hats, videos to rent, or even pay your bills (which in fact I did today, electric and internet for the GHAP office - the bills come with a bar code on them that the 7-11 clerk just scans and rings up with the rest of your purchases). My favorite 7-11 offering is the corn and bean flavored yogurt (not only found there, but always to be found there). It is a favorite stop for breakfast, and a must on the way to a party. And in fact, they just seem better kept and a little classier than they are in the states. Or maybe I am just wearing Mae Sot colored glasses.