How Blindness Helped Me Taste Fried Insects in Thailand (And Love It)

Greetings from Bangkok, Thailand!

I’m taking my own advice this week—getting out there and living a little. I may not be able to see all the famous sights, but I can absolutely soak in the flavors, sounds, smells, and energy of this incredible place.

Let me tell you, the air here carries the scent of sizzling spices like a warning and an invitation all in one. Even without sight, I can feel the magic of a new place through the small things: the vibe of a bustling street, the laughter in the air, the taste of unfamiliar dishes. Speaking of which…

Thailand is spicy.
I had to drink more water in one meal than I usually do in a day just to put out the fire in my mouth. At one point, I almost gave up on the food entirely until I discovered the life-saving phrase via Google Translate: “Can you make it less spicy?” Shoutout to technology for saving my taste buds.

Transportation here? My friend and I opted for a scooter—fast, cheap, and chaotic. I rode passenger, which turned into an adventure in itself. Not being able to see the bumps coming up meant I got surprise jolts like I was on a theme park ride with no warning signs. At one point, I almost flew off! But hey, adventure, right?

Now, let’s talk about one of the most unforgettable—and unexpected—moments of this trip: the fried insect food stand at the Chatuchak Night Market. Yes, I said insects. Grasshoppers, crickets, maybe even a beetle or two. (I didn’t ask too many questions.)

While most tourists stood around with a mix of curiosity and horror, I actually gave it a go. My friend couldn’t stomach the sight of it, but that’s where my blindness became an advantage. No visuals to hold me back—just crunch and flavor. Honestly? It tasted like dried fish or crispy jerky. I swear one of them even tasted like chicken. Don’t ask me which—I didn’t get names.

So, what’s the point of today’s blog?

Try something new. Go somewhere unfamiliar. Do something that makes you slightly uncomfortable.
In my case, being blind didn’t limit me—it actually helped me embrace something many would shy away from. Sometimes, what looks like a limitation is just a different way to experience the world. A new path to adventure. A unique sense awakened.

You never know… that thing you’re afraid of? It might just taste like chicken.