What a nice long post! and beautiful pictures too! I've also been backpacking around in Central America for 8 months a few years ago.
Surprisingly, seems like you know a lot about Thailand in details. That's impressive! I sure followed!
Totally check some of my posts out if you're still around in BKK or in Thailand. Mostly food posts and they're all delicious! :)
0.33USD Boat noodle in the Center of Bangkok, Thailand !
Amphawa Floating Market - Eat the crab out of everything!