In Thailand,Does Golden Triangle consist of Thailand,Myanmar and Laos still growing Opium or Drugs?

Of course the nations claim that drug production in that area has been cut back but no one can be sure except by going there, I guess. Some news says most Opium comes from Afghanistan.

How is a tourist going to see illegal opium poppy fields? I suspect actually seeing such fields would be dangerous to the observer. I, for one, would never try to take a look. Just accept that drug creation is not for the average tourist, chill out on possibility of getting accurate news, and try to relax.

Yes.

Opium production has decreased over the years and shifted to Methamphetamine tablets and crystal production in order to keep up with demand.

The youngsters market demand something specific to their generation and that makes them pro active to keep up with the modern world. Often these tablets have a variety of names, colors and flavors marketed just like candy.

The second category of consumers are manual laborers that need the extra boost from those drugs in order to work longer hours and make more money.

Opium is consumed mostly by old timers; and its considered passe.

Update: Nowadays it is fairly hard for tourist to buy opium in the Golden Triangle. Locals prefer to market their region as a tourist destination distinguished by its history, natural scenery and hospitality. Such mentality will help preserve the regions identity and ward-off junkies and backpackers.

For instance Chiang Rai's opium museum provides a fantastic journey into the region's history with its collection of opium related artifacts. Opium was not just a commodity but was also used as a currency or medium of exchange back then; not to mention that opium's narcotic effects and sharp harvesting tools opened the doors to modern day surgery.

Officially no.

In reality ......