Beautiful of Thailand.
This is my journal about being back home from the perspective of an abroad student. I was born and raised in Thailand and moved to the States to start a family when I was 32. This is my first experience studying abroad.
Thailand is located at the center of mainland Southeast Asia, officially the Kingdom of Thailand and historically known as Siam. I arrived at my first stop at Chiangmai in the northern part of the country and its tourist destination. In the picture, I stopped by at viewpoints in Doi Suthep. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, constructed in the late 14th century under King Keu Naone’s reign, is a functioning Buddhist monastery with a rich history. Established in 1383, the temple’s origin story centers around a sacred relic – a bone fragment believed to be from the Buddha’s shoulder.
I went up to the viewpoint at one of the most iconic sites, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located on Doi Suthep mountain. Then down to Wat Chedi Luang, also known once as housing the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most revered religious relics, which was later moved to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. Today, a replica made of black jade resides in the temple.
The day at an elephant camp in Chiang Mai. I grabbed a slice of sweet watermelon and a banana. The elephant wrapped its trunk around the piece of fruit, slipped it into its mouth, and greeted me with its trunk. They are very playful, and I have made a new friend.
The main part of the project in Thailand study abroad trip was to collect water samples, and this was where I visited Wachirathan Waterfall, located within Doi Inthanon National Park, about a 1.5-hour drive from the Old Town Chiang Mai.
I went down to the end of the northernmost major city in Thailand to collect water samples in Chaing Rai. On the way back the next day I stopped by to explore the culture at the white temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun, which is located on the outskirts of Chiang Rai in the northeast part of Thailand. This temple is a mind-boggling masterpiece of Buddhist art, and it’s one that’s defined by incredible detail. It is a Buddhist temple. This place was a huge and attractive location, surrounded by beautiful local coffee shops, and it provided clean and tasty international buffets for tourists at a very fair price. I definitely love the food there.
The second destination was Krabi, located on the west coast of southern Thailand. The Emerald Pool (or Sa Morakot) is well-preserved in the heart of the forest. It’s a stunning natural pool. The mineral water was very clear and clean. It flowed down from the first station at 50 Celsius to the second station and cooled down to normal temperature where tourists were allowed to swim.
I learned a new experience of scuba diving and kayaking in Krabi at Ao Nang Islands. It was very challenging to learn how to control the boat for the first time and learn how to dive by breathing through my mouth in the deep water. Ao Nang Islands is the epitome of nature’s perfect creation and mangrove forests. It ranked as one of the top ten diving destinations in the world.
The next destination was Sukhothai, located in the north-central Thailand. I spent the night there before proceeding to the next destination. Sukhothai was one of the most important historic states in mainland Southeast Asia. Sukhothai is renowned for its Buddhist Theravada culture and art. It became the country’s first capital between the years 1238 and 1438. The artisans of the Sukhothai Kingdom made the kingdom very wealthy. These artisans became famous throughout Southeast Asia. They produced a unique type of ceramic that used a green glaze. I found that a 785-year-old kingdom was very fascinating by looking through the old infrastructure. It retains the beauty of its legacy.
I arrived in Kamphaengpet, located in upper central Thailand. I went to swim at the Khlong Lan Waterfall, located in Khlong Lan National Park in Kamphaeng Phet, Thailand, which is a stunning natural attraction. The park also features hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and a campsite where you can enjoy the beauty of nature.
On the way to Bangkok, I stopped by Wat Chantharam, known as Wat Tha Sung, located in Uthai Thani province is a large Buddhist complex that includes several buildings. It was built in the Ayutthaya period with tree trunks. This place later was abandoned until restored in 1789.
I finally arrived at my last destination in Bangkok before returning to the state and I only had a few days’ stay. I went to Wat Phra Kaew was once the private chapel of the kings of Thailand and members of the court. Today, like the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, where the temple complex is located, it is open to the public. The temple or wat was completed in 1783. stay. It’s a place that weaves together spirituality, artistry, and centuries of history.
I spent the night before completing my journal watching Muay Thai or Thai Boxing at Lumpenee Stadium. Thai Boxing is the national sport of Thailand and is a martial art with origins in the ancient battlefield tactics of the Siamese (or Thai) army. It was a wonderful experience watching professional fights live in person at the fight ring and I wish I could get a chance to be there again.
The last day before leaving Thailand at Suwanaphum Airport. Remember, the last day isn’t an ending; it’s a bridge to the next adventure. I am really grateful for the support I have received from FEA! Achieving my dreams is a huge accomplishment.
My Sincere gratitude to the Fund for Education Aboard Scholarship for choosing me as a recipient. I am deeply appreciative of your support.