THAILAND
For many, Thailand is the place one goes to enjoy the Asian “exoticism”.
Bangkok, the oriental city, has it all; exquisite temples, floating markets, labyrinths of streets, and tranquil evenings filled with life. The temples host Buddhas of all dimensions and styles epitomized by the famous reclining Buddha. The exotic floating markets remain a scene to see and explore, even with a more “touristy” approach.
To the North is Ayutthaya, the first capital of Siam with a fantastic collection of Theravada Buddhist temples. Further lies Sukhothai, the next capital of the kingdom, a place of ruined temples and tranquil lakes covered with lilies towered by serene and magnificent Buddha statues. All the way north is Chiang Mai, the capital of the Lanna kingdom, with its famous Wat Doi Suthep in a region populated by hill tribes Akka and Yao spread towards the Golden Triangle where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand share borders.
On the eastern side of the country, the imprint of the Khmer culture is felt in the magnificent temples of Kao Phanom Rung and Phimai.
DVD Release
“The road to Chiang Mai”
“The Road to Chiang Mai” is a 3-part series exploring the culture and traditions of Thailand. It starts by visiting the lavish temples of Bangkok, the ruins of Ayuthaia, and Sachalanai, the tranquil Buddhas of Sukothai. From there we continue to the Golden Triangle and Chiang Mai stopping on the way back to Lampung. The eastern part of Thailand was under the Khmer influence illustrated through the temples of Phimai and Phanom Rung. We end our tour relaxing on the island of Koh Samet with a last stop in Rachabury Province.