The Sunday night that we spent in Bangkok we went to the Siam Niramit show, which is a performance that highlights the history of Thailand; it is a full on production; there is water, smoke, fire, dancing, music - the works (there was even a portion for a single participant from the audience, and out of a theater of thousands of people, our program director, Jacob Randall Hickman was selected. Suffice it to say, our row was bouncing with laughter.)
Before the show started, there were ELEPHANTS!!! I don't think I have ever even touched an elephant before this (and frankly, I was not impressed by his complexion, I mean come on . . . moisturizer?!)
And apparently, they like to be fed pickles, go figure.
It was superbly hilarious.
It was such a beautiful evening; Thailand has a really rich, tropical aesthetic. They try very hard to appear as strong and independent as possible, and it really is a great country.
They even have little huts representing the regions of Thailand. They all looked fairly similar, but Thailand is really just a collaboration of formerly independent regions that came together during the imperial era to fend off the pursuers. Because of that, there is a very rich, varied culture here in Thailand.
It all looks very exotic and exciting. The world is a pretty exotic and exciting place though!
ReplyDeleteIt looks wonderful, exotic and very engaging. Altho' you are not their as a "tourist" it certainly looked like an interesting touch of a country of which not too many of us have any exact knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI love the elephant! I have been waiting for your elephant riding stories, but petting one is just as good!
ReplyDeleteThe lantern picture reminded me of your reception! just lovely!
I think this is one of the most hilarious things I have heard of! Feeding pickles to elephants? Who would've thought. It looks like you're getting the full Thailand experience. I love seeing what you're up to! Thanks for documenting and posting about your trip! I'm glad you brought that camera along :)
ReplyDeleteRachel you are doing such a wonderful job at documenting your experience so far. I am so grateful that my children can experience another culture through your posts. We have had some great talks about Budda and the elephant. Keep the pictures coming.
ReplyDeleteOh Rachie - love your posts. You are a clever, funny, beautiful girl.
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