MAE HONG SON
MAE HONG SON is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants.
Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the “dream destination” for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.
THAI YAI CULTURE
The Thai Yai can be seen along the northern border with Myanmar. They may at one time have been the most numerous of the ethnic Thai tribes that stretch across Southeast Asia. A large group settled in Mae Hong Son.
The Thai Yai culture has had a strong influence on the province, as can be seen in its architecture. Although a part of the Lanna region, the indigenous Thai Yai people living in Mae Hong Son are faced with very cold weather during winter and extremely hot weather in the summer, with mist or fog practically throughout the whole year. Not surprisingly they have had to adapt to the environment. As a result, their architectural style has developed into something different from other Lanna communities. Their living quarters are usually built with tall floors and low roofs, the sizes differing according to one’s social status and position. Homes of the ordinary folks are usually with one single level of roof, while those of the local aristocrats have two or more levels forming a castle-like shape. The space thus provided is believed to help air circulation. An interesting feature of the Thai Yai style is the perforated designs along the eaves which are an architectural identity of the area.
Thailand
It’s known as ‘the Land of Smiles’ for good reason – the wonderful Thai people know how to slow down and enjoy life, and it’s part of their culture to pass on their infectious smiles to everyone they meet. It is not hard to smile though when you’re enjoying the warm tropical climate in one of the most astonishingly beautiful places on earth - emerald green seas, pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, sheer limestone cliffs, jaw-dropping sea life and jungles bursting with flora and fauna.
Thailand is a country that provides that feeling that you’ve escaped to an exotic land where language, religion, food and the way of life are all completely new and totally exciting. Buddhism is the religion of 90% of Thais, and is intertwined with the Thai way of life. The smells and tastes of delicious Thai food follows you from the street stalls in Bangkok to the beach side restaurants overlooking the sea, and you never grow tired of it. Elephants, monkeys, massive palm trees, boat taxis, pineapple fruit shakes, beach bbqs and Thai massage are all elements of the experience in Thailand that make each moment so enjoyable. In a world that is changing so fast, Thailand is a beautiful reminder of a place where simple living can still be the key to happiness.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
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