Phuket, Thailand

On a steamy hot morning, we docked at the harbour of Phuket.  While the area is known for its beautiful beaches and night life, we went on a tour to the Village of the Four Regions. The bus passed through a patchwork of scenes from traditional homes on stilts, rice paddies and modern structures.  Our tour guide, a charming young gentleman dressed in a decorative sarong, explained a great deal about his country, and proudly reflected that it had never been colonized, so retains much of its original culture.  Others have been brought in, such as the Chinese to work in the tin mines, so there is some blending. One fascinating item he pointed out was that every house and building has a “spirit house” outside.  Some are quite ornate, while others are small decorative structures.  Offerings are made in the morning to the spirits.  They really gave the lovely gardens an added dimension.  The flowers of all sorts, but especially orchids, were outstanding.

Being welcomed by dancers

 When we arrived at the village, we were greeted by a group of richly adorned young people and the sounds of long drums. We were each presented with a beautiful custom painted parasol, which was a blessing as we proceeded out to the open areas and the hot sun, even though it was morning.   Everywhere we looked, there was something going on: Thai dancing, fruit and flower carving, food demonstrations and tastings, an elephant show, and the opportunity to ride on an elephant! The refreshments were most welcomed, especially Chang beer.

Early morning refreshment (40+ C)

 

Our first activity, after trying the beer, was to go for an elephant ride.  Those things are really tall, and we had to climb up to a platform to get on.  Following this excitement, we wandered through the village, which reflects the traditional way of life in four areas of Thailand.  It was all very beautiful and informative.  They had a woman preparing silk right from the cocoons, people cooking tasty morsels on wet banana leaves over open fires, batik painting, and other traditional activities.  

Gail on an elephant ride

John doing the same

A local water fountain

Flower and vegetable transport

Gail with local tribespeople

Inside a mud hut

Saying goodbye

 

When we returned to the ship, very hot from the oppressive humidity and bright sun, there was a large market all set up and ready to exchange any manner of local goods for tourist dollars.  We succumbed for a short while, but were very happy to return to the air conditioned ship.