Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Winding to a Close

Our trip to Kanachanaburi has come and gone but this entry is about the time at Mahidol the week before our excursion. Our time is coming to a close but we’re making the most of every moment we have left in this beautiful country. This past week we have had plenty of free time to explore the city. After class on Wednesday we headed for Suan Lum, a night market in the city of Bangkok. The cab ride into the city was characteristic of traffic in Bangkok. Drivers weave through traffic with motorcyclists zipping in between the cars. Stop lights can last up to six minutes halting the flow of traffic for extended periods of time. Needless to say gridlock is common! Cab rides into the city from Mahidol are easy to obtain and cheap especially when you share the cab with others. It is nothing like a taxi ride in the States but they will get you where you need to go! There are a countless number of vendors and fantastic food in Suan Lum that it is quite easy to get lost in the environment. Our goal for the day was to secure (among many last minute gifts) these spectacular Thai boxing shorts for loved ones back home. Bargaining is an art and one girl in the group was able to negotiate the best possible price for a large selection of shorts for everyone. If you ever have the chance to get out to Suan Lum definitely go for it. After shopping for souvenirs and gifts head for the outdoor canteen. The food options are endless and you can eat under the stars while watching superb performances and listening to soothing music.

Of course we had to try on the shorts to test out our purchases!


Thai dancing was the activity scheduled for Thursday after our class with Dr. Copeland on the History of Thailand and Kevin Hewison, our guest lecturer. In traditional Thai dance there is heavy emphasis on hand movements. The movements are representative of various facets of Thai culture. One dance originated from the image of planting flowers, another mimics the elegant action of a girl applying powder. It is a partner dance performed in a circle with other couples. Two teachers of traditional Thai dance showed us three of their native dances. We watched and attempted their graceful motions. Each action holds meaning which is why the hand movements are intricate and difficult to grasp at times. Nonetheless, the experience and chance to learn this aspect of Thai culture was irreplaceable and we all had fun trying our hand at the art of Thai dance.


I am incredibly appreciative of this opportunity to explore Southeast Asia, thank you!

Morgan

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