Sunday, April 18, 2010
Songkran - a visit to the Temple
We visited Wat Thepnmit for Songkran. This temple is on highway 2134 in the South of Phuket and is 2kms from Amphoe Phana.
Songkran at the temple was certainly an experience - I don't think that this temple was a tourist attraction - we were the only 'farangs' there. We waited patiently to give our small gifts to the parade of monks that left the temple. Following this a number of our guests entered the temple to give their blessings - lovely.
Things swiftly changed when we got back in the buses to return to the Cape Panwa Hotel, gone was the gentleness and respect that was shown in the temple.
We were ambushed everywhere as we drove through Phuket. The driver stopped at every opportunity so that we would be soaked from people on the side of the road - a very wet but enjoyable ride back. On returning to the hotel the water splashing did not stop - more water was thrown and games were played on the beach - fun for all ages.
Then we had a Thai buffet on the beach with sumptuous delicacies prepared by Chef Phudon and his team. We were treated to a Ponglang Parade and Thai music whilst the food was devoured. Then came a fire show that had to be seen - he actually breathed fire - then Spirit balloons were lit - a special evening to welcome the Thai New Year.
Sawasdee pee mai
