Saturday, October 11, 2008The Thai people have a unique outlook on life, called "Sabai Sabai" - which translated means relaxed, easy-going and happy. We were certainly relaxed and happy while we were there! There were hammocks to nap in, day beds that invited you to lay back and read a book, even hydrotherapy beds in the swimming pools! At sunset the big cushioned chairs near the beach were a hotspot, as everyone wanted to see the beautiful sunset. We tried some Thai food which we liked for the most part. Wesley discovered a cinamon roll at the bakery which was as big as a dinner plate and got his daily dose of sugar. (In Singapore the bakeries use very little if any sugar so this was a real treat!) The highlight of our stay at the Marriott was seeing the two resident elephants that roamed the property - "Jumbo" and "Yum Yum". In the late afternoon, Yum Yum would head for the beach and swim in the ocean, accompanied by lots of kids and adults, too! Jumbo entertained us by playing the harmonica. I even got a massage by Yum Yum one day! (see the pic). Kasey and I had massages on the beach by local women. A one hour massage was only 400 Thai Bahts, which is roughly $12 US dollars! We rode Dune Buggies on the beach and also in the rural part of town, allowing us a glimpse of daily life for the locals. That was as close as Wesley will get to driving a car for the next few years...Speaking of Wesley, he saw his first topless sunbather on the beach (and there was a LOT to see!) Click on the pic of Wes and be sure to zoom in on the gal in the background. :) Shelby and Wes went on a fishing trip one day and caught mostly tuna, while Kasey and I went shopping in town. We found a 7-11 and came back with lots of chewing gum!!! Another fun day was spent sea kayaking in the caves (hongs). The kids' favorite part was jumping off the top of the boat in the water!
We would love to go back to Thailand again someday; it was an awesome experience and one that we will never forget.
