Hat Yai : Other than Shopping and Eating

Yes yes yes… Everyone has been asking me, did you not stay at Lee Garden? No shopping at the night market at Lee Garden? The kacang shop place, did you go? And the answer is no no and no.

This trip has been rather unique, instead of visiting the ever so popular and famous place (and hotel) in Hat Yai, we visited the local most visited place. I bet many of you aren’t aware – yea lah kan… asyik gi makan and shopping kat Lee Garden jer. So, let me take you to this great outdoor place called Kor Hong Mountain located approximately 20 mins from your favourite place. Click here to watch the video.

As you know (macam lah you all semua tahu kan), I kinda like to add nature ie park, zoo or any outdoorish place in my trip and this time around I visited the Kor Hong Mountain – a hang-out place for them locals. Few things that you can check-out here which is:

1. Hat Yai View Point : my favourite thus far as you can see the whole Hat Yai from here and it is so breezy.

2. Park : A great place for family, dating, boating and exercise spot. You can jog or walk from here up to the View Point on a perfectly tar-road.
3. Golden Buddha : A locals place of worship, located right on top at the view point. And you walk down you will pass by another god statue as well as a temple.

The golden Buddha or Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maharat was built in 1999 to commemorate the 72nd birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Apparently (only got to know after I left Hat Yai) this place is connected by a cable-car.

Next, you’ll pass by the Goddess Guan Yin Statue – Goddess Guanyin is usually referred to as the most widely beloved Buddhist Divinity. In Chinese Buddhism, Guan Yin is synonymous with the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, the pinnacle of mercy, compassion, kindness and love.

As you walk further down, you’ll meet the cheerful Laughing Buddha statue. Laughing Buddha represents joy, contentment, and prosperity in East Asian cultures.

Last but not least you will reach the temple, half way between the View Point and the Hat Yai Municipal Park. You can continue on foot to the park or get your car to meet you here, ample parking bay and restroom is available too.

You can easily spend an hour just lounging and enjoying the breeze kissing you chubby cheeks, and continue with a stroll/hike down where you will be greeted by the goddess and god. Do it in the evening, cause it’ll give you a perfect excuse to head to local night market for dinner.

Hat Yai Municipal Park
Hat Yai District, Songkhla
Thailand
Operating hours: 6am – 8pm daily (open for joggers)
Entrance fee: Free

AETMET 2023 Media Fam Trip is organized by Tourism Authority of Thailand in partnership with all its sponsors. #AmazingThailand #AmazingThailandKL #AmazingNewChapters #YourStoriesNeverEnd #TourismThailandKL

Khan Mak Beng: A Unique Craft and Cultural Tradition

Khan Mak Beng is a traditional ceremonial offering from some areas in Thailand as well as in Laos. Khan Mak Beng has been part of Lao tradition for centuries, representing a confluence of spirituality and respect for nature. It is believed to have originated from the ancient practice of creating offerings to appease spirits, gods, and ancestors, a practice that later intertwined with Buddhist rituals.

The Art Behind Khan Mak Beng

To create a Khan Mak Beng requires a highly skilled person, its cone-shaped structure symbolizing Mount Meru (the mythical mountain considered the center of the universe in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cosmology). This intricate design that was meticulous assembled is made from banana leaves and other natural materials. The structure is then built up in layers using various natural elements, including flowers, leaves, and fruits. The Khan Mak Beng is often adorned with intricate patterns and motifs that have cultural and spiritual significance, including representations of naga (males) and nagi (female – both are mythical serpents) and lotus flowers which are symbols of purity.

What is Khan Mak Beng Used For

It serves both a religious and cultural purpose in Thai and Lao society. It is used as an offering during religious ceremonies, including Boun (Lao festivals), weddings, and temple rituals. The offering is a way for devotees to make merit, a fundamental concept in Buddhism, where good deeds are believed to bring spiritual benefits in this life and the next. In temple rituals, it is offered to monks as a sign of respect and to seek blessings.

What is Khan Mak Beng Made Of
The primary material is the fruitless banana leaves, which are used to form the base and structure. Banana leaves are valued for their durability, flexibility, and their green color, which represents life and fertility.

The cone is decorated with flowers like marigolds, known for their vibrant color and association with purity and spiritual power. Other materials used in the construction of Khan Mak Beng include bamboo sticks, which provide structural support, and fruits, particularly betel nuts, represent prosperity and abundance.

When is Khan Mak Beng Used?

Khan Mak Beng is used in various religious and cultural events such as Boun Ok Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) and Boun That Luang (That Luang Festival), weddings, welcoming a newborn, sending off someone who is leaving, or celebrating a person’s return after a long absence.

Khan Mak Beng is primarily a Buddhist offering used to gain merit and blessings reflecting variations in the cultural and religious practices of the Lao and Thai people, although similar practices might exist among other South East Asian ethnicities.

AETMET 2023 Media Fam Trip is organized by Tourism Authority of Thailand in partnership with all its sponsors. #AmazingThailand #AmazingThailandKL #AmazingNewChapters #YourStoriesNeverEnd #TourismThailandKL

Rediscovering Ayutthaya

It had been more than 15 years since my last visit to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, and memories of its serene temples and rich history lingered in my mind. This time, I embarked on a day trip from Bangkok, eager to witness the changes and immerse myself in the city's cultural tapestry once again.

The journey from Bangkok to Ayutthaya was a smooth ride, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by minivan - of course you can also that the bus or train, whichever rocks your boat, offering a convenient and affordable travel option for travelers. Alternatively, there are also private taxis or organized tours that are readily available for those looking for a more personalized experience.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by a sight that surpassed my expectations. The transformation of Ayutthaya was a great surprise, with modern amenities seamlessly integrated into its historical landscape. From well-maintained carparks to informative signages and clean restroom facilities, the efforts to enhance the visitor experience were evident at every turn. Kudos Tourism Thailand - am in awe.

As I strolled through the ancient ruins, a sense of admiration washed over me, witnessing the ongoing restoration projects that breathed new life into all these centuries-old structures. The attention to detail showcased a profound respect for Ayutthaya's history and cultural heritage, preserving its legacy for the younger generations.

Among the notable temples I explored were Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Mahathat, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, each offering a glimpse into Thailand's illustrious past.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram stands as a testament to Ayutthaya's architectural splendor, with its intricate spires and ornate reliefs reflecting the grandeur of the Ayutthayan era.

Operating hours : 8.30 AM - 5.00 PM
Entrance fee : 50 Baht

Wat Phra Mahathat is renowned for its iconic Buddha head entwined within the roots of a Bodhi tree (no pic taken as I have visited this site a decade ago hence I wandered to new areas), invites visitors to delve into the spiritual heart of Ayutthaya. 
Operating hours : 8.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Entrance fee : 50 Baht

At Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, towering stupas and serene courtyards beckon travelers to explore its storied past. 
Operating hours : 8.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Entrance fee : 20 Baht

As I marveled at the architectural marvels and soaked in the tranquil ambiance of Ayutthaya, I couldn't help but share my experience with my sister -  yes I WhatsApp-ed her, eager to plan our next adventure here together. Again.

Ayutthaya has always been special to me in a way (my first trip using Bangkok as a base), its charm and the timeless allure of Thailand's cultural and heritage. Everytime I travel to Thailand, I am reminded of the connection between past and present, can't wait to revisit Ayutthaya.