Join us on a meaningful two-day journey to Si Samrong, Sukhothai, where we experience the dual realities of life in rural Thailand—a traditional Buddhist house blessing ceremony for one of Chanya’s uncles, and the harsh aftermath of devastating floods that have swept through the region.
The trip begins with a 6-hour night drive from Nakhon Pathom to avoid traffic, picking up our story at a fuel stop just two hours outside Sukhothai. Upon arrival at the family farm, I jump on a motorcycle to explore the nearby Yom River, checking on the rising floodwaters. A short ride down the road reveals the extent of the destruction, where floodwaters have washed away a vital road that connects Si Samrong to Sukhothai, cutting off the community.
Later that evening, we gather with family and friends at Chanya’s uncle’s home, enjoying traditional Thai food and local entertainment in the lead-up to the house blessing ceremony. The next morning, we attend the sacred Buddhist house blessing—a momentous cultural event that brings together the local community for blessings of prosperity and protection.
After the ceremony, we head into the town of Si Samrong for a comforting lunch at a familiar noodle shop, followed by a trip to a nearby town’s local market to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and pick up fresh goods. As the journey wraps up, we reflect on the resilience of the local community and the cultural beauty of rural Thailand before making the long drive home.
Witness the harmony of Thai tradition and the challenges faced by those in rural communities after natural disasters in this immersive travel experience.