In 2011, twenty-five students and staff members flew into Southeast Asia to see the Golden Kingdom. Know also as "The Land of Smiles" we were received warmly everywhere we ventured. The trip began in Bangkok and traversed the countryside in Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and ended on an island in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang. Experiences were diverse and included elephant rides in the jungles and handling fully-grown tigers in the Tiger Temple. Students participated in Muay Thai Boxing at Rangsit Staduim under the direction of champion fighters, witnessed the weapons arts of Krabi Krabong in the old capital ruins and fed monks in the morning hours. Additional highlights included snorkeling off the coast and zip-lining through the jungle canopy.
Muay Thai class at Rangsit Stadium, Bangkok.
Post training group picture at Rangsit Stadium, Bangkok
A young Jacob works the bag with a trainer.
Hill Tribes joyfully celebrate, Chiang Mai
Fire dance, Chiang Mai
Handling crocodiles at SriRacha Zoo, Pattaya
Newly awarded black belts at the feet of famous hero, Nai Khanom Tom
The Bridge over the River Kwai.
Suda the elephant demonstrates her artistic side.
Demonstration of Krabi Krabong, Ayutthaya
Group picture at the ruins of Ayutthaya
The painstakingly hand-carved Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya
The Sanctuary of Truth in progress, Pattaya
Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi
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Iconic Grand Palace, Bangkok
Destiny interacts with the elephants at Chiang Mai.
William relaxing with the tigers of Kanchanaburi
Ali and Julian with a reticulated python at the Queen's Snake Farm, Bangkok.
Not all of the reptiles were so anxious to be handled.
Julian rigged up for the zip-line adventure.
Diego soars through the tree tops.
Procession of monks receive their meals.
Enchanting dinner dance performance.
