Hello to all of you from the middle of the Indian Ocean! Setting sail to Colombo, Sri Lanka where we will arrive tomorrow morning.
We have already spent time in Phuket, Thailand (two days ago now), which was an intriguing experience.
Phuket is also the name of the island and the city, and every year roughly 8.5 million tourists visit here.
The city of Phuket is chaotic, crazy and yet there were pockets of peacefulness as temples for Buddha were found interspersed here and there, in shrines displayed in front of businesses, restaurants and homes.
Monks were also seen everywhere. They are considered mediums between the afterlife and this life, so they are looked on with great reverence.
I took time away from the busyness to do an eco-hike excursion at the last remaining virgin rain forest in Thailand. This beautiful area is now under heavy protection and conservation measures by the government, and the royal family of Thailand. There is now recognition of the importance for this ecological sanctuary and its diminishing ecosystem.
I have never seen such incredible vegetation and various species of trees, which are so large I could barely see the tops as they stretched into the sky. Some of these species are only found in this forest, so of course the protection of this area is even more vital.
And, what I found most phenomenal about the older trees is how the younger ones formed supportive branches and roots surrounding the ancient members to keep them grounded and upright. Taking care of their family, so to speak! Some of the trees we saw were considered to be over 300 to 500 years old, if not older.
The butterflies and dragonflies were huge and their camouflage was remarkable. I saw what looked like a yellow leaf drifting down and then it started moving upwards, so I certainly caught on quick! They didn't seem to fly but glide and float. Very cool!
I also saw a baby bat just hanging out on the underside of a huge palm tree leaf. This palm tree is the last of its species in the world and only found here, so I felt truly honoured that I was able to be up close and personal.
Our tour guide, Saks, is former military and still teaches the military on survival in the jungle. I have learned a few tips, which I hope I never have to use!
He was very conscientious about our care and made sure to lead us on our hike, in case there were any cobras or other dangerous animals on the path. We were also kept together as strength in numbers was key since this forest is known for its tiger population!
Saks is also now working with a Canadian conservationist project to protect other areas of Thailand, and their animal populations from poachers.
This tour really resonated with me and I believe if more tourists visit such places then conserving these areas and their inhabitants would become a greater priority.
Tourism is big business, as is production of rubber with rubber tree plantations dotting the landscape. It takes rubber trees seven years to reach maturity and for them to
produce enough rubber. Once these trees are removed new trees are planted for a new crop, and in the meantime pineapple is grown between the new trees to provide another resource for the farmers.
Fresh fruit such as pineapples, mangoes, papayas, coconuts, bananas...are also crops grown in this country. The mining of rubies, sapphires, iron, tin and other resources adds to the economy. Such a rich history of culture and early trade with European and Asian nations, and these influences are still felt and seen today.
Days at sea are both relaxing and busy. So much to do if I want, or doing nothing is possible as well. The entertainment is constant. Movies play from morning to late night on the top deck of the ship overlooking the pools and hot tubs.
There are also Broadway theatre music productions. I met Phillip Browne who is an incredible performer and has been in numerous West End productions in London. He played Mufasa in the Lion King, and from his show last night I would definitely line up to see him perform. Plus he's really personable and humble, so even better. I will have to buy his music when I return home.
I have been taking advantage of lectures that are held on board in between spending time at the gym to work off the delicious food that is always available. Yesterday, I took in a lecture on Picasso, and a lecture on The History of Europe. So much to learn. I feel like I am a true student here and it's not lost on me how much I don't know. Taking it all in!
This ship is full of people from all nationalities, races, religions. Our very own United Nations. I do happen to be one of the youngest passengers and so I feel I'm becoming wiser by the day. There is such a wealth of knowledge here as I meet so many wonderful people. By the end of the 27 days I'm sure we will be one big amazing family!
The seas are a bit rough out here in the ocean, so getting my sea legs slowly but surely when I'm not hanging by the many pools in 30+ degree Celsius weather along with the steady humidity. Already have a bit of a sunburn, and my massage therapist, Divna (from Serbia), gently reminds me that this sun so close to the equator is stronger than what I may be used to. After such a cold winter and craving the sun it's difficult not to lay out for long periods, especially with a pina colada or some other fine cold beverage!
The Indian Ocean is incredible - the richest colour of blue I have ever seen to the ends of the horizons in 360 degrees. Makes one feel quite humbled and small in this immense body of water.
The stars and moon are even different here with the crescent moon appearing upside down and unknown constellations emerging in the sky between the nightly rain showers at sea. I have managed to find the Southern Cross, but I would be lost at sea if I had to navigate by the stars as in the ancient mariners' days.
Tomorrow in Colombo I will be visiting an elephant orphanage, which was set up in 1984 and now has over 70 elephants living there. This is the largest herd in captivity in the world and as elephants are being driven to extinction, this 24 acre breeding ground becomes even more relevant to their survival. There are various activities I am looking forward to seeing, such as milk and fruit feeding of the baby elephants, and elephants bathing in the river. Should be an extraordinary experience!
I will end this now but will be writing in the next couple of days. Hope this finds you all very well and being great to yourselves! Chat soon!
Love, Jae
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