The First Day

 To Phuket on Smile was an experience; not only were we the largest group who occupied the whole plane; we were tickled by the space we had to ourselves. Perhaps a Friday noon is not the normal travelling time for many but also maybe this was a new route to the destination. 

Thai Airways is fiercely promoting this sector.

 Oh we noticed the flight stewardesses had similar big orange ribbons or scarves as part of their attire too.

 Upon arrival, we were quickly led to a local restaurant; Marina. Thai food is hot. Every meal is accompanied by the tom yam soup; as though symbolizing its authenticity in Thai cuisine.

In the beginning; it's too hot for us but by the end of the trip, food tasted bland when there is no tom yam!

Acquired.

After a hasty meal we made our way to Maung Thalang school; a rural school set in a beautiful landscape.

 

 The children were excited; they asked "Is the band greeting us?" No, I am afraid. A minister was coming at the same time; we had the spill over. Never mind; we had the privilege of seeing a percussion band.

 The Thais are gracious, humble and polite; so we were all showered with garlands of fragrant jasmime?

 They had a choir ready to perform too. They sang in Thai; the sing song style. But I could not help but notice the traditional clothes they put on; also the traditional hair style reminded me of it being a taboo in our local schools. Strange; the unique style is traditional and acceptable in the Thai culture but we will have to send students home if they wear them to school; so says it " one man's poison is another man's meat".

 With garlands of flowers around their collars and after a hectic flight and meal, the choir rose up to the occasion and put up a wonderful show of Malaysian folk songs .

 They impressed this Canadian lady; the Mc of the day. English is not well used and the school has employed expatriates to teach here. This lady spoke on behalf of the school and praised the choir.

Malaysia indeed is blessed to have English well used and understood.

 Soon, the exchange of certificates and gifts took place; sad but true we could not understand one another and so we resorted to the sign language.

 "Kenali lah Malaysia" was also part of our mission. We brought gifts from Selangor Tourism and invited them to visit Malaysia.

 The little ambassadors played their roles well; sang, acted and distributed Selangor Tourism souvenirs to everyone present.

 What a glorious time to check into the hotel for a very short rest; we did not want to waste our time sleeping.

 Look, we were in for a good evening of fun and joy.

At Phuket Fanta Sea; the talk of the town.

 We ate till the cows came home.

 This place is a beautiful theme park where we could forget the woes of the world and be parked in fantasy and make beliefs. It is good to be lost in the world of fantasy.

Phuket Fanta Sea is where you want to be; so says the song.

 The children had fun.

 Perhaps this is most mesmerizing and unforgettable. White tigers; white coffee we have heard and tasted. But this is the first time in my life seeing this species of the wild cat.

After a round of fantasies, we had the greatest time when we were ushered into a theater to watch a life show of Thai culture, dance and drama. Elephants, chickens, birds and trapezes stole our hearts as we watched in awe at the majestic display of talents. We were barred from taking photographs; you will understand why when you enter the place. It's hard to forget the experience.

 

The evening ended with us collapsing in our beds but En Rahim sneaked out with a few students to his favourite haunt; Hard Rock Cafe. He must get his T shirt; that's what he does whenever he travels I believe. 

Oh but actually, the poor guy had to leave wife and children for this duty and then to spend his "Birthday" with us. 

Happy Birthday En Rahim.

The first day ended well.