For this second day in Sangkhlaburi, we start early with a morning stroll on the Mon bridge, enveloped in an unexpected fog, before continuing on the other side to discover the Mon village and its peaceful atmosphere.
On the Mon Bridge in the fog
On this last day of 2010 we got up early to try to attend the donations made to the monks. It was hard to get up very early and we couldn't be ready before 7am... (for those really interested, try around 5am-6am instead) A "surprise" was waiting for us this morning, the fog arrived and it was one of the rare times in Thailand and I had the opportunity to put on a sweater, which we had planned because we were expecting it to be cool, it's still "winter" here too, let's not forget!
A real pea soup where you couldn't see the opposite bank.
For the monks, à barely 7 hours and it was basically the last one (the only one we will see)
With these dead trees towering here and thereà in the middle of the river and the fog, the whole thing gives a very ghostly appearance à the scene.
Part of the bridge is the only element that can be seen in the immediate surroundings.
For those who are a little hungry, there is always something nearby.
And as I said before, there is also an undeniable mix of cultures.
The local inhabitants are easily recognizable, especially the men often wear the sarong (rolled fabric that acts as "trousers" although it is more like a
skirt)
Walk to the village of Wangka
So we are already away from the hustle and bustle of the market and not a single tourist takes the time to venture there, for them the village I would tend to say that they completely skip it, out of laziness, lack of time, not interesting in their eyes, in the end what does it matter, what suits us is that we can come there without having the impression of visiting a "zoo" because the people here go about their business as if nothing was happening.
We arrive in the “Burmese village” part.
Powder on the face is one of the typical characteristics of the Burmese (to protect the skin from the sun's rays among other things)
For all purchases of “souvenirs” and local dishes, this is where it’s at
past.
Children, although shy at first, will generally appreciate having their photo taken (and seeing the result especially!)
And hop, on a motorbike!
Small local shop, when you get there there are no more tourists,
which hardly go further than just after the bridge…
We are not seen as walking slot machines or anything but as people who are interested in their daily lives, their culture etc… at least that is the impression it gives.
And for the photo and the contact with locals there is nothing better. Knowing that concerning the photos, in places like this, we get into the habit of printing some to offer them, it is always with a smile and with a certain amusement that they receive this "gift" which is rather unusual, it must be said.
3/4 of the houses are simply made of bamboo.
Between the "commercial" part of the village and the rest of the inhabitants (on the other side of the hill) are the plantations in the middle.
From there, a breathtaking view of the bridge, still shrouded in fog.
Here they dry a type of grass (I think) that will be used to make brooms (the part that is actually used for sweeping)
The little one seems to be having fun.
Scene from everyday life.
Construction of a new house, the entire frame is obviously made of wood.
Here comes a young man, probably an autistic teenager or something like that, here under the amused gazeé from a neighbor, he posed immediately when he saw me with the camera, which earned me the next series.
This kind of village clearly reminds me of those we saw in Cambodia.
It is always an attraction for children to see foreigners and their "big devices".
It's almost time for lunch.
A little mug.
The sun finally comes out and the fog is almost cleared., it's time for us to come back and have a bite to eat, before going to join the boat that we have reserved to go for our trip on the river and see in particular the famous temple (well what's left of it).
Meanwhile, preparations for tonight's party are in full swing.
Bamboo stakes are placed every 2 meters, I thought they were going to serve as "ramps" to launch the rockets, but no, not at all, it will simply be torches.
To see the rest and end of this day in Sangkhlaburi, here it is right here !
