Tag Archives: Buddhism
MHS Loop Video Part Two Posted by sasha on Jan 12, 2015
Check out the town of Mae Hong Son and its many beautiful temples, then jump on the bike and cruise to Soppong. Along the way, stop at a waterfall, mud spa, and fish cave.
A Short Guide to Chiang Mai City Posted by sasha on Nov 11, 2014
One of the most popular places to visit in all of Thailand, Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่) is a city rich with history and culture. Former capital of the Kingdom of Lanna (อาณาจักรล้านนา), the “New City” was founded by King Mengrai in 1296. Chiang Mai is the capital of the province by the same name, and it’s…
A Guide to Chiang Rai Posted by sasha on Sep 25, 2014
Depending on which way you’re headed in a Southeast Asia adventure, Chiang Rai (เชียงราย) may be your first or last stop in Thailand. This northern provincial capital is often visited on a day trip or used simply as a necessary transit stop, but there’s much more to do here if given a few days. On…
How to Become a Thai Monk: First Impressions and Daily Schedule, part 2 Posted by palmisano on Nov 29, 2013
[This article is a continuation of a series of articles on becoming a Thai Buddhist monk.] Reading Books While it wasn’t required of me, I felt I should try to study Buddhist teachings while I’m a monk. I read various literature and watched documentaries on Youtube. The book I really recommend is “Handbook for…
How to Become a Thai Monk: First Impressions and Daily Schedule, part 1 Posted by palmisano on Nov 27, 2013
I had internally imagined what life as a monk would be like long before becoming one. And after becoming one, my expectations were mostly the same. As you read this, keep in mind that monk life in the US is much more comfortable than in Thailand. The rules are a bit different, too, for practical…
How to Become a Thai Monk: Preparation, part 3 Posted by palmisano on Oct 28, 2013
Preparing for งานบวช ngaan1 buad2 is not much different from preparing for a wedding. It is an entire family affair where everyone gets involved and helps out. You need to have ‘rented’ a temple, donations for monks, a full meal ready for all the guests, musical instruments, flowers…
How to Become a Thai Monk: Preparation, part 2 Posted by palmisano on Oct 26, 2013
Beyond memorizing the chanting you also should practice kneeling like a monk. While most Thais have no problem with it, the larger heavier framed farang can find it painful. I certainly did. As a monk, you’ll be expected to kneel one to two hours per day. For me, the kneeling position…