Author Archives: Richard Barrow

Toilets for Thai Lady Boys

In Thailand, life is often not as simple as black and white. There are also many shades of grey. Take for example the Rest Room. In most places you will see toilets which are clearly labelled for Men and Women. … Continue reading

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Human Puppets

I think we are all probably familiar with the different kinds of puppet shows. Everything from the basic hand puppets to more intricately designed puppets operated by a series of strings. In Thailand, there are also shadow puppets. But, it … Continue reading

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Samchuk Market Suphanburi

One of the better preserved traditional markets in Thailand can be found in Suphanburi Province. It is called Sam Chuk 100 Year Market and it still has its original wooden shophouses that date back to the reign of King Rama … Continue reading

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Year of the Dragon

According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2012 is the Year of the Dragon. It started on 23rd January and will end on 9th February 2013. This year you are sure to see quite a few different kinds of dragons that will … Continue reading

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Chinatown in Bangkok

Bangkok’s Chinatown is an old business center covering a large area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Roads. There are many small streets and alleys full of shops and vendors selling all types of goods. It has been the main centre … Continue reading

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Thai Children and Guns

On the second Saturday in January every year, Thailand celebrates the youth of the country by organizing Children’s Day. Many places, like zoos and theme parks offer free or reduced admission. Even the skytrain and subway in Bangkok let kids … Continue reading

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Thai Elephant Parade

Throughout history, Thai elephants have been indispensible creatures employed in both labor and war. A Thai elephant had even graced the national flag during the reign of King Rama II. I took this picture during a parade in Uthai Thani. … Continue reading

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Monks at School

In the past, the only schools in Thailand were temple schools. Quite often, poor farmers would send their youngest sons to be novice monks at the temple where they were given free food and accommodation as well as an education. … Continue reading

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Young Muay Thai Fighters

I was taking pictures at a Muay Thai Exhibition when I came across these Thai youngsters. They had just taken part in a demonstration “Wai Khru” ceremony and were eager to have their picture taken. Buffer

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Half Church – Half Temple

This is a fascinating building. On the outside it looks just like a Christian cathedral. It even has a spire and stained glass windows. It is Wat Niwet Thammaprawat and was ordered to built by King Rama V in 1878. … Continue reading

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The Summer Palace

Bang Pai In Royal Palace can be found along the Chao Phraya River in a district of the same name between Bangkok and Ayutthaya City. The original complex dates back to the 17th Century, but most of the buildings that … Continue reading

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The Golden Mermaid

The famous Golden Mermaid can be found at Samila Beach not far from Songkhla. The Golden Mermaid is a character from Phra Aphai Mani, a popular book in Thai literature by Sunthon Phu. In this folk tale, a mermaid sat … Continue reading

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Chiang Rai’s Golden Clock Tower

One of the most beautiful clock towers that I have seen in Thailand is this one that can be found in Chiang Rai. It was built by renowned artist Chalermchai Kositpipap who also created the White Temple. Every evening at … Continue reading

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Sunset at the Seaside in Samut Prakan

For people living and working in Bangkok, the nearest place to enjoy a sunset over the Gulf of Thailand is in Bang Pu in Samut Prakan Province. At this time of the year you can see thousands of migratory birds. … Continue reading

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House of National Artist Thawan Duchanee

If you have ever been to Chiang Rai then you have probably visited the White Temple. But have you ever visited a place which is the complete opposite? Literally! This collection of interesting buildings is at a place called Baan … Continue reading

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