An Orthodox Christian priest at the Monastery Church of Neakutoleab in Lalibela, Ethiopia, shows me the 500-year old “Miracle of St. Mary” book. Both the text and illustrations were done by hand using plant-based inks on goatskin parchment. The Monastery Church of Neakutoleab was originally built inside a natural cave by King Lalibela in the … Read more
A highlight of the Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is the cycling parade of parasol-carrying ladies dressed in traditional Lanna attire. From the top of their head to the tip of their toes, they exude elegance. Their long lustrous black tresses are swept up into elaborate buns and decorated with cascades of fresh flowers. … Read more
Thai New Year is celebrated with a four or five day holiday that falls in mid-April each year. The holiday, known as Songkran, is celebrated throughout Thailand, but Songkran in Chiang Mai is celebrated with true abandon. Festivities kick off at 6 a.m. at Thapae Gate, where Buddhist monks offer a blessing and join an … Read more
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs in the hills outside of Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a great day trip for visitors. Twin geysers erupt perpetually, throwing the stinky sulfur water into the air. The scalding water is piped into a concrete pool where visitors can boil fresh eggs that are available for purchase in the park. Wicker … Read more
The villages around the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai have long been known for the production of traditional handicrafts such as furniture, wood carvings, paper umbrellas, silk, hammered silver, jewelry, lacquerware, and Celadon ceramics. However Saa paper products, made from the bark of Mulberry trees, may be the most unique of these handmade products. … Read more
