Sukhothai

Here are a few words from Trina Stock:

Hello Everyone,

I hope you are all doing well back at home. Currently, we are in Sukhothai and it is 82 degrees Fahrenheit, not to brag or anything. J This morning we biked through the country and city. It was amazing. It was beautiful to look out and see green everywhere, not that brown we’re used to seeing in the good ole Midwest. A lot of the villages we biked through today haven’t seen many Westerns, so with thirty of us coming through on bikes, our presence was definitely known.  Between the adults and the children, the people are above and beyond amazing. They do so much for us and it is obvious they truly like having us here. The hotel we are staying at now had a dinner for us in their garden last night. It was beautiful and the food was delicious. Now tonight they have arranged for us to have dinner at the ruins during sunset. I can only imagine that it is going to be just as amazing as well. This far into the trip, there has been so many beautiful and breathtaking sights that it is hard to even explain them, pictures and words will not be able to do this experience justice. Everyday there is a new experience and story that follows and I can’t wait to get home and share them.  Mom, I am alive and doing well. Don’t worry, I’ll be home before you know it and I love you lots. To all my family and friends I miss and love you lots! See you soon!

Trina Stock

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Japanese buffalo

Some thoughts from Chelsie Kurtenbach:

Sawadeeka Everyone,

I’m sure everyone has been following our adventures on the blog so far, so I will just go over what we have done the past few days. Our last day in Chiang Mai we were able to do whatever we wanted for the afternoon, so I decided to go to the zoo. It was interesting to compare a Thailand zoo to a zoo in the states. I thought it was a lot of fun to see all the different animals that I have never even heard of. So that was my last day in Chiang Mai, (and of course I got one last massage there). So it was kind of sad to leave Chiang Mai, but it was also nice to be moving on. Sukhothai is so different from everywhere else we have been. It is not a touristy place that’s for sure. The place where we are staying has separate little houses with some of them over ponds. It is really pretty here! After arriving, we went on bike rides to see the ruins. I thought it was a nice change from all the temples we have been seeing; they look so unique. Then last night the staff was nice enough to give us a buffet dinner in the garden. Everyone is so nice here and always smiling and saying hi! And today we went on a bike ride through the countryside of Sukhothai. It’s always great to get out of the city and get some fresh air. I liked riding by all the rice fields and learning a little bit about the farmers. It’s so interesting to compare Thai farming go Minnesota farming. It’s just interesting to compare everything to the states because everything is so different here. So today was a lot of fun just biking around in the country J I could just keep going on and on about my experiences, but I will save those until I’m in person. I’m having a great time, but I do miss some people from home (you know who you are). Hope everyone is staying warm and enjoyed that 30 degree heat wave!

Chelsie Kurtenbach

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Sukothai

A bit of a dark picture, however, the ruins of Sukothai (original capital of Thailand) were bright and beautiful. Each of the students had their own bike and toured the site. This took place after we said goodbye to Chiang Mai this morning, and with an uneventful bus ride, we arrived in Sukothai early this afternoon.

For the next two nights we will stay at the Lotus Village in Sukothai. The students are small bungalows. (Small by their standards.) a bit of a departure from our accomodations in Chiang Mai, however, I know they can survive without television for a couple of nights. It is nice to be out of the city.

Tomorrow (Friday) brings a 4 hour bike ride through the countryside and a sunset dinner in the ruins. Should be romantic. On Saturday we return to Bangkok for a few days before heading south to the island of Koh Chang.

We all hope it’s warm in MN.

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Monks and Mountains

It is now Wednesday morning in Chiang Mai.  I apologize for the brief absence in blogging, the “internets” have been down here.  Having an issue with photos at the moment too, however, I think the student’s words will do just fine.  Over the past two days the students have visited with a monk of 32 years at Wat Son Dok, climbed the 306 steps of Wat Doi Suthep (one of the most revered temples in Thailand), visited a Hmong village, trekked for hours through the mountains, swam in a waterfall, and rafted on bamboo down a river.  I hope they are tired.  I am.

Tomorrow morning (Thursday) we leave Chiang Mai for Sukothai.  I am not sure about internet availability there, so if we are quiet for a few days, don’t worry.  We arrive in Bangkok once again on Saturday evening.  Here are some thoughts of the past few days from Ann Engstrom, Kate Haglund, Krystine Meschke, and Whitney Husnik:

Greetings from across the world,

So far this trip has been the experience of a lifetime.  The people have been so open and friendly.  We have been greeted with flowers and even a banner at the massage school we attended.  Today we talked with a monk which was really interesting, we talked about Buddhism and how they practice it and live their lives.  Then we went to a temple on the side of a mountain and had to climb 360 stairs!! I definitely got my exercise for the day.  Hope all is well back in the great old state of MN, we miss you all but not the SNOW!!!!

Kate Haglund

Hi everyone!

It’s finally settled in that I’m in Thailand and away from cold snowy Minnesota! We’ve had some great adventures so far, ranging from 23 hour train rides to walking for hours in night markets.  Everything we’ve done has been enjoyable and I’ve experienced so many wonderful places, food and people, which I’ll remember forever.  I have had a great time speaking to people from Thailand and all over the world including, Australia, Switzerland, Holland, Germany, Italy and more! Everyone is so willing to share their story and teach you a little bit about their way of life, and I love taking it all in. It’s been a warm lovely day here, like always, and Doi Suthep was absolutely beautiful. I’m going to try to not to go spend the rest of my money at the night market tonight, and instead go out for dinner and get ready for trekking up to the hill tribes tomorrow! I miss you Mom, Dad, Mark, roomies and friends and I love you all! Stay warm and go Wildcats Basketball!!

Ann Engstrom

I just want to start by thanking my Mom, Dad, Steph, Bekah, and Matt for all being so supportive of my world travel endeavorsJ You all mean the world to me and I can’t thank you enough!!  This trip has truly been an experience of a lifetime.  Today will be a day that I will cherish for the rest of my life.  I was reminded of just how fortunate I am to be here as we hiked through the hills of northern Thailand.  While the day was filled with hours of physically trying activities, it was also filled with hours and hours of beautiful mental photographs that will not soon be forgotten.  We finally ventured out of the city, into the fresh air of the countryside and I don’t think I have ever seen anything so green!!  Swimming below a waterfall and being swept away by view from the summit of our climb were just a few highlights from our hike.  I personally had the opportunity to interact with a young girl from one of the villages we passed through.  She came running out to meet us with a handful of bracelets that she had made herself.   I was happy to purchase oneJ Even after all of the shopping I have done at the markets, that bracelet will still be one of my most favorite purchases.  Our day concluded with bamboo rafting down a river!!  Each raft had a different experience, some more thrilling than others, but everyone seemed to enjoy the unique opportunity.  I am thoroughly enjoying learning and experiencing so many new things and can’t wait to share my stories with everyone when I get back home!! Stay warm

Krystine Meschke

It’s hard to put into words the experiences of the day because each moment was an appeal to the senses. Getting out of the city smog early this morning and returning with the sunset was just a minor detail of today’s extravagance. To be clear, our day wasn’t extravagant in the least, everyone became a mixture of sweat, sunscreen, bug spray, and dirt after six hours in the Thai mountains, but despite any personal odors and sore feet everyone was in high spirits.  Many of my peers described the day as one of the best they have ever had, and I would have to agree. The rush of the mountain waterfall freezing my face as I walked under, the sight of the ground color changing from shimmering white to rusty red, the sound of rapid breathing, the touch of bamboo stems and raw coffee beans, and the sight of distant mountains are now deeply engraved memories. Each time I reached a strenuous stretch on the path I looked up to once again discover the story-book blue sky, this was enough to smile and continue. Not only the views, but the company, made a world of difference. Being a recently graduated St. Thomas student, I joined this trip with little connection to my “travel buddies.”  In a way I think each of us has made a new friend in the last 12 days.  Even if the friendships only go as far as the plane back, I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to discover this group of eccentricities.

Whitney Husnik

Your child has graduated

Yesterday brought us to the Thai Massage School of Chiang Mai where we graciously welcomed.  The founder of the school, Jan, was as dynamic as they come.  She entertained us with jokes, good humor, and food.  Noo, the manager of the school was as equally good humored.  As you can see from the above picture, we all fit into our massage clothes upon arrival (some better than others, as the XL didn’t quite fit Mark, not that any comments were made :).  The students learned much and seemed to enjoy the day.  We will post more pictures soon.  Today (Monday) brings us to Doi Suthep, one of the most revered temples in the country.

Here is what Mark Geskerman has to say about his massage training:

I don’t know what was blogged about our experience on the train, but in summary it was a bonding experience.  However, today brought our friendships to a whole new level… Thai Massage School! The instructors were very nice and happy to have us there; so much so that they had a plastic sign made to welcome us on our arrival. It read “Welcome St. Catherine Students”, which made those of us non-St. Kate’s students (especially the 4 boys) chuckle. It was the thought that counted.

The course is normally 5 days at the shortest; however they shortened it to 6 hours just for us today and even made a modified instruction manual. They dressed us up in uniforms which comically resembled psych patient attire which was really a sight to see when we were all outside buying ice cream during a break.

We learned some of the basics of Thai massage using each other to practice on, which made for some very entertaining moments, especially when the air conditioning seemed to stop working! After we had finished up practicing on each other, the instructor asked Sam to remove his shirt so she could show us how to use the bones to find the correct areas to massage. The funny part was that I had just finished rubbing his back down so there were red marks running up and down his spine which looked like someone had been seriously abusing him…haha.

The day culminated with a graduation ceremony complete with diplomas, music, and pictures. All in all it was a good experience, we had to leave our pride at the door, but now I can use my massage skills to charm when I get back to the states.

-Mark Geskerman

markets and cruises

A busy day today (Saturday). Several students began the day with yoga, followed by class at 10:00 am for everyone. Our discussion today centered around being uncomfortable. Discussing Buddhism, food, and other ways the students have felt uncomfortable this past week. As we look around at this group, everyone is at a different place in terms of acceptance. All the students are doing well, some are just a bit more hesitant than others. We talked about how travel has the ability to change perspectives. For many on this trip it is thier first experience abroad and Kristin and I hope that a seed has been planted so that each student on this trip continues to challenge themselves by learning about new perspectives from around the world.

Tomorrow (Sunday) everyone spends the day learning Thai massage. Ask them to practice on you when they get home.

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finding Buddha

Today was spent much the same as yesterday, half the group cooking and half the group visiting temples. Having stopped in at the cooking school, I can safely say that everyone on the trip can cook up a mean Thai meal. Make them show off their skills when they return.

The students had the afternoon off and it was fun to watch them seek out their own adventures. Some went to markets, others to play with tigers, and others yet, ziplining in the rainforest.

Tomorrow (Saturday) will be a full day. Optional market walk at 6:00 am, yoga at 8:00 am, a few hours of class, and a dinner river cruise.

We are encouraging the students to get outside their comfort zones now that we have been here for a week. Try more foods, talk with the Thai people more and more, immerse yourselves in the culture. Thr students are doing a fine job.

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Temples and Cooking

Second post of the day.  Scroll down for some information on yesterday (Wednesday).  Today half the group took a cooking class, preparing several thai dishes.  Everybody had a great time.  The other half visited many of the largest and most important temples of Chiang Mai.  (There are over 300, we only made it to 212 of them).

Another first today, rain in Chiang Mai during the month of January.  Everyone we talk to cannot remember the last time it rained during this time of the year.  Didn’t seem to bother the students as their spirits are high.  At the moment, several of us are sitting in the hotel lobby sharing stories.  Many smiles.

Here are a few thoughts from three of our students (Jessica Arechigo, Nicole Neumann, and Mitch Schneider):

Hello all! This is Jess Arechigo reporting from Thailand and I hope this blog entry finds you all doing well! After being in Thailand for almost a week there are several experiences that I would love to share about, but being that I just got my first Thai massage I’ll let you all know how that was. Nicole and I went together because we were really nervous! We walked in and they gave us loose baggy clothes to put on and we couldn’t figure out how to tie the pants, too funny. The room had about 6 mats on the floor so we actually got our massages in the same room which made the experience more comfortable. The masseuse used her thumbs, forearms, elbows, and feet to work my muscles out and even threw in a couple fists when she punched me in muscles. (I know it sounds crazy right!?) She twisted and bent me in ways I didn’t know one human could do to the other, but afterwards I felt completely rejuvenated! Now I can’t wait to get another one! This is just one of the many great experiences we have had here in Thailand! We are all doing well and seem to be having a great time!

I want to say hi to all my parents, family, friends, and Kenneth, I love and miss you all! I can’t wait to show you every picture and tell you every story!

Thanks to everyone who has been following our journey!

Jess Arechigo

Hello Hello! This is Nicole Neumann checking into the great winter states of the US from Thailand.   As you heard from Jess, we got a Thai massage..aka…got the heck beat out of us! Hahha. It felt sooo good and was SOOO weird.  Jess and I did get laughed at a few times.  Once because I am soo not flexible and two because Jess and I can NOT move and work the way they want.  But it was still amazing!!!  Before the massages, we went to visit some temples that were GORGEOUS.  We only got to see 4 out of the 300 temples though.

Today it was raining. First time it has rained in Thailand during January for at least 5 years! (says our yoga instructor)  So far we rode a train that went 23 hours (only one that has gone that long), first January rain in 5+ years….an experience we will NEVER forget.  It only makes a great story to share and totally made the experience better!

So far it’s been an amazing trip and LOVE the weather!

Hope this message finds you all staying warm!  Talk to you alllll soon!

A little shout out to my Family, Cole and friends. Love Love you all and talk to you soon!

Hello family and friends, my name is Mitch Schneider and I just got back from the BaanThai cooking class.  It was a great experience as we made 6 traditional Thai dishes.  We started out this morning by heading to the food market and purchased all of the fresh ingredients we used to cook with.  I am not a big vegetable guy, but I have been really enjoying all of the new veggies and tastes I have experienced here in Thailand so far! I made everything from stir fried prawn with curry powder, spring rolls, and even deep fried bananas.  (I might have enjoyed them more considering I made all the dishes myself!)

I believe we have been in Thailand for 5 days, and I have been taking advantage of the massages!  For $5-7 you cannot go wrong.  I have gotten 4 already, everything from the traditional Thai, oil, and something else I cannot remember.  I woke up sore this morning because they can be rough!  I have been enjoying my experience here so far.  The streets are endless and around every corner is a new sight and smell.

Hope all is well back home, mom I am safe and sound so do not worry too much.  Miss ya!

Mitch Schneider

yoga, markets, and dancing

Yesterday (Wednesday) had lots going on for the students. Half of the group was up at 6:00 am to walk the streets and watch the monks receive alms from
the local people while the other half got to sleep in and woke up for yoga at 8:00. The groups switched this morning (Thursday) but there was a bit of rain and it seems the monks didn’t appreciate that as today the streets were empty. Who knows, maybe they melt.

As a whole group we walked to a local mercantile market on Wednesday as well. Warrot market is a place where not many tourists show up as it is a market that caters to the Thai.

After an afternoon off we had class and then ended the evening with a traditional Thai dinner and cultural show. The kids were tired by the time we arrived back to the hotel.

Thursday brings an all day cooking class for half the group and a walking tour of several temples for the others. Tomorrow they’ll switch.

We’ve now been travelling for nearly a week and the initial overwhelmingness seems to be wearing down and being replaced by wonder and many good observations.The kids are settling in, going out on there own, and realizing that Thailand has so much to offer.

Other than dealing with a few pesky mosquitoes, all is well.

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a liitle bit of suffering

Don’t worry, the suffering is a good thing. Today the students heard two lectures at a local university. Both dealing with religion and Buddhism, everyone’s heads were spinning (mine included) with the amount we learned. A main ficus of the lecture was that a central part of Buddhism us that “all life is suffering.”. The professor definitely challenged the students to think.

This afternoon many students enjoyed the pool while others enjoyed massages. Both are perks for being in Chiang Mai. Tonight we went to the night market, I’ve seen some pretty good gifts being bought. Maybe some are for you.

Kristin and I were talking today about how wonderful this group of kids is. They are truly a joy to be around. Thank you for sharing them for the month. The trick will be to see if they are this wonderful in 3 weeks 🙂

Busy day for everyone tomorrow (Wedenesday).  Here are some thoughts from some students (Mai Nhia and Pahoua):

Today was an AWESOME day! The girls and I went to the Chiang Mai Zoo after class. Boy, the zoo was nothing like the one we have in MN. This was a phenomenal experience. There are a lot of animals and the animals are super friendly and obedient. We fed the elephant and took some pictures with him. After we fed him, he bowed to us to say thank you. My favorite part of the trip to the zoo was finding the panda. We said that we were going to go see the panda first before the other sightseeing, but we end up looking at the other animals and bought many things before we finally went to see the panda. The pandas were so cute.  We ended up spending five hours at the zoo.

Mai Nhia Vang

Tonight we went to Chiang Mai’s famous night market. At the night market, there were so many vendors. The streets were full of vendors, selling from clothes, jewelry, toys, food, handbags, crafts, shoes, and etc. and the streets were crowded with tourists from all over the world. The night market is huge and everything there seemed to be extremely cheap. I was able to buy a nice Thai silk shirt for my dad for only 300 baht, which is equal to $8.00 US dollar and a beautiful Thai silk scarf for only 250 baht, which is equal to $6.00 US dollars. You can find almost anything at the night market and I love it.

PaHoua Lee

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