N ways to open Thai koalas [Part 3]
Wandering in the garden of JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort Suites, the children discovered the mysterious plant, the butterfly pea flower, which changes color when making cocktails. They also learned about lemongrass and realized that the special aroma of the lemon juice they drink every day comes from lemongrass. There are also water cucumbers, lemon basil, water spinach, etc., a total of more than 40 different kinds of fruits, vegetables and bay leaves, which build children's three-dimensional scientific cognition from the dining table to the farm.
There is also a small classroom in the garden, where teacher Joy introduced the ecosystem of nipa palm trees and mangroves to everyone. We took part in an immersive eco-tourism experience and gained an in-depth understanding of the practical applications of the Nipa palm, from clothing to building materials, to sugar and even rum. We tasted the syrup cut and collected from the nipa palm trees, which was as thick and sweet as honey. We also saw various daily necessities made from nipa palm leaves, which is knowledge that children cannot learn in the classroom.
In the garden, the children were attracted by the sounds of animals again. Following the direction of the children's fingers, we saw two white buffaloes, two goats, a group of chickens, and a group of ducks, which are part of the Marriott Garden ecosystem. The children found two warm eggs in the chicken coop and had a completely different travel experience. Children who have grown up in cities have eaten pork, but they may not have seen a pig run. This ecological experience allows children to return to nature, recognize nature, and understand nature.
The hotel has a bamboo shark breeding and conservation center dedicated to protecting the endangered bamboo shark in the Andaman Sea. We were able to get a close look at bamboo shark eggs and babies and learn about their growth cycle, from hatching to release. This is a very meaningful activity that helps Xiaobao understand the importance of protecting marine life.
The hotel had a cycling experience that was very attractive to me, so I took Dabao and set off on a bicycle ride. Riding on a gravel road, with a difficult muddy road in the middle, is challenging and full of fun. There were coconut trees covering the sky above our heads and the sound of waves from the distant sea reached our ears, instantly bringing us inner peace. We followed the tour guide and rode for less than 30 minutes before arriving at a Thai temple. Even though we did not understand the Buddhist terminology, we were still able to feel the profound Buddhist culture.
Observing Thailand from different perspectives such as environment, plants, animals and religion is a rare way to explore Khao Lak, which makes us feel that the world is so wonderful!
The three days at the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Suites were an extraordinary experience. Through this window, we gained a perceptual understanding of the quiet and leisurely island of Khao Lak, Thailand. We look forward to coming to Thailand again and exploring more unknown areas.