Thailand

A rather abstract scene from Ayutthaya, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old capital of Thailand. The place is full of similar towers and monasteries. Our visit was one of the hottest days I've ever experienced, but fortunately the friendly tuk-tuk drivers whisked us around - remember to bargain! -, giving us some welcome breeze in our hair.

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Yet another location in Kanchanaburi worthy of the term paradise. We stopped at this small waterfall called Sai Yok Noi on the way back from the Karen village. Locals were enjoying the shade getting a much-needed respite from the hot sun, while their kids played in the cool pool.

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This is from a floating market near Bangkok, Thailand. Not (only) a tourist attraction, it's an actual market for fresh produce: you can see the Thai baht notes in the cup right in the center of the frame. The light yellow fruit to the left and up form the cup of money is called durian - written on the packaging which is visible in the full-size print -, which has a rank smell but supposedly tastes good.

Another of my all-time favorite travel photography shots. I especially like the saturated colors, and the natural focal point the lady's hat gives. I took this from a small walk-bridge crossing the canal.

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Dog days in Kanchanaburi. This is taken on the bridge on river Kwai the movie is based on. A yellow river boat is visible in the background, along with the ubiquitous Pepsi sign.

These mangy dogs are everywhere in Taiwan, and this one was enjoying the warmth of the evening summer sun.

We stayed overnight on a barge-cum-hotel; waking up on a beautiful river in Thailand makes one really appreciate how good life can be.

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This is a shot of an elephant from head on. Many people can't tell what it is of right away; not surprising as it's quite a confusing shot on purpose.

I turned the original warm-toned photograph into a harsh black-and-white to accentuate the menacing look of the elephant, and the massive chain that acts as a leash. Just for the record, the elephants were kept very well at the village, washed, fed and treated properly.

This is taken at a Karen village in Kanchanaburi. The Karen people are very warm, just like most Thais are. It's interesting to note that the Thai language actually has a word for "selfless kindness" in "nam-jie." According to some linguists our language sets the framework for our thoughts, and if this is true, it is no surprise that the Thai people are so warm and kind!

Woman sweeping an elephant pen in a Karen village.

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