Andaman Discoveries Blog

Life with the Moken in Tung Dap

2012-05-08T09:32:00.001+07:00

This month I had the chance to experience one of the village tours in the remote village of Tung Dap, located on the Island of Koh Prathong, with one of our guests Mandy and our translator and guide Pi-Tui.

We left Kuraburi and made our way to the pier and took the long-tail boat out to the Island. The boat ride out the Island was amazing, the color of the leaves from the mangrove trees was bright green, glistening and shining in the early morning sun and the ocean turns from green to blue as the boat navigates through the shallow and deep waters.

Before reaching the island, we went to explore the mangrove forest and learnt about the way the local people manage the environmental conservation of this mangrove area. We also learnt about the medicinal use of the mangroves, and learnt about many animals and crustations which live within the mangroves. This is a natural habitat for these animals which has to be preserved to protect all the remarkable species living there. The amazing mangrove eco-system acts as a nursery for crabs, fish and shrimp, and is well managed by the villagers, who try to minimize environmental impacts for our future generations.

After that, we met Pi-Noi and her husband Da Nong and had a delicious lunch together, freshly caught sea food……….. aroy J After lunch we observed the traditional method to take tin out of the sand, this is a long process and very hard work.

We also had the chance to learn how to make squid traps; it’s not as easy as it looks and it’s amazing how fast the locals weave the net.

The atmosphere of the village was very relaxing and everyone was very friendly. We were able to ask a lot of interesting questions about their culture and way of life on the island and were able to share stories and experiences between our hosts and Mandy thanks to our great translator and guide Pi-Tui.

The cultural exchange was intense as Mandy was able to tell about her life back in Australia and what her impressions were of seeing this new culture and Pi-Noi seemed amazed to hear about Mandy’s life back in her home town and compare the way they live.

At one point, the exchange was quiet fascinating, because Pi-Noi was talking about her experience during the 2004 tsunami and how challenging it is to be Moken in a rapidly changing world. Moken are very proud of their life style and treasure keeping the close and important connection with the nature, I was so lucky to be part of this exchange.

Later in the day we had a unique ride through the savannah on a customized tractor a one off ingenuous invention and had some coconuts caught by Da Nong as he climbed the coconut tree right in front of the beautiful pristine beach.

After that we came back to the village and learnt how to make Thai desert with Pi-Noi. We cooked sticky rice in freshly grated coconut milk and wrapped in a banana leaf, the Thai way.

We’ve been amazed all day by the way villagers welcomed us to their village and with this beautiful landscape surrounding us.

If you like the sound of this trip, or if you would like to find out more about this program, don’t hesitate to contact us, it’s a great and unique cultural experience.

Nicole

2012-05-08T09:07:00.000+07:00

Hello world!

My name is Nicole Lemmo and I just started with Andaman discoveries as a Program Development and Administrative Assistant in April. The end of March brought the completion of my two year Peace Corps service here in Thailand, but I was far from ready to leave this enchanting country. The beautiful nature, kind people, fun language and delicious food have a hold on me.

I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue serving the country of Thailand through the works of Andaman Discoveries. Learning about the many different village experiences, volunteering opportunities and nature tours has me excited to get out there and explore the North Andaman region. Making the move down to Kuraburi from my home in Chumphon has also kept me busy. Learning the Southern Thai language, shopping at the fresh daily markets and making friends in my new community is a special added bonus.

I love walking to the AD office in the morning surrounded by forest covered mountains and crystal clear skies and then leaving in the evening to witness a breathtaking sunset. I don’t think this part will ever get old! I hope to use my past business experience and my work as a community development volunteer with the Peace Corps to help AD achieve its goals and continue to thrive.

Looking forward to seeing you on your next visit to Thailand!

Volunteers

2012-04-27T16:10:00.002+07:00

Thank you so much to our volunteers who took part in our projects over the last few months: your time and dedication means so much to us.

We are currently developing new projects that will need the skills and time from volunteers over the next few months, watch this space for an up-date.

Here is a little excerpt from the feedback from one of our past volunteers :

“Hi! First of all, if you’re reading this, thank you. Thank you for giving up some of your precious time to help out on a really worthwhile cause, I know that it was so tempting to book that beach resort instead but trust me, you’re doing a good thing.

How good that ‘good thing’ really becomes is now entirely dependent on you. But who am I to say all that? Well I, like you, volunteered in 2012 when I was 21, I did have a lot of help but still there were one or two small things that, on reflection, set me back and prevented me from really making my ‘good thing’ truly great and if I can pass on the mistakes that I made and the solutions that I found and help even just one person, then I’d feel a lot better.

Before I even get onto teaching methods and how that’s all really going to go down, I want to talk about Kuraburi itself. As you no doubt feel right now, you’re a rather long way from home and all these unreadable signs, market stalls and strange glances from pretty much everybody isn’t helping the uneasiness. Don’t panic, that’s perfectly normal; it’s culture shock and it will take time. Probably no good right now, but I will say that although there’s nothing you can do about the signs (or the market stalls) a smile goes a very long way with the locals and once you realize that there’s nothing malicious in their curiosity, you’ll quickly start to enjoy the attention. Take it from me, I’m seriously shy but the locals seem to have this thing for different skin tones and a fondness for foreigners that landed me several charming compliments without even a Hello.”

Donations from Rainy Lam

2012-04-27T16:04:00.000+07:00

Our long term friend and supporter, Rainy Lam from Hong Kong, donated a whole load of soft toys for the children at the Kuraburi Nursery and Learning center this week. Rainy has been an avid donor, since sponsoring the education of one of the children; sending gifts and educational toys for all the children. She has helped them understand origami (paper folding) and you will find little paper flowers and birds made by the children all over the place.

If you have unwanted toys or games we can always use them for our schools and orphanage programs; please get in touch for details on where to send.

Shiori

2012-04-27T15:53:00.000+07:00

Sawadee ka!

I am Shiori, one of the new interns at Andaman Discoveries. I joined the team at the beginning of February, and I will be here for another 5 months. It is unbelievable how fast my days have gone by since arriving here. It’s been great fun and I am enjoying working with the team and with the community projects.

This internship is part of my bachelor degree of International Tourism and Consultancy at NHTV in the Netherlands. I chose to come here because I’ve been interested in working on Community-Based Tourism and such projects for the last few years, Andaman Discoveries is working on projects which I’ve been keen to be involved with.

I am in charge of client communications and coordinating volunteers who come to help our projects. I am also here to do destination research for my study. I do hope to be able to contribute my experiences and knowledge gained from my studies and gain more experiences and expand my network during my stay.

If you have not been to Thailand or the Andaman region, I do recommend you visit us and explore this beautiful and exotic area!

My colleague, Jennifer who is working on our Newsletter and social media up-dates, will keep you posted about us, our volunteers and guests and of course our projects!

Drip Filters Project with The Rotary Club of Patong Beach for Thailand

2012-04-20T11:05:00.001+07:00

On the 3rd of March 2012, staff and friends of AD participated in installing the “Drip filters project” in the beautiful Laem Naew village, which is situated in Suksamran Disctrict. This project set up by Rotary Club of Patong Beach (RCoPB) has been a real success thanks to the cooperation with Andaman Discoveries. Rotary Club of Patong Beach is an English Speaking Club, located in Phuket, with members from 13 different countries, which was set up to support communities after tsunami.

Our first installation for the project was in Ban Chimee for 60 drip filters, and Bang Lampu for 65 drip filters on 19^thFebruary 2012. Many villages in Thailand don’t have access to water and it usually comes from polluted sources. As there’s no access to electricity, usual water filtration systems are not practical. The villagers also use rainwater stored in tanks for drinking water then boil or filter but it often runs out during the dry season.

The Drip Filter is a ceramic system, and a low cost alternative to provide these families with bacteria and pollution free drinking water, they can have a local drinking water instead of buying bottles of water from the mainland.

We are very active in the communities and have a long relationship with the RCoPB through other projects and have the capability to follow up and make sure the Drip Filters are properly used and maintained thanks to our social network.

For this second installation we carried 31 drip filters for more than a 100 people, and it was very interesting to be part of this project to make sure everything was going well and also see the cooperation between the villagers (Andaman Discoveries) and the Rotary Club of Patong Beach.

On the 17th of March, we also assembled a total of 64 drip filters and gave instructions to the Moken and Thai families on the island of Koh Phratong and in the remote villages of Tung Dap and Ban Lions, on how to best use the filter.

My experience in Ban Talae Nok Homestay

2012-04-20T10:41:00.000+07:00

This month I had the chance to experience the beautiful “Village by the Sea” Tour organized by Andaman Discoveries with our wonderful translator Pi-Tui and guide Hem in Deh’s lovely homestay. This was part of the trip for two French guests we hosted “Frederic and Rozen”. They spent two days and one night discovering the way of life in the village of Ban Talae Nok and experienced the cultural activities with the locals. During our time there, we were able to enjoy the delicious southern Thai meals with our host family; every day there was a delicious array of dishes presented Thai style of course.

When arriving to the village we had a walk through the community and learnt about the history of the village, and what happened during and after the tsunami and saw how they rebuilt the village in a nice and respectful way doing their best to respect the nature of the area.

After enjoying a relaxing break on the hammocks and a walk through the beautiful village, we learnt about the batik technique of hand-dyeing fabrics by using designs drawn in wax. It was very interesting and enjoyable to have time for drawing. It was nice to feel like the old days when we used to have time for this kind of leisure, and discovering this kind of art. I was able to keep my “creation” as a nice souvenir and it hangs with pride on my wall.

After this relaxing and fun activity, we went fishing with two local fishermen who taught us how to manage the fishing net. We all went into the water together while trying to keep the net down, so the fishes did not escape. Then we had a barbecue on the beach cooking the fish that we caught; it’s amazing to have dinner with food that you actually catch yourself from the sea. I now understand why fishermen are proud of their life style; it was such a great experience. I will never forget the environment and the landscape surrounding us and the unforgettable colors of the sunset.

The next day, we were shown how to weave leaves of the Nypa Palm with the villagers in order to make traditional roofing from the local mangrove plant. It’s great to learn how I could build my own house with this material thanks to this kind of natural technique. And I now understand where the authentic houses in Thailandcome from.

Later we were shown how to cook local Thai food with the host family; it’s very interesting and I hope to do it back home for my friends and my family and the result was great and delicious. We had fried fish, shrimps in curry, and vegetables in a coconut soup that we just freshly grated.

In the evening we had a cultural exchange by sharing stories and experiences together. Rozen and Frederic brought pictures from Franceto show the snow and the countryside and how dry the mountains are over there compared to Thailand. We also have the chance to dress up in traditional Muslim clothing. It was funny to see how you actually look like when you are dressed in a different way, you are able to be in the shoes of another way of living.

I could only stay in the village for one day and one night, so I couldn’t experience the mangrove tour in long-tail boat, and the hand-crafted soap making workshop. But Rozen and Frederic had very positive feedback from this experience. They wanted to discover the cultural part of Thailandand they have been amazed by the simplicity and the kindness of the family homestay, and also by the way they live in harmony with the nature.

Opening of the “Southern Thailand Orphanage” Coffee and Bakery shop

2012-03-06T14:46:00.002+07:00

On the 27^thof February 2012, the staff and friends of AD participated in the grand opening of the “Southern Thailand Orphanage” coffee and bakery shop. We enjoyed the delicious coffee and bakery goods on sale, and were entertained with a dancing performance from the children at the home; the girls did a traditional Thai dance and the boys a Muay Thai performance that incorporates all the boxing moves to music, great fun to watch.

This Coffee and Bakery will give students the opportunity to be trained in hospitality skills; learning how to be waiter or waitress, how to keep shop, handle money and deal with customers. This is all part of the program in creating a sustainable project for the home. Several of our volunteers helped to organize this event, painting walls and doors, setting furniture and signs and of course cleaning up after the construction workers had finished, just the day before the opening.

The orphanage opened its doors after the tsunami of 2004 to provide children in the area with a safe and secure environment to live and learn. In partnership with Andaman Discoveries, volunteers can assist with the daily operation of the home while the children are at school and in the afternoons assist the children with their English homework and basic language skills and of course play games and have fun.

Testimonials

2012-03-06T14:15:00.000+07:00

We really are lucky. We spent a night at a homestay place a few days ago, (okay, fine, a lot of days ago) and I was shocked at how poor the living conditions were. Okay, to back up, the homestay I’m talking about was part of a program that allows local people to board tourists in their homes for some period of time, making money in the process, and giving the tourists a sense of the local conditions...http://travelschoolinginthailand.blogspot.com/2012/02/our-homestay-night.html

By Kaizen

Environmental Education Show

2012-03-06T12:19:00.001+07:00

February 10, 2012

Environmental Education Show at Burmese Learning Centers

February saw the arrival of two wild and passionate Brazilian volunteers Jay and Lucas from Grassroots Interactive Organization. They are currently traveling around Asia offering schools and education Centers the chance to see their live arts performance, which teaches children about the environment and how they can change the damage we are causing to the planet by reducing, reusing and recycling. The boys from Brazil performed their Environmental Education Show at the Kuraburi Nursery, Burmese Learning Center, Bang Krang School, Kao Lak Learning Center, and at our Southern Thailand Orphanage. They actively got a hold of the children’s attention with their interesting and eye-catching performance.

At the beginning of the performance, the children seem to wonder and struggle finding out who those scary looking guys where and what they were doing. As the children started to understand the concept of the story, they stood up and leaned forward, giggled, clapped hands and yelled out in enjoyment. The performance was, mimed all without words; however, the children still understood the concept and message of the performance. Jay and Lucas bought Brazilian instruments made out of recycled materials, and performed with materials locally sourced to send out the message of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”, at the end of the show all the children are chanting this phrase. It was fascinating to watch how the children reacted with their emotions during the show, understanding the message the Brazilian duo brought and hopefully taking the message home with them to start to put into practice this important ideal.

It was great pleasure to have them in Kuraburi. Thank you for bringing the great energy!

For further information, take a look at their website. <http://grassrootsinteractive.org/thailand-environmental-education-tour/>

Rice Harvesting Ceremony

2012-03-06T12:12:00.003+07:00

February 7, 2012

Rice Harvesting Ceremony

A once-a-year ceremony of rice harvesting took place in Kamphaun Village in Ranong District. This rice harvesting ceremony was organized by Muan Mit Thai Foundation, who works closely with the community group and women’s workshop in the village. It was a great opportunity to appreciate the rice, and lean about traditions of the harvest and get to know people in the N-ACT network (North Andaman Community Tourism Network).

Kamphuan village is located 25 km North of Kuraburi, and surrounded by palm and rubber plantations. The ceremony was held at the rice field, located behind the main village area, gathered nearly 100 children from several schools and villages in the region and attracted many community representatives, and N-ACT members.

Nicole, Katherine and George from the USA, who were taking part in an Andaman Discovery Homestay program, also joined the ceremony. They were able to participate in rice harvesting with the local community and experience the traditional method of harvesting and husking, which is done by using basic wooden equipment, same as 100’s of yeas ago. The group commented that this was such a unique and special ceremony to be part of; they felt so luck to be invited at this special time.

The local villagers demonstrated their traditional ways of getting the rice out of its shell. First, they harvest the rice from the field with a knife; then they stamp on the rice to separate it from the straw; then husk the rice with the wooden equipment; separating the rice from its shell.

We also enjoyed the delicious Thai dishes prepared by the villagers. They served us some curry with rice noodles and fresh vegetables. We even had the chance to interact with some local children who wanted to practice their English.

Jennifer

2012-03-06T11:44:00.000+07:00

Hello everyone!

I am Jennifer, the new member of Andaman Discoveries team! I’m carrying out my internship here in Kuraburi for 5 months, and I already know it’s going to be a great experience. Thailand has been a real discovery for me since arriving in Chiang Mai 2 years ago where I interned with CBT-I an NGO. My task now will be to work on Social Media and Marketing for Andaman, up-dating Facebook, Twitter and our blog so you all can keep in touch with what’s going on in the beautiful Andaman Region. I will tell you about the projects, volunteers and of course about the interns and what we are doing and share this wonderful experience together.

I have been studying Sustainable Tourism, Master’s degree, in Montpellier (France), and I’m willing to learn and share the knowledge and experience I gain about social media and marketing work. I will also be evaluating projects; environmental, economic and cultural issues and share with you the findings I gather of the impacts of community based tourism, this is part of my Masters studies.

Please feel free to contact us if you need any further information about the projects and the surroundings of this wonderful Andaman Coast., and don’t hesitate to ‘like us’ and to add us on Facebook so you’ll be up-dated regularly with all our news.

Thanks and hope to hear from you soon!

Jen

Learning from the Moken

2011-12-29T07:43:00.010+07:00

“Where are you from?, we asked the guides from the village. “From the Moken” they said.
Patiently we asked again: “Alright you are Moken, but… where are you from?” Their answer remained the same: “From the Moken”.

After a bumpy hour and a half ride on a speedboat and another short ride on a long-tail we have had finally arrived at the Moken Village on Surin Island off the North Andaman coast of Thailand.
AD founder Bodhi Garret was leading the pilot tour organized for our guests (writer Oliver and photographer Catherine) from the BBC’s Lonely Planet Magazine.

Bodhi has known the Moken people for some time now and the respect he has for them is mutual and evident from the way they greeted each other with friendly smiles and warm hugs. After all not many ‘farang’ speak Thai with ease like Bodhi does and are able to communicate directly with the indigenous peoples from this region. We all felt very privileged to be part of the pilot tour, which was meant to establish AD’s ‘Life of the Moken’ program as a responsible and ethical alternative to the tours, which others operate on the island.

The Moken have provoked interest ever since the tsunami struck this region and these nomadic sea gipsy people had to make a more permanent settlement on the island.
It is no wonder that for us the question ‘where you from?’ seemed like a logical one, but the answer we received showed just how our perception of ones origin was only limited to indicate a place. For the Moken guides who were showing us around their village and gave us a glimpse of their world, this same question carries the meaning of the people you grew up with, the values that you learned, rather than a physical location.

Traditionally, the Moken sea nomads traveled to coastal and island areas in the Mergui Archipelago by their “kabang” (boat), which served both as a home and means of transportation. They would spend seven months fishing during the dry season and take refuge on land during the monsoon. After the tsunami the Moken lost many family members as well as their possessions but they are determined to keep their legacy alive.

The Moken guides led us through their village, shared stories of their lives and gave insights into their struggles and dreams. On the “Chok Madah” Nature-Culture Trail through the jungle behind the village, they showed us various types of plants and trees that they use in daily life; edible herbs, healing plants and woods used for the construction of their huts and boats. In Moken language, Chok means a small bay, and Madah is the name of a local man who anchored his boat in the bay to gather shellfish and forest products. The Moken who now live a semi-nomadic life have used this foraging trail for generations. Twenty stations with interpretive signs are placed along the trail, providing information on specific topics and insights into the world of the Moken.

On a our second day accompanied by our Moken guides we set off on a long tail boat for a snorkeling dive, at a site known as Nemo bay, frequented by the beautiful clown fish of that name. To observe our Moken guides while snorkeling is an experience in itself, for you would never see someone show such grace and peacefulness while diving down to point at the hiding moray eel. Back on the boat Pi Tao, an elder Moken with a peaceful smile, had just finished brewing delicious coffee for all to enjoy.

A couple of days in the company of these kind hearted and warm people inevitably makes you appreciate their culture and wonder about their future. With no written language, their children are taught to speak, read, and write in Thai. This raises a challenge for passing on the traditional Moken language and knowledge to future generations.

The AD tour is specifically designed to take into consideration the Moken’s wishes, encouraging respectful and meaningful encounters between tourists and Moken people.

We spent the night in bungalows on one of the smaller northern islands. The landscape was hauntingly beautiful, the setting sun providing a spectacular background to the mangroves on the beach.

Upcoming tours will allow guests to take home not only picture souvenirs but also lasting memories. We hope to foster a new understanding between the Sea dwellers and us as we have a lot to learn from them.

You can participate in various activities in which your Moken guide will show you how to spear hunt, row a traditional Moken boat, weave small items out of pandanus leaf, and learn about their magical underwater world. You will also learn about their mythology and beliefs; as animists the Moken worship and believe in the spirits of nature.
Our adventure came to end but we know that we will return one day and hope to share this beautiful encounter with other likeminded people who want to experience the Moken culture and make a much needed contribution that will directly benefit the people you visit.

Meals for Needy Kids

2011-12-24T11:59:00.003+07:00

Lunch for the Burmese Learning Center

The Kuraburi area, and southern Thailand in general, is home to a large population of Burmese migrant workers. These hardworking people often come illegally in the hope of finding income and a better life.

Their children mostly lack access to education and adequate nutrition. Unlike so many other areas, Burmese children living near the Kuraburi pier are able to take classes at a learning center. The dedicated teachers at the center have requested our help in providing lunch for the children. Without a food budget, and barely able to cover teacher salary, the center needs our help to make sure the kids have a healthy lunch.

SOLUTION:

It costs less than $1 USD per day to make a difference.

Financial support is needed for cooking equipment plus ingredients for 90 meals a day, 5 days a week, for the nine month school year. The teachers would prepare the food and would receive semi-annual cooking stipends of 1,000 baht per month, shared between the cooks.

The lunch program will:

+ guarantee that children have one healthy nutritious meal a day

+ create community by bringing together teachers and volunteers to cook and then share a meal with the children

+ give the children an opportunity to learn roles and responsibilities during cooking, eating, and cleanup

+ alleviate the financial burden on already struggling parents

PLEASE HELP - YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE
QUALITY OF LIFE AND GENERAL HEALTH OF THE CHILDREN

NEEDS:

In total, we are aiming to raise at least 9 months (one school year) worth of lunch money. The cost of

feeding the children for a month is $1,250 (960 Euro), meaning we hope to raise a total of $11,000 (8,500 Euro).

Please contribute whatever you can, and together, we can do it!

Saving the World – Year 3

2011-12-14T11:57:00.018+07:00

100 kids, 15 villages, 1 purpose

For the third year in a row, we brought together 16 youth groups from the Andaman coast – all from different villages, and all working on local environmental and social issues. The seminar took place at Hat Praphat Research station, where the youth shared their experiences in protecting the environment. They then headed into the field to see local examples of conservation in action.

The following story is from the field trip 'Water Lily Rafting":

After a nutritious breakfast the group left the lodging and then after a 20-Minute ride we arrived at our destination, the meeting room of the Nakha Community Conservation Group.

The group met with a park ranger in a small hut and was given an introduction on the national park, its river‚ Nakha’ and the existing flora and fauna. In his speech he constantly included the human element, our functions and behaviors within this particular ecosystem and global system and the impact we have on nature.

For example, if a local resident needs some wood to build his lodge, he is allowed to cut a tree, but for cutting one he has to replace five new ones. And commercial use is strictly prohibited, this encourages people to think and be responsible. After a question and answer session everybody was looking forward to the activity: bamboo-rafting. Each bamboo raft held 3-6 people plus two ferrymen who navigated the canoe with a long bamboo stick.

The river was in some parts very fast and made it difficult for the ferrymen to navigate the boat properly. Rapids turned the boats upside down and the crew had a chance to take a spontaneous swim. While the group floated down the river everybody observed the breathtaking nature with all its beauty. But when the group arrived at the water-lily conservation area it was very alarming.

Some years ago the whole area was abundant with water lilies. However due to dredging the river, many plants, seeds and roots were washed away and the tragic news is they will probably never come back. There were just a couple of blossoms to look at. Through this trip we are trying to educate and spread the word that river dredging changes the conditions for a lot of nature in the area, water lilies included, we have to think about what we are doing and the effects that it will cause.

From the Phratong Island: New Colors in Ban Lion

2011-12-13T09:46:00.013+07:00

Working at the Community Conservation Center

The rainbow over Ban Lion was not the only source contributing to varying colors on the Phra Thong Island. In the time span of two weeks, many different hands engaged in the construction and renovation of the Community Conservation Centre (CCC). New plants decorate the garden and are expected to grow as a natural protection from wind and sun. The community area offers new seating accommodation, while stairs, windows and walls appear in fresh and vibrant colors.The colors are not only a joy for the eye but will keep termites at bay. At the time of the construction, the CCC had already served its purpose of facilitating meetings and gatherings, for larger and smaller occasions. Villagers and children came together with volunteers to work on the centre and home stay families greeted their guests in the community area.

Finally the CCC proved its ability to host the many guests from all over the island and mainland, who came for the opening ceremony of the Community Conservation Centre.

...and the Orchid-Site Thung Dap

There was another location on the Island of Phra Thong that received the attention from the helping hands of volunteers. Som, a lady with heart bursting with love for orchids, has been taking action to create and protect a natural environment in which different orchid species can grow and unfold their beauty safely. Phra Thong Island is known for being home to different Orchid species, which has exposed their wild-life to the danger of being stolen from their natural habitat. As a consequence, Som takes care of dying or homeless orchids (that have been found outside natural habitat) in the given natural environment and protects them.

The volunteer group departed from Ban Lion towards the orchid nursery. The journey was a long and wild trip through the Savannah and her mud holes. Upon arrival, helping hands were needed to work on a firebreak – a job for our enthusiastic group of volunteers. Being close to the beautiful orchids and their many species was a wonderful reward for the trip and the work We have been fortunate enough to receive the support for the projects by Planeterra and STA-travel.

Leading from the Center

2011-12-10T11:34:00.000+07:00

Phra Thong Community Center - A comprehensive facility that conveys the meaning of life in Ban Lion, and is uniting the community through a common purpose.

While a village had been built to replace the one lost in the tsunami, and the houses were occupied by those who had come to make a new life, something was missing. With no restaurants, markets, or other social venues, Ban Lion lacked a place for community members to come together – to share, to learn, and to enjoy. The center has become the heart of the village – creating opportunities, friendship, and, most importantly, hope.

In 2011, with the support of Planeterra, we were very busy with construction at the center:

• Renovation and restoration of rooms and structure

• Furniture and equipment for meeting area and museums

• Floor extension and aerial walkway between buildings

• Children’s room - library and study area

• Community displays - fishing life, Moken, murals, etc.

• Handicrafts room

• Flood Barriers and Benches

• Community Garden

• Community Kitchen

• Recycle Bins

• Orchid Conservation

• Youth Environmental Seminar

• Island-wide conservation meeting

Selected examples

Renovation and restoration

Major renovations were undertaken to create a new Center from previously dilapidated structures. An aerial walkway was built to connect the upper level of Center, creating an integrated museum area on the second story. To create the museums, internal walls were removed to allow a maximum amount of display space, and a new door was added.

On the ground floor, a brick entrance path was laid to prevent sand from entering the center, and a concrete floor and shade roof were built to create a shaded meeting area. Other renovations for the entire center included electrical wiring/lighting/outlets, refitting of bathrooms, adding doorknobs & locks, and rust protection for the railings.

Rain protection

The monsoon rain has been a threat to the center, and in past years many of the rooms were leaky and water damaged. In order to protect recently created museum rooms and village store, it was determined that south and west sides of the center required protection. Custom fit tarps made of heavy-duty plastic, with stitching and rope inserts along the edges, were ordered from Phuket. In addition, the staircase bottoms were covered with plywood to protect from gusting rain.

Children’s area

Utilizing a corner of the downstairs community room, community room, field staff created a children’s library an study area with a book shelf, cubby holes, mini tables, benches, chairs, and a large table. The area is used throughout the day by the young children of the village, and as an afternoon homework area for the school aged children.

Museum displays

After planning sessions with the community, they divided into groups responsible for painting island scenery and creating displays about the local way of life, including posters and a display of special shells and fishing gear. The engaging and educational conservation museum was created by Naucrates, who led the design, repainting, collating and building displays, and specimen presentation.

Handicraft room - Community shop

The members of the tie dye group successfully set up their new community shop. In the process the ladies created an inventory, set up display areas, and are also selling woven Moken baskets and souvenirs for the sea turtle project. The area just outside the shop is now used by the group for sewing and embroidering their products. Started in late 2009, the women’s tie-dye group is highly motivated. To jump start their business, we provided a grant for purchase of fabric, a full color catalogue, price sheet, and web page for the range of products the group makes. The tie-dye group was also in need of a stable stove for dyeing and a disposal area for the waste from the dying process. We built a drainage area that also serves as a compost pile to mulch the leaves and bark used for dying.

Activities at the Center - Island-wide conservation meeting

We organized a kick-off meeting on environmental issues to introduce seagrass and mangrove conservation activities. The goals were to promote the Community Center to explore collaboration on conservation issues with villagers not only in Ban Lion, but also other 2 villages on Koh Phratong, government, and the resort owners. 7 issues were identified involving rare animal species and ecosystems that need to be protected. 64 participants included: 30 from Lion village, 8 from Tha Pa Yoi and 13 from Thung Dap, 4 from government, 3 from private sector, and 7 project staff and researchers. Conclusion - people on the island want to work together on the issues, and will hold conservation meetings every three months, and will initiate seagrass monitoring in Lion and Tha Pa Yoi villages.

Activities at the Center - Seagrass monitoring

Monitored seagrass in fixed plots at established sites near Ban Lion, and added new plots to monitor recently established marine protected areas (MPAs) in 2 villages. Data shows generally low seagrass cover in all areas during rainy season. Developed and initiated a program of monitoring animals inside and outside the marine protected areas (MPAs) in two villages to show the effectiveness of MPAs, especially on conch and sea cucumber populations.

November Volunteers

2011-12-07T12:02:00.014+07:00

In the month of November, Kuraburi was home to several enthusiastic volunteers. Motivated young women joined our projects at the Southern Thailand Orphanage, the Kuraburi Nursery School, the Burmese Learning Center and the Kuraburi Junior School: Tayla from Australia and via our Dutch partner organization, we welcomed Amy, Noortje, Iris, Laura, Yvette, Stefanie and Iris in Kuraburi.
We visited them at the schools and were lucky to get some beautiful pictures. Yvette, Iris and Stefanie reflected upon their first day in the Kuraburi Nursery School: ”The children, happy and pleased to see us, were excited and eager to learn. They were not shy and even gave us a hug when the school was finished!”

We are looking forward to hearing more
reflections upon your experiences.

A visit to the last refuge of the Water Lily

2011-12-01T16:06:00.000+07:00

P’Somsakthe environment-specialist from IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) took the biggest part of the AD crew Nat, Nia and Simon on a field-trip to see an endemic Water lily species 15 minutes away from Kuraburi Center. It grows in a small stream with constantly running water but the flow shouldn’t to strong. Also it’s very clear and fresh water because the flower just grows under these conditions.

The plant is commonly know as „Yah Chong“, its scientific name is crinum thaianum. The place is one of the last places on the world where this plant grows and protected by an old thai-farmer. When the water lily started to grow on his terrain. First he had no idea which treasure he defended and got intruders and plant theifs on the run with his machete.

A nursery and rehabilitation programe led by P’Somsak, tries to protect and replant the flower in its natural habitat. For that he collects the seeds, heals it and gives it a new chance. Indirect actions are stopping the erosion through protecting the reed habitat, which has influence on the water lily habitat. Another helpful factor are youth groups the were formed up many years ago. They test on regular basis the water quality and the plants habitat.

But what can you do, when a big land excavator comes? Dredging causes in this areas a lot of problems and is one reason why the beautiful water lily is even more in danger nowadays. Thanks to P’Somsak and his team the water lily still has a chance and can be brought back into wildlife.

Recommendations:
+ Water Lilies are collected for commercial purposes in large numbers, especially in the dry season (January-April). To promote conservation of this endemic species, government agencies, local authorities and local people should coordinate their activities within the context of a long term management plan.

+ Klong Bang Pong should be conserved urgently because it has the highest concentration of Water Lilies in Phang Nga province after Klong Na Ca. The canal is still very healthy, clean and clear.

+ In the past local communities in Klong Nui and Klong Ta Put tried banning Water Lily collection with limited success. It is recommended to reengage these processes to promote successful management in Water Lily conservation.

+ In the past, Klong Tumnang, Klong Bang Pow Moo and Klong Kamnanhad had a high density of Water Lilies and still have good conditions to support Water Lily rehabilitation. These are good areas to introduce Water Lily breeding.

+ Almost all of the other canals are in private land, so it is recommended to work through local leaders to conserve the species.

+ Klong Na Ca is an excellent case study of Water Lily conservation and organizations should use this area as a learning centre.

AD staff and volunteers celebrating the 'festival of lights' with the children at the Southern Thailand Orphanage

2011-11-23T15:37:00.017+07:00

As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (November, 10^th) was about to light up the night sky, Andaman Discovery staff and volunteers from Kuraburi took the road trip to the Southern Thailand Orphanage to take part in the beautiful Thai Festival called Loy Krathong.

Our five Dutch volunteers were excited about the forthcoming celebration, which pays homage to the water spirit. Arriving at the orphanage, we were greeted by the children some of them dressed in traditional Thai clothing. Two Andaman Volunteers, named by the kids as P’Nu and P’Chame were also dressed up by the home staff in traditional Thai costumes to welcome arriving guests.

The night started with an introduction, given in English by the children. And although a little nerve-racking for them at times, they managed to deliver their speeches very well. While everyone was enjoying the delicious Thai food and homemade fruit punch, the night activities continued with Thai dance, performed by the girls and a Mauy Thai warm up routine, performed by the boys.

After the performances an auction was held to help raise much-needed funds for the home. The children have made some beautiful paintings for which the guests had a lot of fun bidding. AD staff purchased an enchanting painting of flowers and butterflies in wonderful explosion of colours. Once the auction closed we went to choose a Krathong which is a little float made of banana leaves, adorned with flowers, candles and incense sticks.

According to tradition the ritual of floating the Krathong is performed in pairs. The kids made sure we all had a partner to make a wish and send our Krathongs down the river.

We had a wonderful time at the festival and thank the children and staff at the home for making this a fantastic and memorable night for everyone.

New AD-team member

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Note from Lena:

Hello from the Office. In the beginning of November I reached Kuraburi, to learn from and support Andaman Discoveries. I will be keeping you updated about our projects and news from the field, and I welcome the opportunity to pass on the news and stories about the beautiful projects in and around Kuraburi. In order for you to know who will mediating between the happenings here, from villagers, in nature, the office and our volunteers, I will briefly tell you how I arrived in the AD office

Originally from Germany, I just finished my Liberal Arts degree in the Netherlands. Due to my passion for learning in and from different environments, I spent my fifth semester in Hong Kong to study Chinese and conduct research for my final thesis. At a conference in October 2010, I met Bodhi Garrett and Guillem (a former intern), who spread the word about community based tourism. I was fascinated about AD's inclusive view and saw the possiblity of contributing with my social and international background while at the same time learning about community based tourism and alternative community development. After a short visit in January, this time I have come to stay for a while. I am looking forward to the many encounters the stay here will bring and hope you enjoy the stories in the meantime.

Spreading the word, sharing good will.

2011-11-22T13:49:00.012+07:00

On a beautiful Saturday morning in November, Angela Miller and her family found their way to the Southern Thailand Orphanage to share their generosity with the children from the home. The word was spread by the Brown family, who happened to be friends of Angela's family. As they arrived joyful and with good will to help with the bakery construction, they also brought gifts from the October wish list as well as other items that they had been gathering for a while.

According to Angela, “Language was no barrier for my two children as the children at the Orphanage took them by the hand and showed them around.

We had a wonderful day at the beach playing and swimming and were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to help some of the older children get dressed and prepare for their performance they had booked for later that night. It really was a wonderful experience, for us as adults as well as for our children. We hope to visit the Orphanage again during our next visit to Thailand and in the mean time, we will continue to support the foundation financially where possible, as it is clearly needed and appreciated.”

Southern Thailand Orphanage opened its door and hearts to Cathy Brown and Family

2011-10-27T11:22:00.016+07:00

Cathy Brown and her family visited the project for a day, taking time out of their vacation to visit and support the Home. Cathy’s children soon began playing and having fun with the orphanage children, although few words were exchanged the children just got on with having fun and using hand and face expressions to be understood.

At the end of their vist the Brown family kindly donated funds to help with the construction of the coffee shop and brought some essential items from the

home's wish list.

Cathy said:

‘Thank you so much, we had such a wonderful day. Rosa and co were open and warming, the children played so well right from the beginning (don't you just love kids !!!!). We had a look around the orphanage and had a meal then we all went off to the beach which was just great. I'm going to keep supporting them as much as I can, they were all so happy it was so lovely to see’.

Kuraburi celebrates the Vegetarian Festival

2011-10-20T15:15:00.010+07:00

During the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar, the local Chinese community in Kuraburi and across Thailand, celebrates the Chinese Vegetaian Festival. According to their beliefs the abstinence from meat, sex, alcohol and other stimulants, helps the devotees obtain good healthand peace of mind.

The celebrations involve setting of and walking on firecrackers as well as self-mutilation.

Devotees with their cheeks pierced,

take part in procession, in celebration of the Chinese Vegetarian festival in Kuraburi. October 3, 2011.

Children Expecting the “Falang“

2011-10-20T11:22:00.012+07:00

Veg Voyages Visits the Andaman Coast

Folks from Veg Voyages recently visited Southern Thailand with a group of 30 vegan tourists on a vegetarian food tour. Part of their trip included a visit to some of Andaman Discoveries projects. After their adventures at the Vegetarian Festival and Jungle Tree Houses, their next stop was the island of Koh Prathong and the Burmese Learning Center. Both the kids and tourists were full of anticipation.

The 5-minute walk from the pier to the school led through a muddy road with some deep puddles accumulated from the constant torrential downpours typical for this time of year. Upon their arrival, the School Director T-Saw welcomed the tourists.

The kids were all in their tiny classrooms, some without a teacher. As the main purpose of the visit was to help with the preparation of the kids’ lunch, some of the Veg Voyagers went straight to work in the makeshift kitchen/dining room, helped by the Burmese ladies.A chopping and peeling frenzy ensued and soon the appetising aroma of the garlic and spices was wafting through the air.

Meanwhile, the rest of the group had spread out into the rooms and the excited voices of the kids could be heard singing songs and clapping hands. In one of the rooms a young man was playing hangman with the kids, who were eager to impress him with their knowledge of the English words and spelling. In another, someone else was showing the kids some magic tricks. To everyone’s amazement, when she started singing the song “If you are happy and you know it,“ the kids joined in straight away singing the words they already knew!

Soon enough the food was ready and the visitors helped to dish it all out and serve the kids, who were all lined up and separated according to their age group. After orderly lining and washing their hands one by one the kids took their seats. After saying a prayer in their

Burmese mother tongue, the eating started! When everyone was done with eating, the kids were nicely surprised to find out that there were some wonderful gifts prepared for them. Their visitors had brought wond

erful goodies, such as little backpacks, pencils, kits with toothpaste and flip-flops. The kids were full of excitement and were smiling and posing for pictures.

The Veg Voyagers were all gathered to hear what Karen from AD had to tell them about the Learning Center, and to answer their questions regarding the funding and upkeep of the school. Some of the group made donations and enquired about setting up direct debit as they were touched by the plight of the little Burmese kids. After some emotional and heartfelt hugs and goodbyes, we were all on our way back to Kuraburi.