Author: timothyblake

I recently spent an incredibly fun and delightful week exploring the vibrant and lively city of Orlando, primarily focusing on the world-renowned and magical Disney World. It was an absolutely amazing experience that allowed me to live out a childhood dream. The rides and attractions were nothing short of phenomenal, each offering a unique and thrilling adventure. It was a truly memorable week, filled with joy and excitement, and I was really pleased to capture some wonderful moments from the different parks I visited. From the enchanting and nature-filled Disney’s Animal Kingdom to the star-studded and cinematic Hollywood Studios, each park provided its own special charm and unforgettable experiences. I cherished every moment, and the memories created will stay with me for a lifetime.

Checkout the gallery of the photos here or view below.

Orlando photo gallery

Thailand, often referred to as the ‘Land of Smiles’, is a country where Buddhism is deeply interwoven into society. This strong religious influence is visible in the country’s wealth of ancient temples, many of which have stood the test of time, dating back several centuries, and continue to be significant cultural and religious sites.

One such place is Phuket, a picturesque island nestled in the southern part of Thailand. Phuket is home to a number of temples, but the one that truly stands out is Wat Chalong, this temple is the oldest in Phuket. Its construction dates back to the early 19th century, making it not just a religious site, but also a historical landmark.

Wat Chalong is not just renowned for its age or its beautiful architecture. It holds a special significance for both locals and Thai tourists who flock to the temple to offer their prayers and pay their respects to several revered monks. These monks are the very founders of Wat Chalong, including the esteemed Luang Pho Cham and Luang Pho Chuang. These venerable figures led the citizens of the Chalong Subdistrict in their fight against the Chinese rebellion in 1876. They also used their extensive knowledge of herbal medicine to treat the injured, showcasing their dedication and selflessness.

I was fortunate to visit Wat Chalong, an experience that was both enlightening and humbling. I had the opportunity to explore the beautiful grounds of this temple in Phuket and have included some photos to share.

The Wat Saket Temple, a marvel of spiritual significance, is rather uniquely constructed atop the singular hill present in Bangkok. In an era long before the impressive skyline of skyscrapers came to define Bangkok, this temple stood as the city’s highest point, a beacon of faith rising above the surrounding landscape. The temple holds immense significance for followers of Lord Buddha, with its history and location making it a cherished symbol of spiritual devotion.

To reach the top, you must ascend a series of 320 steps. These steps, while physically demanding, lead to a reward well worth the effort – a breathtaking panoramic view of Rattanakosin Island that captures the heart and imagination of every visitor.

To share my experiences, I’ve curated a special gallery collection on my Flickr account. Here, I’ve collated a variety of photos that I captured during my time exploring the rich and fascinating grounds of the Wat Saket Temple.

You view the gallery here and some of the photos featured in that gallery below.