Khao Yai National Park

I knew what to expect but it will still take getting used to the COLD shower right in with the toilet so the floor is never dry and a sink that sprays two feet when I try to wash my hands, or eating mushrooms and rice for breakfast, or trying to sleep on a mattress that is harder than my wood floor and swarming with tiny termites with rats crawling down the walls. I have questions like where do I hand-wash my clothes and can I drink the water?

My introduction to the park actually wasn’t that painful. I came up on the 10th with Tim (from a nonprofit environmental organization called WildAid) and he showed me around, introduced me. So, at least people kind of know why I am here wandering around; although, I’m still not entirely sure of my role. I’m in a waiting period this week until we get the camera trap schedule and know when to go pick them up with the rangers—which will involve a four or five day backpacking trip. Usually this would be fine, except I’ll be sleeping in a hammock and having to keep up with a group of rangers. Also, the Thai are very clean and see it as rude if you don’t wash before dinner. Full out wash. So, I can’t simply go without showering for days like I would normally do backpacking. No, I’ve got to figure out how to take a full bath in the river while being modest (I was told that a swimming suit is not appropriate, but I’ve got to do it with a sarong wrap or something). Anyway, finally getting out in the forest will be something to look forward to. I think I’m going to be very very challenged with these mountains around here!

It is beautiful. I wake up to the sound of gibbons and see full dense forest outside of my windows. But, it is also a touristy park. I eat at a nearby restaurant (all in the park) and the tables are always occupied by some sort of Thai tour group. And, I even saw a couple of foreigners the other day. I haven’t been bold with my Thai yet and get around by smiling, nodding, and pointing. Or, I’ve been staying in my room to myself too much over the past couple of days. On the 17th I’m expecting Kanda, my translator and helper/counterpart from WildAid to arrive. We will be sharing a room and hopefully we can begin to work together on whatever needs to be done for this project.

16 Sept 04
Well, the people I live with finally got me out of my room. The three people (an older gentleman, 33 year old woman, and quite nice to look at 26 year old guy) are employed by the park to give Thai massages. What kind of housing arrangement could be better than that!? Anyway, so I’ve been busy struggling and fumbling and laughing trying to communicate with them. The guy (I think his name is Pom) tries to initiate conversation by bringing things to my room (fruit, coffee, etc.). 

I have hot (well warmish) water! Halleluiah! (how do you spell that!?) No matter. That made my day.