Unexpected Rain and Ancient Beliefs: A Serendipitous Farewell to Koh Chang.
As our journey through Thailand continued, we found ourselves returning from Cambodia with a fresh 30-day tourist visa for mom. Little did we know that our trip back to Koh Chang would offer yet another glimpse into Thai culture and some valuable lessons for travelers.
Here’s what made this experience unique:
- Rare Rain: We encountered rain, which is highly unusual during the dry season (November to April).
- Cultural Superstitions: This unexpected rain coincided with our planned departure from Koh Chang to Chiang Mai, invoking an old superstition about rain and travel.
- Ancient Beliefs: We learned about the deep-rooted perceptions of rain in Thai culture, dating back to pagan times.
The Rain Superstition
There’s a belief that setting off on a long journey when it unexpectedly rains is a sign of good luck. This superstition has its roots in ancient perceptions:
- Rain was seen as heavenly water that washes away illnesses and sorrows.
- It was also perceived as celestial milk, nourishing the Earth and all that grows on it.
- In ancient times, Earth was associated with the feminine principle, while Sky was linked to the masculine, fertilizing force.
Show Image The slippery roads of Koh Chang after an unexpected rain
The Perilous Beauty of Koh Chang’s Roads
While the rain might be a good omen, it presents real challenges on Koh Chang:
- The winding, often steep coastal road becomes incredibly slippery when wet.
- A thin layer of clay on the road turns into a veritable skating rink after rain.
- For children, it’s a joy. For adults on motorbikes (or “bikes” as they’re called locally), it’s a serious hazard.
See for yourself the transformation of Koh Chang’s roads after rain:
Slippery Roads of Koh Chang After Rain
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll share an unexpected story about easily switching from one camera model to another!
Travel Tip: Navigating Koh Chang’s Rainy Roads
Here’s crucial advice for anyone traveling on Koh Chang, especially during or after rain:
- Extreme Caution: The roads become extremely dangerous for all vehicles, especially motorbikes.
- Local Practice: Residents often abandon their bikes at the first sign of dampness on the road, opting to walk or use cars instead.
- Rental Risks: Local bike rental companies may charge hefty fines even for minor scratches, so be extra careful.
- Alternative Transport: Consider using car taxis or songthaews (shared pickup truck taxis) when the roads are wet.
- Weather Awareness: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your trips accordingly.
Remember, it’s always better to arrive late than not at all. Your safety should be your top priority.
Calling all road trip enthusiasts and weather watchers! Have you ever encountered unexpectedly dangerous road conditions during your travels? How did you handle it? Share your experiences and tips in the comments. Your insights could be crucial for fellow travelers navigating unfamiliar terrain!
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