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The tradition goes back to the 14th century (= between the years 1301 and 1399), according to the Thai. It was during the first Thai kingdom, called Sukothai, when a consort (= wife or companion of a king) gave the king a gift, the first decorated "krathong" (= a Thai word for a floating boat with a candle on it).
For centuries (= 100's of years) this tradition has carried on. It is a beautiful night spent with family, friends, or your loved one. First you make (or buy) your "krathong", then you light the candle and set the beautiful floating object in the water. The boats are usually made from banana tree leaves, bark (= the hard outer covering of a tree), candles, flowers and incense (= nice smelling sticks which you burn).
My Thai hometown is called Suratthani. It is in the south of the country and is where I lived and taught English a few years ago.
The Tapi River is a central point in the city and it is where the festival takes place every year. There are many other festivals and activities on the river. This is a famous bridge which the locals decorate and light with alternating (= changing) lights. A regular line public dancing spot, with restaurants lining a long promenade (= a long path people can walk along, usually at a water's edge), it is a magical place in the hot and humid south.
When I moved to Suratthani, I saw what would become my new home for the first time from the river. I was on this river tour when we passed several bungalows, which I would move into shortly afterwards.
I remember my time teaching in Thailand very fondly due to the culture, the people and of course the delicious Thai food!
I look forward to teaching in Asia again soon and meeting more interesting students from cultures other than my own. Contact me for a lesson if you like sharing about your culture and adventures! I offer a 'Holiday English Conversation Class' - try it out.
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