A L B I N O   S M I L E S
the semi-periodical of Smiling Albino - www.smilingalbino.com

Fall 2003/2546 - volume 2, issue 5

Contest

Traditionally, what is the main item used to make a ‘krathong’ for Thailand’s Loi Krathong Festival? Here’s a hint ­ read Scott’s latest web story for the answer! The lucky winner, drawn randomly later next month, will win $200US off any SA adventure of 8-days or longer.

Got an answer?

Previous Winner:
More than 20 lucky persons answered last month’s trivia question and received their very own, 2546 Smiling Albino keychain, worth $100US off their next SA adventure. And with that, we’re out of these limited keychains for another year.

Thai Fact

Thais speak a special dialect of Thai called ‘Rachasap’ when talking about or to the Royal Family of Thailand

SA Fact

SA founders Daniel and Scott have now been living in Thailand for more than four years - happy anniversary.

SA Web Fact

We have just posted adventure dates all the way through to the end of August 2004. What are you waiting for? Book your trip!

    
Back from promotional trips in North America, Daniel and Scott are in Thailand and busier than ever. This month’s edition of ‘Albino Smiles’ introduces you to one of the world’s most innovative trips, lots of news and happenings, a big contest prize and a tasty Thai recipe. Dig in.

Adventure News

Get away and make a difference

Enjoying Highland Farm on the Volunteer Adventure

It’s with great pride we announce the launch of our most innovative trip to date. The 17-day, Volunteer Adventure combines elements of our already famous adventures with Smiling Albino community outreach programs. The result is one of the most unique trips on the market today. Participants will experience Bangkok, Ayutthaya and the charm of Chiang Rai province, while teaching at a Thai school, spending time with orphans and assisting injured gibbon apes. We’re only offering this trip twice per year, so book soon as it’s sure to sell out quickly!

Smiling Albino News


Daniel, Melanie, Linda, Rob & Scott enjoying the Henault's Thai party

Marin, of Calgary, AB, spent two weeks volunteering with orphans at Bangkok’s Phayathai Babies’ Home in September/October. During her stint we took some of the children on a field trip swimming. She’ll also be part of the team teaching at Surowa Huamark Noi School, for the school’s second instalment of ‘English Fun Days’ from Nov 5-7, 2003.

A great summer in North America was topped off with a riotous Thai bash in Lions Bay, BC. Rob & Linda Henault threw a world-class shindig at their incredible home overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The evening peaked at 77 guests and went way into the early hours. Thanks to the Henaults and everyone who entertained and hosted us this summer. Such hospitality makes it difficult to come back to Thailand.

The very successful ‘English Fun Days’ project at Santikiri School, in Chiang Rai province, will go into its fourth instalment from Dec 1-12, 2003, with volunteers from England and Canada participating.


Sa-ngiam poses at the closing of his Bangkok exhibition

Our good friend Sa-ngiam Yarangsaree, an accomplished Thai artist who lives in Doi Mae Salong, Chiang Rai, recently wound up a very successful three-week exhibition in Bangkok. His reputation as one of country’s leading new artists is growing and he was elated to sell 30 paintings. Congratulations Sa-ngiam!

A big thanks to Neil, Nicole, Graham and Kimberly, all from Calgary, AB, for their generous donations to our Community projects, while enjoying the Chiang Rai Northern Escape II in September.

Thai Culture Your Culture
Different things Thais do that we sometimes find odd, but sometimes aren't much different from what we as westerners do.

November 8th will see Thailand’s second most important festival, ‘Loi Krathong’, take place. On this day, Thais pay thanks to Mae Kong Ka (Mother Water) for providing water and to say sorry for polluting it.

    
Recently Sighted
A bumper sticker seen on a car in Bangkok: “The great sunny state of Vencouver”.

Dish of the month
Som Tam

This wonderful salad is a Thai classic. Originally from Isaan (north-eastern Thailand), you can now enjoy this dish anywhere in the Kingdom. It’s generally eaten with sticky rice, which is great for dipping in the salad’s juices.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups peeled and shredded green papaya (can substitute cucumber, apple or carrot)
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2-3 fresh Thai chilies or dried chili
  • 3 tbs. fish sauce
  • 1 tbs. palm sugar
  • 2 tbs. lemon juice
  • 2 tbs. roasted peanuts
  • 2 tomatoes (cut into eighths)
  • 50 g green beans (cut into 20cm lengths)
  • 1 qtr lime (cut into very small pieces)
Preparation:

Gently crush the shredded papaya in a mortar (can substitute a bowl). Remove shredded papaya and set aside. Crush the garlic and chili in the mortar, mixing thoroughly. Add remaining ingredients plus papaya and mix together. Enjoy!

Snacks from the corner store and beyond...
Coconut juice, straight from the coconut - sold on most Thai streets with a straw put in for immediate consumption, or with the top slightly cracked for drinking later, is not only tasty and healthy, but a steal at just 10B ($0.25USD). The best part is the container biodegrades much quicker than bottles or drink boxes ­ score one more for Mother Nature.

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