I'm pleased to advise members that the exchange, which included ambassadors from Gold Coast, Adelaide and Brisbane clubs, was entirely successful in furthering the aims of The Friendship Force.
We found the hosts of both Lamphun and Taipei to be friendly, generous and thoughtful. Both clubs presented ambassadors with an interesting and enjoyable programme of activities, stimulating the mind and enhancing our knowledge of their culture and lifestyle.
Doi Suthep
Chiang Mai
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Doi Suthep
Chiang Mai
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Orchids
Chiang Mai
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Monks at Work
Chiang Mai
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Wat Haripunchai
Lamphun
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The contrasts were vivid. Lamphun, once the capital of an empire, now a small country town rich in history and yet with small town hospitality and charm. Taipei, a city of six million souls, the bustling capital of a vibrant island nation. An island overflowing with scenic and cultural attractions.
In Thailand we saw lovely examples of silk, batik and cotton items, visited temples, the museum, a private school and some of the hill tribes and their handiwork.
We were granted a civic reception by the Governor of the Province of Lamphun and then another reception by the Mayor and four of his executive staff. We had two trips to Chiang Mai - one to see the work underway for the Floral Expo celebrating the King's sixty years on the throne, the other to visit the Elephant Rehabilitation Farm.
We learned of the history of Haripunchai - Lamphun's name when it was the most important city in northern Thailand.
Taipei, Taiwan Club Welcomes Ambassadors from Gold Coast, Qld. Club
Then on to Taipei, which must be the scooter capital of the world!
Visits to the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, Chiang Kai Shek memorial, National Palace Museum and The Martyrs' Shrine for the changing of the guard ceremony; a visit to a Technical High School for demonstrations by the students followed by our involvement in a question and answer session, a visit to a Buddhist Teaching College for an extensive tour and evening meal and a walk in the Yangmingshan National Park to see the geothermal activity and a video on the geological history of the area, were just some of the highlights of our programme.
Musn't forget to mention the great food! Wonderful aromas and tastes but a bit much for some tummies - one morning one third of our party were on the sick list! Fortunately only a 24 hour thing at the most.
And last but not least the local shops and night markets.....
All in all a great experience with sensational Friendship Force hospitality.
Don Smith
Exchange Director
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