The Country Collectors

Hey Country Collectors!

I wanted to share an update on my healing journey. I went back to the doctor because I wasn’t healing as expected, and the pain was still hanging around. After hours in the hospital and being mistaken for another patient, they gave me another round of antibiotics and pain meds. While the wound hasn’t closed at all yet, the infection is shrinking, so I’m calling that a win. 🎉 The doctor also advised me to stay off my feet as much as possible, so that’s the plan, even though I’m feeling a bit stir-crazy!

On the lighter side, when I mentioned that another doctor thought my injury might be caused by a ghost, he laughed out loud and said he was glad I came in for a second opinion. 😅 Despite the restlessness, I’m grateful for all your support during this time—it truly keeps me going. I can’t wait to get back out there with you soon!

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1 week ago | [YT] | 462

The Country Collectors

Hey Country Collectors,

I hope this message finds you all in great spirits. I wanted to give you a quick update on my situation over the past 10 days. I’m feeling a bit under the weather and have had to make a few visits to the hospital. The docs think it might be a bite from a spider, a centipede, or maybe even a ghost! 😱 Yes, you read that right—the doctor actually said it might be a ghost! Can you believe it? 😂

My leg is really swollen, I have an open wound that just won’t stop bleeding, my arm hurts from the series of shots, and it's hard to walk. My head is swimming from the meds and shots. The infection is definitely taking a toll on me, and I’m just tired all the time, and sleeping has not been great, which has made filming or editing not possible at the moment. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure sometimes!

The good news is, it’s starting to get better. I’ll be sharing some fun stuff soon and making new content as soon as I am able. Thank you for all your patience and support. Your well wishes mean the world to me.

Stay tuned for more exciting travel stories and fun experiences coming your way soon!


Much love,
Adam

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 224

The Country Collectors

Hey Country Collectors! 🐰✨

I’m jumping for joy because the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival video is uploading and will be out in the next couple of hours! 🕯️🎉

Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of candle-making, witness an incredible monk ordination ceremony, and enjoy the amazing food fair, Glow Zoo, traditional dancing, and more! 🌟

Stay tuned and keep an eye out for the new video! You won’t want to miss it!

#UbonRatchathaniCandleFestival #TheCountryCollectors #ThailandTravel #CulturalFestival #JumpingForJoy

1 month ago | [YT] | 442

The Country Collectors

Hey Country Collectors! Adam here, coming to you from the vibrant streets of Ubon Ratchathani! The Candle Festival isn't just about the waxy wonders and intricate sculptures—it's also a feast for the senses with its amazing food fair. 🌟🕯️🍜

From sizzling Pad Thai to aromatic Tom Yum, the street food here is pho-nomenal. I couldn't resist grabbing a plate of Som Tum (spicy papaya salad)—it's a flavor explosion that will leave you Thai-ing for more! 🌶️😋

Seafood lovers, you're in for a reel treat! The stalls are brimming with freshly grilled fish, prawns, and squid. The Pla Pao (grilled fish stuffed with lemongrass) is a smoky, succulent delight that will make your taste buds swim with joy. 🐟🔥

For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert options are endless. I indulged in some Khanom Krok (coconut pancakes) and Mango Sticky Rice—the combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and sticky rice is simply rice-sistant. 🥭🥥🍚

Walking around the festival can be thirsty work, but the local drinks have got you covered. Try the Nam Dok Anchan (butterfly pea flower tea) for a refreshing, naturally blue drink that's as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy. If you're feeling adventurous, the Cha Yen (Thai iced tea) is a creamy, sweet, and spiced beverage that hits the spot. Talk about tea-riffic! 🥤💙

Don’t forget to customize your dishes with various condiments available; just be careful with the chilies—they pack a punch that's chili-ious! 🌶️💥

As you enjoy your food, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, filled with traditional music, laughter, and stunning candle floats. It's a true celebration of Thai culture and community spirit. Wax on, wax off! 🎶🎉

If you're ever in Thailand during the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, make sure to explore the food fair—it's a delicious adventure you won't want to miss. Stay tuned for more festival fun and travel tips!

#TheCountryCollectors #UbonRatchathani #CandleFestival #FoodieAdventures #TasteThailand #StreetFood #ThaiCuisine #TravelThailand #FestivalVibes #CulturalExperience #TravelInspiration #Wanderlust

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1 month ago | [YT] | 387

The Country Collectors

Hey Country Collectors!

Today, I want to share a unique and unforgettable tradition from Wat Chaeng that truly embodies the spirit of Buddhism and community—the Tak Bat ceremony. This experience was unlike any other Tak Bat I have encountered, and I’m excited to tell you all about it.

What is Tak Bat?

Tak Bat is a daily ritual where monks collect alms, usually early in the morning. This practice allows monks to receive food while giving laypeople the opportunity to make merit through their offerings.

Why Wat Chaeng?

Wat Chaeng is renowned for its dedication to preserving this age-old tradition. The serene atmosphere of the temple and the devotion of the community make it a special place to witness Tak Bat.

The Ceremony

Unlike the usual procession, the ceremony at Wat Chaeng is distinct. The monks sat in a single row within the temple, chanting softly as the community members approached with their offerings. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of reverence and tranquility, making it a truly spiritual experience. As the community filled the monks’ bowls with food, the temple resonated with a harmonious blend of chanting and the quiet murmur of respectful conversation.

Participating in Tak Bat

If you want to participate, here are a few tips:

Dress Modestly: Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
Be Respectful: Approach the monks with a calm demeanor, and don’t touch them directly.
Prepare Offerings: Rice, fruits, and packaged food are commonly given. Make sure the offerings are fresh and respectfully presented.
Capturing the Moment

For those of you filming or photographing the ceremony, remember to be unobtrusive. The focus should be on the experience and the reverence of the moment.

Experiencing the Tak Bat ceremony at Wat Chaeng is more than just a cultural activity—it's a chance to engage with the local community and partake in a tradition that fosters a deep sense of connection and peace. This particular ceremony, with its unique approach, will leave a lasting impression on anyone who witnesses it.

Have you ever participated in a Tak Bat ceremony or something similar? Share your experiences in the comments below! And as always, happy travels!

#TheCountryCollectors #TakBat #WatChaeng #BuddhistTraditions #UbonRatchathani #TravelWithRespect #CulturalHeritage #MorningRituals #TempleLife #ThailandTravel #ExploreThailand #ThaiCulture #MindfulTravel #CommunitySpirit #Buddhism #UniqueExperience #SpiritualJourney #TravelInspiration

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1 month ago | [YT] | 230

The Country Collectors

🌟✨ Night Parade at the Ubon Candle Festival: A Spectacle of Light, Art, and Unmatched Production Value! ✨🌟

Hey, CountryCollectors! 🌍✈️

Last night was a feast for the senses at the Ubon Candle Festival! The night parade took everything to a whole new level, with a production value that was nothing short of spectacular. 🕯️✨

From the moment the first float appeared, it was clear that months of hard work, dedication, and unparalleled craftsmanship had gone into creating this magical event. These aren't just any candle floats – they are masterful creations, each a testament to the incredible artistry and skill of Ubon Ratchathani's talented artisans and monks. The level of detail and the intricate designs are simply mind-blowing, turning candles into stunning works of art that tell rich stories of Thai mythology and Buddhist teachings. 🛕🌟

Although they don't actually light the candles, the floats were brilliantly illuminated by carefully placed lights, creating a warm, golden glow that bathed the entire area in a magical ambiance. Every float was perfectly lit, highlighting the intricate carvings and delicate details that make these candles so extraordinary. The play of light and shadow added depth and dimension, making each float a moving piece of art. 🌌🕯️

But that’s not all! The parade wasn’t just about traditional elements – it was a vibrant mix of modern and classic, with dynamic performances that made it feel like a Hollywood movie right in the heart of Thailand! 🎬✨

The night was filled with incredible modern dancing and singing, adding a contemporary twist to the traditional celebrations. The dancers moved with such energy and precision, their performances flawlessly choreographed and bursting with color and life. The singers captivated the audience with their powerful voices, creating a truly immersive and entertaining experience. 🎤💃

And let’s talk about the sound! The traditional music that accompanied the parade was pitch-perfect, with every note resonating through the streets and adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The musicians played with such heart and passion, it felt like the soul of Thailand was coming alive through their instruments. 🎶💖

What truly set this night apart was the attention to detail in every aspect of the production. From the meticulously planned parade route, which took place in a single, beautifully decorated location, to the perfectly timed lighting and sound effects, it was clear that a lot of thought and effort had gone into making this event a memorable experience for everyone. The production value was top-notch, ensuring that every moment was breathtaking. 🎥🌟

If you ever have the chance to witness the Ubon Candle Festival, seize it! This event is a testament to the incredible creativity and spirit of the Ubon community. Stay tuned for my upcoming video where I’ll take you behind the scenes to show you the making of these magnificent floats and the dedication that goes into this spectacular night. 🌟🎥

#UbonCandleFestival #NightParade #ThailandAdventures #TravelWithMe #CulturalFestivals #TheCountryCollectors #TravelInspiration #ExploreThailand #FestivalSeason #CulturalHeritage #ThaiTraditions #ArtAndCulture #TravelGoals #BucketListAdventures #IlluminateYourJourney #WondersOfTheWorld

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1 month ago | [YT] | 285

The Country Collectors

Hey there, Country Collectors! 🎉

I just wrapped up an amazing day at the Candle Festival Parade here in Ubon Ratchathani, and I couldn’t wait to share all the glowing details with you!

🕯️ Wick-ed Wonders Everywhere! 🕯️

From the moment the parade started, the streets were lit up with the most incredible candle creations I’ve ever seen. These weren’t just your average candles – they were towering works of art, each one more intricate and beautiful than the last. The detail on these wax wonders was truly wax-traordinary.

🎉 A Glow-rious Procession 🎉

The parade was a riot of color and sound. Local communities, schools, and organizations proudly marched alongside their candle masterpieces, dressed in stunning traditional outfits. The rhythmic beats of drums and the melodic tunes of traditional Thai instruments filled the air, and I found myself tapping my feet to the infectious energy.

💃 Flaming Hot Dance Moves 💃

Adding to the spectacle were dancers performing traditional Thai dances, their movements telling captivating stories. The music and dance perfectly complemented the visual feast, making it impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. Each performance was a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Thailand, and it was a joy to wick-ness.

🌟 A Festival to Remember 🌟

The Candle Festival Parade was a celebration of art, culture, and community spirit. It was a testament to the creativity and dedication of the artisans and the unity of the community. I left with a heart full of inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Thai traditions.

Thanks for joining me on this wick-ed journey. Stay tuned for more highlights from the Candle Festival as we continue to explore and celebrate the wonders of this amazing world together!

#TheCountryCollectors #CandleFestival #UbonRatchathani #CulturalHeritage #TravelDiaries #ParadeMagic #FestivalVibes #ThaiTraditions #CandleArt #TravelInspiration #CulturalExploration #WickEdExperience #ExploreThailand #LightUpTheNight #FestivalFun

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1 month ago | [YT] | 641

The Country Collectors

🕯️✨ Waxing Poetic: Candle Making at Wat Chaeng for the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival ✨🕯️

Hey Country Collectors!

Hold on to your wicks because we're about to dive into the bee-lightful process of candle making at Wat Chang for the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival! These candles aren't just any old flames; they're true works of art that will melt your heart. And guess what? I had the incredible opportunity to be a part of the team working with the amazing artists and monks at Wat Chaeng!

The journey starts months before the festival, as local artisans and monks at Wat Chang wax poetic with their creativity. It all begins with purchasing the highest quality wax, known for its smooth texture and durability. Once the wax is brought to Wat Chaeng, it's melted down and prepared for the next steps. This is where things really start to heat up!

Instead of traditional carving, the artisans and monks at Wat Chang use a unique technique that involves pouring wax over foam cores. These foam cores provide a sturdy structure, allowing for larger and more detailed creations. The melted wax is carefully poured over these cores, creating a smooth and solid surface.

But here's where it gets really fascinating: the community comes together to cut hundreds of thousands of wax pieces into intricate designs. These pieces are then meticulously attached to the wax-coated foam cores, creating stunning patterns, movement, and textures. Each candle tells a unique story, often depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology, local folklore, or historical events. The level of detail is simply wax-traordinary, with patterns and figures that seem to come to life.

As the festival approaches, these masterpieces are assembled into grand floats. These floats are then dressed to impress with additional decorations like flowers, lights, and small statues. It’s a community effort, with artists, monks, students, and volunteers all coming together to make sure everything is wick-tacular. And I got to roll up my sleeves and join in the fun, learning the ropes and adding my own touch to the creations!

One of the most enlightening experiences is working alongside these talented artisans and monks at Wat Chang. Watching their hands move with wax-traordinary precision as they pour and attach these intricate wax pieces is truly humbling. Their dedication and passion shine through in every piece, and being part of this creative process has been nothing short of inspiring.

So, if you’re in Ubon Ratchathani for the festival, make sure to catch a glimpse of the candle-making magic at Wat Chang. It’s an illuminating experience that will leave you burning with admiration for these talented artists and monks.

Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes peeks at this brilliant festival! 🎉🕯️🌟

#TheCountryCollectors #UbonRatchathaniCandleFestival #WaxOnWaxOff #ThaiCulture #TravelThailand #WatChang #CandleArt #FestivalOfLights #ArtisanCrafts #BeeLoved #TravelGoals #CulturalExperience #BehindTheScenes #TravelInspiration #AmazingThailand #LightUpYourLife #TravelAdventures #DiscoverThailand #Craftsmanship #LocalArtists #CandleMaking #MonkCraftsmanship

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1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 534

The Country Collectors

The Candle Festival is in full swing and last night, I had an illuminating experience at the Ubon Ratchathani Zoo's glow-in-the-dark exhibit! 🌟🐯🦄 As part of the Candle Festival, the zoo transformed into a neon wonderland, and let me tell you, it was lit—literally!

I strolled through neon jungles, where lions and tigers and bears (oh my!) shone bright like the stars. The interactive light shows had me feeling like I was in an episode of “Glow-trotters.” 🌟✨

The highlight? Watching the “glow-rillas” and “neon-flamingos” strut their stuff. These animals know how to light up a room! 💡🐒🦩

The pathways were aglow with intricate Thai patterns and symbols, creating a path of lights that made me feel like I was walking on sunshine (at night!). 🌞🌙

And the special performances? They were electrifying! From dazzling dance shows to live music, every act was brighter than the last. 🎶💃

After the glow show, we embarked on a night safari that was the perfect cherry on top! 🌌🦁 Imagine cruising through the dark, surrounded by the sounds of nocturnal animals and catching glimpses of them in their natural habitats. It was like being in a real-life episode of “Night at the Zoo!” 🚙🔦

If you're looking for a night out that’s a little more on the bright side, the Ubon Ratchathani Zoo during the Candle Festival is the place to be. It’s a zoo-tiful blend of nature and culture, and trust me, you’ll leave glowing with joy! ✨😊

Stay tuned for the upcoming video for more fun!

#TheCountryCollectors #CandleFestival #UbonRatchathani #GlowInTheDarkZoo #ZooPerstars #TravelGoals #NeonNature #PunIntended #Thailand #TravelThailand #ExploreThailand #AmazingThailand #VisitThailand #ThaiCulture #FestivalFun #ZooLife #NightOut #FamilyFun #TravelInspiration #GlowingExperience #BucketList #TravelAddict #Wanderlust #GlowingReviews #TravelWithMe #TravelGram #AroundTheWorld #TravelVlog #NightSafari #SafariAdventure #NocturnalNights #WildlifeWonder

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1 month ago | [YT] | 220

The Country Collectors

Hey Country Collectors! 🎉 Today was an incredible day as I had the honor of attending the Miss Ubon Ratchathani beauty pageant, and guess what? I got to be there as official press! 📸✨

The atmosphere was electric with excitement and anticipation. The contestants were absolutely stunning, not just in their appearance but in their grace, poise, and the way they carried themselves. Each one had a unique story and background, showcasing the diverse beauty and talent of Ubon Ratchathani.

Being behind the scenes and capturing these moments was such a thrilling experience. I got to witness firsthand the dedication and hard work that goes into preparing for such an event. The contestants, organizers, and everyone involved put in so much effort to make it a spectacular show.

Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from the event. I can’t wait to share the incredible journey of these amazing contestants with all of you. This experience truly reminded me of the beauty of community and the power of dreams.

#MissUbonRatchathani #BeautyPageant #BehindTheScenes #TheCountryCollectors #UbonRatchathani #Inspiration #ThailandBeauty #PageantLife #EventCoverage #TravelVlog #CommunitySpirit #LocalCulture #TravelInspiration #AdamExplores #PressPass #ExclusiveContent #ThaiCulture #BeautyWithPurpose #PageantJourney

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1 month ago | [YT] | 250