What started out as a post-orientation field trip ended up being so much more.

After completing my orientation with XploreAsia, I joined a group of fellow teachers for one last adventure before we each headed off to our teaching placements. We piled into the back of a songthaew—twenty-somethings and one older guy—and made our way south from Hua Hin to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park.

The ride took about an hour. English and German conversations flowed freely as the Thai countryside passed by. I didn’t take photos of this part, but the shared ride itself was memorable. There’s something about traveling together that builds connection fast.

Entering Sacred Ground

Khao Sam Roi Yot means “The mountain with three hundred peaks,” and it lives up to the name. Jagged limestone cliffs rise from the sea, and the air feels thick with history. Unlike parks in the U.S., reaching the main attractions here requires effort.

That challenge adds a sense of reverence to the experience. Our destination was Phraya Nakhon Cave, a site visited by Thai kings and home to the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion. Getting there involves two stages: first, reaching the beach—either by boat or hiking over a mountain—and then climbing to the cave itself. I chose the hike over the mountain to get to the starting point. After all, how hard could it be?

Turns out, very.

The Climb

The trail was steep and uneven. I saw a man collapse halfway up, and a few of us helped to carry him to a rest pavilion where rangers could assist. It was a reminder to respect the terrain. Still, the view at the top was worth every step. Midway up, I met a dog on her own quiet mission. She didn’t bother anyone, and no one bothered her. She didn’t pay much attention to me, but also walked close to me, and I appreciated her silent company.

When she reached the cave, she found her spot and stopped, and just lay down. I did the same—sat down, took it all in, and prayed. I reflected on my life and the journey that brought me to Thailand.

All my life, I dreamt of the world, far off places, people, food, and cultures unknown to my midwestern self. This trip had been a dream for years, and through grace—divine or otherwise—I was humbled to be there, in this moment.

Descent and Renewal

The descent was just as demanding.  I said goodbye to my silent travel companion and made it back to the beach, determined to swim. I changed clothes, walked into the water, and let myself collapse into it. The warmth and embrace of the ocean felt like I was returning into Mother Nature’s womb. It was healing. I plunged in, floated, and enjoyed being a part of the transitory essence of the ocean.  When I emerged, I felt renewed. I lay on the beach, completely spent, and eventually drifted off. When I woke, it was time to go. I opted for the boat ride back instead of hiking again. The ride was peaceful, and I watched baby crabs scurry from their holes as we landed.

A Quiet Night in Hua Hin

Back in Hua Hin, I showered and napped. My younger companions went out to dinner without me. Part of me was disappointed, but I understood—I was old enough to be the father of every single one of them, and no matter what I did, I wasn’t going to change that fact, and that was okay.

That night, I wandered the night market alone, found dinner at a street stall, and then treated myself to some durian and grapefruit for dessert. I watched the city’s nightlife unfold, content and at peace. The next day, I headed to Don Mueang for my first teaching assignment.

Final Thoughts

It has been said that Thailand will always give you what you need.  This trip wasn’t just about seeing a beautiful place. It was about being seen—by others, by nature, and by myself. Looking back, I have not been the same person that I was before I plunged into the ocean and felt the water’s warm embrace. Thailand held up a mirror to me, and for the first time in my life, I felt my age, and I was okay with that. Seeing yourself authentically in this crazy, topsy-turvy world of ours is a gift, and Thailand will have more for me as I continue on my journey.