A new and beautiful check-in spot has
opened up for locals and tourists alike at the ever so popular Sai Kaew
Beach, literally “the beach of glass sand” here on Samed Island.
Perched atop the soft white grains is the new and improved mermaid
statue, the more modern counterpart of the national classic Pra Apai
Manee’s mermaid that has stood the test of time and inspired many
readers, students of literature, and lovers alike as they looked out on
the gentle waves. Many generations of Thai children grew
up with the statue as the front cover of their literature textbooks and
as inspiration for all the magical and wonderful creatures a child
envisions.
The statue has always been and will always be about the beauty of love. In this current interpretation, creator Haritorn Akarapat,
master sculptor whose works are greatly unique and nationally renowned
takes inspiration from the love of “Nang Nguek” and “Sutsakorn”,
characters from the classic and powerful literary creation of Sunthorn
Phu, a national poet. Combined with the natural beauty of the island,
the statue reflects the connections between Mother Nature and the
creatures under her love and care, not unlike the generosity between
mother and child. Nothing epitomizes “true love” like the unconditional
love of a mother.
And in turn, the Rayong province
officials are showing some love to nature with the new landscaping
project of the beach and the surrounding areas to provide the island
with a beautiful front, welcoming tourists, both foreign and local,
making it a breath-taking and blog-worthy spot, if there ever was one.
With new signs for important shrines, hills, multipurpose open area,
sturdy stairs, and a large parking space, the beach is more equipped
than ever for those who are looking to take in nature’s stunning sights,
looking on as “True Love” becomes a new symbol of love, life, and
happiness with every visit, reminding us to love nature back and
preserve its splendor for years to come.
The landscaping
project is undertaken by PTT Group, intending to participate in the
development of Rayong, dubbed a second home for the company, in both
social and economic aspects, in conjunction with Rayong Province, Laem
Yah national park, Samed Islands, District Administration, Open Local
Government Units, and communities on the island.
And for those of you, who are worried about the original statue, fret
not. The mermaid statue, along with the Pra Apai Manee statue have been
repainted to revive their full glory and have been moved to the foot of
the hill leading to the multipurpose open area where children can run
and play and look on in wonder as most of us did when we first read the
stories.
It is definitely worth a trip to soak in all the joys nature has to
offer and to witness an artistic masterpiece that blends in so
beautifully with the scenery. When Instagramming this marvel, don’t
forget to #Welovesamet so we can all look back on the commencement of Sai Kaew Beach’s new era together.
Source: Coconuts
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