Day 5: A Whole New World

On the second last day of the trip, we split off into our subgroups to partake in the Amazing Race organized by our seniors. It was quite an interesting race because it was done in a foreign land, as well as doing it without the use of phones. I thought the rational at first was to test our resourcefulness as well as to build the confidence to interact with Thais without external help. But it turned out that the seniors did not want us to be anti-social, vis-à-vis having a phone in the hand. We hardly felt that that would happen anyways. My subgroup had a great time and we got to know not only each other better, but also ourselves better.  In the end, we managed to clinched 2^nd place in the race as the Heritage Group altogether, and I thought that was a really great achievement!

Later on at night, I had the chance to watch my very first lady boy cabaret show! I was extremely thrilled to see them live in action simply because I have never got upfront and close to one before. Tips formed an important part of our interaction and it often involved the customers in placing them into their chest region. The performers delivered an impressive lineup of dances with a myriad of themes. Within each segment, the themes would be closely aligned to popular characters such as Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Lopez and more. The lady boys were very spontaneous and animated in engaging the audience, and it definitely heightened the enthusiasm of the audience. It was interesting to note the difference in zeal between the Caucasians seated in front as compared to the Asians (USP scholars) seated at the back. They were dancing and singing without inhibition together with the performers, whilst we took a more conservative stance by mostly keeping to ourselves behind.

 

 

It was all fun and joy on the outside, but I could not help but wonder what challenges they face in such a lifestyle. It would definitely be interesting to find out more about their daily lives and how Chiang Mai has come to accept transgender in their society. I am sure there would be much intriguing stories waiting to unfold.

On the whole, this was indeed an eye-opening experience and I am glad that I got to see it. It would definitely be a story to tell in time to come!