This small floral basket, with a single candle perched atop its center, drifted slowly away from me, then down the river in northern Thailand.
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Flowers and flames
During the annual “Loi Krathong” festival, I joined millions of Thai people and others in floating a krathong (small buoyant, floral basket) down a local river. As I placed my krathong on the surface of the black water, released it, and watched the candle and flowers float languidly down the meandering river, I experienced the most serene and beautiful moment of my time in the country.
Incense without incendiary
Our “Loi Krathong” celebration was at a riverside restaurant, outside of the city. The absence of artificial light provided stark backgrounds for the festivities.
Our group’s krathongs were each enhanced by a few sticks of incense and a single candle. Not only did the flame of the candle highlight the colorful marigolds, but the reflection of the flame on the surface of the black water added a perfect touch to this shot.Moon on water
“Loi Krathong” is held during the full moon. Looking out over the river, I caught both the bright moon, hanging high in the black sky, as well as its pure white reflection in the still, black water. (see below photo)
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