Every afternoon
The unique, family-run Rose Garden is one of Thailand’s best-loved, most-remembered tourist attractions, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. Formerly a site for the cultivation of roses, it grew over years to become not just a 160-room resort an organic farm, but a 70-acre sanctuary dedicated to preserving Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage; in short, a riverside haven, harmoniously integrated into the local community. An overnight stay is required to appreciate the wealth of activities here, but this tour provides a most enjoyable afternoon, the highlight being the opportunity to watch the Kingdom’s longest- running cultural show in the comfort of a fully equipped air-conditioned theatre. The professionally produced spectacle includes performances of beauty and variety, including a Buddhist ordination procession, a traditional Thai wedding ceremony, the famous ‘fingernail dance’ Thai boxing and martial arts, Thai festivals and celebrations, plus delightful hill tribe and folk dances. The concluding elephant show happens outdoors, and makes a fitting finale. (The Rose Garden was recently named the ‘Sampran Riverside’)
