Treasures undersea
****For a woman executive who considers snorkelling a form of relaxation, the discovery of huge swathes of damaged coral reefs left her with a great sense of loss
Yvonne Bohwongprasert
(Bangkok Post dd. 30 mei 2006 // DN)
Being an executive based in Bangkok Nipaporn Charoenpong had little time to chill out. Even when she did, she couldn’t stop thinking about tapping new ideas and putting them to work. But all that has changed since she took up snorkelling two years ago.
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Marketing manager Nipaporn Charoenpong’s first encounter with snorkelling came at Ko Kood, Trat Province, a popular holiday resort with pristine sandy beaches, warm blue sea and abundant coral reefs. She is seen here vacationing at Ko Kood Cabana Resort.
“Snorkelling helps me to forget about everything and just concentrate on the beautiful marine life in front of me,” enthused Nipaporn, a sales and marketing manager at Hifi Orient (Thai) Co, Ltd. “Snorkelling has had a calming influence on me, it has become my lifeline.”
The sea has had that effect on her ever since she was a child. Her favourite destinations are Nang Yuan, Ko Tao, Samui and Ko Chang. The best snorkelling to date for her has been at Ko Kood, Trat Province.
She and her husband share a love for the sea and water sports. Her most recent trip to Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park was disappointing because there were very few coral reefs left to admire. She had to squeeze time out of her busy schedule to indulge in her favourite pastime. But she is not complaining; she needed the break to recharge her batteries.
Besides feasting her eyes on beautiful coral and marine life, Nipaporn enjoys hiking in Thailand’s pristine forests. Finding inner peace is key to leading a productive life in the fast paced world that we live in, she adds.
A traveller at heart, she is concerned about the deteriorating condition of coral reefs and sees a need to educate people how to preserve them before they are allowed to go snorkelling.
From now on Nipaporn will only travel to snorkelling sites that aren’t popular with tourists.
Nowadays, it is very difficult to find pristine coral reefs because most of them have been destroyed through human negligence. She wants people to be accountable for their actions.
**What got you interested in snorkelling? **
My fascination with the underwater world drew me to snorkelling. I have always loved the sea and the various forms of marine life it supports. But it was not until I was on vacation on Ko Kood island that I learned how to snorkel.
My first experience was highly memorable because at Ko Kood Cabana, where we were staying at the time, the site they took us to had an abundance of coral reefs and many types of exotic fish that we could see with our naked eyes swimming in shoulder-deep water. Sadly, the other places we have visited haven’t been as impressive. The coral reefs have lessened in number and the ones that remain look pale and dull.
**What is the best way to pick good spots for snorkelling? **
Ask for advice from seasoned snorkellers. They have good knowledge of places that are not overly touristy. They have a wide network and a wealth of information that makes them reliable. Another good source are people who have recently visited the destination you are interested to know about. They can give you first-hand account of what you can expect and the condition of marine life. I find the Internet only good for bookings and background information.
**You work over twelve hours a day, how does indulging in your favourite leisure activity help you relax? **
As I am always thinking about new ideas and concepts, the only time I get to totally concentrate on something else is while I snorkel. I enter a new world that brings me a lot of happiness. It is very relaxing to watch coral reefs of all colours and shapes, and to know they are living is a fantastic feeling. I would recommend people who lead a hectic life to find time to snorkel or go scuba diving. The experience is truly inspiring. Seeing photos of marine life is nothing compared to the real thing.
**What makes snorkelling an interesting activity and how do you choose a place to learn the sport? **
The underwater world is full of surprises. Watching corals and marine life up close is spiritually uplifting. Every plant and fish species looks so exotic that it makes you want to stay there forever.
I get so engrossed that I often lose track of time. I feel special when the fish aren’t scared of me, accept me as part of their environment.
Most beach resorts have snorkelling centres but I would recommend you find a place where there is greater student-teacher interaction. I was fortunate to have picked up my basic skills at Ko Kood Cabana where trainers taught us survival tips as well.
**Give us some tips on snorkelling. **
I believe it is important to be in good physical condition because so much depends on the tactics of breathing underwater. Be sure the mask fits your face. You should hold the snorkel mask to your face, remove the strap and then inhale through your nose.
It is important that you know your personal limitations and stay alert. There is no need to push the limits. Factors to consider are water temperature, current and visibility. I have found that a relaxed snorkeller gets more fun out of the activity and has greater appreciation of the environment. A laid back snorkeller is less threatening to the aquatic forms of life.
**As a marketing executive, do you have any suggestions on how the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) can market snorkelling more effectively? **
I believe TAT should work closely with people in the snorkelling business to promote the activity via roadshows here and overseas. I read recently that over 70 percent of these centres are managed by expats, the remaining by Thais. Working closely with local owners is good in that TAT can get first-hand information on how to package the product for clients.
**If you wish to contact the writer, email [EMAIL=“yvonneb@bangkokpost.co.th”]yvonneb@bangkokpost.co.th. **