One of the most interesting aspects of a visit to Southeast Asia is encountering true Buddhism. This can come in the form of riding public transportation with monks, waking up early to see the daily offering, or visiting one of the many temples and monasteries found in the different countries. The practices, temples, devotes, and all aspects of the religion change from country to country, giving curious minds a great introduction to the religion.
With poverty being rampant throughout rural areas in Southeast Asia, Buddhism offers a way of life two many families unable to afford schooling for all their children. Staring at a young age, children will begin to live at the monastery, similar to moving to a boarding school. Though they have no say in the matter, the children will be raised as monks, living, worshipping and adhering to the teachings of the Buddha.
