​Growing up with my grandparents, eating Krayasart (Thai: กระยาสารท) every year became our ritual. Around October each year, there is an event in my village where people will come together to enjoy and participate in making Krayasart; a sticky mixed nut and grains snack used to make merit to our passed relatives on Sart Day. From my memory, this snack was arranged on a small block, about the size of an A5 piece of paper. Occasionally, we would pinch a small bite of this snack for ourselves. The process used is a great way to preserve food. The origin of this snack is closely related to Buddhism, Thai way of life and filial piety.

​It has been almost 15 years since I first visited Australia, but my memory of Thai Town in Sydney is still fresh as if it happened yesterday. I remember walking with my dad along Campbell Street in the Sydney CBD and being amazed by the number of Thai people, Thai restaurants, grocery shops and multiple Thai businesses in this area. It was eye-opening for someone who had never been to Australia before.