While in Phuket, one year after the devastating tsunami, I saw several of these on the different beaches along the west coast of the island. A guide informed us that they were placed to protect people at night from the spirits of those whose lives were lost during the tsunami, who may still be wandering the beaches trying to return to loved ones.
Rethymno: More of Crete
Rethymno is a rare combination of history and modern-day luxury, with its multicultural old town, tropical beaches and exquisite Cretan cuisine.