Our visit to the long-neck village was a humbling experience. We were surprised at how primitive their living is, with no electricity or running water. The rings were introduced in order to protect the women's necks from tiger attacks while the men were out hunting. The little girl in the photo is 10 years old and wanted me to try on the rings, which to my surprise were very heavy. They can weigh up to 5kg (about 11lbs)! The rings are placed on the girls beginning at age five and the more rings they have, the more beautiful they are perceived.