Bangkok

It was quite a day. I woke up early to see the sunrise as we sailed up the river to get to the city. It was well worth it. We met our private guide and driver and piled into a brand new suv with great air conditioning. It is beastly hot and humid. Our first stop was the massive ornate and beautiful Royal Palace. It is a huge complex guarded by gun toting soldiers. It was crowded beyond belief and everyone had umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun. If I didn't have sun glasses on I wouldn't have any eyes left. Anyway it was an amazing sight and so very overwhelming. I have never seen so much gold. Our guide was an expert, both on information and navigating us through the unbelievable crowds.

We then proceeded to the river by our car with the guide feeing us all manner of local foods. We jumped, literally, into a small local boat and took a long ride down the local canals to see old Bangkok. It was totally fascinating. We saw all the old architecture and many Buddhist temples. The water was rough on the main river but the canals were calm. We had a hell of a time getting out of that boat. I now have a huge gash on my leg as a souvenir.

Our last stop of the day was a local mall which was overwhelming. Our guide led us expertly around and translated for us. Otherwise we would have been totally lost.

Tonight we spent an amazing evening in the ancient city enjoying a wonderful local.show and enjoyed food and drink and fireworks. We concluded by placing a basket of flowers in the river to float peacefully away. The Thai people are lovely and gentle souls and we are being treated with kindness and respect.

 

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