Thailand

We arrived in Bangkok on New Year's Day and the City was very quiet.  We stayed in the Sukhumvit sector where some of the embassies are located.  We had 2 days to explore the city.  Day 1 we took the sky train down to the river where we hopped on a river boat stopping at various points including the grand palace.  It cost 500 Baht (£10) to get in - men have to wear long trousers and women skirts or trousers below the knee and shoulders covered. Being high season it was very busy, but even with the crowds it was possible to have a quiet moment sitting and staring up at the famous emerald Buddha.  No photos were allowed.  We took another boat across the river to the dawn temple - think this temple is more dramatic viewed from a distance.  Then a boat back and another temple this time housing a huge reclining Buddha (200 Baht entrance fee).  Another popular spot with lots of tourists.  The soles of the reclining Buddha's huge feet are inlaid with intricate patterns picked out in mother of pearl.  The boats were so busy that we walked back through China Town and past the flower market - beautiful. 


Day 2 we visited Jim Thompson's house/museum - a tranquil spot amidst the frenetic city.  Jim Thompson was an American entrepreneur responsible for making Thai silk popular with the west.   He disappeared in mysterious circumstances whilst visiting friends in Malaysia in 1967.  His traditional Thai house and his antiques have been preserved.
We had three great meals - two at very simple places and one at the more upmarket Baan Khanitha where the roasted seabass with Thai basil and chilli was sublime! 

Bangkok is a city of contrasts with shrines and temples competing with modern swanky air conditioned shopping centres selling designer goods.  Boots the chemist is a popular brand here!  Monks in saffron coloured robs walk along with their smart phones and people selling anything and everything.  The roads are choked with cars, tuktuks and busses while the sky train glides seemingly effortlessly above the chaos.  There aren't many green spaces.  I was glad to have stayed, but after 3 nights I was glad to be on my way to the city of Chiang Mai.

Flower Garlands