It's hard to really describe this place. I guess I would say New York City, mixed with a little Las Vegas and put it in the oven at 350 for 12 hours. It is so hot here that Deirdre's hair was straight when she woke up this morning.
During our ride downtown from the airport we noticed a lot of people buzzing around and gathering in large numbers. Streets were closed, riot police were on every corner and traffic was at a stand still. We slowly realized that there was a massive Red Shirt protest. It was nine months to the day yesterday when Red Shirt members were killed and injured in a clash with police during a similar protest. Needless to say this was an intimidating way to enter a new city.
Our hotel in the south of town is beautiful and Deirdre and I were so happy to find many of the ammenities we have been lacking the past three weeks. We spent the night wandering through the infamous Ko San area where the people watching and madness is at insane levels.
This morning we braved the most notorious shopping market in the world, The Chatuchak Market. The "JJ" market, as it is known to locals, has everything from clothes, art, furniture, pets, jewelry, antiques and textiles, fresh fruit....etc (you name it, they have it) They say if you see something you like buy it! because you will NEVER find the same shop again. We spent over five hours there and barely scratched the surface.
We had considered staying here for 3 nights then blasting off to the beaches in the south for the remainder of our travels, but after 24 hours in Bangkok this city has intrigued Deirdre and I in such a way that we may just stay put for the week.
Here are some photos from our last day in Chiang Mai. I'll throw up some Bangkok photos as soon as my internal temperature returns to normal!
take care,
CF
Amazing photos. Deirdre, you will have a challenge selecting the one to make into a canvas poster. Bangkok sounds like a very interesting place. You have really seen a variety of spots. Have a wondeful last week. Come home safe. I need a massage!
ReplyDeletelove m. p.s. The Sens won last night!
Super blog ... you are making us very jealous ... looking forward to trying the fire curry now that you are pros .... Marcy and I are adding Luang Prabang to our list ... See you soon Cheers DR
ReplyDeleteHi, we are loving seeing your photos and reading your posts. Make every day count! Lots of love, Jules xo
ReplyDeleteSo you guys know, you've missed the winter's thaw, and the rebirth of winter. It's been spring, fall and winter in the last 4 days. Good call on heading outta town!
ReplyDeletehearts
m
Bad news from home, peeps. one of your fishies just couldnt stand to be away from you for such a long time. rest assured he is in a better place now. the toilet. otherwise all is well. i topped up the H20 in the tank, and although i am sure the auto feeder is working ok (it seems to be dumping food over the side of the tank as well as in it) i gave the rest of the fishies a sprinkle of food. and then a pep talk to let them know that you were, infact, returning.
ReplyDeletehope everything is great with you! have not received any packages yet.. email me if you did actually send anything..
KP