Due to the current political unrest, the city took on a different vibe than we are used to. There was a heightened hustle and bustle due to protests, roadblocks and the tent city erected for anti-government protesters. None of this deterred us from enjoying the sites and catching up with colleagues and good friends
On our first day, we enjoyed my favorite market in the World - Chatuchak! Phil was a real trooper tracking our steps via the tiny stalls and even saved me from a cat sized rat that crossed the path in front of me. The Thais were laughing at my screams and said it was "No Big Deal!" No, it was not a big deal it was A BIG RAT!!!
We found some of our favorite stalls and bargained away!
Wat Arun - The Temple of Dawn
The Temple of Dawn, a Buddhist temple provided a great look out sight to see the Chao Phraya river. We climbed to the the top and enjoyed the view of the river and the long boats flying up and down with great speed and noise! The last time we visited the temple was over 18 years ago so it was exciting to go back and see it now. It is created with shards of pottery and mosaics!.jpg) |
| A monk and his students at Wat Arun |
There are three steep staircases that lead to the top of the temple. So, up we climbed. The view was of the busy river traffic with the Grand Palace in the background.
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| A view from the top |
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| The Chao Phraya traffic |
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| The steep climb down |
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| One of the monkey guards at Wat Arun |
After our climb we headed to Lord Jim's at The Oriental Hotel and enjoyed refreshing drinks on the busy river and headed to the Night Market.
MOCA - Museum of Comtemporary Art
Our good friends Chalie and Gib treated me to a visit to the newly opened MOCA which houses a private art collection. The art was unbelievable and included some one-of-a-kind pieces Here are a few of my favorites . . .
This creative painting looks like a series of painted lines with a variety of bright colors. As you stepped away from it, you could barely make out the tuk tuks, people, a bus and the iconic gold dome at the top. When we took photos the whole picture came into view. Spectacular!
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| Called "Bangkok at Night"
This painting used light to make the costumes look 3 D. The detail was intricate and it looked as if the dancers were performing right in front of you.
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My favorite was this one with three full faced Thai girls applying their face powder - a must to keep the shine to a minimum.
Our stay here was enriched by the friendships we have made and the gracious Thai people. We always enjoy the culture, food and the chaotic city! We'll be back!
xoxo from Bangkok,
Kathy & Phil
