Bangkok the First

Feeling refreshed and substantially more tanned, Laine and I arrived in Bangkok. The city was looking much cleaner and sexier than our last brief visit. After several uturns and map consultations we stumbled upon our hotel Phranakorn Nornlen. Say it with me now, PRA NA KORN NORN LEN. This mouthful of a hotel is just about the sweetest spot ever. Once a stodgy no-fuss hotel, now it is a styly haven away from the bustle. we were welcomed with a cold drink, a free meal coupon and big smiles. I could wax poetic about this place until the cows come home. I love it! If you are ever here, check it out.

Our first order of business was to visit the Grand Palace, which is pretty much a must see while in the city. It was packed to the tits with tourists and was a magpie’s dream. Everything glittered like a new year’s eve party. But, man, was it hot. I was a slushy puddle trying to keep track of both our free guide and Laine. The emerald Buddha (actually made of jade) wasn’t as exciting as advertised, wearing his winter clothes (more gold). There is so much artistry though, that you can’t help but be in awe. Three hours later, and we were soggy and in need of food.

We headed back to our hotel and enjoyed a free walking tour that included some obscure neighbourhood foods and a great narrative by Tai, our guide. The coconut milk ice cream with all the toppings was a great end to the sweltering day.

The next day we signed up for the canal tour hosted by Zai and had some time to kill before hand. So, intent on wandering down to Khao San Rd to see some shops, art galleries and cafes we meandered down alleys and back routes until we were scooped up by a wily stranger who was SO HELPFUL. He recommended that we visit some temples because it was a LUCKY day, FREE for foreigners and the tuk-tuk driver will take you for ONLY 40 baht. Oh, and look here is a tuk-tuk driver right now! Ok, so you get in now, he will take you. Goodbye. Whisked away, we quickly discovered the caper. The temples are closed and next we are taken to a commission shop. Since we are VERY familiar with this schtick, we are both in good humour and go along with it. It was an entertaining way to pass the time!

The canal tour was a real treat. Laine and I along with Zai, Lindsey & Darryl (from Scotland) and a French couple sped off down the river in high spirits and animated chatter. First we went to see the Arun Wat, a very old temple with amazing views of the city. Then we got into some of the back canals and visited an artist’s studio/shop/cafe along the water. As a painter sat doing a girl’s portrait, we enjoyed some strange and not-so strange Thai desserts like coconut and black bean balls, steamed egg yolk and sugar noodles, sweet rice and pork balls and the more common coconut sticky rice with ripe mango. Delish! Of course, I had to contribute to the cause and bought some earrings made by one of the local artists. It was a great day, and we enjoyed ourselves so much chatting with the Scots and Zai that we continued the party well into the night with Chinese food and too much to drink at a Turkish bar complete with Fez hats and hookahs.

The next day was rough and we had to fly to Chiang Mai… One-Two-Go!