ClickWhen I visited the floating market 45 years ago, it was an actual market, used by Thai people. In 1974 it was featured prominently in “The Man With the Golden Gun.” Popularity with tourists increased. Also, back then, many people’s homes were not connected by land, and boat was the only way to get to […]
Thailand
Maeklong Railway Market
ClickI’ve got to hand it to people that have found a way to monetize something that is ubiquitous throughout Southeast Asia. They make a big deal of the railway market, and how the shop keepers and restauranteurs set up over the tracks, only to put it all away when the train comes by. There is […]
Long-tail Boat Ride
ClickWe ended the tour with a iconic “long-tail” boat ride through some of Bangkok’s canals. For those who aren’t familiar, these boats have huge motors in the back with propellor shafts that extend about 8 feet past the stern of the boat. The area we toured is considered a poor neighborhood. A room starts at […]
Wat Arun – Temple of the Dawn
ClickWat Arun is considered one of the most iconic temples in the world. It is on the other side of the Chao Phraya River from the Royal Palace complex. We were all pretty tired by the time we arrived, but were delighted by the “play acting” happening. Apparently, many Thai movie stars and models have […]
Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha
ClickThe Royal Palace is a huge jumble of buildings, wats (temples), stupas, and tourist infrastructure. 8 million people visit each year, and it seemed like they all came the day we did. It hasn’t been the residence of the royal family since the 1900’s, but is still used for some ceremonial events, like welcoming foreign […]
Finally…We’re On Our Way!
ClickWe woke to the shocking and frightening news that DJT had regained the presidency. If you will permit me a short digression: I was raised in a time that character was the primary requirement for our nations leaders. That at the end of the day, citizenship is more important than partisanship. I’m not so naive […]