Heading East

On 12th Jan we set out on our big trip to S.E. Asia, New Zealand and Australia, with a larger second suitcase!

First stop Bangkok.

A friendly taxi driver dropped us at our hotel, chatting most of the way in Thai, sometimes to us, sometimes to the traffic, radio and on the phone - we think! He smiled a lot so that was fine.

Bangkok has lots of modern buildings interspersed with colourful, shiny temples. They're quite incongruous. We've visited several, one with a 46m "reclining" Buddha and another with a solid gold one! The Grand Palace was really impressive. I said "wow" far too many times! There were some beautiful murals there, some parts painted in gold, with flying elephants! And Gods and Devils and mythical creatures.

Today we visited a Throne Hall which although a bit of a trek was definitely worth it. The audio tour referred to "works of art" and that's just what they were! Amazingly detailed, beautiful and lavish things. No photos allowed unfortunately. I particularly loved 2 huge silk embroideries, some parts a bit 3D, with gold thread and sequins too. Neil's favourite was the irridescent beetle wings that are used to embellish some objects. Displayed here are objects made by impoverished farmers and their families who are given training in traditional crafts. This is just one of Queen Sirikit's many initiatives.