Monday, Monday.

Monday is the last day in Bangkok, so I braved both the heat and public transport to visit Wat Pho, which is large Buddhist  temple complex between the Royal Palace and Museum Siam. It was noticeably less crowded than Wat Phra Kaew although the complex is a lot larger. And although busy, there were parts of the temple where you could be left alone with your own thoughts.

My favourite part had to the Crocodile Pond

The Crocodiles are not real, you will be relieved to know. I spent a lot more time at Wat Pho, as it had a lot more places to have a nice sit down, and a lot more shade. And with several ponds and fountains and a breeze coming in from the river, several stalls selling drinks, and several water dispensers, it was a very pleasant experience. By early afternoon the clouds started rolling in, and we experienced a thunder storm which in all honesty was lovely, and although it start to rain the nearest metro station was only a 5 minute walk away which was actually bearable.

I’ve now finished packing, and a I’ve booked a cab to take me to the airport in the morning for the second leg of my travels in South East Asia.

The Sun has got its hat on.

 I’m beginning to run out of weather-related songs as blog titles…

It’s another scorcher of a day, so I made my way to Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It was very hot and very crowded. Special kudos to the hawker outside the temple who wanted to know if I wanted to buy a hat. ( I was already wearing one)

I did say it was crowded.

And the view from the top of the steps.

There is a lot of gold.

And more gold.

I’m sure Donald Trump would approve of the gold.

And some scary statues.

And some really big scary statues.

Entrance cost 500 baht. Wear long trousers, don’t wear a vest (There is a strict entrance code) and wear a hat. Oh and bring water, although water is available for the 20 baht. I returned to my hotel by a water taxi which was very exciting, although the windows had advertising wrap so I was difficult to see out of the windows.

After an afternoon nap, I arose for dinner and ate at the hotel. Chicken Thai Green Curry with what I presume is either Kale of Pak Choi (or maybe both)and an unidentifiable green vegetable. There was even a beer (out of shot)

My first authentic Thai Green Curry.

Heat Wave.

 Today started off overcast, but noticeably cooler, all though cooler is a somewhat of a relative term in Thailand ! So I went on a little walk through Chinatown after breakfast thinking about what I should do. Normally I like taking photos on my travels, but on days like these they tend not to come out too well. 

And on days like these Museums are the answer ! I chose Museum Siam (MRT Sanam Chai Station). The entrance fee was the princely sum of 100 Thai Baht. (You get roughly 39 to 41 Baht to the Pound.) I even got an audio guide, and it’s even interactive. (Opening drawers and watching TV screens)

Some porcelain.

A rather grand throne.

Headwear for traditional dancers.

My personal favourite is the Nang Kwak, a spirit from folklore who brings good fortune and prosperity.

When I left the sun had come out, and was now considerably warmer. More like an oven rather than a sauna, so I quickly found my way back to my hotel via the nearest 7-11 to buy some more bottled water.

One Night in Bangkok.

 I have arrived in Bangkok.

The weather is “sultry” that is its like being in a sauna, except this time, you are fully clothed. I suspect that Thailand is getting the tail end of Typhoon Kalmaegi which has devastated the Philippines and has affected other countries nearby.

Co-incidentally this is the most southernly place, and easterly place I have ever visited, until Tuesday when Bangkok will be usurped by Siem Reap as my most easterly visit. It’s quite a chaotic place, but not in unthreateningly way, apart from the hoards of scooters, motorbikes and tuk-tuks who seem to drive around without a care in the world. I have managed to cross 2 whole roads without being run down, which seems like a major achievement.

And I have a new passport stamp ! Which looks mighty fine, and is already the most interesting passport stamp that I possess.

South East Asia.

 I’m going on a journey…

And I’m flying into Bangkok.🇹🇭