King Rama IX just passed away last October, and the Thai people are still in mourning. Shrines to him, like this one, are everywhere.
We started today at the Grand Palace in central Bangkok. One of the most elaborately decorated places we've ever been. The King's remains are being kept here for about a year, so that all Thai people can come and pay their respects.
During this year, a crematorium is being built to cremate his remains. Some dedicated Thai people wear black for this whole year of mourning. Our guide, Mr. Chaiyan, is one of these.
Guardians and gold leaf abound at the palace. We each took a few hundred pictures of this sacred place; we narrowed them down for your viewing pleasure.
Jeff's favorite-- a badass birdman guardian.
The three main stupas of the palace, and me. The day was a pleasant 100 degrees with 90-something percent humidity. But it's still a pleasure to be here.
This is a common site all over Bangkok. Cracks us up. It appears to be an electrical nightmare.
After the palace tour, we had a fabulous lunch at the Jim Thompson house restaurant. Amazing Thai food. See that happy guy?
After lunch, we hitched a ride on a tuk tuk to a recommended Thai Massage salon. A wild ride!
Ruen Nuad massage salon. If you haven't experienced Thai massage, try it.
'Nuff said.
We finished our day with a special treat: Dr. Fish... see below...
Beautiful pics...errr except for the feet and fish one! So glad you two are having a great trip. It looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteSure jealous of that food, particularly the stuff on the boat! Glad you dared try the chilies in the soup.
ReplyDeleteThe electricity looks crazy, but the air looks clear. When I was there it was the worst smog I'd ever seen- maybe it's not so bad now?
Those three stupas are so different- an interesting contrast. Anyway, thanks so much for taking the time to write! Enjoying hearing and seeing a bit of what you're seeing.... :)