Travelogue

Bangkok

We enjoyed our first two days in bustling Bangkok, fulfilling some requisite tourist goals: the glorious Imperial Palace, Jim Thompson's house (ex-pat silk merchant) and of course a long ride up and down the Chao Phraya river. However some of my favorites were simply walking the 'bowels' of the city and hopping (quickly) onto the "commuter" longboats!

Lopburi

Visited several 16-17th century Khmer era ruins replete with wild monkeys. One of them decided to catch a ride on Alan's back, entranced by his gold chain, shirt tag, and hair "tail". My dilemma was whether to serve as rescuer or photographer. I chose the latter, before moving closer in a feeble attempt to help. At this point, the monkey's younger companion decided to charge ME, and so I was of no use whatsoever! All's well that ends well...Alan just lost a few gray hairs (and maybe developed a few new ones in the process).

Sukkothai

After a delicious noodle bowl for breakfast (about 40 cents in baht) we caught a songtaw to Old Sukotthai, then bicycled through lovely 13th century century ruins full of Buddhas, chedis, and worn temples. More "Thai-style" ruins here. LOTS of photo ops and we waited for the sun to settle to capture some more hospitable light. The Thais are sweet, helpful, friendly and now it's time for me to begin practicing the language! On to Si Satchanalai tomorrow...

Well, Alan has already expounded very well on several of our adventures since departing Sukkothai (and Si Satchanalai). The Elephant Center was indeed a highlight, especially the opportunity to ride one! Morning bath time was enjoyed by all. I bought a painting done by an 8-yr-old male (still a lad, by elephant standards). It was gratifying to see what this organization is doing to preserve and aid this remarkable animal.

In colorful and festive Chang Mai, I took a day to attend cooking class. Toured the herb garden, then proceeded to cook in an open-air cabana overlooking the Mae Ping river. Made about six dishes alongside a fun French Canadian couple and a fellow Californian. Our young Thai teacher could not have weighed more than 90 lbs (soaking wet) and her English, instruction, and organization were perfect. Speaking of which I'm impressed by the lithe, small size of the people here--in a culture where food is ever-present and SO tantalizing!

Finally got to catch a cabaret show and some Thai traditional dance--yeah! The night market is bustling, colorful, glorious, overwhelming! Today we went to a paper umbrella open-air "factory"-- the nimble and skillful workmanship could be seen in each step of the process. There are still more wats and the bookstore to hit before I leave!

Fun as it is, it was great to escape to (on a motorbike) the mountains for a few days. Ventured out of the palms and into the pines, and the quaintness and "Chinese feel" of Mae Salong made for a nice contrast to our raucous urban experience! Alan was feeling a bit under par at this time, so I hiked up to a Chinese and Buddhist temple on a hill and wandered through the morning market where many hilltribe people were buying and selling. Back in Chang Rai, we did find a remarkable cave with multiple "rooms" and stairwells partially lit by flourescent lights we flipped on prior to entering. I'm just glad Alan did not trip over a meditating monk, which in the dark we both mistook for a Buddha image.

I must tell you the food is out of this world. I have gotten quite used to noodles (and Kaow Soi) for breakfast. Not to mention grazing at all the food stands. Just hope I can reproduce some things at home that I learned in class. I may have opportunity to meet with some health care folks here whom I'd like to interview...we'll see.

Now it's time for some rush shopping before heading home in two days...I will be sad to leave. Alan's travels to continue....!