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Last Day in Bangkok
Our last day in Bangkok began just like the day before . . . at the huge buffet offered by the hotel. And when I say huge, I mean enormous. One could have breakfast in whatever style one most prefers, or better yet, try something new. Why not have an Indian-style lentils and rice for breakfast? Or how about miso soup and seaweed? Or just go with the European breakfast and have cold cuts. And then there is the usual french breakfast, croissants and pastry or eggs cooked to order. It could be safe to say that Andy was in food heaven. Given my desire to keep things running smooth, I stuck with my usual, oatmeal and yogurt topped with nuts and honey -- oh, and a chocolate croissant!
Andy had his itinerary planned for the first part of the day. He had found on Trip Advisor some of the best things to do in Bangkok and came across a highly rated Food and Cultural Walking Tour in historic Bangkok, featuring five local haunts. Tastings included roasted duck, curried noodles with chicken, fried catfish, spicy papaya salad, a green custard bun, thai iced tea, thai green curry an coconut ice cream. He learned about old Bangkok and the Chinese quarter that was later moved north and still thrives there today. (I'm going to recommend this tour to Bill Hoffman and Hoffy Tours next) I chose shopping instead.
We met back at the room comparing notes and both exhausted and energized about what to do next. Since we needed to check out of our room, but not leaving until the next day, we checked our bags and decided to cool ourselves and do some people watching down by the pool and to plot our next excursion. Andy really wanted to go up some of the narrow canals to get an up close glimpse of local river life. We also wanted to visit the historical Jim Thompson house, an american architect who reignited the silk industry in Thailand about 50 years ago.
We were able to do both using a myriad of transportation vehicles -- the skytrain, the river ferry, a tuk-tuk, a taxi and our own two feet. After a visit to the Jim Thompson house that is a marvel of architecture, Burmese and Buddhist art, history and amazing modern day silk scarves, clothing and lifestyle textiles we headed over to Siam Square -- also known as shopping heaven. In case you haven't realized by now Thailand crazy for shopping -- it's really hard to get away from. And even though we didn't buy much of anything, the thrill of the people, the fast pace, the smells and the full moon against neon lights everywhere -- you just get caught up in the energy.
Our last meal was at the top of the BMK shopping mall in the food court. Yes, you've got it right, me at a food court? Andy's comrades on the Food Tour said that was THE place to eat and sample anything and everything if you weren't up to braving the sometimes mysterious outdoor street food.
Afterwards we got ourselves back on the Sky train, collected our bags, bid the amazing city of Bangkok farewell, and took a taxi to the airport hotel.
We are now on a plane -- the second leg from Kuala Lumpur to Bali at last. I am so looking forward to Bali and the slower pace, the beautiful people and the sweet serenity of their spirituality.
We will meet our 14 Mystical Bali participants tomorrow evening for a welcome dinner and then begin our amazing cultural journey! I'll be seeing some old friends and making some new acquaintances and teaching yoga and leading meditation each morning. Let the next adventure begin!
- comments
Deon English See you soon. I am sitting at the airport in S Korea in great hopes to leave soon and join you in the sun and sweet serenity of Bali. ps. I may sleep in. Arriving 3am.
Bill Hoffman Following your trip is so fun! Andy, I liked your suggestion of a culinary walking tour. I could learn from that. Sending lots of love, Bill