Gosh it can be hot in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital when travelling with a camera. Even I had to give in a few times and find air con until it got cooler (I use the term loosely) in the afternoons. 25 degrees was the lowest it got, and even that felt a lot more in the humidity. So, I took. the option of taking the Fuji as well as the Nikon out again to ease the load.
The biggest thing to happen in Thailand this year was the loss of their beloved King, Bhumibol Adulyadej . I have read up on this great man while in Asia, and I can see why the Thia people loved him and are deeply affected by his passing. The King spent the majority of his working years on projects to improve the life of the poorest of people within Thailand and promoting rural medical care to villages. He was also a keen photographer and was always taking shots during his royal visits. This created a vast catalogue to help with his project work. I love this wall mural of the King on the Grand Palace entrance. King Bhumibol Adulyadej was the world’s longest reigning monarch at his death 70 years and 126 days. Queen Elizabeth of England now holds this mantle.
I find Bangkok a very sprawling city and not the easiest to traverse. The Skytrain and Subway covers some of the city and then there are the river boats, a trip down the river is worth it. These don’t cover the old city, so it’s tuk tuk, taxi, shanks’s pony or a new form of transport I found for the city – the Khlong Saen Saep Express Boat.
Khlong in Thai translates to canal – you can find the timetable and pick up points here. They are very cheaper to use, less than 30p for 9 stops. However, be warned, these boats are mainly used by locals who are used to jumping on and off them quickly, there is an art to it! Also, I have never seen canal water quite like it. It was like a large oil slick, pull up the screen when other boats pass! I have never quite smelt anything quite as awful as the contents. I always say I want to see a place like a local and I am glad I did. However, take a mask, scarf or clothes peg for your nose. The guys and girls that collect the money need a medal, they balance on the boat edge like a tightrope walker.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo are one of the main attractions. Some amazing interiors and exteriors. Tips. Make sure you are dressed with long trousers, shirt with sleeves / no low neck or you will have to join a large queue to hire items to wear. Also, visit early or late as the heat will make your visit unenjoyable. King Bhumibol Adulyadej is currently lying in state at the palace and each day, 1000s of Thais are visiting to pay their respects so the area is even more busy than usual.
Take a walk down to Wat Pho after the palace which is Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple. I love the reclining Buddha here which is 46m long and its feet are 3m high and 4.5m long and inlaid with mother of pearl.
I found an oasis for me this time in Bangkok, Lumphini Park, named after the birth place of the Buddha in Nepal. It is lovey to visit a beautiful and well maintained park that is tranquil, yet well used by the locals. Early each morning and late evening, you will find people exercising in the park, the best for me was watching the Tai Chi. I chatted with Krisana who was practising with swords and he very kindly let me take some shots of him – thank you Krisana. There is loads of wildlife to look out for too. The large monitor lizards can catch you unawares, but they don’t bite (I think!).
Visit Wat Sacket and The Golden Mount, climb the 344 steps for a great panoramic view of the city. Until 1960, this was the highest point in the city and is still a prominent landmark.
After 6 weeks of rice and noodles, I was more than delighted to see a roast dinner of a menu. Thank you Queen Vic in Bangkok, it was delicious and well needed.
The Tai Pan Hotel was a great location, good value with large bedrooms and a swimming pool to cool off from the city heat.
A new country next, Malaysia. Heading for Penang and staying in a Town home stay on Chew Jetty.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
