Thursday December 15th

Day in Bangkok, so we decided to hit the Grand Palace first. We started from our pier at the hotel and then to the commercial boats where we were ripped off, but only for a small amount, so I’m sure Paul will get over it! We weren’t sure whether we would think, just another Palace and temple, but it was beautiful. We had a amazing few hours there walking around the most beautiful and ornate buildings. Photos to follow will show how much gold leaf they use, glass beads, glass tiles etc. it was definitely worth the trip.

Our pier in first photo; then the trip up the river

Walk to the Grand Palace running the gauntlets of stalls

Part of the Grand Palace

Gold leaf over part of the Temples

Yet another Temple photo

After the Grand Palace we decided we’d walk to the Reclining Buddah. This one is 47meters long and 15m high. It’s in a complex a little way from the Grand Palace. We walked it, unfazed by touts, tuk tuk drivers etc. we were very hot, so looked for a place to have a bite to eat and drink. Really interesting little cafe. Paul got chatting to a lady who was selling potions, don’t know what for, I’m not sure she did! Anyway Paul bought three bottles, whilst the cafe staffed laughed. They said the lady is a bit screwy!!
After that it was the reclining Buddah, again in gold leaf. The complex had several beautiful buildings with Buddhist shrines in them.