Delighting in Chaos

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Bangkok is a dirty, disorganized, crowded, noisy, smelly, bustling, exciting, surprising, fragrant, wonderful, world-class city of about 11 million people.  If you have never been here, it should be on your must see list; if you have been here, it is probably on your must see again list.

The key to enjoying Thiland is to not take anything too seriously.  The Thai have a saying, "mi pen rai", which means "it doesn't really matter".  They are also big on manners, so politeness counts.  Simply allow yourself to be charmed by the beautful temples, world-class shopping, vibrant nightlife, and scenes that you will not find anywhere else.

I have been here before.  I have seen every major buddah in every major wat, made from every major malleable material, in every major polite pose.  I chose to spend my one day layover at the Damnoen Saduak floating market.  Although this market is 2 hours outside of Bangkok, it is well worth the trip and is a unique experience.  Yes, it is touristy.  But that's OK.  You cannot take a bad photograph in this waterlogged Safeway (see photos in the gallery).

We also visited a small elephant park, took a ride on a long-tailed boat (see video bar), and visited a teak carving factory.  Tonight, we will visit Patpong shopping street and thend rest to prepare for my departure to Cambodia tomorrow.  The real adventure will soon begin.



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