One week in Bangkok

I spent a week at the beginning of June in Bangkok, Thailand, for work. I will let you decide if that is a good or bad thing. The work part, that is.

I was pretty busy while I was there, but I did get a day to go around and see a few things, mainly, the golden palace, a combination temple and kingly residence. I didn't take pictures, but we also went to the Jim Thompson house in Bangok, which was fascinating. I guess Mr Thompson was an American who lived in Thailand in the fifties and sixties, and helped to revitalize the silk trade. He became very wealthy and built a stunning 'traditional' Thai house in the middle of town where he lived. I put it in quotes because it is more like six houses attached together. Then suddenly he disappeared without a trace during a trip to Malaysia in 1967. He had no children, but I guess his nephew kept his business going. I think the mystery probably adds to its appeal.

By far the best part about Thailand for me was the people. I have never met such warm, genuine, friendly folks in my life. From the staff at the hotel to the restaurants to the employees I visited with - all were fantastic. Well, the cab drivers were not the best - but London certainly wins in that aspect. And of course the food is fabulous.

I managed to escape back to London on the morning of June 9, while a million Thais gathered in Bangkok to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the ascension of the king to the throne. Just about every Thai was wearing yellow that day in honor of the King. I wish I had taken some photos of the huge murals and photographs hanging all over town in his honor, it was amazing. Hard to imagine the same kind of reverance for GW or Tony Blair.

Some pictures, mostly of the beautiful temple and the uh, beautiful river, are posted here. I have to go back in October, and am hoping this time to spend a week of vacation afterwards and see more of the countryside.