We left early on Saturday, March 19, to take the bus to the Osaka airport. I must say that I was happy to be going away for a few days with my family. Yet, our thoughts and prayers would be with Japan the entire time.
We got to the airport a little early so Matthew was able to enjoy his udon noodles. This is a Japanese favorite! I could tell even at check in that we were going to enjoy Thai Air. This airline company is actually happy to have you flying with them, even in economy class! Every seat had its own “on demand” movie system. They quickly served drinks and meals to all of us. The service was fantastic.
We arrived in Bangkok 45 minutes ahead of schedule. The Bangkok airport was huge. We made it through customs, got our bags, and then found our van driver to head to the hotel. We stayed at the Four Points Sheraton on Sukhumvit 15. This location is very close to lots of shopping, restaurants, and BTS train service. We checked in and headed down the sidewalk, weaving our way through the “markets”. We got advice from local folks to eat dinner at a local “open air” restaurant called Suda’s. The Thai food was really good, and we ate 7 plates of food plus drinks for about $33.
On Sunday, we grabbed a taxi to go to the Grand Palace. Ahh. The fun began. The taxi driver kept telling us he needed us to help him by stopping at a government Gem Gallery. We reluctantly agreed. We had to walk around for 10 minutes. Then, the driver could take us on to the palace. He warned us not to listen to anyone outside of palace as people try to scam you. We took his advice. We were amazed to find see this huge, beautiful structure that was actually constructed in the 1700s and served as the official residence of the King of Thailand since the 18th century. Now, it is used for many royal ceremonies. We took off our shoes to go inside Wat Phra Kaew, the temple containing the Emerald Buddha. Many were on their knees in prayer. Wat Phra Kaew is the most revered Buddhist shrine in Thailand, and the Grand Palace is the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.
We then took another cab to the weekend “Chatuchuk” market. Yes, you guessed it. We had to stop at another government shop for 10 minutes. We discovered that on Sundays the Government will give taxi drivers a coupon for free gas if they bring their passengers to their shops – lots of jewelry, tailor made clothing, and souvenirs. We finally made it to the market. Imagine over 35 acres and 5000 stalls offering everything from clothing and souvenirs to food to live animals! It was overwhelming. When we left the market, we found our way to the BTS train. This was much easier as it took us very close to our hotel without having to stop at another government shop!
After a quick shower, we went to the marina for boarding the Loy Nava dinner cruise. We enjoyed cruising along the Chao Phraya river. We saw how many families live along the river, using the water for bathing and washing clothes. We also some beautiful sights, including the Grand Palace majestically lit up. The food, service, and entertainment were just terrific.
On Monday, Phillip had to do some work, so we played at the hotel pool (on the top floor of the hotel), did some shopping, rode in a tuk tuk, and enjoyed Big Mama’s Pizza – the closest we have had to American pizza in a while.
We enjoyed this big city of 10 million people and did not find it as scary as I had feared. I think the key is to be aware and smart - put money and wallets in front pockets, take children by the hand. While I did always feel like people were trying to scam me, I never felt in danger for myself or for my family at any time. We would definitely recommend the trip!
Tuesday morning … Goodbye Bangkok. Hello Phuket!
Peace and Love,
Tina
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