Bangkok at a Glance

Once you arrive you are immediately thrown into the chaos and confusion of Bangkok. Although this time around we were only there for a few days I think we left feeling as confused as when we arrived.

There wasn’t much time for us to sit back and adjust to the change of pace of Bangkok. As soon as you walk out the airport doors you are immediately tested on your negotiating skills; I’ll admit mine were a bit rusty. Our hostel was right in the middle of the main backpacker “strip.” It was a good home base for us, seeing how a midday shower was much appreciated after a long morning wandering through streets in the heat and humidity that is expected at the brink of rainy season.

The amount of new sights, sounds, and smells leaves your senses in overload. Stepping out of our hostel room we walked into a distinct wall of hot humid air that instantly left us feeling sticky. Further out onto the sidewalk there is a jumble of sounds; motorbikes zooming by, tuk tuks and cars ringing bells and honking horns, vegetables and noodles steaming and frying, and Thai conversations mixed with Thais marketing their goods to you “at a very good price.”

As you continue to walk dodging people, motor bikes, and food carts you can’t help to wonder it was that you just smelled; then you think maybe it is a good idea you don’t know. You also can’t help but to be tempted by the new foods presented to you at different food carts every few feet. Between the heat and the spicy food you are left in a strange state of mind; almost as if you are removed from yourself. Then there is a refreshing fruit drink or smoothie (which ever you prefer) to draw you back to a conscious state of mind.

Walking through the streets it’s hard not to stumble on the many Wat’s. The bright colors and distinct architecture stands out among the rest of the city. There is something kind of peaceful in seeing a monk walking by with their bright orange dress.

The few days we were in Bangkok we were able to experience both some tourist attractions as well as a bit of Bangkok from a local’s perspective. I want to say thank you to Yui and her family for showing us what Bangkok is to them and for taking us out to an amazing dinner. As for the sites and attractions, we saw the Grand Palace, a couple of Wats and monuments. The dedication to detail is impressive. We also saw a fair share of markets; both in the tourist districts as well a few of the local markets. It was the local markets that caught my attention with the foods and handcrafted goods. It was hard not to give into my shopping temptations, but the thought of carrying around these souvenirs in my backpack for a few months helped me refrain. We ended our last night with a boat ride up the river leaving us excited for both our return to Bangkok to finish exploring all there is and for our next adventure, Singapore.

Oh! I almost forgot to mention Kevin and I had our first crickets off the street! We will hopefully be able to post a video of it soon.