Bangkok, Thailand Day 2

Cat Nap?

---

Wonder if these big chilis give him bad dreams.

Nice Presentation

---

Neat...kind of looks like Whole Foods.

Dragon Fruit

---

We've seen this fruit throughout the asian areas we've visited, and had some on board, but haven't tasted it yet.

How About a Few Mangos

---

We've definitely bought our share of mangos along the way...Annette loves them.

The Grand Palace

---

Well, it's after 1:00 and we have finally arrived at the Grand Palace.

The Palace Layout

---

Photo of the palace complex...it's huge, and one could spend the whole day here.

Golden Chedi

---

This reliquary on the upper terrace, is a place where relics are kept. It's in the shape of a chedi, which is similar to a stupa, or mound-like structure where Buddhist relics are kept. We saw many stupas at the Borobudur in Indonesia.

The Mondrop

---

This is a repository for Buddhist sacred scriptures inscribed on palm leaves, contained within beautiful mother-of-pearl inlaid cabinet.

Scary Dude!

---

This guy would get your attention.

A Building Entrance

---

A beautiful entrance way.

Yaks Guard the Palace

---

These two statues are mythical yaks.

Spires

---

This statue and water lily pot are enhanced by the spires in the background.

Look at this Detail

---

Look at the colorful detail of these figures.

Smile

---

Close up of one of the Yaks.

Gold Stupa

---

This gold stupa sits in the front corner of the Royal Monastery of the Emerald Buddha, seen in the background.

One of Eight

---

There were eight of these in a row along one side of the holy part of the palace grounds. Not sure what they represent.

Ninja Warrior?

---

This colorful guy looks a bit like a ninja warrior.

Royal Monastery of the Emerald Buddha

---

This is one of the most venerated sites in Thailand where people convene and pay their respects to the Lord Buddha and his teachings. The Emerald Buddha is enshrined on a golden traditonal Thai-style throne, known as a Busabok, in the ordination hall. It is clad in one of the three seasonal costumes (summer, rainy season & winter). The Emerald Buddha is actually carved from a block of jade and was first discovered in 1434. We were not allowed to take any photographs in the hall and everyone had to take their shoes off outside before entering.

Delicate Work

---

This is some of the art on the exterior wall of Royal Monastery.

More Exterior Detail

---

This amazing detail of gold has to touched-up every couple years because of the intense heat.

Getting Blessed

---

Outside the Royal Monastery entrance, this young lady looks like she's enjoying being blessed. One takes the Lotus Flower, dips it in the holy water and sprinkles on your forehead.