The Start of something Great: Bangkok

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The first thing is the heat. It hits you like a ton of bricks the moment you step out of the airport. It’s hot, sticky and in you face. Suvarnabhumi airport is a swirl of human activity. People are moving in a million different directions at light speed. It’s confusing and most of the people and signs are unhelpful. You immediately know that you are somewhere, different.

To exit the airport you must first swim through the countless touts trying to sell you the same services publicly available, for three times the price of course. That seems to be a common thread in Thailand. Anytime you are getting exactly what you are looking for you are being overcharged. The local and much cheaper option is usually hidden away in a place you will never find unless you know. For example the first time I took the water taxi I was approached by an official with a uniform and badge saying “you need to buy your tickets”. But I noticed that none of the locals were getting the same treatment, so I just ignored him. Of course the tickets were sold on board for 1/10 the price! And being Thailand, the government doesn’t put up any kind of information about this.

But don't let me give you the impression that Thailand is full of people who want to rip you off, there are a few but you get better and better at spotting them. Most Thais are friendly and curious. Being about twice their size they kind of just look at you when you’re walking past. But crack a smile and the most hardened Tuk Tuk driver will light up like a Christmas tree. In Thailand how you say it matters much more than what you say.

My first hostel was located in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok. A local neighborhood at the foot of the Thong Lo exit of the sky train. Tucked away down a side street of Soi, it was exactly what I was looking for. The true Bangkok experience and right outside was a delicious night market. That market would serve as my dinner most nights. I did not eat at a single restaurant while in Bangkok. The best food, not surprisingly is on the street, where the locals eat. My first night I had a chicken and sausage rice plate. Sweet, savory and salty. Absolutely amazing, sitting there shoulder to shoulder with Thai diners on a tiny table with plastic children’s chairs. All washed down with an ice cold beer chang. Leaving with a full stomach and only 50 baht lighter. That’s right 50 baht or about a $1.50. Beer and all. Amazing.

I can already tell that this trip will be so much different that anything I have ever experienced. I will keep you all up to date as best I can. I keep thinking of the Tao Teh Ching: "The further one goes the less one knows." So here’s to the start of another great adventure!

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Photos

Bangkok by Tuk Tuk
Exploring the city on a Tuk Tuk/Taxi/Death Trap

Wat Po
The Famous reclining Budda

Dinner on Sukhumvit
Typical street fare in Bangkok, very tasty.

Train to Chiang Mai
Start of the overnight train

"The Waiting Area"
Everyone waiting for there trains. Chairs? Who needs um

Comments

[Kimi Tom]

Hey Mike!
Sounds like fun!! And the food looks good!! Post more pictures so we get a better feel of what you are talking about. Have fun!! Talk to you later!!!!