We arrived in Bangkok both a bit bewildered, bleary-eyed, and white-legged (me), with two ridiculously heavy and matching backpacks. Stayed in a proper hotel to soften the landing, blowing the budget somewhat; 15th floor, polished marble, air-con. They even had a concierge who carried our bags on a trolley up to our room - there were a few embarrassing minutes whilst I tried to find a suitable tip, pulling random belongings out of my bag - pants, some goggles, an umbrella. Paula tried to do her best to make small talk, but his eyes remained on me, probably thinking 'Christ, what's he going to give me?'. Eventually pulled out a crumpled dollar I'd stashed in a sock, which he examined twice before turning and leaving the room. I almost went for a high-five with the guy.
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