Day 3: Bangkok in all its glory

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Where to start.... After a rather pleasant nights sleep in our bunkbeds, we got up super early to beat the crowds. James came back from his run drenched in sweat but we managed to get breakfast and get onto the subway for 8am. Our plan for the day included the Grand Palace and temples, although we discovered that pubic transport stops about 2km away from the palace. We braved it on foot, and walked through a real mix of streets, lots of different sights, smells and sounds. Upon approaching the palace we were accosted by a smartly dressed gentleman who kindly informed us (in very good English) that the palace was closed until 12pm for a prayer service. He gave us some directions and got a Tuk-Tuk to drive us around until 12pm. For 40 Baht (80p), we had a 2 hour trip - and despite having to go into 4 'friends' shops (suits, dresses, jewellery, tourist information) its a very interesting and exhilarating way to get around the city. The Grand Palace and temples were beautiful, the gold, jewels and patterns on the oustide walls were exquisite. We got caught in a torrential down pour on the way home- but luckily i'd come prepared with an umbrella!

Baileys Bit:

Don't trust anyone! Although the man who organised the Tuk-Tuk seemed nice, on approaching the grand palace the tannoy system kindly informed us not to trust anyone who tries to delay your trip to the palace. It seems it was open all day, no prayer service, a 1st class con but hey it only cost us 40 baht and a couple of 'souveniers'.

Daily Milage: 5 miles. Ran 1 mile to the nearest park which was full of walkers, runners and Tai chi-ers and it was before 7 in the morning. Loop of the park was just under 2 miles so 1 and half times round and back. It was very warm and humid, hopefully it will get cooler in the North of Thailand!

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Comments

[Sandra Green]

Hello.......
Hi just read your first blog.... Glad you had your arrived safely cannot believe James is running onyour first day there !! Enjoy will speak to you soon take care lol R S P E xxxx

[Mum]

I am in awe
So pleased that you arrived safely and you are finding your feet why would I doubt that??? Enjoy every day to the full, the sites are amazing, take in the culture it is second to none, I love this blogg I feel as though I am there with you both. It is freezing here -3 yesterday morning so you are missing nothing, have the times of your lives my darlings love and miss you loads x

[valerie]

wow
loving the adventures you are having -yes i can see the pictures x

[Hains]

Day 3
Took 3 days to get conned.... Bails words cannot describe how disapointed we are in you! lol... Beware of lots of shaky shaky hand men! Everyone in Thailand is after a buck. DO NOT Pay full price for anything :) other than that glad you're having a good time! Definitely get to Koh San Rd just to experience the maddness and check out the MBK. Muchos Love Hains