On Dry Land in Bangkok

Boats are actually the most efficient and cheapest way to get around the city, but if you do need to travel on land, the Tuk tuks are the most fun way. Traffic is insane and driving follows British rules of driving on the other side. The only way to cross a street is to literally step out into traffic and have faith that they will stop. It took me almost 20 minutes to get across one street this morning on my own. One incredibly modern twist is that there are electronic maps hung over the roads that show upcoming intersections and possible traffic problems while you are driving, to help you make decisions about driving routes.

Don't Fall in the Water

This water monitor is about 3 feet long but they get much bigger. There are also crocidiles.

The Thai Royal Navy

Appropriately, the Thai Royal Navy sits side by side with one of the temples.

Canal Living

Very rich homes exist side by side with houses that seem almost completely open air. I can understand the need to have everything open and airy. It is the middle of winter now in Thailand and each day has been around 90 degrees F with very high humidity. I can't imagine what it's like in the summer heat.

Canal Living

When you leave the main waterway (Mae Nam Chao Phyray) and head into the canals, you find an eclectic mix of lifestyles and structures.

The Indian Connection in Thailand

Many of the temples show a strong Indian influence. Even the Thai language and its written form are borrowed from the Indian Sanskrit.

Thai Condo 4 Sale

Spectacular river views - 4 Rms for 2 1/2 million US Dollars.

If You Meet the Buddha Along the Way...

If you meet the Buddha along the way, you are probably in Thailand. There are 20,000 Buddhist temples in the country and 300 in Bangkok alone. No matter where you are in the city, you can look up at the horizon and see a temple nearby. The city is 95 % Buddhist and 4 % Muslim, but you can still find Christmas decrations throughout the city. Max explained that the King was very accepting of all religions.

Bangkok:The Venice of the Orient

Bangkok is all river and canals and my first day here was spent hopping from ferry to ferry to follow my guide, Mr. Max through the city. It was the perfect way to meet this vibrant city for the first time.