Touristy

We hit the major tourist sites in Bangkok on our first day. The Imperial Palace has a beautiful mural of the Ramayana that was being touched up. Watching the painters delicately daub on the wall was strangely enjoyable. Photos of Thailand always show deep, lush colors. But I was struck by how most objects' colors seemed washed out. Not dingy, but worn. The humidity must ravage paint, so seeing the careful touch-up made me feel more appreciative of the efforts to preserve treasures.

Then it was off to Wat Pho, which houses the largest Buddha in the world- also known as the Reclining Buddha.



Wandering Bangkok, you are constantly stopped and chatted up by friendly people. That is, friendly, money-loving people. Their goal is to send you to "the lucky Buddha" which is only ever open one day of the whole year! And that day is today! Oh, are you going to Wat --? Didn't you know that's closed today? Why don't you go on this special tour? There's a tuk-tuk waiting right there to drive you! Dodging these people soon takes on video game qualities. But you can power up at any of the convenient food stalls!