Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Back to Bangkok

When we returned to Bangkok we spent the remaining two days of our trip staying at the Shanghai mansion in china town. It was a very cool hotel right in the heart of China town. The funniest part was that we got there pretty late and the guy at the desk ran ahead of us to turn the very short escalator on just for us. It didn't sound really funny when I just typed it, but trust me, it was hilarious in person.

The next morning, Sunday morning, we did the entire day at the weekend market, Chatuchak Market. Stephen and I now consider ourselves expert bargainers after that day. It is actually really fun if you just smile and laugh while you do it (keep it friendly). The secrets are to know your cut off ahead if time, get out your offer so they see the cash, and be willing to walk away (95% of the time they run after you). We had so much fun and we got a lot of really great deals. We really didn't spend much but walked away with a lot of cool stuff. My favorite purchase was tied: a Thai tea set, 12 earrings (for $3), and a watch. I also got a few dresses for about $3-5 each. Stephen's favorites include a giant knife and a triangle cushion. He also had a suit custom made for him.

coke in a bag, a popular method for quenching one's thirst

On Monday morning Ben and Christy left to head north. It was really sad saying goodbye. We have really enjoyed vacationing with them. This experience has really bonded us forever and I know that they will be one of those "lifetime friends" that you keep in touch with forever.



That afternoon Stephen and I did a tour of the grand palace which includes the temple with the emerald Buddha. I have never seen anything like these buildings. The outside is so ornate with carvings of gold and jewels. It was breathtaking to see. It was also interesting to see the monks praying in the temples. We have certainly learned a lot about the religion and customs of Thailand.







Later we went out to eat and then hit up the night market. This is where they sell the "designer" stuff for really cheap.  Afterwards we bought a bunch of really weird fruits to try. A few of them were really tasty, it was just weird to eat such strange looking things. After the strange fruit we went back to the hotel to pack for the trip home.

We enjoyed Thailand so much and would definitely recommend it! The people are so nice, the country is beautiful, and we had such great experience.

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