Hello from Thailand,
If you have been reading the news, you know about the controversy going on in Bangkok between the "red shirts" and the "yellow shirts" and spilling their own blood over the capital stairs. Because of this we were concerned if the ship would risk us stopping. As it was we did stop yet they cancelled a couple of the tours and cautioned us on places to stay away from. We did not see anything that resembled any kind of conflict so all was safe and sound. Although, there was alot of rumor onboard beforehand just to give the whole stop more exciting!!!
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and is sprawls along the contours of the Chao Phraya River-Thailand's lifeline. At one time, Bangkok was compared with Venice because of its network of klongs (canals). It was nicknamed "Venice of the East" at a time when mot transportation was by boat. Today most of them have been paved over to accommodate the growing metropolis. While many khlongs still exist with people living along them and markets often being operated along the banks, most are severely polluted.
Bangkok is a magnet for foreigners escaping turmoil in their homeland or simply for business. The city's wealth of cultural sites makes it one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. The population of Thailand is 65 million with 9.1 million in Bangkok. the yearly average income is $8,000. Buddhism is very important to the people as the religion came from India...92% are Buddhist.
Ken and I took separate tours...I to the gardens and beach and Ken to the Palace and shopping...go figure!!! The tropical gardens were amazing with all the beautiful plants and the sculptured gardens...they were meticulously planned and cared for so they kept their unique designs. Our tour also included a Thai show with dancing, elephants and kickboxing. Elephants are the symbol of the country and you can find their design on everything from jewelry to clothing. Yes, I had to buy a t-shirt!!! Elephants eat 18 hours per day...sound like us passengers!!! Also they are pregnant for 22 months!!!
The people drive on the left side of the road and apparently the reason for that is the king decided to import a car from England thence they drive on the left. The Thai New Year is April 13 and it is like our Christmas.
Ken had a different experience in the city and I will send his experience along when he sends it to me....
Meanwhile...that's the scoop!!!
janet
qv@cunard.co.uk#4152
qv@cunard.co.uk#4152
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment