Bangkok, the AMAZING

First time in Bangkok, I liked it.

Second time, I liked it more.

Now, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT... everything about it.

In just a few days, I already had more adventures than I can mention. One time I ended up taking a motor bike taxi. You basically ride on the back of a motorbike. My guy decided that going the RIGHT way was too slow, so he decided to speed AGAINST the TRAFFIC in the WRONG direction (not THAT uncommon for motorbikes in Bangkok). Unbelievable experience dodging the oncoming traffic. You don't get that in the West. But I will think again before getting on one of those. Good for one time, but I like my life. :)

The hotel is in a quiet location. Great rooftop pool. I like to go early morning and watch the city awake. I love the smells and sounds of early morning Bangkok. :) It's nothing like I experienced in the West. The hotel also has a great gym and is within walking distance of Bangkok's Skytrain (you can get anywhere cheap and easy with Skytrain).

November is the 'winter' time in Thailand. The temperature has been great. At night maybe 23 C, during the day about 35. For whatever reason, I don't sweat during the day's heat. I don't know what happened, I still drink enough water, but my shirt is staying dry. Unlike on previous trips, no stomach troubles on account of spicy food either. :)

Yesterday, we went to Wat Arun, a real landmark on Chao Phraya river. Terrific view and lots of things to see around.

I gotta say that Bangkok is different (..and better) when you have a native Thai guide.

 Dad is LOVING IT maybe even more than I do.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

In the past years, I stayed at the LA Tower in Bangkok. Monthly rent ran me about $350 with the utilities (Bangkok is 'expensive' compared to most of Thailand). The place was Ok, the biggest selling point for me was the large swimming pool (swimmer my whole life).

I want to try something new this time. I'll be heading to Novel Place. It's a bit of a step up. Other than a nicer rooftop swimming pool, it also has sauna, gym (WITH weights, very important to me), garden, and is in an excellent location. About $470 a month, but I figured what the hell. :)

Flying to Bangkok on Thursday

It's done. Flying to Bangkok Thursday night.... through London and Bombay. :)

Chillin'? Not Yet!

I thought after the car and the house are sold, I would be just chillin' at the hotel.
Yah, right.
To my HORROR, I noticed that my debit card EXPIRES next year. In the times past, debit cards never expired, you could use one indefinitely as long as it worked. I was planning to use mine for many years in Asia.....
So I rushed to the bank... they gave me one that expires in 2018, which was a marked improvement as it gives me 3 years. On my other account, I got a card that expires in 2024... so I am theoretically set.
It's amazing how many loose ends there are to tie up before leaving...
Btw, I am probably flying to Bangkok Friday. :)

Closing Day

CRAZY DAY... moved out of a house where I lived 20 years... AND sold the car right after.

I am exhausted... enjoying the hot tub at the hotel.

The 2 Things I Will Miss

As the clock ticks down, I realize that there will be only 2 things I will miss:
1. friends
and
2. the temple!

I said goodbye to the temple today... it was surprisingly difficult. The only place here that has grown close to my heart.

Well, on the upside, there's about hundred million temples in Asia, if not more. :)

Piranhas

People who trade in used cars are like piranhas. After putting up the ad to sell the car last night, I was wholly unprepared for an onslaught of people knocking at my door at 8 am with envelopes filled with cash wanting to close the deal.... which happened, btw. I guess it was my fault for doing too good of a job taking photos of the car... looked better digitally than in reality.
The car is sold, but still have it til Friday night.