asia

Bangkok Grand Palace

We had planned to make today the Grand Palace tour day.  We decided to take a cab from the hotel rather than mass transit.  Upon learning that we wanted to go to the palace, the cab driver offered to show us other landmarks and temples around town.  Wat Traimit , the Golden Budda was our first stop followed by Wat Saket, the Golden Mount.  The short but breathtaking climb (in part due to the humidy and heat) proved an ideal spot to see the layout of some of the closer parts of the city and many of the other temples.  From here were were off to the Grand Palace.  This former residence to the Thai monarch of the Kingdom of Siam includes an unusual mix of Victorian architecture and Thai temple-style roofs.  By mid-afternoon the oppressive heat and humidity had driven us into the shade with several cold beers. 

Returning to the Four Seasons by cab, we again spent time at the pool to cool off and relax.  After some snacks at in the Executive Club we decided to revisit Patpong on our last night in town.  This time we explored Club Cafe and The Balcony, across from the Telephone Pub and Restaurant.  We were too early at Club Cafe, they are an 11pm and after club.  However, the street seats at The Balcony provided plenty of entertainment watching people wander by and the waiters attempting to get them to take one of their tables.