Janna and I spent two glorious weeks in Thailand with our friends Scott and Karen (Bangkok, sailing on the Star Clipper, relaxing on Phuket Island; here are some thoughts and pictures for you to enjoy. The trip to get there is loooooooong, but well worth the effort. Bangkok is huge, exotic, and lovely. It is full of dazzling palaces and temples (called "Wats"), chaotic street life
wonderful people, and delicious food. The crown jewel is the Grand Palace
but other attractions include the Vimanmek Mansion (former residence of the king)
Wat Pho with its extraordinary Reclining Buddha and multiple Buddha gallery
and zoo.
We had a terrific hotel (Montien Riverside)
We went to the famous floating market
where I had a close encounter with a giant boa constrictor
We crisscrossed the city, and loved every minute of it
Following five active days in Bangkok we flew to the island of Phuket to board the Star Clipper
for a week of sailing among the stunning islands that constitute various national parks. Snorkeling, sailing, water skiing, relaxing on the beach -- ie, a real vacation
The islands are filled with wild monkeys (who steal your stuff if you're not watching)
iguanas, hermit crabs, and ... guests from the Star Clipper!Two final days at a resort on Phuket Island (which included elephant trekking and a bizarre/amazing/fun visit to the Las Vegas-like theme park called Fantasea)
The flights home are disorienting (Phuket-Bangkok-Seoul-DC-C'ville) and I think we got home before we left; figure that one out. Great trip.
