Since I am travelling to London via Asia, we thought it would be a great opportunity to visit Bangkok.
This is my first visit to Thailand, a country I had heard so much about.
Neither Janice, my cousin Jess nor my friend Nancy had been to Bangkok before so it was pretty exciting for all of us. I felt as though this trip signified the start of all the new cities and countries I would soon see.
Bangkok reminds me of a cross between Singapore and Malaysia except it’s cheaper and the locals seem friendlier. The first night we arrived, my cousin Sharon took us to Khao San which is a haven for tourists and backpackers. It is essentially one long street with lots of market stalls, restaurants, pubs and street food stalls.
Stepping out of the taxi and seeing Khao San for the first time was surreal.
I had my first ‘pinch me’ moment there. It was so different from any of the other places I had visited before. The colours and smells combined with the crowds of people almost overwhelmed me. It was a welcome assault on my senses.
I was also taken aback by the blatant sex trade and references to sex. I had heard about it but it was still a surprise to see.
We happened to visit at a time when there were major government protests around Wat Phra Keow so many of the temples were inaccessible.
What is clear to me is that the Thai’s are a very spiritual people. There were plenty of shrines peppered all over the city.
We only spent 4 days there so it was really just a taste of Bangkok. I’ve realised that I have little to no tolerance for spicy food and that I am not a fan of massages!
memoirs of a Chan 