Bangkok, the capital of bad hair days

The Baan Dinso Hostel is located on Democracy Square which was constructed in the 1930s when the monarchy was overthrown. Somehow they have a monarchy again, not sure how that happened. One of the main things people warn you about when coming here is not to disrespect the king or queen with anything you say or do. It is a punishable offense legally. Also, since the king's likeness is on all the currency, it is expected that you will not fold or wad up your bills. Anyhoo, in the picture below you see the threatening clouds, which, if we were in Texas, would mean a cold front is on the way. Here it just means the hot and humid weather is about to get even more humid! It's called monsoon season! Below is the view of Democracy Square which is really round, with cars, taxis, scooters and tuk tuks buzzing around it in such a frenzy you really have to get your courage up to try to cross the street.


This lovely creature was outside the theater.



Looking down on a food court where all kinds of Thai foods are being prepared.


We happened upon the flower market. They had big piles of orchid blossoms just sitting out.


We took a long sweaty walk to try to find the river, but found this monument to one of their first kings instead. Note stray cat running across burning cement toward shade.



Golden statues and buildings are everywhere.











This is what Thai script looks like. It is very hard, well really impossible, to try to decode it. Just pray for a sign in English or know that the outline of the girl wearing the dress is the ladies room.


The place I have liked best so far is Khoa San Road, which is a backpacker's meet up spot from way back. I had heard and read so much about it, plus Kris spent time here when he was in Asia. I really wanted to see it for myself and I did, even though one guy on the street who was trying to help us with directions said "why you go there?" Making me remember that I am a grandma, not a backpacker.


I was probably the oldest person there, but it sure was fun to sit down and have a cold one in a place Kris had described to me and watch the action.

One evening we took our grungy selves to a nice restaurant located right next door to the Baan Dinso. I wish i had had the nerve to whip out my camera and take a picture. They had a small band and a succession of beautiful lady singers. We thought one of the ladies sitting at a nearby table might have been the queen, since she had on a super fancy dress, giant elaborate hairdo, and was dripping with jewels. People were trying to get their picture with her. Turns out she was just one of the very popular singers. I ordered the roasted duck in red curry and it was soooooo good! Anyway there was a major downpour when we left the restaurant so we were so glad it was just right next door to our place. Here's the same view of the square at night in the rain!

Location:Thailand