Busy Bangkok

After settling in at the hotel we took a stroll out this morning to become familiar with the local area. We were reminded immediately how busy (and dangerous!) the roads can be.




A busy shrine to the Hindu god Brahma was located on the corner, where people were burning incense as well as giving garlands of flowers and other offerings. Some musicians and singers were in a small alcove, and people were paying a small sum to join them in prayer.

Almost next door was what might be seen as a contrasting Western “shrine”.

Jean

Farewell to Australia

We said a fond farewell to Melbourne and Australia yesterday. Many thanks to Greg for all of his hospitality, despite the fact that he was busy covering the tennis in Melbourne, and also to Peta, who very kindly drove us to the airport. It was great to be treated to a lift as we had quite a lot of baggage, but was all the more welcome as it saved my dodgy back from any strain.

Jean

Flights

Pleasant 55-minute flight from Melbourne to Sydney to link up with the plane to Bangkok which t0ok about 8 1/2 hours. Time to watch four movies on Qantas's excellent inflight entertainment programme. Still plenty to choose from when we do the rest of the flight home to London early on Friday morning.

Landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport which is only a couple of years old and is state of the art (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suvarnabhumi_Airport)

Magnificent building, though currently more noted for the political demo which closed it for a week or so late last year. Hotel taxi whisked us the Courtyard Marriott where we are staying in rather a nice room (pictured). No bath though but outdoor swimming pool is some compensation. Dave