Day for Play

Yesterday, after applying to several jobs on-line, Hayley and I decided it was time to have a bit of fun and play the part of tourist. We took the Sky Train to the end of the Silom Line where we boarded a water taxi. The water taxi took us north, past many significant Bangkok sites including Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace. We got off at each attraction, walked around, took pictures, and enjoyed the beauty of the Buddhist temples.

The Buddhist temples, especially Wat Arun and Wat Pho (a giant reclining Buddha covered in solid gold) are extremely ornate and mesmerising. It is interesting to me that the Buddhist religion or way of life centers on finding a middle path (goodhearted intentions meeting wisdom and knowledge) and letting go of the importance of wealth and worldly possessions. In addition, Buddhists do not worship the Buddha. Yet, the images of Buddha (cover in gold or jade) and those who kneel before them are reminiscent of idol or god worship. The two seem to oppose one another. I think I need a tutorial in Buddhism... Thoughts or comments on this are welcome.

Hayley and I are now off for some fun in our new area on Sukhumvit Road (Dont worry, I spent the better part of the morning applying to numerous jobs on-line). Love and miss you, family!

Siam Square

Yesterday, Hayley and I woke up at a staggering 4:45 am; we are having a difficult time adjusting to the 11 hour time difference from Eastern Standard Time. Yet a new day brought new hope and resolve to conquer the city. After eating an interesting breakfast of rice with chicken curry, toast with jam, and some amazing pineapple we headed out. We decided to begin our apartment search in an area close to Victory Monument. We had scouted a very nice looking apartment on-line and were hopeful. After arriving and looking at one of the units, we decided against the area. Although the apartment itself was simply gorgeous (with modern furniture and fixtures, granite counter tops, western marble shower, etc.), the area was less than desirable. From the sky train to the apartment building, it was a 10 minute walk along an underground freeway. I cannot imagine how scary it would be to walk down after dark! This apartment is exemplary of what we have been finding all over Bangkok. The places we can afford are affordable for a reason....

To lift our spirits and kill some time, we headed to Siam Square. From what I can tell, this square is the center of the shopping world. Four huge malls surround the square and include everything from cheap discount clothes in one mall, to electronics in another, and Gucci stores in the mall across the street. The malls are connected with sky walkways which zig-zag in and out across the area. Although I would normally never say this, it felt good to just get lost in the hustle and bustle of consumerism.

Side note: In one of the nicer malls, we observed an "American Idol" type of try-out situation. It was hilarious to watch.... those poor souls who actually think they are talented! Don't get me wrong, I am not talented either. Which is why I do not try out for such contests....

We ended our day once again near Khoasan Road. We ate Guy Pad Thai while siting on the curb and people watching. A good end to a good day.

Word of the Day: Frustrated

Hayley and I went apartment hunting today in an area known as Thong Lo. After walking for several hours in the heat and humidity, we still have no idea where we are going to live. Prices are high in our desired area....of course. I have expesive taste, what can I say?

I am already sick of Thai food. It is going to be a LONG eight months at this rate. I am sorry if I seem to project a sour mood....I think all I need is a bit of luck to put me back on top.

Interesting note: After getting amazing Thai massages today, we ate dinner in an area called Sala Daeng. This area is known as the gay district. We were served by men popularly known as "lady boys": a whole new kind of drag queen!

First Day in Bangkok

At 9:30 pm on Thursday, August 27th, I am sitting in my hostel room and ready for bed. It has been a long but good day in my new city. We moved to a differen hostel this morning; to a hostel in a more touristy part of town near Khoasan Road. After dropping off our bags, we headed out to see the city. We negotiated with a Tuk Tuk driver and we were taken from one temple to the next for little more than pennies. We ended out tour of the area on Khoasan Road where we had dinner and walked the merchadise stalls. My first impressions of the city were: 1. Bangkok has crazy drivers, just as in all other parts of the world besides the USA. 2. Thai's are a very friendly people who engage you often. 3. The food is fantastc. The two meals I have had so far were superb.

I have a lot to learn and thinking about it is a bit dauting. I speak only one word of Thai, I have no job, and we have yet to search for an apartment. Although this is only my first day, I feel the need to settle in and find my corner of Bangkok.

Count Down

Five Days Left:

I am currently preparing for my departure. I feel nervous, excited, hints of dread, and happily in love (aka, I feel like a crazy person). My craving for adventure and new sights, smells, and sounds has lead me down this path once again. I hope with all my being that this move to Bangkok will be a fruitful learning and growing experience. It is in this blog that I will chronicle my time in Thailand, my adventures with Hayley, and a new career move. Bon Voyage!