Hey you guys,

Arrived in Bangkok 6:30am. Flights were good, but long and made it on to the plane stress free.

The weather was hot and sticky this morning, a little overwhelming when you come out of the airport struggrling under the weight of your rucksack which seems to have gained weight since trying it on last night, but nice and cool now.

Caught a taxi to the hotel which took 50 mins.  The driver was learning english and trying it out on me.  He was very good, puts my thai to shame, all I can say is thank you.

My hotel is great, room was upgraded and the bathroom/shower is out of this world, like standing under a fast heavy down pour. Had to wait a couiple of hours before checking in so had a wander around.

There is a big mall opp the hotel and there are Christmas trees  and decorations everywhere outside the shops. Cliff Richard and Boney M (I didnt even know they had a Christmas record) were playing over the speakers on the sky train platform.  All seemed very commercial and  touristy.  

The first shops I saw were Mc D's, Boots and Starbucks which made me feel (a little) sad. 

There are pictures and monuments to the king everywhere (and I mean everywhere).  They really love him. I dont know if it was because I was tired and a little overwhelmed, but all seemed very sureal to me.

I have just been to the night market, which was crazy. Hundreds of stalls selling anything and everything. I resisted, well, I did treat myself to one pashima. The nights get cool - I may need it

Also, had a herbal foot. leg, back, neck and head massage, which was amazing. At one point my legs were covered in a bright yellow mixture of herbs and yoghurt - it looked like they belonged to Homer Simpson ha ha. I never knew massages could be so painfull, I thought she was going to crack my spine at one point. mind you I came away floating and in my own little world.

I went to/from the market in a Tuk Tuk. which is not a good idea if you have a fear of dying by car like I do. It started off nice and slow, poodling in the trafic, then he turned a corner, put his foot down and my god it was scary. I think he went over every pot hole he could find, and there were a lot of them. Even worse coming back as it was dark and the driver keptracing the manic bikers whilst turning around to talk to me. I may have a few more white hairs, but made it back safely.

Well, have to go as internet cafe closing and I am the last here.

Judexxx