Back to Bangkok - then home to SLC

      As we returned to Bangkok, we were excited to go to the Grand Palace, and it did not disappoint. 

We had read on the internet that we needed to wear clothing appropriate to the palace, as it was a holy place. It had indicated that as long as the knees and shoulders were covered, all was well. 

However, with Will's long legs, I guess there was just too much skin showing, so he had to rent long pants to wear inside. 

This is the golden chedi in the background. - and up close!

The Phra Maha Monthian Group of buildings were first:

 (Again, shades of "The King and I")

Then the Galleries - which was like reading the Book of Mormon in picture form - as the story of the kings, and wars, and family life was told.

Then the Upper Terrace: 

A scale model of Angor Wat in Cambodia: 

The Royal Pantheon: 

with the Emerald Buddha - which is really made of Green Jade.

Then the King's mansion, and the gardens:

We traveled by boat to points along the river to see the sights. 

Although there were several more temples we could have visited, we decided to go see the Thai Royal Barges typical of those used by kings clear back to 1656. "The King and I" has always been a favorite musical for Karen, and her perception of ancient Thailand was certainly  influenced by that movie. 

However, when we got off our river bus, and walked up the street in the direction of the barges, we stumbled into a peaceful demonstration. The red/ white/ and blue flag is the flag of Thailand. We watched from a distance, not wanting to get caught up in the fray. Within minutes, the crowds were marching up the street in the opposite direction.

 Yummy treats along the way - Balut! - No, we actually weren't interested in tasting it.

This little gal was delighted to have her picture taken.

 After, a tuktuk drive, and then quite a hike through a residential neighborhood, we found the Thai Royal Barge Museum. 

 These long, beautifully designed barges are interesting boats.
Here are some facts:
     1.  They are made of a long, narrow trunk
     2.  They carry up to 100 oarsmen who use moderate strokes to the beat of harmonious rhythmic chanting to move the long boat through the water.
     3.  The boats are capable of traveling rapidly, even when going upstream.
     4.  The prows are carved with mythical creatures, and delicately carved with gilded lacquer and mirrored glass decoration.
     5.  The barges are used as warships during the time of war, and as transportation during royal ceremonies and other important occasions.
     6.  Although the original barges were destroyed during WW II, King Bhumibol Adulyadej ordered the royal barges restoration.

During actual trips in the dragon barge, this long tassel and chandler, seen in the picture below are added to the nose and throat of the dragon. 

 This elaborate seat is one of several in the royal barges.

 The museum has each barge pulled into it's own "stream" so that it can easily be pulled out to use. Cement walkways are between each barge so visitors can walk up and down between the barges to see them well.

This is the back part of the royal barge.

 I walked around taking pictures a little longer than Will, but we both enjoyed the show of King's elegant travel accommodations.

On the walk back to the Pier 10, this is what we saw:

As we rode back up the Chaophraya River, these are some of the interesting sights we enjoyed.

 Fascinating  skyline of Bangkok - tall skyscrapers in a multitude of architectural  styles.

 Some buildings are of Chinese origin.

 This is the Royal Thai Navy headquarters.

This is Wat Arun - a famous Thai temple covered on the outside with shells.
 (With a water taxi in the foreground.)

Finally, back to The Chatrium:

With our refreshing swimming pool, 

 and 32nd floor view of the gorgeous sunset. (The night they had fireworks, they were literally just beyond our balcony.)

What a lovely stay in Thailand!