Traveling Tolins 2

Bang-kok translates to land of olives .  The population is ten million  with only eight hundred thousand "natives."  The remainder have migrated into the city and surrounding area to fill jobs.  We were amazed at how many Japanese cars are manufactured here. There are 3,500 buses carrying three million passengers daily plus there are eight million privately owned cars and motorcycles.  Each day at 8 AM a flag is raised and 6 PM it is lowered with the national anthem is sounded.  People who hear the anthem or see the flag are expected to stop in reverence.   New Years is celebrated three times every year:  The International (January 1), Chinese, and Buddhist (April 13). Historic Siam of old, now Bangkok is beautifully set on the Chao Phraya River.    Thai culture is rich and engaging in this bustling center, where modern skyscrapers rub elbows with centuries-old Buddhist  wats , or temples. The towering Wat Arun, named for...

Our cruise ship arrived late morning today for an overnight stay, due to depart 6 PM tomorrow.  We docked by a cruise ship terminal amid a very large sea terminal, Laem Chabang. Buses were awaiting us for this afternoon and evening shore excursions. Because Larry and Diane were not interested in any of the afternoon shore excursions, they did not go on any of the buses.  Some friends did go on a tour and offered their pictures.  Pattaya and the Sanctuary of Truth The Sanctuary of Truth is an all-wood structure known for its soaring roof and visionary art.  Described as the “magnificence of heaven recreated on earth,” this wooden monument stands 340 feet on a commanding promontory overlooking the Bay of Pattaya.  It is one of the most distinguished architectural monuments in Thailand, built entirely without nails and adorned with exquisite carvings and sculptures that cover every square inch.  These are all visionary ...