First Stop Bangkok

We've now been in Thailand's capital for a night and a day. The hustle and bustle of London is of no comparison to Bangkok, hundreds of people everywhere 24/7, street vendors, beggars and tuk tuks. We've learnt to cross roads in the Thai fashion (walk out and don't stop!!).

We are staying in a small B & B, basic but good value for money. The Tuptim is on Rambuttri Road a slightly more understated version of Khao San Road but by no means quiet! Everyone is friendly and welcoming which we have found is a Thai trait.

On the first full day we visited the Grand Palace (Bangkok's Vatican equivalent!). It was a soaringly hot day and to respect the Buddhist culture we had to wear trousers and have our shoulders well covered, which resulted in both of us almost over-heating! It was well worth it though as the palace is beautiful and lavishly decorated; buildings made from gold and jewels made it a spectacular sight.

From a green and gold Buddha statue, the next stop of the day was the floating market. A must see! There is some great tut on offer, but the gem of the afternoon was a waterside restaurant (if you can call it that?!); crispy pork in spicy fried rice, mouthwatering and for just 90p! We have had some tasty food so far, with some more time in Bangkok I'm sure we could find some really great local places to eat, but as of tomorrow we will be starting our journey North.

The best way to go from A to B is by far the river taxi service that runs up and down the Mae Nam Chao Phraya. We sat next to the captain/driver who was possibly the most relaxed cool dude in the world. He didn't even look over his shoulder to berth when he was sitting 30 odd metres away from the point of embarkation (shame he was a Liverpool fan!).

China Town was, urrmmmmm, interesting. Dump galore. Best bit was Lottie finding a massive lizard! I don't think that there is anywhere in the world so ram packed full of stalls and shops. Although, unlike the more tourist areas (such as Khao San and Rambuttri) the keepers don't really pester you but go about their own business.

Our next stop is Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. We get the train tomorrow at 11.20, where we will be chilling with locals in 3rd class for a insubstantial 30p! See ya soon, our next update will come shortly! Xxx