along the hillside
a canopied long stairway
to a small heaven

oo0oo

after the long climb

a rewarding view awaits
famed chocolate hills

In one of my posts last March I highlighted one of the tourist attractions in our province – the Loboc River Cruise. For today’s post I would like to share an experience cruising along a different river in a foreign land - the Chao Phraya River. It is the major river in Thailand and it flows through Bangkok.

In the evening that followed our Grand Palace Tour  we were treated to a sumptuous dinner while on board a luxury boat - the Chao Phraya Princess. The atmosphere inside the boat was just so romantic. There was live music from a versatile saxophonist. And a lovely Thai lady entertained us with sultry songs, a few in Thai, as well as lively ones that made the guests want to dance.

A day cruise along Loboc River is so refreshing because of the fresh air and lush vegetation on both sides. Cruising along Chao Phraya River at night offers a totally different experience. Ethereally enchanting! What makes it so? On both sides of the river are historical landmarks of Thailand that glow during the night. The lights seen from a distance made me feel as if I was in a different world.

on a river cruise

savoring bangkok by night
long time dream no more

oo0oo


ethereal feeling
cruising along chao phraya
the glow of landmarks

Thailand has been in my dream list of travel destinations in Southeast Asia for quite a time. A little over three weeks ago this dream came to reality.  Thanks to the generosity of a friend who sponsored my trip with her.

A visit to Bangkok is not complete without seeing its most famous landmark – the Grand Palace. Built in the late eighteenth century, it used to be the official residence of the king of Siam, now Thailand. Around the turn of the twentieth century Thai kings stopped living in the palace. Every year however, royal ceremonies and other official events are held within its walls. These facts were relayed to us by our English speaking Thai tour guide.

The palace complex houses several spectacular buildings. The beauty of the architecture with intricate details failed not to dazzle my eyes. Situated in one corner of the outer court is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. So revered for its holiness, no one is allowed to enter the temple with his footwear on.  And... no clicking of cameras inside.

To my readers who have plans of a Bangkok trip don't ever miss the Grand Palace Tour. 

summer day in may

grand palace at a distance

holds me in great awe

oo0oo

thai culture inhaled

as we gaze at old buildings

artwork so dazzling

oo0oo


footwear left outside
holy temple so revered
not a shot allowed

across the swampland

fearless we tread the long bridge

creaking sound unheard

oo0oo

 while crossing the bridge

i hear ripples down below
birds chirping blend in