Grand Palace and Beyond

We transferred hotels a few days ago and began the Teach Abroad orientation. There are about 83 other participants and within the first few hours of introduction, we connected with 4 and we can tell we will all be lifelong companions. Oddly enough, two of them are originally from PA and two are from CA. Together we have been adapting to the Thai culture, learning about the Thai school system, and strengthening our Thai speaking and understanding; a much bigger challenge then I initially imagined. But the variety of backgrounds we have encountered along with the new outlooks on life and perspectives on traveling are refreshing and encouraging.

We frequent the night and day street markets for food and cheap necessities. They are always interesting scenes full of unique smells and surprising characters. We went on a 'field trip' to the Grand Palace and I have to say it was one of the most amazing places I have ever visited. The 24k gold detailing, hand painted title, and sculptures were absolutely remarkable. Rather than being a single structure, the Grand Palace is made up of numerous buildings, halls,  and pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. Its asymmetry and eclectic styles are due to its organic development with additions and rebuilding being made by successive reigning kings over 200 years of history. We then had the chance to visit the red light district downtown and ate at a restaurant where the waitresses were clearly lady boys. Lots of sights to get used to!