Observations of Bangkok

Pictures coming soon...still trying to figure out how to upload them.

We've been having a blast in Bangkok after finding out our suits were authentic. So far we've visited Siam square, which is a HUGE clothing/shopping center that in and of itself transports you to another country. There is such a class difference between people living in Old Bangkok (where a lot of backpackers stay), and the area surrounding Siam square. There is even a market inside Paragon Square that is the equivalent to Whole Foods in the States...you can practically buy anything you want for triple the price :) Maybe they call it whole salary instead of whole paycheck :)
Oh, I should mention to those Twilight fans out there that we viewed New Moon and loved it! Before the movie started, the prompt requested everyone stand up in the theater and give homage to the King. Now, I thought this was so honorable that it brought tears to my eyes, because I realized how lacking the States can be in honoring and respecting our presidents past and present. Can you imagine how people would react if the movie prompt said "please stand up and pay homage to your president?" Briana always teases me when I talk about honor, but I definitely see a higher level of respect here in the people, and I appreciate that.

Some observations:
1. Smells/Odors. When walking down the street I am always amazed at how strong an odor can be, yet it lasts for a second or two and it's gone! There are SO many qualities to the odor here, and being a 5 Element Acupuncturist who uses the senses when practicing medicine, I think exposure to these pungent smells is teaching me a lot about how an odor enters my nostrils and eventually my brain. What am I perceiving?
2. Persistence. When selling goods on the streets vendors do not leave you alone...they try selling you everything they have on the table. This includes Tuk Tuk drivers who attempt to sell you a ride, and especially after our first day we have not stepped foot in another Tuk Tuk.
3. Sex Markets. Yes, sex markets. Briana and I walked through Potpong Night Market last night, and we were shocked at how many people offered me "potpong" or peep show with my arm tightly around Briana. It didn't matter that I was walking with my wife...the sellers were obviously thinking about one and only one thing: to make a buck. We left this market rather quickly and headed home.

More observations to come...internet time is out.

Off to Chiang Mai today on the night train. Heading to one of the biggest markets in SE Asia today before we leave (Chatapuk Market?).