Sorry this is so long in coming. I had some problems accessing the blog because the computer must have automatically changed the language to Thai. I have now finally figured out how to change it back....so I should be good to go. WOW....SO MUCH TO TELL.
We are still getting acclimated to the new time change, so this post will be somewhat short. Hopefully I will have time over the weekend to give you more details and pictures. We had a wonderful flight with lots of good food and very gracious flight attendants. ANA (All Nippon Airlines) is a very good way to fly. I watched 3 movies, had several bottles of red wine (healthy you know) and managed to get a little sleep.
The 4 hour layover in Tokyo was interesting since we have never been there before. We did get a chance to stretch out there and get a power nap. After arriving in Bangkok "Beam" (our Thai teacher friend) took us to a traditional Thai hotel. After a great breakfast the next morning we flew about 75 minutes near her home town. We stopped and got a few groceries which was again very interesting. The pictures will tell you a lot.
We went out to eat at a small restaurant across the street. We had broccoli and shrimp, a
vegetable and meat omelet, green mango salad, shrimp cakes (they looked like big donuts with a hole in them) and two bottles of water. 4 entrees, four people. The bill was 350 baht (about
$11). INCREDIBLE. Outstanding food and so inexpensive....of course it is reasonable to their rate of pay....just not to us. (and no tipping)
Today we went to her school. It was a special day with a very large assembly in their gymnasium to honor their Thai "Shakespeare". Of course we were the honored guests and were treated like royalty by all. We were introduced to the 2000 students (7-12) at their morning opening ceremony. (they have announcements, and sing the national anthem every morning) We certainly were the objects of their curiosity with eager kids all wanting to greet us. We received many hand made welcome cards, posters, treat etc. I'm not sure we can live up to their expectations.
The assembly lasted all morning with musical presentations, dramas, etc. We left and were treated to a reception of very good (but different) fruits, sandwiches and other sweets.
Later we helped Beam teach a lesson and watched school wide volleyball and soccer
competitions.
It is very warm here, but we had nice breezes every day and there are some air conditioned areas to go to. Our home here is brand new and while different than ours, it is very modern and comfortable. Her brother just built it and graciously gave it up for the eight weeks for us. That greatly humbles us. They say that Thailand is the place of smiling faces and that is very true for us. They are friendly and we will be well taken care of wherever we go.
Well this has gotten very long. Sorry...I don't want to bore you. It's just that everything is so very culturally different and interesting. I'll try to post again this weekend and include picture.
This really is Ron and Sues Thai Adventures!
Hurray! Yes, the Thai people are gracious and wonderful to their guests. And, the fruit is luscious and abundant. Have you tasted (and smelled) durian, yet? Fun fruit!
ReplyDeleteWe received your envelope in the mail. Have a great time. Greetings to Beam. We will get our skype acct. set up....soon.
Love you, N and P