Finally, after months of planning, we are in Thailand. There was much drama and indecision the last few days before we left because of the political demonstrations going on here. There was a huge surge planned for "shutting down" Bangkok and no one really knew what to expect. Friends in Thailand suggested we not come into the city, but change our plans and fly directly north to Chiang Mai. Others just admitted they had no idea what the increase in political tensions would create. We had a few nervous days, but decided to surrender and not detour from our plan. We felt confident in our ability to adapt to the situation and would adjust if the need arose. So here we are and very very happy we kept to the plan. It is lovely here. Not crowded at all. Weather delightful. Our flight from HongKong was 2/3 empty. All the airport workers seemed grateful we actually came and were most helpful. Went through customs, bought a 4G SIM card. Changed money and went outside to the taxi stand and got a driver who smiled happily with his only remaining two front teeth, missing right ear, and a dozen Buddhist amulets around his neck. What everyone warned us about, impossible traffic due to the road blockage from the demonstrations, just did not have that much of an effect. We reached our hotel on the river in one hour, which is about normal. And so here we are! The start of another wonderful adventure. First things first we went for a swim to clear our heads from the 15 hour flight from LAX to Hong Kong. The three hour layover, and the very bumpy 2.5 hour flight to BKK. Then we wandered down the street and found our favorite street vendor. She has a small cart, a few plastic chairs and tables set up, and makes the best Pad Thai noodles that I have ever eaten. Delicious! So for now life is good.
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