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Aforementioned in my first post describing Bangkok, tuk-tuks are a convenient form of getting from point A to B. Not only can they weave through and around traffic, but they provide a unique perspective of streets. Riding in an open aired golf-cart like vehicle allows the eye to wonder without limitations. Thailand had something happening on every corner, and it was these trips to and from locations that solidified my love for the city. I was able to understand how this culture operated just by passing hundreds of alleys and markets on our way to tourist attractions. Our hotel  integrated our group into a community that thrived off the sales of garments and fresh food. We had our craziest ride on a tuk-tuk after the Muay Thai Boxing matches (will make a post later). Without warning our driver propelled us into the air for a prolonged wheely while we were crossing an intersection. At first we all freaked out, grabbing whatever solid object we could hold onto. Once we landed the anxiety turned into laughter from all participants, Bangkok is crazy.

After the Grand Palace a kind Thai gentleman (he actually taught in NYC) helped us save some Baht (Thai currency) by referring us to special promotion the governmental tuk-tuks were running. For 30 cents ($US) our group took two vehicles around the city, stopping at three locations. The first was a high-end jewelry store, way out of our league, but did seem affordable compared to United States prices. Next was a tailor suit shop, men attempted to persuade us to check out some fabrics and designs in hopes of  a sale. Although the first two locations did not have any cultural significance, they did give us some incredible sites across the city. We arrived at our last stop, a large standing Buddha. As we walked into the outdoor temple there was a man selling small birds. Setting the little ones free is supposed to bring good luck and happiness for the rest of your life, or at least that’s what his sign read.

The next morning we ventured two hours North to find the Bang-Pa-In Summer Palace. Our group took a train ride with the local Thai peasants. We decided to opt for the non-air conditioned cab, the cheapest ticket available. Assuming I was going to sweat profusely, the ride was not that bad. An executive decision to board the train early and secure window seats payed off during the trip, however; the 30 minutes sitting in a crowded train with the hot sun beating down on and a only few lonely fans did not do us any justice. Once we got moving the open air flowed through my hair as a looked out into the Thailand country side. As soon as I got to Hong Kong I’ve realized how lucky I am to not only enhance my global awareness, but to live comfortably in a suburb. The train had horrible breaks, screeching at every stop (close to 10 in total). Hawkers walked up and down the crowded cabs selling fruit, rice plates, soda in plastic bags, and even desert muffins. By the first hour their high pitch voices got annoying, forcing me to pass out for a good hour. The train ride was an incredible experience. When I took the overnight train to Shanghai I was expecting something similar to this Bangkok transportation. I am happy we chose to venture out to Bang-Pa-In, as we also saw another unbelievable palace that I will describe in another post.

Upon arrival from the train ride back to Bangkok we explored the final option of transportation; motorbikes. There was a fleet of twelve cycles right outside of the train station, we had to do it. After some heavy negotiating with the drivers we hopped on, strapped up our helmets, and we were off! Let me preface the rest of this story by stating that I have not rode on a motorcycle, dirt bike, or anything close to what I was about to experience. The initial rev of the engine got me pumped to fly through the streets. Zig-zagging through traffic provided some close calls, and I must say my heart did get pumping pretty hard at times. The traffic regulations in Thailand are nonexistent. If you could make it through a red light before the oncoming traffic started it was fair game. Often the driver would merge with the traffic and pull a quick u-turn in order to bypass a red light. Rick Books would be in heaven here, as he would truly get to live up his speed racer qualities. The only enforcement was on the highway, as our group called pulled over once because one member was not wearing a seat-belt. Although there is nothing protecting you except the helmet, riding on the back of a motorcycle provides a lot of excitement. It actually has me contemplating trading in my Acura and getting one myself.

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