First Stop: Bangkok

Bangkok is a vast, sprawling metropolis, its beautiful temples convuluted by smog and grime.

But its so exciting and diverse....

The new airport is super efficient, there are few secuirty guards wandering about, and masses of people, but we still got in and out within 45 minutes.

I didnt even see any cracks in the runway!

We arrived early afternoon, and after an easy clearance from the new airport, waited for our pre arranged lift to meet us.

If it hadnt showed up, not a problem- the new airport is very easy to navigate...there are buses, taxis and a sky train close by.

A cab to the city centre will cost around 200 Baht.

We got to our hotel, and admired the view.

Bangkok at night is stunning. In the daytime, a  complete contrast, its buildings shrouded in smog and filth.

On our first day, we fell victim to the thai tourist trap- the 'free' car, that stops at all the thai silk and gem stores, refusing to let you out until you buy something.

After escaping with only a silk red tie, we caught a tuk tuk to Ko San Road, a backpackers mecca, and bought some cheap garments, had a fake heineken and wandered about the city.

We then were scammed by another tuk tuk who promised to take us to all temples of Bangkok, 3 hours for 20 Baht (less than a dollar). Again, he began to stop at his friend's stores, gems and silk, so we lost him and went back to the hotel.

A typical day out in Bangkok.