Putting my best step forward...

My first entry...thought it better be early on to let you know that I am safe and sound!

I arrived last night after the 11 hour flight feeling excited but slightly overwhelmed. Travelling through the city to Khao San Road showed me the contrast of stall-packed streets and skyscrapers piercing the sky.  A long bath and good sleep (apart from the bar across the road singing songs completely out of tune) prepared me for my first full day.

Today has been my introduction to Bangkok and I have visited the well-known highlights of the city.  I started with The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha).  According to my guidebook ... two of the holiest sites in all of Thailand!  The temples and statues are beautiful.  I spent a long time wandering through the gardens.  I even saw a little reminder from home...the changing of the guard.  He didn't move a muscle, even though Anna (the girl I befriended in the Grand Palace) and I tried to make him laugh!

I also went to Wat Pho the home of the huge gold budda.  It is over 40m long and seems to be bursting out of the temple.  The last visit of the day was Wat Arun before talking the water cab home.  The rivers are as crazy as the roads - boats just see to mow each other out of the way!

I have just had my first Thai Meal in May Kaidee's Vegetarian Restaurant - think becoming veggie is the best bet after seeing some of the stalls today!  Not entirely sure I can bring myself to eat dried fish and insects. (Sorry to let you down Kate!)

A long and busy day!  My feet are killing me (not good seeing as I have another 364 days to go) but completely worth it.  The people I have met are friendly and I feel incredibly safe (even after the scary throat sliting incident I heard about today!!!).

I am planning to stay in Bangkok for a few more days.  I am going to visit Chatuchak Market at the weekend before heading off into Thailand.

Love to you all xxx