Bangkok is a marvelous city, the largest in Thailand. The air is bad
from the abundantly overcrowded streets, with tuk-tuks, motorcycles, and cars
slowly winding their way throughout the city. And yet, it's a pleasure to roam
and explore. The old section of the city is a maze of alleys and little
backstreets. The city also has myriad canals that add another element of
interest to this vibrant city. Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city.
Although packed with many ancient and beautiful temples, it doesn't have the
charm of Bangkok, in my opinion. But everywhere in Thailand, it seems the
Buddhist temples shine immaculately, sometimes in contrast to adjacent
squalid homes. But even in squalor, homes are often nicely decorated with planted
orchids.
These photos of Thailand were taken during a brief visit to
Bangkok in November of 1998 and a longer visit in November of 2001, when I
enjoyed trekking northern Thailand and scuba diving the Similan Islands.
Seemingly a part of every aspect of Thai life in Bangkok is Buddha. The
Buddhist temples have sculptures and statues of Buddha in many positions,
each with its own special meaning. This one, about 30 feet long, is a lying
Buddha layered in gold.
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Wat Pho is an immaculate Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Each of these spires
contain the cremation remains of devout families, now passed.
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A Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai.
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Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai.
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Next Page - More of Bangkok
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