Pad Thai

We've packed quite a bit in today.

We started with a guided tour of the Grand Palace.  Had to fight off hordes of Chinese tourists - according to our guide there are millions of Chinese coming to Thailand, and their behaviour at times leaves a good deal to be desired.  

We went on to visit yet more temples - to see the Reclining Buddha and the Gold Buddha.  We then made a diversion to the train station to try to organise tickets for a trip on a special tourist train to "The Bridge on the River Kwai" for tomorrow - but unfortunately found it is not running this weekend.  Saved from an early start (the train leaves at 0630), but now unsure what we will do tomorrow.

We were back at our hotel by late lunch, unfortunately clashing with the servicing of our room, so we sat in the restaurant and had a small meal (can't won't afford a large one, the prices are a bit steep!)

Then a siesta during the afternoon, followed by a trip across the river again.  We dropped off our laundry (4 and a half kilo for 160 Baht (the cost of 4 pairs of knickers if done by the hotel!)) and went to find something to entertain us for the evening.  We had seen banners for "The 233rd Year of Rattanakosin City under Royal Benevolence" and thought we should investigate.

We found Kite Fighting, lots of stalls selling produce and food, and much preparation.  The festival itself doesn't really start until tomorrow - but there was plenty of activity.

We found our supper there - this delightful lady was cooking Pad Thai - and very tasty it was too. 

I spent 30mins or more writing this blip and putting in all the links, and then found that it wouldn't publish.  After re-opening Blipfoto, and cutting and pasting the text, I now have an active "publish" button.  If the links don't work, I'll revise tomorrow.