Thursday in Bangkok: Grand Palace

Today is my birthday!  Last night the students took me out to celebrate (there are incriminating pictures to prove it!).  We went to Kao Sahn road where many travelling students hang out and went dancing.  We had a great time.  Thanks everyone!

It's been odd to experience an exact 12 time difference. I woke up listening to BBC world news discussing the State of the Union address that would take place in an hour. 

Today a group of us visited the Grand Palace where theThai King once lived and now where state functions and coronations take place. Bhiman Inn managing director and new friend, Nayana Kunjara, graciously accompanied us and arranged a private tour! We were all amazed at the stunning gold, marble, porcelain buildings and statues.  I took many pictures. Here are some:

Laura, Erik, and Nayana

Famous reclining Buddha

Finally, back at the Bhiman Inn for lunch: Thai soup, Chicken Satay, mango salad and pineapple coconut juice.

It's a hot day today. Very humid.  Some students are swimming in the pool.  All of us are peparing for our next journey to Hawaii.  We have to leave at 3:30 a.m. to go the airport for a 6:50 flight to Tokyo.  We have a 3 hour layover then a seven hour flight to Honolulu.  See you in Hawaii!