Temple, Tuk-Tuk, Dancing Monkeys

'Tag zamme'

We are currently sitting at the 'Independent bo', enjoying another Chang beer and listening to the sound of the sea. Konrad is using the electric mosquito swatter every five seconds (quote from Mara: 'If that thing touches me, it'll definitely clap, but not in applause!'). But more on that later...

On our last day in Bangkok, we decided to explore the 'Wat Pho' temple. Barefoot and all wearing elephant pants, we walked past the gigantic sleeping Buddha statue. The entire temple complex impressed us with shiny pillars and impressive statues.

Afterwards, we were able to spend the first peaceful minutes of our trip in the City Park. This enjoyment was enhanced with cola in a bag, which seems to be the most common form of consumption here. However, David missed this phase of relaxation: focused on capturing the perfect video of a crocodile-like creature, he ran faster than the playing Thai kids through the otherwise calm park.

In the evening, we took a Tuk-Tuk to the upscale area of Bangkok to admire the city skyline from a rooftop bar. This meant it was time for Mara to change into her fourth fresh T-shirt and for the guys to change into their second pair of underwear. However, the real adventure of this excursion was the ride itself. Tuk-Tuk drivers have their own way of navigating through the city traffic, and unfortunately, due to our age, we were only allowed to take one photo on the observation platform of the 74th floor before having to leave. As we searched for another rooftop bar in the wealthier area of Bangkok, we were astounded by the differences between the rich and the poor (socio-economic disparities). Due to the excitement of the journey there, we also chose to take the Tuk-Tuk on the way back. This time with a high start and an impromptu street race.

The next morning was stressful because we had to catch our bus to the island of Koh Chang after a short night. After a six-hour bus ride and an hour on the ferry, we got on a 'Songthaeo' (pick-up truck that can transport up to ten people on its cargo bed. Surprisingly more dangerous than Tuk-Tuks...) to reach the picturesque 'White-Sand Beach', which lives up to its name.

We stayed at the 'Independent Bo': a collection of bungalows located between a densely wooded hill and the beach. Due to its jungle location, it is not uncommon for monkeys to hop around on the bungalows. Some of us initially had difficulties getting used to the hippie atmosphere here, but one of us feels right at home and is even considering moving here (first letter: K). We all agree that the residents here are very friendly.

To cope with the culture shock in the capital city, we have decided to have a day at the beach today, and most likely another one tomorrow.

You will soon hear more about further monkey attacks, potential encounters with king cobras, countless mosquito bites, and hopefully more comfortable beds. In general, we can say that we are having a great time here!

Greetings from the jungle,

The Three Musketeers