First Encounter with Bangkok

The first thing I thought when I arrived in Bangkok, was where were all the people? I had expected crazy hassle every step I took, yet when I got to the airport not even one person offered me a taxi and walking down the streets I was completely left to myself. Already this place had exceeded my expectations.

Though talking of taxis - my first encounter with one was somewhat interesting. For starters the taxi licence had the photo of a man on it, when the driver was clearly a very different female - perhaps the drivers mother I thought at first? But then decided it was probably, actually a completely random person. And then the driver got completely lost. As I had asked her to use the meter, at first I thought this was a scam to stretch the journey out and make me pay extra, but on arrival she knocked the price down 50% so I guess she genuinely didn't know the way to one of the most famous streets in Thailand, where I was going. It was slightly worrying when she stopped in the middle of the highway and ran out of the car to hail down other taxis to ask for directions, but I got there in one piece in the end!

Another assumption I had made about Thailand from things I had been told was how spicy the food would be, so I went to dinner expecting the worst, but it wasn't in the slightest bit spicy.... I did however eat egg for the first time! Wasn't so bad at all!

After dinner we went to the all famous Khao San Road - featured in the Beach and popular with backpackers. I thought I would hate it here but it was great! You could by really realistic fake driving licences, presscards, oxford or "lerverpool" degrees! I am definitely getting on of each when I go back there! The streets were lined with people trying to get you into their bars with signs saying things such as "Very Strong Cocktails - we don't check ID". However probably the best part of it was a stage featuring an excellent Elvis impersonator - the best I've ever seen, complete with insane backing dancers....the thing was though, the person playing Elvis was about 8 years old! He was amazing.

Another dominant feature of Khao San road was the buckets of rum - accompanied with red bull, coke and speed.... We decided a better option would be to stop off at Club 7-11 to pick up some drink and then drink it back at the hotel. This is where I first got to know our guide for the next month - Jack. He is the sweetest guy. It has only been about five years since he left the jungle for the first time, where he was part of the Red Karen hill tribe and hunted monkeys. He told us that the first time he ever saw a white person he was terrified and ran away. Since then he has been in the military, worked in a guest house and now has worked as a guide for about a year and a half. During this time he has seemed to pick up all the English drinking games and has gained a deep appreciation for cheesy American love songs!