January 23,2025
We woke just as the sun was rising.


On our way to breakfast we took some more photos


Back on the Veranda…

There’s a mist in the morning that I suspect is smog

Breakfast offerings were vast…I enjoyed a mushroom and chive omelet…

…and look what we found… Chia pudding!

I’m glad we pushed back our pick up time to 9:00 am


This boat belongs to the hotel. The Mandarin Oriental provides complimentary shuttle boat service across the river. There are two boats running simultaneously and the ride takes about five minutes.

I really wish we had more time at this hotel…in addition to a lap pool…

…there’s a larger pool located near a bar and cafe.

Who knows what other features besides a spa and 4 other restaurants there might be?

Back at the room I remembered to take a photo of the lovely Jasmine flowers that we received at reception when we arrived and the pretty card that was on our pillow.

I was so sad to leave this beautiful property …but Pok and Sayan were waiting to take us off to the flower markets.



We purchased Jasmine wreaths…because they are going to be part of an offering later at the Temple.

We did what we love best when we are in a new place…walked the streets, visited markets.

Mosy serious local shoppers are long gone before 9:00 am.



Perhaps you are wondering why Timmy is wearing the same clothes he wore to dinner last night…he forgot to pack his shorts and shirt…whatever.


There are four streets lined with flower vendors

These are lotus flowers that folks buy to offer at the temples.


We stopped to purchase lotus flowers and to learn how to hand craft the lotus petal.



Okay, so once again the task appears to be easier than the execution.

Actually, Timmy is a freaking pro at this…we couldn’t stop laughing at Pok’s amazement. He really was shocked.

Look at him…such a show off.

Here’s Pok finishing off my flower …if he hadn’t stepped in…we’d still be there.


This is the owner of the shop. I made a video of her petal making but the internet on the ship is too slow to upload it. Trust me, she was fast♥️

It’s opportunities like petal crafting (and the dumpling making in Koh Samui) that really enhance our travels.


We stopped at this Jackfruit vendor for a taste…very yummy.


Pok is the best guide…he told us to get behind the stand and make like vendors

After strolling on the street…we entered the enormous market…

Timmy took a panorama photo…catching me and Pok at the end.


So we are walking through the market, dodging bikes and scooters…this scooter passes us…

…then he stops and buys some more vegetables

Back on the streets of Bangkok, I was struck by how lucky we are to be able to travel the world and experience these different cultures.


Selling lottery tickets

Dragon fruit.

These are pandan leaves




When we saw this kitty…I began to miss Freddie…however as Timmy reminds me…Fred is in good hands…our sitter sends us frequent updates and photos.

This street bar-b-cue smelled so good.

The entire car was loaded with produce…even the passenger seat.
Next up: Wat Po… Thanks for following along ♥️