January 23,2025

We woke just as the sun was rising.

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On our way to breakfast we took some more photos

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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There are four streets lined with flower vendors

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

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

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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Selling lottery tickets

Dragon fruit.

These are pandan leaves

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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 ♥️