Images of Bangkok 1

I had one of those moments last night where I realised how incredibly fortunate I am to be able to live and work in another country and enjoy all the richness of culture, food and new experiences that it offers.

I have been taking my camera along as I wander through Bangkok and over the upcoming weeks I will share with you a variety of different images of life in Bangkok.

There are two huge influences on Thai culture; devotion to the King and practice of Buddhist rituals. Pictures of the King are found throughout the city and he is adored by his people. He is the world's longest serving monarch and has done great things for Thailand.

Alongside the red, white and blue Thailand flag flies the yellow flag of the King. 

There are a variety of Buddhist shrines and monuments - in fact most homes have their own little shrine somewhere in the yard. The one below is one of the more unusual that I have seen. It is actually located in the grounds of my local pub!

Erawin Shrine is one of the most visited landmarks with its location in the heart of the city.

This colourful shrine is located not far from my place in the grounds of Sukhumvit Hospital.

The other thing to understand about the Thai is their love of shopping, gadgets and things western. Maccas is not so good for their diet but I do love Ronald McDonald doing the traditional Thai greeting (called a wai) as you enter the store. I have avoided eating it - the street food is considerably cheaper and better for you!

There are many very upmarket shopping centres in Bangkok. Three of the best are Emporium at Phrom Phong and Siam Paragon and Central World in the city centre.

 

 

There are a number of different supermarkets, all well stocked with food including plenty of items from Australia. Big C is where I do most of my shopping.

One of my favourite places to spend a few moments relaxing is Starbucks. Although not anywhere near as good as the coffee back home it is comfortably familiar and a nice spot to have my skinny latte, maybe a muffin and catch up with the news in the Bangkok Post.