On our second day in Bangkok, we went to the Grand Palace which is a complex of buildings that has served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. Every building and structure is so intricately designed and beautifully decorated. There are massive structures that are completely gold plated and hundreds of Buddha statutes and paintings everywhere. One of the main attractions is the Temple of Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) which houses a figuring of a sitting Buddha, made of green jasper (not emerald), which is about 45 cm tall. The Emerald Buddha is clothed in gold and has three different sets of clothing which are changed by the King of Thailand or a liaison in a ceremony at the changing of the seasons. The three sets of clothing correspond to Thailand's summer season, rainy season, and cool season.
There are many places within the complex (including most temples)where you are not allowed to wear shoes out of respect for the place of worship for many Thai Buddhists. In fact, while we were there, a service was going on and you could hear chanting throughout the entire complex. There are constantly people burning incense and leaving offerings to the various Buddha statues including a particular type of flower, food, water, and even a chocolate milk. While I respect a Buddhist's level of devotion to his/her faith, it does sadden me to know that they are praying and giving offerings to an idol that was made by human hands, rather than to the living God.
After the Grand Palace, Maria and I wandered around for a bit until we found another small local market near the river. Then, after stopping by our hotel to grab our bags, we were once again on our way to the Bangkok Airport for our 10pm flight to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.
Click here for pictures from Bangkok.
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