Up very early and caught a taxi to Changi Airport just outside Singapore. Singapore Airlines maintained their high reputation in my book once again - such efficient check-in and the Business Lounge is so elegant with lots of food and drink.
Bangkok is one hour behind Singapore so I arrived mid morning after a 2 1/2 hour flight. The Singapore Air service was once again spectacular. So friendly and customer focused - Americans have so much to learn about this still.
A porter from the Marriott was at the airport when I got through customs and he took my bags to a waiting driver with a Mercedes - my favorite! It is a national holiday of some sort so there wasn't much traffic. It took about 45 minutes to get to the hotel. Once there, I was met by my personal escort who took me to an executive lounge (this was all new and special!). She upgraded me to a suite which was fabulous - so much room - I'm really liking this!!!! The room also has a view of the Chao Phraya River.
The Chao Phraya is a fast moving, muddy river which is the life-blood of Bangkok. Right now it is clogged badly with plant life - really amazing.
I got all unpacked and sent my first load of laundry off for cleaning. Tim tells me that I don't wear things long enough but these items have had it. They'll be back tomorrow.
I went for high tea (green tea) in the executive lounge and had snacks - really nice.
Then took the hotel water taxi to the new skytrain station - it is fabulous. I got an all day pass for 120 bhat (~$3.50 - what a deal) and took off exploring. The skytrain doesnt go that many places yet but it was enough for me. Ended up at Siam City - a huge shopping center wtih lots of people, lots of shops and everyone was spending money!
Found my way back to the central sky train station and caught the River City Ferry to do more shopping - didn't buy anything but it was fun looking. Tim would be proud of me - I found a silk oriental rug - it was beautiful - I thought and thought and thought and ended up walking away - but who knows - I have 2 more days here! River City has a "Floating Market" (not really floating but set up to simulate the real Floating Market that was interesting. All kinds of crafts. You can get any kind of clothing custom made here in less than 24 hours. (Tim: Paul is still there with his turban on!).
Took the River City Ferry back to the Marriott Ferry and back to the hotel for "Happy Hour" - a huge spread of food and drinks of anything you want in the Executive Lounge - hey - I'm really liking this kind of treatment.
My horoscope today told me to "take it easy and relax" so tomorrow may be a down day by the pool or at the spa - we'll see.
They tell me that it is the rainy season and it was overcast most of the day with some sprinkles - at least no downpours.
They call Thailand the "Land of the Smiles" - everyone smiles and bows and they hold their hands up in honor of visitors. While Thailand isn't the most beautiful place I've been in the world, the people are the most beautiful. It just goes to show what "attitude" can do to overcome all. I love these people with their gracious approach to visitors.
Having a grand time in Thailand.
Larry
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