Still dreaming of Thailand...

Although the two weeks back in Japan have been great, we still awake thinking of the food, sights and people of Thailand. While there, we spent a little time in Bangkok just eating and shopping, and learned how to avoid the traffic and noise by getting around by longboat 'water taxis'. Next time we will be able to get around with ease and dignity, motoring on the river. Here is a map of the city officially called Krung Thep, but known as Bangkok (we stayed at the White Orchid Hotel in Chinatown, inexplicibly noted as number 52):















We quickly set off to the second-largest island in Thailand, known as elephant island because of its size (30 km long!). It is also home to two elephant sanctuaries, coincidentally. Here is a map indicating the island, Koh Chang...



















and here are two of the fiery dishes that sustained us during the hot days in the jungle and on the beach...

Shrimp salad:















and shrimp / seaweed curry:
















and of course as much pineapple and beer as necessary:
















More updates about developments here in frosty Japan, as well as more reminiscing, will be forthcoming!