Day 2 - Grand Palace

In the morning, we got to take a tour (for 800 bahts per person or $27 US dollars, paid out of our own pockets) of the Bangkok canals and the King's Palace (the King actually lives in a different place). We met up with Elena and 4 teachers from the Elite School (SAT Prep Class in previous post) - Jessica, Sarah, Hannah, and Caroline.


We took a longboat through the canals where we saw many Buddhist temples. There are over 400 temples in Bangkok.

Along the canal, there are many merchants selling various trinkets from their boats. I saw the Thai farmer hat and I bought the Thai farmer hat. Simply couldn't resist.

Nan trying to convince Myles to try the durian.

Here is one of the floating markets along the canal.

Some gold pointing structure inside the Grand Palace Courtyard. Today also happened to be one of the hottest days in Thailand.


Guardians at the Gate. Thai people believed that these statues kept away evil spirits from entering sacred places.


Katie and me sporting our new hats. My best Raiden impression.

On the steps of the King's Library.

Another gold structure.

Nan posing with our guide, Mr. Nop, and the Imperial Guard, who couldn't move.

The King's Palace (but he doesn't live here anymore)

Outside the Palace with Elena and the Elite teachers

There is lots of Chinese influence in Thai architecture.

Our first jump picture and what better place to do it than in the King's Palace.