Bangkok Invasion - Episode 3

To cope with the lack of late update, here's the final episode of our Bangkok trip - the Chao Phraya river adventure - also our most anticipated experience. Got off at the final BTS Sky Train stop on the Silom line, the Saphan Taksin station to get here at the Phraya river.

Some facts first, the river is known to be a major transportation artery for a vast network of ferries and water taxis, with several towns connected to it. There's a boat ride service which took us to all the 9 piers and its famous attractions, added with different communities there.

We took the Chao Phraya Express to begin our journey along the river.


For tourists like these angmohs (and us), you can also get a one-day river pass with unlimited trips along the river. However, we missed out on that.


You'll find buildings and 5-stars hotels along the river.


One of the main attractions, Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. It's beautiful even from a far distance away. Too bad we didnt stop there.


Stopped by Maharaj Pier, leading us to a market and the Grand Palace. Unfortunately, we didnt go inside as we are wearing slippers. :(


We opted for a inside tour on a long-tail boat to visit canals instead.


For 800 baht, we had the boat by ourselves on an hour's journey. A rip-off? I dunno but we are certainly thrilled.


We saw typical old houses, shacks, temples, etc. along with the lifestyle of the people along the water way. It's really relaxing seeing them.


Taken to this "floating market". Only a couple of boats waiting there. Bloody conman, real one was actually north up - quite a distance though!


Continued our exploration. Simply view-tiful,got us back on mood again.


Back on land, we explored areas looking around.


Old buildings around... gives the creepy feeling.


Looking at Buddha pendants along the streets. For collecters, it's interesting as these comes in different sizes, designs & prices.


After some shopping we head off to another pier. The weather was friendly, just a little blazing hot. Great for some photo-taking session. :)


Next stop, Ratchawong Pier greeted by "thuk-thuks". Chinatown here we come!


End up it turns to be another shopping haven, especially for the ladies. Good for those who would like to do bulk of business to bring back.


By the time we got back to Saladaeng, the traffic was heavily congested.

I like seeing life along the riverside, its so real THAI life. Quite a breath-taking experience if you can withstand the strong wind and waves on a boat, enough to be scary at times!

That's all for the BKK trip. Looking forward to another Thai trip.

-/fr4g/-