In order to escape the post-Christmas comedown we decided a break to the sunshine may be in order. After much deliberation we chose Thailand. Mr.D has traveled to this part of the world many times before so we thought we would give it a go as a family (even though I was slightly hesitant!)
It's true to say that I am not an avid traveller. Since having Dee I found I have become a lot more wary of situations and places I know nothing about. I try to push myself out of my comfort zone in order to give our little family life experiences that I would usually avoid. I don't know what I thought I was going to be faced with, some third world country in which we would forage for food and drink rain water? Maybe. I couldn't have been more wrong.
Bangkok was awe-inspiring. Large, noisy, vibrantly colourful and in places incredibly peaceful. After a long, long journey with a 15 month old it was so wonderful to be greeted with genuine smiles and a cool drink. Our hotel was sat on the river, delicately hidden from view with palm trees and wild flowers.
Dee settled quickly, jet-leg seemingly unproblematic in one so young.
We had two days of Bangkok madness. Getting tiny boats across the river, sharing with people from all walks of life, people with goats on leads, pensioners, honeymooners, upper class businessmen and market sellers. The markets in Bangkok brim with life, fruit in every available colour and flavour made most stalls look like slices of the rainbow. The smells were incredible, the heat was crippling and the smiles endlessly forthcoming.
Thai people seem to love babies - especially cute blonde ones! It's funny how they stop and ask for photos with dee as if she is some kind of celebrity or sacred symbol.
Our journey through the city took us to see the 'big Buddha' and the Palace. Going into the temples was quite moving. Seeing monks in silent prayer almost made me want to give up my western life and come live here in the perfect calm. I have never seen a place so full of people yet so utterly silent and still. I don't pretend to be religious, I lost faith in all things Godly a long time ago, but something inside this temple made me want to believe in something, anything.
There is something so soothing about being in a place of worship, I feel it calms me and allows me to catch hold of my often scattered thoughts.
The Thai people seem so genuinely nice and friendly - everyone stopping to wish you a good day and exchange pleasantries. You never feel threatened, even in a place as crowded as Bangkok. I'm glad I had a chance to witness these things, it helped me put a few things in perspective.
After Bangkok we traveled to Kamala in Phuket, an hours plane journey and a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Our resort is so truly beautiful. It's one of those places that you just wish you could share with everyone, so that they might feel some of the joy it gives to you, if only for a second.
It's one of the first times in my life where I haven't felt completely homesick.
Dee loves it here, the water is warm and she has finally (after months of worry!) has started to take her first proper steps. She's definitely keeping us on our toes!
Anyway- must dash, cocktails are calling.
No rest for the wicked...
Love till next time. L&L
No comments:
Post a Comment