Not kidding. This is a Shangrila (opps, that’s another hotel)…..an oasis, utopia. The Peninsula Hotel Bangkok is a special place. While yes, our room is literally an apartment, with floor-to-ceiling windows, on the 12th floor, overlooking the river, it is not just the room itself that makes this place incredible. It is not just the beauty of the grounds and the facilities, and the amenities. It is that all of this is enhanced by the extraordinarily gentle and gracious people of Thailand, and surrounded by that which day-to-day life in Bangkok entails.
This morning we were up early. We went down to the river and took a boat across to explore the city as it came to life. By good fortune we met Jack, a tuk tuk driver who turned out to be the perfect guide for our impromptu morning tour.
As we whizzed through the streets we saw early morning commuters—most traveling by motor bike—vendors readying their street stalls for the day, and a general awakening of the city.
One thing that makes Bangkok, and I imagine Thailand in general, different is that the spiritual life of the people—nearly 100% Buddhist—is a visible part of their daily life. Everywhere you turn there are temples and shrines. They are exquisitely detailed, and each bears evidence of devotions and offerings. Random as the offerings may seem to the Western observer—beer and soda, cigarettes, flowers, fresh fruit, honey, eggs, candles, incense, and the list goes on—they reveal a cadence of daily Thai life.
The most meaningful site for me was a crematorium and resting place for ashes of those who have passed, all surrounding a magnificent temple that housed the most beautiful gold figure of a “resting Buddha” (a pose depicting the moment of death). As we have read, and was explained to us by Jack, Thai people (Buddhists) believe that once we die the spirit goes on to another life. The body is nothing; it is burned to ash, job done. And this is a place where those ashes are stored, in tiny cubbies, some with a picture so that loved ones can remember those who were.
Our day went on. We took a long-boat down river to see how the locals live. Then, returned to our piece of paradise. Who knows what tonight will bring?
Though I can’t imagine an image could capture the beauty of the day, I tried.
With all my love,
Shannon
P.S. I have discovered that when the air temperature is 95 degrees, the optimal temperature for pool water is 84. You’re welcome.
Notes to Mom 