Last Day in Bangkok for Now..

At the end of the first day, I headed around the corner to one of the many Thai massage parlours. Thai's view massage as an important part of health and not a special treatment. There are literally massage places everywhere (and yes even the shady places.) After the long flight and a full day, the massage was a perfect ending. One hour oil massage cost roughly $8. And boy was it good.

As for yesterday, my main objective was to go to a tailor and get some custom fitted suits and shirts. I have been holding off buying work clothes for some time and I am sure glad I did. I headed to Sukhumvit, where much of the international business, big hotels and best tailors are. I did considerable research prior to coming and had chosen three to go to. I found the first two no problem, but than had a considerable difficult time finding Raja's Fashions. This was highly recommended. Raja's is a father and son owned shop that has been there 45 years. Raja and Bobby Gulati, two Indian guys run the place. On my way to find the shop, I saw many imposters. Gulati's, Raja's International, Mr. Bobby and Raja's, etc, etc, etc. Considering imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, this was a good sign to me. I finally found the shop and was greeted by Bobby with a cold drink and wet towel. It is hot as hell, so the wet towel was nice and refreshing. Bobby is a smooth operator.

On his wall of fame, he had pictures of John Kerry, Tom Ridge, and many other famous people. Everybody that walked into his shop seemingly knew Bobby. Another good sign, repeat customers. Having already been to the other two, I knew this was where I was going to do business and his prices were right in line. Ended up buying way too much, but still wanted more. Had to go back in last night for a second fitting and I was pumped. I have never had anything custom made. Too expensive back home and I just am not that stylish. Going back for one more fitting today before leaving town. Can't wait to see how it turns out.

As for today, I am heading out of Bangkok to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. I have enjoyed Bangkok, but am ready to leave and get a more chill atmosphere and some outdoor activity. While there, I am going to go hiking into the mountains and visit some hilltribe villages. Maybe even take a Thai cooking class or head to some national parks. A nice change from Bangkok.

Sights, Sounds and Smells From Bangkok-

• Street vendors cooking up all kinds of delicious food.
• Tuk-tuk taxis (3 wheeled motorbikes) with bad exhaust offering to take you everywhere.
• Thai hookers with old, sketchy looking white men. Bangkok has earned its reputation in this area. It is really sad to see.
• Massage parlors.
• Motorbikes.
• Monks in orange robes.
• Friendly Thai people being very helpful. The Thai people are truly delightful and very warm.
• Americans. (YEAH RIGHT) Except the ones with the Thai hookers.
• Aussies and Kiwis everywhere.
• Junk, junk and more junk for sale on the streets.
• Markets, night markets, markets, night markets.
• Buddhist temples in large numbers.
• Sweat pouring down my body from the heat.

GO YANKS!!!!! Beat Cleveland.