Bangkok attractions - The Grand Palace, The Emerald Buddha and Wat Arun

Today we decided to do some of the necessary tourist things in Bangkok which meant a rather early start to avoid the crowds. We walked the 40 mins from our hotel to The Grand Palace and The Temple of Emerald Buddha We arrived at The Grand Palace to find that the price had gone up again, it was now costing 400 BAHT (£8) which does not seem a lot but it is about 3 times the price of most other entrances fees in Thailand. Because of this maybe our expectations were too high? The Emerald Buddha was gorgeous as it sparkled in beautiful gold colours and observing so many people bowing, worshiping and praying was quite touching. The palace was a lovely building but we both felt disappointed we were not allowed to enter due to no tours taking place.

As we left the palace as we headed to the river in search of Wat Arun. This is a temple that i had read offers fantastic views of downtown Bangkok. We arrived at the water pier to cross the river by boat, a little old thai lady was sat collecting the 3 bhatt (6p) per person to cross. As we stepped on the rocking boat it seemed fitting that we were sat next to two monks, we could see the anciient temple in the distance and we knew we were in for a treat. Getting closer to the temple we noticed all the stairs we had to climb to get to the viewing point. . . . .

The first flight of stairs we had to climb were steep. It felt like we could actually crawl up them using our hands and knees. Then we saw the next set of stairs, not only very steep but shallow as well. It was probably no more than 15 to 20 steps but they seemed to keep going all the way into the skies. Jonny's vertigo had kicked in just looking at the stairs so i reassured him that the trek would be worth it when we reached the top. I read that the journey up could give you butterflies; this was very true. Sweaty palms, butterflies, holding the railing so tight and all I could think is DON'T LOOK DOWN. I don't suffer from heights but i still felt shaky as i pulled myself up so i was extra proud of Jonny!!! The view from the top made it all worth while, as we walked round the top level of the temple. It was here that Bangkok can be summed up. On one side there was the very urban skyline in the far ground, with fascinating old boats weaving their way through the busy river bellow. The other side you can see the chaotic markets in front of The Grand Palace and temples, it was such a mix of cultures and classes making the city seem so unique.

We can safely say no trip to Bangkok is complete without a visit to Wat Arun.

Next up were going to see a whole different side to Bangkok, were going for our first thai message then were going for a few drinks on the famous Koah San Road. . . .

Sàwàddee x