nomadicNewman: The King and Us... (and a few million others)

It was King Bhimibol Adulyadej's 86th birthday yesterday and it is very obvious that the Thai people love their King. They even stopped protesting against the government and we were able to join in the downtown festivities as well as visit some of the famous sites. Large decorated billboards with flowers of the King and Queen can be found everywhere and many people wore yellow shirts to show their support and love. The festivities were capped off by an incredible night time display of fireworks across the city that we could see from our 8th floor windows. Unfortunately, we couldn't get any good photos.

One of many places to where people gathered to take pictures with a billboard of the king.

We scrambled around to visit a lot of the touristy sites yesterday, so let me bring you on a little tour...
One of the places we visited was the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. It was pretty impressive and beautiful. This Buddha is made of brick with good plating.

Here we are with the Budda head...

Here's most of the rest of "her" ...

And, the bottom of the feet with 108 depictions of Buddha. (Thought I'd throw in the lady with an ipad just for kicks)

Next up: the Grand Palace

There are very strict dress rules for the Grand Palace, which I remembered reading about at one time, but of course didn't remember the day we visited. Thankfully, there are many industrious people just outside the gate bargaining on that! After renting a funky long skirt for me and funky pants for Jamie, we were allowed to enter the gates to this overwhelming place. The King lives in one area of the huge complex which is closed off to the public.

The Grand Palace Demon Guardian

The Demon Guardian or also known as a Yak

The protect the grand palace and other important places around Thailand including the airport. No two are alike.

Grand Palace grounds

The Golden bell and various buildings at the Grand Palace. There is really so much to take in here!

Quick video of Jamie at The Grand Palace

While taking a little break at the park, we snapped this photo of Wat Arun or better known as The Temple of Dawn as seen from across the Chao Phraya River

On our way through China Town we found the Golden Buddha (I know, there are really so many!) After taking our shoes off, we followed the crowds in to catch a glimpse of another of Bangkok's popular Buddhas.

The Golden Buddha

That is Some Dragon head!! I can't I imagine how they do this!

Cooked duck for Christmas anyone?

China Town street vendor food. I'm only starting to figure out what to ask for at many of these stalls. It's been a real challenge at times, but what we walk away with is always interesting.