Rather than return directly to Florida I spent 2 nights/ 3 glorious days in New York City. How I miss New York! It is probably my favorite place in the world.

After a comfortable yet long plane ride of over 20 hours I arrived at JFK. Quickly boarding the Air Tran then subway I made it promptly to Broadway. To Kill A Mockingbird, still in previews, was my 2 pm destination. I made it in ample time. I found myself loosing most of the dialogue in the first half of the play as the actor’s spoke quickly. Since I now live in Florida I know the Southern drawl and quite frankly Southerners talk slow. Think it has something to do with the heat.

The second half of the play the actors slowed their pace and I was able to grasp the words and jokes. Whoever or whomever wrote the play did an amazing job and Jeff Bridges is assured a Tony for his role.

After this I walked the streets enjoying the crisp yet comfortable weather and my fav $1 pizza. As I walked I came across the theater for the play Come Far Away. This play, based on a 9/11 incident was something I always wished to see as I lived through this time. 9/11 occurred the second day of my job in the Bronx. I was able to acquire a standing room only ticket for the play which was riveting, funny, sad, and thought provoking. It often brought me to tears and is a must see. While I often hear we must never forget I believe in the affirmative, we must always remember. We are all connected. This was exquisitely portrayed in this story of love from the Gander, Newfoundland folks to 7000 stranded plane travelers..

Post play I found my way to a subway and the youth hostel. Once locating my room I climbed the stair to the upper bunk and fell asleep. At 11 pm my roommate arrived, turned on the lights, waking me but I quickly returned to my dreams once the lights dimmed.

In the morning my roommate and I became acquainted. While this rarely has occurred for me in hostels I was grateful it did on this stay. She was a woman of my age range and planning an elaborate wedding. It was fascinating being a voyeur as she conversed with her wedding planner. While I didn’t want to be a “snoop” there was little I could do to escape her conversations barring earplugs.

By 9 am I had enough of wedding conversation and departed to locate a church service. I found my spiritual needs met when I reconnected with St. Francis of Asissi Church on 31st Street. The Franciscans always delight with their homilies. From there I grabbed a lamb gyro from the truck outside the church and made my way to Times Square. Always impressive, chaotic and populated Times Square was filled with energy as a live performance was being given.

I located the theater for my next play, Beautiful, and made my way inside. The Stephen Sondheim Theater was a delight and the play as well. Listening to the music brought back many memories. Since it was another glorious weather day I walked to Lincoln Center and found myself at their theater. I saw Cold War, an upsetting yet intriguing story which was up for an Academy Award that evening.

I continued my walk up Broadway another 30 plus blocks after the movie. Legs aching I did not care as the ambiance obscured any thoughts of pain. Upon returning to the hostel it was time to watch the Academy Awards. Without a host I found it to be one of the best I have ever watched. While the male Brit I watched with was upset he could not change the channel his mood changed with the win of Olivia Colman.

Back in my room I reconnected with my roommate. She updated me on the events of her day relating to finalizing church plans, dress alterations, invitations, guest gift boxes. And I thought I had a busy day! Wedding plans aside we chatted from our separate bunks and changed the conversation to the lunacy of our government as well as other current events. Hoarse and exhausted from our discussions on recreating the world we both drifted into sleep.

Waking to the last day of my NYC adventure I found NY to be rainy. Perhaps she was sad I was leaving?? I would return again soon I promised. Lying in bed I heard my roomies phone ring and her betrothed call asking of wedding plans. I rose, showered, gathered my belongings said my farewells and made my way into the rain.

The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) beckoned… While I have never been a fan of modern art I did enjoy the amazing building and its top floor collections of Picasso, Warhol, Mondrian, and Pollock. As a young adult I grew my limited appreciation of modern art by walking past the Rockefeller collections in the New York State Office Buildings in Albany.

MOMA also has an extension in Brooklyn and I ventured there next. The commute was quick to this alternate site and while I appreciated how the museum had maintained the old school building the art I did not. I found their latest show repulsive as I viewed slideshows of rats in a garage with the greatest disgust a picture of the artist playing with his penis. However, art is subjective.

After leaving the MOMA extension it was a short commute and layover at JFK with and even shorter return plane ride to Florida.

New York City I already miss you. Thank you for the wonderful visit.

Day 11 was another long travel day, however, it was broken up by short stops for leg stretching. One of the interesting stops was the monkeys. Unsure if you can see the baby looking out between momma’s crotch.

A must see was the White Temple. The man who upgraded the former temple to its exquisite beauty worked in London then returned to Thailand to redesign the temple. Put it on your bucket list for this trip. There also is an amazing shopping area nearby.

Besides these buildings the artist is also working on a musical waterfall area. There is a museum of his works also but that was closed as we arrived during the lunch hour.

Day 12 proved to be another fast paced but meaningful day. We began our day visiting school children. The children wear uniforms, and during their morning practice they pledge allegiance, sing their national anthem as well as do a meditation and exercise.

We also were privy to the children’s classrooms. They were similar to those in America.

And their bulletin boards were also similar.

After our visit to the school we made a trip to the Ban Pa Inn Summer Palace. This royal palace dates back to the 17th century. The pictures speak for themselves.

After leaving the Palace several of us returned to Bangkok. This was time on our own before returning to America. In Bangkok I visited the Jim Thompson House and the Bangkok Aquarium. Jim Thompson developed the silk trade between Thailand and the US. An American CIA agent during the 1940’s he developed a love for Thailand and stayed. It is an interesting Thai home and gardens. And another must see.

The aquarium was equally amazing, however, be ready for crowds. It is well worth the price and discounts can be received from your hotel concierge. My favorite pic was the spooning otters.

The Land of Smiles sure put a smile on my face. Hope you get there soon and have the same effect. 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 :):)…………………………

We left for Myanmar at 7:30 am and easily drove to a border town known as Maesai . From there we paid our $45 fee and walked over a bridge to our destination.

Included in our fee was a waiting vehicle. This transportation was fun and by riding in these vehicles we were able to capture the essence of the many small areas of the town.

At the entrance to the town’s temple area we past these interesting statutes. It is my favorite shot of the trip.

Here we learned of a Myanmar beauty secret. Powder from trees is used as sun protection. While most on the tour eagerly purchased this product, I declined so guess you’ll have to visit and try it yourself. 🙂

Upon leaving Myanmar we were picked up by Thai made farmer trucks and lunched at a farming village. Riding in these vehicles was bumpy but viewing the beauty of the farm lands discounted the pain. So many pineapples!

After another tasty, different and exquisite lunch sitting on picnic tables under grass roofs we made our way to a ride on the Mekhong River and Laos. This was the commercial mecca of knock off designer bags and countless other treasures. No credit cards taken here! Whatever bhats were left were quickly swooned up by vendors. Riding back on the boat to Thailand I realized the vendor had taken items from me and put them in my shopping bag as I looked for additional monies. I don’t recall paying for those items but can’t swim across the Mekhong to make ammends. Will have to leave that for confession.

After our fast paced day 9, the long but scenic drive to Sukhothai on day 10 was welcomed. We arrived at the Skuhothai Historical Park near dusk.

This area was founded in 13 AD and survived through 14 AD. The community departed from this area due to water needs. It was unearthed in the 1980’s.

From here we drove to our hotel and after getting securely installed I decided to take a walk to find the ATM. Hotel directions were lacking and as I walked I came across a very concerned Thai woman on a motorcycle. Through hand gestures she made it known I was not in a safe area. She would not leave me until I rode with her on the motorcycle back to the hotel. Never did find the ATM but the motorcycle ride — to steal a phrase — Priceless.

Today was another day of Chaing Mai city touring with visit to the Wat (word for temple) Suan Dok and Phrathat Doi Suthep. These were beautiful and different. One of the temples had planes flying over this area where the King had his monument and those of his concubines. Try as I could I couldn’t get the shot of the plane in flight over the monuments but here they are.

Tombs of the king and his concubines.

Here is the temple on the hilltop.

On Day 8 we arrived at Chiangrai. Here we visited the Mae Salong Hilltribal Village with the Long Neck Karens. These individuals are refugees from Myanmar. The women allowed us to try on their neck garb which can weigh up to 20 pounds depending on the number of links.

This was another fascinating experience and the people of the village were pleasant and accommodating as we toured. The children were particularly delightful as they rode their small plastic scooters around us. The Thai government provides schooling for these children.

Much can be said about this visit. It was an eye opening experience.

Happy Valentine’s Day! I even got a gift from one of the gals on the trip. She must not be mad at me for talking to her husband. When you are a single gal on these trips you have to be careful. Some of the wives think you are after their husband if you chat with them. If they only knew my history… Ladies you are safe with me, I don’t want your man… and by the way it was the hotel shampoo which means she even listened to my banter about how much I liked the stuff. But, enough of this, we’re on the plane to Chiangmai!

Bangkok Airways was another delightful experience. Young, pleasant flight attendants abounded and what made it even better a gal from the trip sat next to me. I could kibbitz with someone for the 1 hour 20 minute flight as her husband snoozed. Upon arrival we toured a park which was having their annual flower fest. Orchids and sculpted animal creatures were everywhere and the cleanliness of this historic city with its walled remnants enhanced its beauty.

Later that night we went to a Thai home for a cooked meal. The gal serving it should be on the food network. She had quite a spread with a built in swimming pool, herb gardens and overall atmosphere galore. We ate in the ground level which she converted to a dining area. Most homes are on stilts as Thailand is 3 feet above sea level, (in Bangkok anyway), and with the rainy season their homes need to be above ground. Post dinner we received a tour of her home which was fascinating. She had three different areas connected by walkways. Each family member had their individual private home with a bed, bath and sitting area. What a great idea..

The following day was a visit to the Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens. It was beyond my every expectation. We began the visit with a much too elevated walk over the forest then explored the many greenhouses and plantings. The Thai people adore their monarchs and the Queen certainly did a lovely job on this creation. Crowns off to the Queen!

To continue our flower extravaganza we then had lunch at an orchid farm. The orchids grew from the air. As a young adult I recall seeing this at Disney World ages ago but have never seen it used. What a process and lunch was delicious to boot. Thai food certainly is tasty. Will have to find a Thai place in Florida when I return.

Later I explored the night market in Chaing Mai. Blocks of the city have vendors along the sidewalk. The beauty of it was the vendors did not bother you as you shopped. In fact you had to track them down. I particularly enjoyed this after my last trip where I was stalked by a vendor for several hours. This was disconcerting and the country/town shall remain nameless.

In the Chaing Mai food area bands played. The area was festive with lights and flowers. A fun place, but remember to have your bahts.

On to Day 7.

Today after meeting the group of 35 in the Bangkok Holiday Inn lobby we began our journey driving through Chinatown and ending in the flower market. I was surprised the vendors didn’t take dollars so have to hit an ATM soon. Later I realized this was the case wherever we went so visitors get your bahts before you venture to the market. I believe 30 or so is about a dollar but always check Buddha Google for the correct daily exchange.

Our final stop for Day 3 was the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. He was gold in color and 2 NYC blocks long. What a site! See picture. While my phone says to rotate the picture I guess it doesn’t understand that the Buddha is reclining and the silver lines you are looking at are his feet. He sure has great looking feet! No warts there. 🙂

For Day 4 we drove to the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha. These temples are works of art and each one has a different flair. At each temple I gave a coin or piece of food to the Buddha asking a request. It worked in China so we’ll see if the Thailand Buddhas are as generous in their response.

Later that night we attended a fascinating performance, Journey to the Enchanted Kingdom of Siam. Dancers were in authentic costume and I even got to feed an elephant some cucumbers. There was a museum of Thai homes and cultural displays of food and art work. A must see.

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Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and off to Chang Mai via the air. Up, up and away as I continue my Thai adventure….

For the next several entries I will be writing of Thailand, the Land of Smiles. Like Stephen’s break, it is mine from political commentary.

Thailand is one long journey. Coming from Florida it took over 24 hours. I was grateful the Asiana Air flight was comfortable, the movie selections easy to access, food tasty and seats afforded leg room as I am tall. This is an advertisement for the airline.. No, I’m not getting paid for this, but they truly provide superior service and should be recognized. Did I mention they even have exercise videos? I let Delta know so they’ll be working on that. 🙂 Hint: Miranda Esmonde White Classical Stretch exercises would work for Americans.

There was a layover in Seoul and during this time I was able to enjoy a short classical music concert in the airport. The musicians were all women and the piano was a Steinway. Sublime. Think we could do this at LaGuardia or JFK?

While no one spoke to me on this long flight I knew they spoke English. I tried to make eye contact and smiled but this elicited no response. I lived in Fort Lee 8 years, (which is 60% Korean), so recalled that Koreans are insular and isolative and let it go. They were raised in an oppressive society so I understand.

Once on the ground everything fell in place and the trip to the hotel was easy, only a half hour. Watching out the taxi window I was amazed how cosmopolitan Bangkok is. The City is enormous and their traffic challenging.

I’ve included a picture of the airport concert for your enjoyment. Seoul is one gorgeous airport.

Sara I don’t understand you. As I watch you meet the press I am saddened. Do you really think God wanted this man as president? I think the latter. And the comment about Hillary being an inferior candidate. That struck to the core.

I see you as naive as Huckleberry Finn and wonder why and how you back this individual especially knowing what has come to the women who have. It is a road that will lead to much questioning and I hope nothing further. What have you gotten yourself into?

It’s Kathleen, and if you don’t like what I say it’s still Kathleen.

I realized my vacation to Thailand was synchronized with Stephen Colbert’s time off. That I am grateful for as when I returned from Thailand I had fewer shows to catch up on. I hope he is enjoying himself and has shut off his news feed, though I doubt he will. I miss him. He is America’s greatest hero in my eyes. I watch him nightly and his comedy makes sense of all the lunacy in our government.

While his writers are deft they have been given so much material to work from with our Commander is Chief’s tweets. Peaches, really? It keeps me sane as I laugh to the reality, yet craziness, of T man. I sometimes wonder is our president on Stephen’s staff? “Let’s see, with this tweet how with Stephen work it into his comedy routine?”

Is this really going on in our government? And more so what of the crazed followers of this man. Frankly, it scares me – does it you?

It’s Kathleen, and if you don’t like what I say it’s still Kathleen…