Lunch on the Gulf of Thailand

Sea Gulls swarmed the docks. Later I will post movies of us feeding the birds and how well behaved and almost 'trained' they were.
A few team members waiting for the meal to begin. And by now, you know Thai dinners have many courses and can last for a few hours.

The Gulf of Thailand looking west towards the arm of the land that extends into he southern Provence. This area was not affected, but the provence further down the land, shown in the distance, contains Puket, which was destroyed by the Tsunami a few years back.

It was pointed out to me that experienced Thais have the ability to "walk on water". I would have to loose a few pounds, but I bet I could join them at least for a few seconds before sinking into the sea bed.

Floating Lotus in moat around Erawan Monument

Offerings of Lotus Blossoms and coins are given in the moat that winds around the Erawan monument.

Erawan Museum Gardens

Erawan Musuem

Just outside Bangkok is the Erawan Museum. This beautiful place is devoted to Erawan (or Aoravata in Hindu), the 3 headed (33 headed) Elephant of Indira.


The centerpiece of the museum is the monument to Erawan. The picture does not do justice to the size of this figure. It is extremely large and houses a museum. Once inside the Elephant, one is exposed to exquisite art and an atmosphere of contemplation.

Worshipers at the base (entrance) to the Erawan monument.

Now we go inside the Elephant. The experience is divided into three sections, or three "worlds". First is the world of Naga, the multi-headed cobra that saved The Buddha. In this area, photos were not permitted. The visitor was given a history of how the museum was constructed.

The next level is 'The Human World". After taking off our shoes we entered the base of the monument. The first picture is looking up the staircase to the image of the Guaynin, the Bodhisattva of compassion. The next are a closeup of Guaynin and other sites from 'the Human World"

To reach the next level one must climb a winding staircase located inside one the elephant's legs, and at the top of the winding staircase is an option elevator to continue up further, inside the elephant's stomach or Tavatimsa Heaven. Here are some priceless items, some ancient artifacts (which I was not allowed to film). I was however able to take pictures of the central Buddha statues

The Tuk-Tuk

This open air 3-wheeler is quite an invention. A Tuk-Tuk ride is less expensive than a taxi and offers a full olfactory experience. The Tuk-Tuk is an excellent way to travel provided it is not too hot.

It can also be fun to barter with the driver for the best fare.