After arriving in Bangkok we have spent a few days seeing the sights and culture of Thailand before we leave on Monday for Borabu.

On Friday we went to a Tiger Zoo south east of Bangkok. They have over 200 Bengal tigers and around 16,000 crocodiles. We were able to watch a crocodile show and an elephant show which are a big part of Thai culture.

On Saturday we visited the center of town which has a war memorial called Victory Monument. Here we were able to walk through a large area of vendors selling their goods. Gary was able to feel very tall ducking under all the awnings. We also visited the area south of our hotel where Jennifer stayed in 2006. It is amazing to see all of the people trying to sell their goods and food. It is also heartbreaking to see elderly ladies running a food stand that only a handful of people must visit per day. Aaron and Kaelyn have also experienced people on the street asking for change. The children placed some change in a man’s cup who had no arms and he bowed his head and kept it bowed until they left. He was humbled but so were we that their small act was received with such appreciation. We are very isolated from this sort of poverty.

On Sunday we took a trip to Ayutthaya. This is the ancient capital of Thailand and in the 1700’s was burned to the ground by invaders. It was very interesting to see the ruins of the ancient city. This was something that Aaron had especially looked forward to. While we were there we took the children for an elephant ride. We visited the former Palace that was used in the 19th and early 20th century by the Royal family. We then took a boat ride to a Buddhist temple. The ride was fascinating seeing the homes along the river.

One other note. Aaron and Kaelyn are celebrities here. They are constantly getting touched and Kaelyn is asked to participate in many pictures.

We look forward to tomorrow as we head by train to Borabu.