Journey to Peace Village

Today I arrived in Ayuthaya, the old royal city. This place is fantastic! I'm going to extend my booking one more day. Everywhere there are old palaces and temples. Today I visited a temple that commemorates I Thai King who fought in a battle that ensured peace in Thailand for 200 years. Right in the middle of my visit, I found myself surrounded by soldiers. This particular temple is dedicated to soldiers and there were about a hundred there to learn all about the site. Many took pictures, others took notes. Then a flood of school children came and they were very friendly. They wanted to know my name and nickname (most Thais have a nicknamed based on some characteristic). I was embarassed to say my nickname is Bulldozer so I wouldn't own up to it.

I've seen something here I haven't seen much of in Asia--wildlife (except for fish). I saw a small squirrel type animal climbing around at the shrine and I've seen a lot of wild birds, including some ducks and geese. The shrine was very serene and I was able to sit by the water and relax, something I haven't really done since I left the States.

I'll post pics when I can, but the USB port isn't working here.

Labels: Thai culture, Thai history, Thai royalty