The Land of Smiles - Thailand. It was an enjoyable trip to travel to this majestic country in the heart of Southeast Asia. During my stay here, I visited two regions, Bangkok and Pattaya. If I had to summarize my stay here in a couple of words, it would be - 'A journey through the five senses.'

 

Why do I say so?

 

Sight - Bangkok was a shopping mecca, as far as I could remember. The streets of Bangkok were filled with lots of street-side stalls and huge shopping mall outlets selling a variety of goods, ranging from food to clothes. Any amenity you need can be conveniently found within a stone's throw. Pattaya, based on my recollection, was more of a beach destination. She had luxurious and white sandy beaches, accompanied by clear sparkling waters. I even had the chance to do some parasailing there! What a joy that sure was indeed :D!

 

Hearing - During my stay here, I was blessed by a Buddhist monk at Wat-Arun temple in Bangkok. As the monk chanted his sutras and mantras, I listened intently and simultaneously prayed for my family's safety, health, and happiness. Although I could not comprehend what the monk was chanting about, there was one thing I knew for sure - that the monk's sincerity in his chanting was genuine. I could hear and feel the sincerity in the monk's desire to bless us, fellow devotees of Buddhism, through his sacred chants and sutras. It was such a surreal and memorable experience that, to this day, memories of the event are still held dear in my heart.   

 

Smell - What more can I say? Bangkok is known for its wide array of exotic street food. Walking down the streets of Bangkok, the aroma of street food clearly cannot be missed. Those on a diet will have to watch out, as the whiff of mouth-watering street food will tempt even the most iron-willed individual to break their diet routine and engage in a massive street food binge.

 

Touch -  As I parasailed above the waters of Pattaya, high up in the air, I could feel the awesome sea breeze tantalizing every part of my body. It was a refreshing experience to be so high up in the sky; the view above was phenomenal, I could see the entire city of Pattaya enclosed by a dreamy sea of blue. Although the moment was brief, it was deeply memorable, and I certainly hope I'll get the opportunity to do more water sports in the future.

 

Taste - Thai food is AMAZING! I've always liked Thai food since I was young, and coming to Thailand has indeed satisfied my immense desire to try some authentic Thai cuisine. From Mango sticky rice to Pad Thai to Tom yum goong, my belly enjoyed itself during my stay here. Man, all this typing has made me crave Thai food suddenly! I guess I shall grab some Thai food for lunch tomorrow :P.

 

Anyway, I hope you can indulge in the five senses as you scroll through my photos of Thailand (or at least catch a glimpse of what I've felt :P). She's a majestic and glorious maiden, and I hope you let her tantalize your desire to travel to this wonderful country :)!