The Hazards of International Travel

I am in Thailand.  Made it late last night as my flight out of Japan was 90 minutes late.  But at least I am here, which is more than what I can say about my Boston companions.  They were diverted to Singapore so as of right now, I am here alone.  I was met by Mr. Lewis (they don't use last names unless very formal) who works with EF Tours and he brought me to the hotel.  After a long day of flying, I slept.  As I type this, my group has landed and is on the way to the hotel.

I decided to make my first adventure out on my own.  I walked 10 blocks in three different directions from the hotel.  My first impression is that it is very busy here.  I didn't risk using the crosswalks; I went over the pedestrian overpasses that are every so often.

Lots of cars, buses, motorbikes and scooters.  I saw one family of 4 on one bike.  Dad driving with a child in front of him and Mom on the back with a baby in her arms and no helmets.  Not exactly Manitoba anymore.  It is humid but not as hot as I thought it would be.

when the rest of the group arrives, we were to take our bus to the Grand Palace for a tour but I guess we will see what they are like when they arrive.  Tonight (Saturday) we will be having a dinner with 2 members of the Thai Educational department.  That should be interesting.

For now, here are some pictures of the area I am in.