Bangkok ancient and modern

Bangkok is truly exotic place for "Western" tourists. This exotic explains or even excuses Europeans' and Americans' attitude there - a will to try new, wild and forbidden. During our stay there for 6 days I made some notes and observation to share.

Proud of wearing uniform. Maybe this is only personal opinion, still comparing with our "uniform-wearers" I noted much more respect demonstrated by thai people in uniform towards the fact they are wearing it. I saw drivers and conductors of public transport, security and state servants.  Clothes are more accurate and clean. I may suppose that reason is persons proud of getting higher in job classes, opportunity to work in better conditions comparing to selling outside food under the hot sun. 

Tourists madness. On the second day of our staying in Bangkok IT began - thai new year celebration. According to the local traditions it is common to wash Buddhas statues, wear flowers, celebrate with family and water people passing by. That is true, local people are doing this - they can sluice you with the whole bucket of cold water - but at least with good wishes and smiles and the most important - making caution about their actions. BUT tourists are really going to far - water guns with freezing water just in you eyes with bad jokes and impolite at all. That is one of the example how tourists are getting crazy here, unfortunately; coz it is very bright and colorful country with beautiful places to see, except for only bars and pubs and sex tourism. Any way this city  worth to be visited at least once. 

Local cuisine. I'm not a fan of spicy food, even on the contrary - usually I'm against any kind of pepper. But for my huge surprise I liked Thai food a lot. Keeping simple rules of personal sanitarity it is fine to eat on the street - I do even recommend to do so, otherwise you won't be able to try fully the taste of thai dishes.

Work as craft. People are making any their job a real art and craft. Even street food seller makes show out of simple sausages backing, putting into the package and adding sous. his gestures and moves look like an illusionist in circus makes performance.

Health and sport. In central park in late evening (from 9 to 10 p.m.) on each corner we found big groups of people doing various types of sport activities. Plus people running, using public fitness machines. 

BKK tourist's tips:

* it is rational to book hostels in two different districts (historical and business) to explore both parts deeply

* food out on the street is tasty and cheap - don't be afraid to eat it

* you can share one plate for two