Took in a few of the Buddhist Temples dotted around the city. It was a long hot climb up to the top of the Golden Mount, but worth it for the views over the city. The Chedi at the top contains some of the Buddha's teeth apparently. Lots of activity with people giving offerings of fruit and flowers to the statues. Moved on to the Wat Pho which contains an enormous reclining Buddha stretched out in a magnificent temple. Was sitting in the temple next door when parts of the floor started to be cordoned off. At first I thought it was because of some deeply significant religious ritual that was due to take place, but no, the monk just wanted to get the hoover out. Hoping to escape from the heat of the city tomorrow.

Another scorching hot day, although I am starting to get used to it. Walked up to Jim Thompson's House. Thompson was an American who settled in Bangkok after the war. His house is in a tranquil setting just next to the canal. Well I say tranquil that's until the boats come along. When I read that there are narrow boats on the canal acting as Taxis, I had visions of sedate cruising up the waterway in a similar fashion to the Narrowboats on England. Not quite. The boats tear along with a ferocity that leaves the waters turbulent for minutes after performing in the manner of speedboats rather than canal boats. They certainly live up to their reputation of moving people far faster than road transport can do.

Walked up to another Royal Palace. This one is still used for ceremonial occasions and the treasures within are stunning. Gold Howdahs and ornate thrones. All very spectacular.

Arrived in the sweltering heat of the Thai capital this morning after an overnight flight changing planes at Munbai. Nearly missed the connection as the flight was an 90 minutes late leaving London, purely because it couldn't get a take off slot.

Was rather alarmed to hear that Bangkok's Thai name is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. Scary, Imagine having to put that you letter headings.

Checked into the Hotel and then made for the Royal Palace. The best way to go is apparently by boat so I caught an orange flanged shuttle up the river. It was a little choppy and the staff were a bit free and easy on the safety matters, but it got me there and avoided the horrendous traffic. The Palace was spectacular. Amazing buildings and spectacular statues. I did wonder why so many tourists were going around the place in their pyjamas! Then I realised the rather garish trousers were on loan from the temple authorities, and bare legs are a no no in the temple. I suppose making them so outlandish means they will never get stolen.