Bangkok Snapshots

8 a.m. two Buddhist monks squatting on the sidewalk opposite the hotel, dirty robes, smoking and ogling the girls as they go by.

8:30 a.m. three young women - sparkly mini dresses, black leggings, gold sandals, jaded faces , old way beyond their years despite perfect cover-girl make-up. Black Mercedes draws up, hand out of the window. Girls reach into cleavage of dresses, pull out wads of money, without missing a step hand over to the hand. Keep on walking, link arms.

9:30 outpatient clinic at the hospital. 45 minutes and $75 dollars later have had thorough ear, nose, throat exam and prescription for two doses of ZPack to hit hard at the massive sinus infection I have plus an anti-inflammatory prescription. Last prescription alone, April 2009 in the US, after co-pay cost me $48.00. "We're not growing old" said the Thai physician I met, "we're growing up". This in reference to social services and medical delivery in Thailand. I left wondering if the US was perhaps growing old. This sinus infection is an annual event for me - my US GP has never once checked my ears - simply phoned in a prescription. Grand piano in the hospital lobby - drank my Starbucks doppio listening to Ba Ba Blacksheep followed by Moonlight Sonata.

4:00 p.m. Lumpini Park, heart of Bangkok. Bangkok National Orchestra is setting up for a free Concert in the Park. Opener is William Tell Overture - closing with Rock Around the Clock. Tanniini mats for rent. Picnics in full force.

Wander around the park and come across two aerobics/dance classes. Dozens of people moving to the music.



Giant Monitor Lizards on the edge of the pond - totally gross!