Christmas 2011 Week 2

January 7, 2012

And in this second installment of Season 4, the family makes the most of the new year.

My, what floppy french toast you have.

Having our annual french toast fix.

Since last time we've visited, Grandma's gotten a plump new addition to her apartment.

I could hug him forever.

Annual all-you-can-eat sushi dinner with Bronwyn and Andre.

The first Chevy Volt that I've seen in the wild!

The Nissan Leaf has a slightly more clever charging interface.

This arena at the Brickworks barely qualified as an ice rink.

From 1889 to the 1980s the Don Valley Brick Works was one of Canada’s pre-eminent brickyards.

This is the wall of a treehouse made entirely of recycled materials.

Now, the Evergreen Brick Works is a community environmental center with exhibit space and some pioneering architecture.

When was the last time they dusted?

More industrial atmosphere at the Brick Works.

Stairway to heaven.

Mao (or his slightly Caucasian cousin) is watching you.

Long and artfully decorated corridor.

Google would like me to label this face. Any ideas?

Who's this potato head behind glass?

A very neat depiction of the waterways of the GTA.

The parkland in the lower Don River watershed.

Time to bring Sushi to life! This candy shop owner was pretty shocked!

He's ALIVE!

Oh my.

Sushi made himself right at home.

See the resemblance?

Hmm. Can't tell what's puzzle and what's tablecloth.

Visiting Grandpa on New Year's Eve -- and getting a special concert treat.

Why, it's Keiko! And she and I are wearing matching sweaters tonight.

Dave tries his hand at Sushi's controls.

No, she whimpers silently. I don't want to leave.

She was right at home.

Annual reunion -- into which Sushi snuck.

Putting the finishing touches on the sweetest puzzle I've ever done.

How many hands does it take to complete a 1000-piece puzzle?

The sleepiest youtube viewing I've ever seen.

Now it's mum's turn to drive Sushi.

And Jasmine's turn.

Wait, who's steering this guy?

Great Chinese food on New Years Day -- with (part of) our favorite Chinese family!

Found another guy who's too busy chowing down to notice the camera.

Doing the leftover Christmas cracker. Is it really that painful?

Trying to melt the Frozen Dairy Product. FAIL.

The neatest addition to supermarkets since sliced bread.

Don't forget this important step!

Mum and dad ride up the escalator with their newly-adopted cart.

Swanky bread from one of the swankiest bakeries in town.

When they say "presentation is everything," they mean it!

Would you like proper SPAM, or just no-frills luncheon meat?

When Heinz says 57 varieties, is this what they mean?

Another revamped industrial site: the Distillery Historic District.

Faces waiting to be used again in the spring.

The Distillery Historic District opened in 2003 and today it is widely regarded as Canada's premier arts, culture and entertainment destination. According to its website, anyway.

And this was the last we saw of dad.

Mission #3: Another Korean dinner. Check.

These dumplings are eye-poppingly good!

I've been waiting all year for this Bibimbap!

Back in Bracebridge, one week later, ice has started to form and there's a fresh layer of snow on everything.

The bluest sky we saw while in Canada.

Again, Granny's too excited about her lunch -- this time, a quarter chicken dinner -- to notice the paparazzi.

Huh?

Colby's special RADAR ears can detect any piece of food -- no matter how sad -- within lunging distance.

Colby also enjoys Granny's bed. Or is it the mohair blanket that she likes?

Granny gets ready to see us off at the elevator.

More snow in Bracebridge.

And it's the new TV! We got the last TV at Costco in Ontario! WHOOO. Look, it's downloading software updates.

Celebratory pizza dinner.

No dinner at Euclid is complete without red wine.

And no trip to Toronto is complete without a healthy helping of Tims.

One drawback about the new TV: it's outside.

Painstakingly shutting all the doors for safekeeping until next December. Except that 24, which he'll leave wide open.

Lunch with mother.

One view that will never be blocked by all the new condos: that from the CN tower.

Spotted among the cheese and sausages at the St. Lawrence market.

These guys have probably had better days.

Back at Euclid, making the annual Thai dinner -- with ingredients left over from last year!

Dig in!

Is this spicy?

This is definitely not spicy.

Bundling up to watch their favorite shows.

So big, they need to sit across the room.

Visiting Grandpa in his room. It's plenty spacious!

Enjoying his kielbasa and seeing what's on the frame. It's better than TV.

Who am I, again?

Off for a stroll on a balmy Friday afternoon.

The multi-faceted houses of Toronto.

After hurling me down their stairs in an attempt to keep us in Toronto, they try to make it up to me with a Korean dinner. Nice try guys.

Mission # 4: Yet another Korean dinner. Check.

Why's she so happy to see us go?

He's less giddy, but still inadequately upset.

The veggie food on the way back was considerably better than on the way there.

Passing over ice in Hudson Bay. Spot any bears?

Christmas 2011 Week 1

December 29, 2011

It's another festive family starring in this 2011 holiday hit: "Christmas in Toronto! - Part IV"

And we're off to Toronto! Fine wining and dining in Executive First!

Glass of wine? This is more like a can of wine.

Mission #1: Get her hooked on the iPad. Check.

The ornament tree makes a re-appearance in Toronto.

A very festive living room on Euclid.

That mac-n-cheese must've been pretty funny.

Using his utmost concentration for the iPad. He hasn't thought this hard in a long time.

Now, trying out his undiscovered skills as a professional Citroen racer.

A creative lunch of rice noodles and shiitake. And funny faces.

The bomb of a birthday cake.

Present from -- can you guess where?

Egg salad sandwich on sesame egg bread. Delish!

Wow, is it that painfully good?

Why, it's hand-flappingly good!

This is not black-and-white, believe it or not.

Mission # 2: One Korean dinner. Check.

Cute coke bottles wait to be picked up for recycling.

These men have their mouths full of falafel!

Eating the middle eastern food, Japanese-style.

The great Christmas Eve spread.

The tree's looking nice and plump. With lots of gifts to watch over.

Sparkly ornaments in the setting winter sun.

How many guests were fooled into thinking that the Mexican balls were part of the artwork?

Father and son, enjoying the renovated room.

Too bad that room's burning down.

Annual cousins' shot - in descending order.

Whose kids are these?

Enjoying the presence of his eldest son?

Really creative vegetarian sushi!

Like father, like daughter -- equally blown out by the flash.

"Ah-ha-ha-ha. Look how I've worn pink every Christmas for the past 7 years."

"Why, it's me!"

A scrumptious plate of sweets. I'm still recovering.

Just grabbing some quick shut-eye.

Grandpa didn't get the memo: only greys and blacks allowed at holiday festivities.

"Woah! A really tiny plant!"

Which one am I, again?

Cute shirt from Bangkok.

A good one to wear babysitting.

Just like sisters. Except one is yellow.

Another Tomczak Christmas: an exciting evening of googling and yawning.

Mum's happy to have both her daughters back at her side!

Okay, that's it for the energy. It's bedtime for all three.

Do we qualify?

Enough yaa dom to last a nose a lifetime.

A traditional little Thai Christmas House.

Can you guess what's inside?

The Christmas gift of a lifetime.

Does he have a name yet???

5 little stockings, hung all in a row. These stockings, he'll grinch, will be the first things to go!

Sporting my Christmas Best for breakfast on the morning of the 25th.

Is Colby happy to see us? Hard to tell.

She's still not quite sure what to think. Excited? Indifferent?

He comes bearing gifts!

Granny leads us out of the Pines, in her festiveware, back to Chris's for Christmas dinner.

Taking a breather before heading downstairs.

Colby shows off one of her latest tricks. But -- is she excited about it?

Chris opens up her bright new shopping bag. Stylish!

Granny's amazed by the new quilt in the giant package.

Trying to hide from all this Christmas madness.

Granny opens her ever-resilient, all-weather cactus.

And the rickshaw made of a Thai beer can.

Colby's response to Chris's new dog calendar? "Meh."

Granny, won't you please share your orange with me? Please?

The annual Christmas Day drive out to the cottage.

Barely white this year! It's the first time in memory that we didn't have to throw ourselves over a snow bank to get inside.

But the snow that was falling was perfect for snowballs.

Here's the makings of a stir-fry dinner.

Is it really safe to stand on the ice?

This dog's out for some Christmas Day quiet time.

Favorable sledding conditions? Hardly!

What are they doing?

How festive. Pines and snow.

The table, all set for a proper holiday feast.

No no, Granny, that's not how you read a book.

Granny, can't I have some shortbread, too? PLEASE?

And then Granny realizes that Colby's parked herself there. Indifferently.

The Ye Olde Grande Christmastyme Buffet. (Complete with tofurkey.)

What a diverse spread.

A good test of bone strength.

Son-in-law abuse!

What a resemblance!

Red is in trend up in Bracebridge!

Colby's patience finally pays off.

The water may be flowing, but the view's still a winter one.

Wow. Does she feel sheepish or what?

The one time her expression changes -- to one of embarrassment.

Long-lost twins!

Movie of the season! Glad we could see it.

Dramatic striped sky over Bracebridge on Boxing Day.

Colby shows off her unbreakable attention!

This guy wasn't quite as unbreakable.

Shh. Don't tell Chris she got to join us for breakfast. (Oh, the things I'll do to win her affection.)

No, Chris, no! Don't put Christmas away!

The lights on the bridge are still visible in daylight.

And back to Toronto we go.

After one last stop for fine Bracebridge sushi.

Granny's way too excited to stop and look at the camera!

And these guys are enjoying what they're seeing across the table.

Trying to blend in with his environment.

The centerpiece of the AGO -- which we somehow missed last year.

Could sit and watch all day.

What creepy tree trunk carvings!

This ice was crystallizing right in front of our eyes. And made the clouds look like paint strokes.

I've been waiting all year for this (flavor).

Annual group shot! Although this year, we've added one!

Bangkok Week 182

December 21, 2011

A brief tour of Bangkok's Christmas offerings.

Paragon has changed its decorating scheme this year -- fewer giant red balls, more gold.

But all species can participate in the festivities.

This is the first year that you could take your photo with Santa outside -- sponsored by MasterCard.

Wow! Temperature suddenly dropped in Bangkok!

It's classicly tacky decorations at MBK.

The scary santas are back!

Tokyo 1 week!

December 18, 2011

An exciting, extensive, and exhausting one-week adventure in one of the most explosive cities in the world: Tokyo! Yokoso Japan!

And he's off to Narita for the first time that's not a layover!

I follow 2 days later; here, have made it to the JR-operated Narita Express.

I find the man at a cafe in Shibuya Station, enjoying Japanese-style French toast.

Voila - here's his very very compact hotel room.

These pastries in Tokyu look delish!

Shibuya is as hopping at night as you'd expect!

The masses cross the famous Shibuya intersection when the light says "go!"

Lots of people seem to be out to stroll in the evening, even in the wintertime.

Finally at a Uniqlo in Japan... but the stock look surprisingly like what we saw in Bangkok.

At Tokyu Hands, you can buy models of every Shinkansen train.

You can even buy model department stores and office buildings!

These are some really tiny Christmas outfits.

Shibuya's very picturesque at night, even in winter.

This group of tourists knew how to stand out in the crowds.

An overwhelming selection of Japanese sauces.

These cereal boxes all look familiar... but something's not quite right.

Dinner the first night, bought entirely from a convenience store -- since it was late by the time we were done exploring.

Yum yum, a natto roll.

The view from the hotel in the morning, while the moon's still in the sky. Prime Shibuya real estate.

I think this was milk I was drinking for breakfast...

A modern building right next door to the hotel.

Graffiti is universal!

My first stop is the waterside neighborhood near Mita and Tamachi stations.

As I walk toward the harbor, the Haneda monorail zooms by. It was packed at rush hour!

Canals throughout the neighborhoods near the water.

This could be a refreshing area in which to live.

One of the many mom-mobiles out on the street at the start of the day. One kid's already been dropped off.

Two Japanese-style clown bikes.

I'm pretty sure I just crossed this canal over at that other bridge.

The official rainbow pigeon of east Tokyo.

Christmas decorations were up throughout the city -- where you would, and wouldn't, expect them.

Aha, my true destination: the Rainbow Bridge.

The Rainbow Bridge (レインボーブリッジ) is a suspension bridge crossing northern Tokyo Bay between Shibaura Pier and the Odaiba waterfront development.

In the winter, pedestrians are allowed to cross by foot between 10am and 6pm; there are walking paths on the lower deck, on both sides of the bridge.

I chose the northern path, since the sun was too harsh on the south side. Here, a great view of the ports on the "Tokyo" side.

Tokyo Taawaa.

A river taxi whisks passengers downstream.

Another view of Tokyo's development.

Uh oh! A 5% is rolling down the street up ahead!

This brave construction worker performs some maintenance on the outer side of the bridge.

View from the Odaiba side. By the way, it's called the Rainbow Bridge because it's illuminated in rainbow colors at night, by solar energy obtained during the day.

Some of the latest attractions in Odaiba, plus evidence of nearby Haneda airport!

The rather quiet beach and Odaiba Seaside Park.

Frighteningly, this is a cat pet shop.

Did you know that Lady Liberty vacations in Tokyo in the winter months?

The complex Fuji TV building.

The building is the headquarters of Fuji Television, but also open to the public.

This robot thinks he's missing something... but can't quite put his finger on what...

Bike parking!

The Daikanransha, a 115 meter tall ferris wheel that's part of a giant mall complex on the island.

The shopping complex is called "Palette Town" -- perhaps that explains the colored cars.

Another interesting stop on the island -- Toyota's "Megaweb", a giant show room for it's latest and greatest products.

Here, you can opt to test drive any of it's current models.

There's a super-neat test drive track that snakes through the showroom, and the adjoining property outside.

Here, they demonstrate the accessibility features of their newest models.

Toyota's new plug-in Prius is cut open to show its innards -- and how it works, of course.

Everyone can afford to bring home their favorite model!

This was only the first of many "flushing toilet" masking sound generators I saw. Too bad it sounded more like a dying duck.

An ice cream vending machine! I tried the mint choc chip, of course.

Back on the mainland, it's lunch time -- and these businessmen are hungry!

One of many lines at the popular lunch joints.

I'm heading to Zojoji Temple, the head temple of the Jodo sect of buddhism.

There seemed to be a big event -- a funeral? -- going on, so I didn't get much closer.

There are many Jizo statues throughout the temple grounds.

They line the perimeter of at least 2 sides of the temple.

Next up: a treck up to Tokyo Tower, to finally see it in person. No need to go up though.

Cute souvenir socks... probably the least tacky of all the souvenirs for sale.

A pioneering green building, complete with tree design.

A more traditional Tokyo office and apartment building.

The neighborhoods around Tokyo tower are fairly commercial and otherwise unremarkable.

And so, it's time to hit the subway to check out someplace else. I'm pretty sure sleeping is contagious in Tokyo subway cars.

The Ameyoko market is a hopping area right under the Yamanote line, between Okachimachi and Ueno stations.

The streets in the immediate vicinity are closed to vehicles.

Hmm. Pickled octopus?

In addition to Bangkok-style cheap clothes sellers, there were lots of fresh food vendors too.

It was mid-afternoon on a Tuesday, but everyone seemed to be out and about.

Granny selects her dinner.

This seaweed seller seems to be deep in thought... or has an itchy nose.

Only the finest mikan for sale in Tokyo.

My big purchase of the afternoon: a fat taiyaki.

Here's how they sell fruit in a Japanese market: on a skewer, for 100 Yen. In Bangkok, you'd get the whole pineapple for that price!

Where two shopping streets converge.

Not sure what this guy's mission is.

A bustling intersection on the edge of Ueno Park.

A cute little girl hones her photography skills using mom's mobile phone.

Kiyomizu Kannon Temple, inside Ueno Park.

I wonder if this guy sees fewer people during the winter months.

Apparently, this temple is particularly popular among women hoping to have children! Hmm.

A real contrast of colors.

Winter in the park: the days are shorter, and the shadows longer.

The gingko trees were dropping their leaves all over the city.

Shinobazu Pond is overcome by dead lotuses who are patiently waiting for next spring.

Nearby, school kids enjoy the end of the day.

An old house, in a quiet old neighborhood.

Japanese Maples are also beautiful at this time of year.

One of the entrance gates to the University of Tokyo's Hongo campus.

Every university needs a co-op shop!

Yasuda Auditorium looks quite grand -- and almost evil -- in the late afternoon lighting.

Grand, ivy league-esque walkway on campus.

Reserved parking -- for bicycles!

Outside the university's hospital, taxis queue up to take patients home. This one's a hybrid!

Freshly made rice crackers tempt passers-by.

It's a bit presumptuous for this booth to call itself an "Official ID Studio."

It's bad news when a subway line requires a complicated key to explain how it works.

Hey, some of these passengers are actually awake!

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has a free observatory on its 45th floor.

Unfortunately, it's indoors, so there's a glare -- but it offers some impressive views.

Based on the buildings' sizes, you can guess which direction this faces.

Shinkansen chopsticks! They had 5 or 6 different models.

At night in Shinjuku, it's really easy to spot dad's Yodobashi Camera.

Shibuya's equally bright.

These are definitely the largest *real* traffic cones I've ever encountered.

Tonight, we're out to explore the seedier side of Shibuya.

This area is aptly named "Love Hotel Hill."

Hmm... shall we "rest", or "stay" the night?

Hopping night life.

One of the funnier billboards.

Lots of neat 2012 planners were on sale at book stores.

Our attempt at vegetarian dinner at a real restaurant: first, veggie tempura.

Okra -- okay, that's a recognizable vegetable.

Next, udon with a giant umeboshi and other non-meat goodies.

Excited for the non-convenience-store Japanese food.

No winter trip to Japan is complete without fresh mikan.

The ties that they use to seal the bags are pretty neat -- they snap shut.

The Shinagawa area is pretty bleak on a dreary, overcast winter day.

But luckily, Santa's here to spread some holiday spirit.

Some narrow little buildings got squashed in between giants.

The Sengakuji Temple is hopping on December 14th, when an annual ceremony is held to commemorate the 47 ronin's avenge.

Just like any other temple fair, there are special stalls selling all sorts of goodies.

I guess they're expecting kids?

The graveyard that commemorates the 47 ronin is off to the side of the temple.

It was still fairly quiet when I was there in the early morning, but crowds became increasingly heavy even while I was there.

Inside the graveyard area, each visitor first picks up a tin of incense sticks -- at least one for each grave.

Then visitors walk around placing one incense stick at the base of each grave. It can get very smoky!

There are other areas to place the incense, too.

Businessmen and grannies alike came out for the festival.

Some of the graves of the 47 ronin.

The temple expects thousands of visitors each year on this date.

Incense and offerings.

Another Granny -- who, perhaps wisely, came with a face mask.

More visitors.

It's getting smoky, alright.

A much-needed gang of security patrol, to keep the rowdy grandmothers and businessmen in check.

Special gifts for sale.

A fishing game for kids... except I didn't see a single kid while I was there.

Stopping in front of the main temple building too.

Near the temple, lots of traditional souvenirs for sale.

Here, sellers of hand-made bamboo wares. The man chats while his wife weaves a basket in the background.

Peculiar, and somewhat sad-looking snacks.

Not sure what this building is! Looks like some kind of auditorium.

A massive 5-way intersection in the Shinagawa environs.

Surprise! It's our buddy Tokyo Taawaa again!

Up in the Sugamo neighborhood, solar panels line either side of the main street.

This is the Jizo Dori shopping street, which is affectionately known as the "Old Ladies' Harajuku." That's not too far off!

I was easily the tallest person there by two head heights.

Oh no! Did a granny fall down?

A seller of glutinous rice balls is very popular... even among the elderly population. I guess their teeth are still in good working order.

Cute little charms.

Colorful Japanese handkerchiefs.

Clever socks, made specifically for wearing under Japanese sandals.

Another major Granny attraction... I couldn't get close enough to see!

This pickle seller is enjoying the attention from all the ladies!

Giant cabbage-seafood pancakes?

More veggie-friendly pancake snacks, with several different fillings.

Whatever this is, it's definitely an entire meal, not just a snack!

More Grannies out for the day.

People were enjoying hot, fresh fermented rice drink. So I joined them!

The famed Takadanobaba Station!

It's quite hopping up there now -- and tastefully decorated.

Nearby, the lunch line at a hot spot continues on the other side of the parking lot.

I wonder if the water level in this canal ever gets any higher.

My destination: the Toden Arakawa Line, a streetcar line in northern Tokyo.

It operates 5 different series of rolling stock -- some more classic looking than the others.

One terminal is in the middle of the street in Waseda.

It's just a single car, with minimal seating and lots of standing room.

The car never does a U-turn, so there's a place for the driver to sit at either end.

By traveling the length of this route, you get to see a lot of quieter, more traditional Tokyo neighborhoods.

These travelers have to stop and wait for us to pass.

When the gates go up, the people scurry across.

The other terminal is at Minowabashi in north east Tokyo.

There, there's a long covered market.

The backs of homes are quite plain.

Did I mention that this trolley is also a Granny Mobile?

Back in Shibuya, the game's afoot!

Heading out at night, to go do some explorin'.

A super-useful feature on the JR trains -- diagrams showing where the various platform exits are, relative to the train cars. And of course, it tells you the car you're in!

Roppongi at night -- even more hopping than during the day.

They say it's for rich foreigners, but we didn't see much evidence of extra effort to cater to farang.

A big duty-free shop certainly knows how to attract attention.

Why, it's our Tokyo Taawaa buddy again.

Did I mention that cowichan sweaters are one of the fashion crazes right now?

Overwhelming?

At most noodle shops, you first pay for your meal at a vending machine, and then you take the ticket stub to the counter to be prepared.

Here, we seem to have successfully ordered meat-free udon.

Perfect for a cold night.

A pristine zebra crossing, on a pristine city road. Not sure how they do it.

My new friends.

Riding a bus back to Shibuya. Only ever figured out that one bus line.

The next day, took a trip down to Kamakura. Here, waiting for the electric train at Fujisawa station.

It's 4 cars long -- two two-car trains adjoined. For most of the line's length, it's a single track. Trains can only pass each other in designated stations and double-tracked areas.

First stop at Hase -- the famous Daibutsu.

Don't forget to wash your hands first.

Have to say, compared to Thailand's giant buddhas, this guy was a bit underwhelming.

There were lots of school kids out for a visit.

He seems to lead a peaceful life by the sea.

And he has no lack of visitors.

Wow. I think his sandals might just be bigger than mine.

Unlike Thai giant buddhas, you can climb inside this one! They say the statue was cast in 30 separate stages.

The leaves were beautiful in Kamakura, too.

Especially with the right winter light.

Next popular stop on the tour: the Hasedera.

The Hasedera is a temple of the Jodo sect, built up on a hill overlooking the sea.

There's a beautiful landscaped garden at the base of the temple.

Visitors write their new year wishes on paper, and then tie them up.

At one of the many shrines within the temple.

Colorful flags.

The main temple buildings are up a hill, about 20 meters above the entrance.

Ornate decoration.

Colorful incense burn outside the main building. Japanese incense don't seem to have a handle.

But they are much more colorful than Thai incense sticks.

This reclining Tuesday buddha...

Is made entirely of corrugated cardboard! Cool.

The temple does afford beautiful views of the sea.

Under an umbrella nearby the observation deck.

Giant bamboo that are easily 3 stories tall.

Why not go for some more stairs? Up the Prospect Road we go.

Only once you reach the top do they warn you of the impending bees and snakes.

I find it very neat how the town wraps around the hill.

More views of the sea, and the mountainous landscape in the background.

Here, they show you what you would've seen, if only you'd come to visit in the summer.

This is a rotating book case... but they no longer demonstrate its rotating abilities.

Nevertheless, it's impressively ornate.

Sticky rice balls!

This is quite the warning sign.

A cheery statue.

Here's the entrance to a small cave on the temple property.

Inside, you can light candles...

...or leave behind tiny little sculptures with messages on the back.

I can only imagine the accidental domino effect.

Even photographing was difficult, because they were perched everywhere in the cave -- on walls, on the ceiling... it made steadying myself very difficult.

It took me a second to realize that it was unusual that I could read this message!

Outside the temple, a neat looking traditional building.

The seaside was not too inviting...

...but that didn't stop everyone!

There were lots of crazy winter surfers out in the water.

This ice cream won't cool you down, but it'll keep you coolish.

Heading back to the Enoshima Electric Railway, to travel from Hase to Kamakura station.

Apparently they still use rickshaws in Kamakura. At least, the tourists do.

Funny.

This stroller is not for a baby -- but for the big white lab walking next to it!

One of Kamakura's main attractions is a busy walking street.

You can imagine the woman who makes these dolls...

...and she probably looks just like this!

This fat cat's in the holiday spirit.

Selling umeboshi individually... and at 200 yen apiece!

Wow, this cross walk shames even Shibuya's!

This is Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, an important Shinto shrine.

Please, no bonfires.

The shrine is at the geographical and cultural center of the city of Kamakura, which has largely grown around it.

More stairs!

Not too many here, though.

The shrine used to house a 1000-year-old gingko tree, but it was uprooted in a snowstorm last year.

It's guarded by two colorful warriors.

A group of schoolboys collectively writes a wish on a placard.

Back in town on the shopping street, more colorful Japanese prints.

Now, I'm off to Enoshima Island, which is connected to the mainland by a long bridge. BTW, those dots in the water are surfers!

Here, a surf shop is open for business as usual, in the middle of the winter!

Japanese recycling is very complex. Not only do you separate plastic, cans and glass, but you also separate the plastic cap from the rest of the bottle!

This poodle's out for a walk in style.

Surf's up in Enoshima!

The early afternoon sun was pretty harsh though.

There were a small handful of fishermen in the area -- but I didn't see a single one catch anything.

Appropriate warning signs posted along the beach.

Here's the long walkway out to the island. You can also take a public bus.

Another Mom Mobile and her four kids (including the 2 in front) go by.

Once you reach the island, you find the entrance to a temple, the approach to which is on a steep hill lined with shops.

Freshly-made rice crackers, at tourist prices!

These two chefs are preparing mochi balls.

Here's the Enoshima Shrine, which comprises 3 separate shrines and is built all the way up the hill.

Needless to say, this one's going to involve lots of stairs.

At the first shrine, there's a special new year's circle -- I saw the Japanese visitors walking a figure-8 through it.

But if the stairs are too much for you...

... you can always opt to take the hill-side escalators up!

The temple affords a beautiful view of the mainland.

The walk continues in a little garden.

These flowers look like they were planted only the day before.

Still not done hanging the new year's lanterns.

Further up, an even higher view! Here, all the island's (fishing?) boats.

More wishes.

And still more stairs!

Finally at the summit -- where a fat cat waits to greet climbers.

This is as high as you can go, without paying to go up the lighthouse.

These two grandpas were so involved in comparing their photos that they didn't notice they were being photographed!

These two pups are eager to get to the top!

Another view as the sun sets on Enoshima.

Talk about having all your boats in a row!

Heading back to Tokyo on an express train -- it took about an hour and 20 minutes.

Back in Tokyo, some sculptures jump rope on the side of a national theater building.

Wow, this cake looks more posh than most jewelry displays.

Super excited by the whole- and organic- foods grocery store that we stumbled upon.

HOLY TUNA SUSHI! It's "for vegetarian"! The first acknowledgement we'd seen in the country that some people may not in fact eat animals!

Other people were more interested in the organic Japanese beer.

Omotesando looks beautiful at night with its lit trees.

To make matters better, we then stumbled on a vegetarian cafe for dinner! Too many options!

This fresh tofu salad was one of the best things I've eaten in a long time. The tofu practically melted when touched.

This cute tofu burger was deceptively filling!

A giant Christmas grenade at the side of one shopping complex.

Wow, too many signs to choose.

The famous Harajuku station, at night.

Hmm. Those destination stamps that I attempted to collect 20 years ago are still being used!

This is the office buliding that houses BCG's Tokyo office.

A nearby river was very reflective in the winter sun.

These coin lockers in Tokyo station accept the same Suica cash card that works in all the train networks.

This taxi one-ups the new Prius cabs: it's a zero-emission taxi.

I came to see the famous Tokyo station, but instead saw the scaffolding that hides a multi-year construction overhaul. Maybe next time!

In the past 5 years, there's been lots of construction to the immediate west of Tokyo station, including several multi-use (mall-and-office) buildings. This is the Shin Marunouchi Building.

Of course, they all have their decorations up!

I found all the housewives of Tokyo! They're lining up for what appear to be eclairs.

Although Marunouchi has supposedly had a resurgence in the past few years, to me it just feels like any other posh downtown area of office buildings and luxury designers.

We saw many women out in their kimonos and winter kimono jackets.

Here's the moat surrounding the Imperial Palace. I didn't get any closer.

Here's ... a cabbage patch? ... in the middle of Hibiya Park.

Again, the leaves were beautiful. The more temperate climate in Tokyo seems to prolong the autumn colors!

Still waters + clear sky = near-perfect reflections.

This guy attracted the attention of all the photographers in the park.

Some photographers even abandoned their cameras to get a closer look.

He seems to know that he's the center of attention -- and the giant fish in the pond feel neglected.

A fountain in the middle of the park reflects nicely under the morning sun.

More beautiful leaves and pond reflections!

Why do Japanese Maples seem more refined than Candian Maples?

Here's the plaza area of Tokyo Midtown, a new multi-use development in Roppongi. Mika says that Masashi's former company developed it.

It's a fairly sizeable development that contains office, residential, commercial, hotel, and leisure space, as well as the tallest building in Tokyo and the new quarters of the Suntory Museum of Art.

Since small pets are popular these days, they have to make provisions accordingly.

There were many neat design stores on the top floor. Here, on the bottom floor, more classic Japanese fashion!

Here's something I'd never seen before: toe socks for JUST your toes (not your entire feet).

One of many intricate Japanese Christmas cards.

This Christmas tree...

...is made entirely of Santas!

Um... perhaps there are slightly more PC choices for the name of your chocolate bar?

These are chopsticks!

Very cute Japanese postcards.

Little dog parking over there!

This pair was just the cutest! I don't know if the girl belonged to the dog, but she certainly acted as if they were BFFs.

In the ground floor, one of the shops offers daily cooking classes.

Outside, there's a nice eating area overlooking a park. I had my lunch here.

This building is Design Sight 21_21, a design gallery/workshop created by fashion designer Issey Miyake and architect Tadao Ando.

In the park, even the playground is neatly designed.

The dog's pretty excited about the leaning swing set.

These flowers were happily dancing at the entrance to a parking garage.

Here's Japan's famous Hachiko tribute, at the center of Shibuya.

Egads! This girl decided to wear Hachiko instead!

Keep up with the flow!

In Tokyu, Japan's famous perfect melons. Look closely -- it's up to Y8.400 for a single melon!

A store of -- you guessed it -- boxer shorts.

Here, nice fat fish are in the fryer.

Now we're at Sensoji temple in Asakusa.

Sittha's workshop is over, so now I'm not sightseeing alone!

There's a hopping walking street leading up to the temple.

Colorful osembei!

That's me!

Cute school girls, who could double as construction workers.

The entrance to the famous Sensoji.

The temple's famous 5-story pagoda.

This is Tokyo's oldest temple, and one of its most significant.

Chinese tourists enjoy inhaling the warm incense.

Washing our hands in really cold winter water before entering.

LOTS of people -- both tourists and locals -- were coming on this Friday afternoon.

Seems like lots of people also come to just hang out.

One of the many giant lanterns.

No shortage of visitors!

During World War II, the temple was bombed and for the most part destroyed. It was rebuilt later and is a symbol of rebirth and peace to the Japanese people.

These two women came in traditional robes.

What a giant door.

This quiet garden on the temple ground is kept in traditional Japanese style. With an amusement park in the background!

Contemplative!

Giant carp know where to look for food.

Strings of cranes inside one of the memorials on the temple grounds.

One little boy just got off school.

This poor baby girl was being plopped all over the place for Christmas photos.

This snack -- a deep-fried bun? -- seemed to be a favorite with the locals.

Some more unusual Japanese masks.

This man expertly flips fresh Osembei at a rate of many pieces per second.

Aha! These stickers -- which I got as a souvenir in 1993 -- are still for sale now!

Some visitors actually use the rickshaws in the area!

I'm pretty sure this print is exactly the same as my Granny Costume!

Now we're in Kappabashi -- also known as Kitchen Town -- a street famous for its kitchenware stores.

Another view of the new Tokyo Sky Tree.

Cute little tempura chopstick holders.

This very neat store sells all the plastic food that restaurants use in their display cases!

He had almost any kind of food you can imagine -- and it was incredibly lifelike.

An assortment of sushi rolls. Getting hungry?

More fresh fish.

And your toasts, waffles, donuts and baguettes. Each piece was over 1000 yen!

I actually thought these mochi were real! (And was ridiculed accordingly.)

We found a nice pottery store, and brought back some small plates in this design.

This massive temple looks especially dramatic with the looming dark clouds overhead.

Back at Tokyo Midtown for its famous Christmas Light Extravaganza!

It was a sound-and-lights show that depicts some portion of the creation of the universe... or something like that.

For dinner that night, it's vegetarian bento boxes at home -- from the whole- and organic- foods store that we found the day before.

Mmm! A giant veggie sushi roll, and cute little soy sauce from the convenience store across the street.

On Saturday morning, it was time to move hotels -- via JR!

The Hyatt Regency was built in an era that bricks were hot.

And inside, the lobby is really quite grand.

Going back to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government buildings for another shot at the observatory -- this time in the morning.

They represent their elevator services like a subway map, showing connections and express routes! For us, the yellow route.

Umm.... what kind of guide is that exactly?

Beautiful, clear views on the Saturday morning.

Looking east-ish, from the skyscraper area just west of Shinjuku... in the background, the new Tokyo Sky Tree.

And a surprisingly clear view of Fuji-san!

It's still pretty far ... but not a cloud between Tokyo and Fuji-san.

The Hyatt was located right on the edge of a public park.

Reflections in the adjacent tower.

A ball of... panda balls. How is this souvenir related to the observation tower?

The Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, a 50-story educational facility in Shinjuku.

This new JR train is clever -- the seats fold up for extra people-packing during rush hour.

An exciting escallator -- with a flat patch in the middle of the ascent!

And it's Akihabara for the afternoon!

The giant bright posters went well with the gingko leaves.

An aptly-painted car for the area.

Bet you never thought you'd want to eat headphones!

Trying out a swanky new 3D TV in a big electronic store.

Wow! This TV was unbelievably thin.

My new tourist buddy.

Not sure why you'd be compelled to jump off the side of the escalator... but please don't.

One of the many cutesy girls who stands on the sidewalk handing out brochures for the various stores.

Colorful phones seem to really be hot right now.

Finally, you can have whatever pastelle-colored hair your heart desires.

These three girls come all the way to Akihabara, and decide that the tree is the most exciting thing to play with.

Pristine sky, pristine road... really, not sure how they do it!

Lots of people out to browse on the weekend.

The leaves on the ground really make it feel more like late October.

One of the big electronics stores offers free trials of the latest X-Box game... for all passers-by to see.

One of the many manga stores. Manga manga!

These mouse pads have, ahem, clever wrist rests.

Another girl advertising for a store.

One thing's for sure -- Tokyo's not a dull city!

Mister Donut! Finally we can try the Japanese grandmother of one of our favorite Bangkok joints.

And there are lots of special new treats to try!

I think this was a caramel pecan.

The shop also affords great views of the bustling pedestrians outside. And you can see what color is in fashion this winter!

Not sure what these flabby-lip guys are, but they're quite popular. I think they come from some keyboard characters: ( ' * w * ' ) ...?

Overly-friendly robots!

This bloodhound knew he was the king of the town!

He looks so at-ease enjoying a Saturday spin in the back of his convertable.

The Chuo Line local passes over the neighborhood on its way across the river.

A neat Sega arcade game -- very oriental.

Bicycles hidden off on a sidestreet.

This shop lets you rent private rooms and special chairs 24 hours a day to watch videos. I guess that's one alternative to finding friends.

Akihabara is really the place for all things electronic -- even components!

These wire cutters are for engineers only!

Anything a current passes through, you can probably find here.

Bye bye, Akihabara. You've been interesting!

Back at the hotel to check in, the skysraper neighborhood feels awfully crowded!

When we returned to the Hyatt, a wedding was afoot!

Our room was really nice -- modern, recently renovated. A pleasant surprise.

And we had a great view of the adjacent park.

The entire room was no larger than our Bangkok apartment -- but felt so much more functional. Could've lived there!

At Mr. and Mrs. Kanai's condo for afternoon tea. Here, I'm showing them photos on my iPad. The woman on the right is their half-Thai, half-Japanese neighbor who lives next door.

Mrs. Kanai asked, "Has Mike gotten larger?"

They looked just the same as last time I saw them -- at least 4 years ago.

At Iidabashi station, it's another funky escallator that levels out in the middle of the descent!

Again back at the Hyatt, living it up in the club lounge. It came with the room, what can I say.

Enjoying the Japanese perks.

At night, we're out to explore the hot areas around Shinjuku. Here's the affectionately named "Piss Alley."

It's a narrow narrow alley lined with tiny food shops on either side.

Most shops are only wide enough for the kitchen counter and one row of seats at the bar. Usually, the wall serves as a chair back!

As you can imagine, there were lots of aromatic, savory smells in the street.

Here's the famous Kabukicho area in all its nighttime glory.

It wasn't all red light material. There was lots of Karaoke, too. Unless "karaoke" means something else these days.

Clearly, it's another popular evening hangout!

This restaurant was packed inside, and had a huge mass of people waiting outside for seats.

The windows in this Karaoke bar were flashing all different colors.

Based on the pink billboard, we're not totally sure what this place offers...

These poor cashiers seemed to be forced to wear these costumes on the job.

A funky castle tops off this karaoke joint.

Even at night, crossing the street is a big production in this city.

Which part of Porky would you like to have for dinner tonight?

This pastry shop -- Beard Papa -- is extremely popular both in Tokyo and in Bangkok.

No shortage of magazines for train enthusiasts.

Enjoying a relaxed breakfast the next morning -- again in our club lounge. Thanks, BCG!

The view of the park from our room.

It's a bird... it's a plane... no, it's a giant butt in the sky!

Poking a giant eye in Shinjuku station.

Off on the Yamanote line, just a short hop to Harajuku.

A Sunday morning trip to Meiji shrine.

We certainly weren't the only shrine-goers.

There were lots of tour groups coming here -- both Asian and farang.

Squashed beer bottles?

This is part of a champagne donation scheme between France and Japan.

Trying to prop up the leaning gate.

Group shot!

The shrine is hopping, even in the winter.

More cold water with which to wash your hands.

This guy ... well, he just sits there.

Lots of people were following my lead.

Another gate at the shrine.

Cute kid out for a morning stroll, too.

These four Japanese women knew how to properly pay respect.

Colorful roof.

Natural walls.

Lots of placards with new year's wishes.

I'd be curious to know what they all say.

Why, it's yet another wedding! This one more traditional than yesterday's.

The bride... in winter wedding apparel.

The full procession.

Unrelated to the wedding, a mom and her son show up in traditional apparel.

In Harajuku, this boy is dressed more modernly.

The famed Takeshita Dori on a Sunday morning -- packed to the brim!

The first person we found in "cosplay" attire was in fact a westerner!

Quick, pick out the Asian in the crowd!

Shocked by the number and density of the crowds.

Another girl dressed up for the occasion.

What's under those clothes? Not much, I guess.

Clever idea for cute socks.

Hope you weren't planning to go anywhere in a hurry!

Menu of salads-in-a-crepe!

You need sun glasses to look at this girl.

More cute socks.

These two girls wore a different type of costume.

Espresso Tea. So strange, I had to try it. (It was warm, by the way.)

Yes. The shoes I've always wanted!

Yowzers. Now there's a radiant model.

Yet another take on the right costume for Harajuku.

This high-end boutique clothing store...

... is for dogs!

This baby looks like he was outfitted from that dog costume shop.

More Sunday shoppers getting ready to charge.

Fluffy little gal going out for a ride in her Sunday best.

These two lucky chaps get blue jeans and leather jackets.

Omotesando again, here in all its daytime glory.

A giant mosaic mural.

Now, at Ginza -- another great strolling area on a Sunday afternoon.

This family came out to take its annual Christmas portrait.

They block off the main street going through Ginza on weekend afternoons and turn it into a walking street.

There were lots of TV crews out, interviewing shoppers on the street. I think it might've been a game show?

In the basement food section of one of the department stores, we found this 100% vegan seller!

She's originally from Taiwan, but now she sells Japanese food and is trying to spread the gospel about vegetarianism in Japan.

Not a bad bento at all!

And we could eat it right in the middle of one of the poshest streets in Tokyo.

It's a good place to (rich) people watch.

Almost as crowded as Harajuku!

Another pooch out in his Sunday suit.

Two more interesting buildings in Ginza.

For good measure, one last group shot, Tokyo.

Back at the hotel to pick up our luggage, we run into the third wedding in 2 days!

I guess it's prime wedding season in Japan!

On the monorail to Haneda airport, someone is sad to be leaving.

Waiting patiently outside the Thai check-in for close to 3 hours. Thai really needs to revise its counter policies.

Boarding time: 0000!

Enjoying Japanese beer and snacks at the ANA lounge in the 1-year-old International Terminal at Haneda. Good-bye, Tokyo!

Bangkok Week 180

December 8, 2011

A cool winter weekend in Trad! And the Christmas festivities are really picking up in Bangkok.

A very sweet Christmas is in the air around Bangkok.

Meanwhile, in Trad, cooler weather is in the air, and Namwaan is in one of her winter dresses.

Marouy, however, has only his fur coat and ample natural insulation. He hasn't quite woken up yet!

He'll always take a neck massage.

Marouy knows when there are goodies to be had! Here, helping to unwrap a tin of chocolate chip cookies.

Off to the market (and the vet) in the back of the truck.

After nearly fainting in the back, he's given an upgrade on the way home. But he looks a bit squashed...

At least they can enjoy a view in the comfort of the main cabin!

Crazy hair!

Upgraded to the front seat. And if it looks like she's being strangled, she is... she's not a very good passenger.

Mr. Big Face here though is used to traveling in cars.

Back at home, a customer has his car in Top's shop. Check out the windshield addition that comes with a speaker job.

The speaker boxes in the back of the pickup.

And the detailing on the inside of the cabin doors.

After her bath, Namwaan needs some salon work to return to normal.

Lunch -- delicious home-made fried rice at the store.

Not sure what Top's got there, but he's got their attention for sure!

Uh oh! Namwaan in a box!

Recognize this car??? You might've once known it as a blue stationwagon!

Now, there's barely a recognizable feature. The front seats have been replaced with floor cusions, and the doors have sparkly silver detailing.

The rear windows have been replaced by a barrage of 12 speakers each.

Up close, theyre pretty snazzy. They have LEDs!

And they're sparkly silver. Note the matching gas cap door.

What detailing.

The monster in action, at night, live-advertizing for the shop!

Patriotic LEDs used only.

The LEDs bring out the sparkles.

Meanwhile, back at the store, the two doggies share a dinner (even though they're each given their own).

Patiently sitting around, waiting for customers.

Marouy comes along to destroy the peace. By hurling around his 50kg self.

This little girl's a bit calmer.

But she wonders why she's always being picked up by these crazy humans.

Meanwhile, poor Marouy gets an application of purple medicine on some long-time sores and dry spots.

It's almost bed time. That means -- one last energetic romp around the house!

Wrestling on the blankets to expend some nighttime energy.

Woah! A gourmet restaurant's worth of food.

Getting ready for bed: Namwaan gets her PJs.

Umm... the bed's for sleeping IN, you know.

The next morning, she still apparently hasn't figured out how the bed works.

But she's all tucked in and comfortable.

Jealous of the pajamas, Marouy decideds to try them on for himself. Too bad he can't see his image in the mirror.

One sleeps naturally, the other's eyes are being forced shut by fashion.

"Brother! What's wrong? I'll help you get it off!"

Using the iPad to look at photos from last trip.

And trying out a racing game.

Hmm. He seems to be waiting for something.

Even more food than the night before!

Happy, blurry diners.

Exotic dessert: sticky rice in jackfruit. Kind of looks like the jackfruit are eating the rice.

Um, Marouy, what are you doing?

Futile attept at tug-of-war. Although he was at a disadvantage on the slippery tiled floor.

Another exhausted evening... after having slept all day.

Reading on the dentist chair.

Namwaan really can't get any closer to the action. If we have any poodle hairs in our chili sauce, we'll know why!

Our office's nicely decorated tree went up on Tuesday.

Our building took a slightly more... ostentatious approach.

Bangkok Week 179

December 1, 2011

Granny crashed BGK's end-of-year party! And the annual Christmastime Ploenchit Fair.

BCG Bangkok's annual end-of-year party had a theme this year: Thai Temple Party!

But the party had a catch: "Traditional Thai" costumes required.

You will see that the costumes really spanned a wide spectrum -- although most were fairly "traditional".

But Granny crashed the party! Oh no!

There were lots of fair games, just like you'd find at a real temple fair. Here, throw sharp darts at the balloons!

Families were allowed, so there were a fair number of kids running around... but they weren't the only ones playing the games.

Here's Granny, taking aim!

Granny, with fellow MIT alum Robert (who just moved to Thailand).

Here's Granny with two of her kids, who joined the company earlier this year.

There was also a target-shooting game. Scary!

More "Traditional Thai" costumes.

Oh right, there was a dinner, too. Good thing Granny still has all her teeth.

Granny with another young'un.

Granny and the larger family.

What a cute office family! None of them is related to any of the others, though.

The Traditional Thai office laughs at a funny slideshow.

Our support staff came matching in 70s attire.

The two old farts! (Although it wasn't clear if John was going for Grandpa or yoga practitioner.)

And those whose costumes only materialized when they arrived and got scarves as door prizes.

All the foreigners (and even some spouses).

Um.... Traditional Thai hunters?

This group was a full extended family, complete with twin Mia Noi's and a maid.

Standing pretty.

Strangling the old lady???

How traditional!

Granny and our office's cleaning lady/ assistant.

More extended family and Granny.

Granny with the one son who's taller than she is...

...and getting pushed around by the same big bully.

One of our office assistant's kids is enjoying the gun game (a little too much, maybe?)

Granny and a colleague who lives very nearby her.

More adults enjoy some balloon darts.... a little too much?

More assorted Traditional Thai.

Our office cleaning lady and our IT guy's son -- who's just the cutest!

More makeshift family portraits.

Matching outfits and French spouses.

Another Grandpa! This one has a cane and a moustache. Can Granny borrow the cane?

(Real) families sit and enjoy some performances.

Pam, the head of our office, and her two Traditional Thai sons.

Granny and two fellow MIT graduates (the middle one's a Thai guy who was born and raised in Texas).

Another happy family portrait... comprised of three completely unrelated people.

Maybe Granny needs some pearls, too!

And the whole Traditional Thai office!

The next day, at the annual Ploenchit Fair, hosted by the British international schools in Bangkok.

A lunch of samosas, from a local Indian restaurant's stall.

This year, the fair was moved from it's traditional location at a riverside school to one that's as inland as they get!

A balloon dart game.... just like the one last night! Although this one's at a real fair.

Here, a balancing game... stay up on the surfboard as it spins and wobbles around.

The classic water balls... does this water look dirty to you?

The space was okay, but not as nice as the riverside location. Also, was it ever HOT.

Santa comes to Bangkok, but he can't stay long before his reindeer get dehydrated and insist on leaving.

No shortage of Christmas decorations... if only we needed some good tacky ones.

The same orgament seller that we bought from last year.

Cute skating Rudolphs.

By long-lost twin pink elephant is back, in a new location!

There was a painting studio and a coloring contest for kids.

And a local guy trying his arm at clowning around.

Some really quite pricy red cherries that obviously weren't selling too well.

Buying our annual raffle tickets...

...here's to round-trip tickets for two to London, donated by British Airways!

On Wednesday, Sittha went back to work for the first time in almost 2 months. There were vendors on the motorway.

Parts of the motorway had been raised (LH side) to be elevated above the water level. People and dogs were still parked and living in the center lanes.

You can see it's still flooded in the towns -- and how raising the motorway is actually effective.

At work, they'd built giant dikes to keep out the water.

You can see how high the water was, by looking at the dead vegetation and watermarks on the trees.

All these shrubs going down the median are dead now!

Bangkok Week 178

November 24, 2011

Christmas is in the air. But so are reminders of the ongoing floods.

At work last Friday, we were shocked to see these men dangling outside our window, on the 38th floor.

Celebrated the weekend with a nice Indian feast at a local veg-only Indian "cafe".

Delish -- even though the menu was all in Indian and we didn't have a clue what we were ordering!

In the old part of town, sellers are still pushing their inflatable boats and rubber waders.

Buy this boat for 1500 and they'll throw in a life jacket and two oars! What a deal.

Shops (even the unlikely) starting to get decked out for Christmas.

It's my Thai Granny costume! It'll either be a hit, or a HUGE miss on Friday...

Our Christmas Tree has a serious case of 11-month bed head.

This year, we got to add all the new ornaments that Chris gave us last year.

The final set-up. The oven is the closest thing to a fireplace that we have.

The fun snowmen candles from Chris are a nice reminder of the lovely seasonal weather that we're missing right now.

Bangkok Week 177

November 17, 2011

A long Saturday trip to donate supplies to flood victims in Nakhon Pathom (west of Bangkok).

We met at 5am to haul out donation supplies from an office building -- the black and white cans are actually temporary toilets.

We had a big 10-wheel truck, into which everything went! Packages for 700 famililes, plus toilets for another ~100.

When loaded up like this, it doesn't look like much.

The sleepy BCG contingent. Ali, the organizer, is on the right.

It wasn't exactly luxury riding in the rear of the truck, but we all fit.

Dawn was breaking when we finally left downtown Bangkok.

Good Morning, Bangkok. Now, how do we get out of here?

It was extremely bumpy back there -- and as a result, difficult to take non-blurry photos.

Can you tell it's breezy? (Actually, it was also very cool out.)

No point wasting time on a good hairdo.

Is it really possible to catch some zzz's in the back of a truck? Apparently!

Nong Ken (from the other group who was there) demonstrated alternate uses for the temporary toilet seat.

We must be getting close -- time to get up and check out the view.

A pit stop before entering the flooded villages. We had to clear our donations with the soldiers and local village heads first.

While on stationary land, why not catch a few more zzz's?

They're contagious!

Heading into the flood zone... this was only the beginning.

This home and shop appeared to be open as usual.

Here's the little village town hall. Normally, I guess that's a driveway.

Given the water level (see the pickup) this man's boat seems a *tad* overkill.

This family just carried on their breakfast as if nothing was different.

Young banana trees -- almost drowned!

This family was thrilled because their cement wall actually worked! Grandma's dry inside, and the kids are just playing in the boat.

A neighborhood dog comes out to see what all the fuss is about.

At our first stop, a few logistical stumbles before we figure out the best way to unload the truck.

It's a school, attached to a temple, where about 15 families have come to stay.

The flooding already comes halfway up the ground floor!

I guess no one's staying in the downstairs of these dorms. Doesn't the water look just lovely?

Some alternative vehicles parked at the schoolside.

Ali and team demonstrate how to use this Swiss-designed water filter -- meant to make ANY water drinkable. We demonstrated using the lovely green water you just saw.

At the next stop, 3 villages had organized around the local train station -- the only dry point for miles.

We unloaded over 500 donation kits for the 500+ families in the 3 villages.

The trains were still operating as normal -- and people were taking them to go buy groceries in other (dry) towns.

On the other side of the station, it looked more like a ship yard than a car park.

I believe people normally drive to this station.

A view down the "soi".

Normally this is a car park, not a boat dock.

This handsome black dog is wondering what all the fuss is about. At least it's easier to stay cool when there's water, right?

A local convenience store and inundated payphone booths.

Hmm. Rowing past a pickup truck.

This granny was returning from doing some vegetable shopping... just like the good old days, I guess.

This woman was very determined to get where she was going. Not that store, though.

Two dogs hung out on a makeshift floating dock.

A family was still living in this house. You can gauge the water level by looking at the door in the fence.

They came out to meet us by walking on a series of elevated planks.

This guy gave up on staying dry a while ago.

Hmm. Faster -- but probably more dangerous -- than paddling a boat.

No kids playing in this playground today... even though they'd have a waterslide.

Our last stop is a dip in the water at the village's head office, to drop off the rest of the supplies.

On the ride back, everyone's pooped!

The main road connecting these western provinces to Bangkok was badly flooded... people were still scrambling. Here, they float on a giant foam block.

Only large trucks were able to pass still.

Kind of reminds you of a cottage scene, right?

Here people take refuge under the raised supports of the flyover. But... where to go next?

Notice that pickup truck?

It's like a long, peaceful canal. Most vehicles couldn't make it this far.

This factory's taking a last-ditch effort to stay dry. (Check out the floating dock.)

Back in Bangkok -- we found where all the sandbags come from!

And in other news: it's Tom from Design Squad!

Bangkok Week 176

November 10, 2011

The floods hit close-to-home (but not quite home yet). Bangkokians adapt accordingly.

This shop didn't get the memo about constructing a cement wall.

Teens lean on the new cement walls, dreamily wishing they could be on the other side.

The wall's a very classy touch to this new Japanese restaurant.

Demonstration: how to climb over the wall to get into the mini-mall.

On Saturday outside Chatuchak Market, water was coming... but still confined to this middle lane.

You can see the water under the skytrain tracks... but the road is still passable by normal vehicles.

We were out-camera'd by the even more enthusiastic flood tourists.

Down on the street, enterprising vendors are selling life jackets and rubber boots.

On Sunday at Paragon's grocery store, extreme panic shopping and hoarding!

The Mazda dealership next to our apartment apparently doesn't plan to sell or service any cars in the near future.

In Ari, there are suddenly lots of rubber boot vendors.

The competition, directly across the sidewalk, sells more colorful options.

Stores have started to label their sandbag -- apparently those are being hoarded now, too?

This 7-11 dog can't figure out what the heck the fuss is about, or why these heavy bags are taking up his normal spot.

Do note that this photo was taken in the middle of the central business district, where there's zero threat of flooding.

Back at Chatuchak Market / Mo Chit BTS station on Tuesday: the situation has changed dramatically since Saturday.

What was once Phahonyothin Road is now Phahonyothin Canal.

Those brave commuters who still transfer here to their bus have to wade through knee-deep water, with the assistance of the army.

Only few buses still pass through these "streets" -- and wait a long time at this terminal station, to maximize their passenger loading.

Flatbed or pickup trucks with ladders in the rear are now a common site (and form of transport).

An alternative to taking the bus.

Look closely: this truck has 5 park benches and a ladder to climb on and off.

An army truck transporting civilians to... who knows where. Dedicated, but not-so-express service.

That's about it for rush hour traffic, on a "road" that's usually badly jammed. (That's a subway entrance in the background.)

Waiting for the bus? They may be waiting for a while...

This guy's wares were bobbing up and down in the styrofoam container behind him.

Not clear where this guy was trudging to.

Normally, this is one of the busiest parking lots in Bangkok -- a favorite point for park-and-ride commuters and a major van pick-up spot.

Is he waiting for his van?

I know this pick-up's not taking these people to their parked cars. So where...

Daily rush hour commutes are much less crowded these days -- also, a new trend in fashion!

Yaaay! A new 5-year multi-entry visa to Canada! Is this cause for celebration (or constipation)??

Bangkok Week 175

November 3, 2011

BCG SEA's annual get-together, this year in Bali! Also, (extreme) flood prep continues in Bangkok.

We stayed at the Westin Nusa Dua, on the eastern side of the southern tip of Bali.

It had 2 or 3 different swimming pools, and lots of palm trees. This photo is at 7am -- sun still not up yet.

Swanky water fall and water slide behind it. Would be great as a kid!

The rooms had bathtubs in the shower.

Although I was supposed to have a roommate, I got my own room at the last minute, due to many Bangkok cancellations.

The hotel was giving free massages - so immediately after we arrived, all our guys sat down for the treatment.

The resort has a large beachfront property.

But in the early morning, when the tide is low, the beach looks more like a swamp!

Probably could've walked out a good 1/2 km.

Overall, the property was large and lush -- too bad we didn't have more time to enjoy it.

It had a typical tropical resort feel -- outdoor hallways and lots of palm trees.

Two colleagues - Tak and Adrien - wonder why we're standing on the beach at the peak of the midday sun.

It was very blue -- sky and water -- but far too hot to swim at high tide.

Straight out of a travel brochure!

This family was returning from a speedboat tour.

Spent some time playing (or attempting to play) beach volleyball.

The heat sucks all energy out of you though!

For the famed performance competition, some of us were backup dancers for Tomtor's song-and-dance. Can you guess who's the original?

Scaaaary.

Only slightly less scary now.

Another one of our performances featured slightly "cooler" costumes.

Our dancers wore LED costumes on a pitch black stage. Real "wow" factor!

Back in Bangkok, I guess this family doesn't plan on using its driveway anytime soon!

With these swanky closed-foot "glass pants", we're really ready for anything now!

Even ready for an Italian runway.

This business is just next door to us. They've been "bagged up" like this for weeks!

Excessive, but meticulous, bag job.

Bangkok Week 174

October 27, 2011

A great weekend in Trad with the doggies ... and some pretty funny things are brewing in Bangkok as people wait for the water to come.

A weekend visit with my favorite mini poodle!

She's shocked by this strange human behavior.

Kisses for everyone!

Marouy, meanwhile, is very curious to see what's in the box. It must be food!

The Store (TM) got a swanky new double-door drinks fridge! How high-tech and spacious.

Warm, lazy morning kicks in already.

Never an inch doth separate the two.

He manages to insert his head under human hands at all times.

Marouy! Has no one taught you manners?

Oh my. What's gotten into the little lady?

Cold soda water and pomelo out at the store.

Enjoying the delicacy that is pomelo skin.

Top's latest side-project, in his new store. Recognize the car?

It's gonna be hott when it's done. Hopefully he can put it all back together.

Help. What's going on?

Hot afternoon downpour. Luckily, we have plenty of shelter.

I wonder if she likes being picked up, or if it's just that annoying thing that the humans do.

Short burst of energy before falling back asleep.

Lazy afternoon sitting around and playing Angry Birds. I bet Marouy would like that game.

Brotherly love?

Another round of delicious home-made dinner! Three types of curries alone.

Resigned to her fate as a cute and cuddly lap dog.

Imagine my shock when I found this guy waiting for me on the towel bar in the shower!

Hey big bro, can I save some of that iced tea?

How about some of that juicy pineapple?

A stare-down to the death.

Can you guess who came out on top?

Super-sleepy Sunday afternoon for all.

Just two lazy brothers, spending the warm afternoon as cooly as they can.

I prefer the kitchen floor tiles.

She's just like a stuffed animal... only slightly more animated.

Mom, can I help you cook? Please. Please???

Someone wasn't invited to look at photos from Chiang Rai!

Can't let her favorite toys out of sight. Someone might steal them.

Back in Bangkok, some rather desperate flood precautions have been undertaken.

At least these people thought to build some stairs, too.

It seems to be a neighborhood thing -- once one shop does it, everyone feels the need.

While most laptops are aiming for smaller and thinner, this giant mamma's going for the opposite.

Our new flood insurance!

Ultra-fashionable, as always.

The worst commute home ever -- long lines, disrupted service, packed trains -- but nothing to do with the flood situation.

My office building has outdone itself! Sandbags over 6 feet tall, three bags deep, plus a layer of tarp-covered oil drums surrounding the entire building.

Sandbag hoarding!

Even this guard looks confused as to how he ended up behind a bunker.

Shocking is an understatement.

And in the stores, the shelves have been swept clean of everything but the most expensive western foods.

Even the dairy section, which is never out of stock (it's dairy in Thailand after all) was emptied. You can identify the pricy products!

Obviously the rice is gone -- but even at the most expensive grocery chain in town?

Drinking water was here.

You can tell which products aren't used in Thailand!

Those crazy enough to hoard are crazy enough to think of their pets, too.

Okay, not *everything* is gone. These are too expensive to hoard.

Bangkok Week 173

October 20, 2011

Preliminary flood preparations, and the grand opening of the most monumental shopping mall that Bangkok's seen to date. Which will have a more lasting effect on our city?

Preliminary flood preparations underway in downtown Siam Square.

Playing his new race car game. Encourages good posture!

Now open -- Bangkok's latest and greatest shopping mall.

This one is completely themed around international travel -- feel like you're at an airport?

The mall shop directory looks familiar.

The poor women at the info booth are dressed like flight attendants (or, as they say in Thailand, air hostesses).

Express escalator service to Level 3 depart here!

Shoppers "depart" and "arrive" at every floor -- and each floor is themed to a different city.

Here's a giant 3-story Oscar. Oddly, there's no Hollywood.

The top-floor food court and restaurant level is themed to San Francisco.

The food court's great -- but perhaps the theming goes a little too far?

Delicious new veggie fare from a promising seller.

An empty threat, since pigeons generally avoid Bangkok shopping malls.

Dine at this restaurant, and eat in a street car overhanging the rest of the mall.

An ATM in San Francisco's Chinatown.

An aerial view of the express escalator that goes from G to 3.

Can you guess what city this floor is themed around?

Not clear if this shop understands the implications of its mascot.

Need to use the loo?

My long-lost bronze buddy.

Another floor has more Turkish tones.

And one floor below that is Tokyo!

Hey, I'm not the only one with such an immature sense of creativity.

More Tokyo alleys.

Pouvez-vous deviner la ville dans laquelle nous nous trouvons maintenant?

And on the ground floor is la bela Roma!

Exotic early-century travelers bid a fond farewell to shoppers as they depart.

I got one new thing out of that shopping experience: a t-shirt with a message!

Back in reality, my office building is prepping itself for the coming 40 days and 40 nights.

I think we discovered where all of Bangkok's sandbags have disappeared to.

Bangkok Week 172

October 13, 2011

What a great Birthday weekend. Thanks, everyone!

After a lovely 2-hour Thai birthday massage, all the muscles are relaxed and collapsing.

On birthday morning, a sexy new pair of PJs from Mum & Dad.

And a jaw-dropping iPad!

Welcome to Your New iPad!

It's a piano!

Later that day, having the protective film put on the screen.

My Angry Birds! In HD! Here's to the many lost hours of life to come...

Veggie cocktail wieners! Yum yum.

Hmm. Not so sure about this wiener.

Bangkok Week 171

October 6, 2011

Vegetarian week continues!

An unusually big sunset over Bangkok on Friday night.

J Week continues on the weekend with Hong Kong noodles, spring rolls and hot dogs.

Noodles in broth with "pork"!

Noodles in broth with (normally shrimp or pork) dumplings.

At Tesco Lotus, the festivities continue... with fake salmon, fake shrimp and fake eggs... mmm...

Heaps and heaps of veggie sausages and meatballs!

People probably nibble away at the cookies while puzzling the meaning of this sign.

Stopping for some steamed "pork" buns on the street.

Yum yum! Spicy pork buns!

Getting a perm, or waiting for Korean bbq?

Neither! It's vegetarian udon that he's been waiting so long for.

And just to mix things up a bit, some soba to go along with it.

Bangkok Week 170

September 29, 2011

Some bangkok holiday activities and the start of J-week!

Weekday lunch at Bangkok Bagel Bakery, a fairly authentic bagel shop that a guy from upstate New York opened 6 months ago.

Toasted sesame with garlic & dill cream cheese.

He loves his cinnamon raisin.

7-11 is already carrying its once-a-year line of instant vegetarian meals.

Taking a long-overdue trip to the Science Center, in central Bangkok.

They have a science center, aquarium, planetarium, environmental center and more. It was pretty impressive actually.

It's completely geared toward kids, but nice to know that there's a good hangout for kids that's not a shopping mall!

Some fishy friends.

This guy looked pretty scary. Not sure what he was.

Gimme a big smooch on the lips, lady.

The (in)famous planetarium.

He's been waiting to come here since he was a kid! Verdict? "Meh."

We stayed for the show -- an explanation of constellations, and then some meteor-hits-earth video.

The fancy thing that projects all the stars on the ceiling with such precision.

Guess who's super-special now?

First meal of J week!

Second meal of J-week! Streets worth of vendors to choose from in our neighborhood.

Bangkok Week 169

September 22, 2011

A wonderful three-day weekend in Chiang Rai, the northernmost province in Thailand. What a pleasant surprise the little city was!

A very neat lamp shade at a new Bangkok restaurant.

Off to Chiang Rai, on Thai Air Asia (FD).

Chiang Rai's Mae Fah Luang *International* airport has 100% more jet bridges than Khon Kaen's airport.

Our room at Le Meridien Chiang Rai -- on the top of the resort's 4 floors.

Swanky bathroom that opens into the bedroom.

And nice lounging area too.

Actually made use of this spacious balcony during our time there.

Our room had a view of the resort's sizable property, and of the Kok river on which it sits.

The resort is designed around a large artificial pond that links to the river.

A nice property with a three-tiered infinity pool on the edge of the river.

The very airy lobby with stylish design.

Downtown Chiang Rai: a chain grocery store, chain eye glasses store, really old department store and Thanachart.

The first of many vegetarian restaurants upon which we stumbled.

Now that we're fed, we're off on an adventure to find the famed white temple.

First, we track down the oldest bus in Thailand, and ride it 13km out of the city.

After getting off the bus and crossing a highway on foot, we arrive at Wat Rong Kun, aka the White Temple.

Around the perimeter of the temple, crazy sculptures that didn't *quite* fit the theme.

This sign forbids drunk people from entering the temple.

Not totally sure what's going on with these halloween-like decorations.

A small buddha image sits inside the ornate entryway to the temple.

This temple is a modern "unconventional" buddhist temple whose construction only began in 1997 (and is not yet complete).

Big fat fish swim around in the pond in front of the temple.

To enter the temple itself, you have to take a bridge that passes over a sea of hands reaching up from hell.

Here you see some of the many, many hands... and some Chinese tourists.

Not creepy at all...

... especially with the late-afternoon shadows.

Each side of the bridge is flanked by a giant Zeus-like monster. Better behave.

Crossing over the bridge, which represents the crossing over from the cycle of rebirth to the Abode of Buddha (ref: wikipedia).

The 4 o'clock sun made the white that much more overwhelming -- like sun hitting icy snow.

Some of the detailing. The black-looking color is actually clear mirror chips embedded in the carvings.

A rainbow hidden in the fountains.

A view of the rear end of the building -- not quite as ornate as the front face.

The temple's been described as a winter wonderland. That's not too far off.

Construction not yet complete!

This ornate gold building is... the toilets!

And here we are, in front of a very life-like backdrop.

The temple had two cabinets packed full of (nicely sorted and stored) lost-and-found items.

Phaholyothin Road! This is our street! It continues straight up from Bangkok, all the way through Chiang Rai to the border with Burma.

I guess we're 828 km away from our apartment (the road starts at Victory Monument, and we're about 1km above that).

On Saturday night, a family enjoys dinner outside their old traditional home. I hope they're not outside because the house can't support them all at once.

We were lucky to be directed to a HUGE walking street that happens on Saturdays.

This crate full of chirpers...

...were about to meet their demise, for a less-than-appetizing cause.

Thai-style sushi is another hot-seller.

These lanterns were put up as part of a "Celebrate Chaing Rai's special things" festival.

Glowing lanterns from below.

Mr Scarecrow wasn't enjoying the event nearly as much as we were.

Some local schoolchildren do a traditional dance. The boys were most enthusiastic.

A sea of crocheted cacti. Cute!

The main walking street goes off into the horizon... as far as the overhead lanterns hang.

Standard Thai souvenirs, but at 1/3 the price as in touristy Bangkok!

These coconut rats look creepily life-like.

Chaing Rai's famous clock tower, another piece designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, our friend who did the White Temple.

Not sure if this contraption really helps the rider, or hinders him (with added resistance).

Live music mixed in among the stalls of the walking street.

Vendors selling chocolate fondu (oh sorry, fondooz) by the stick.

An interesting snack: rice flour and sesame seed patties, barbecued and folded in half with sweet sesame paste inside.

Thai take on a familiar Japanese snack. Many fillings: red bean, chocolate, vanilla custard, fruity jams, etc.

Lots and lots of hand-made Angry Birds!

The townspeople enjoy themselves with song after song of Thai dancing. They know all the moves!

A creepy HUGE moth that looks like a terra cotta wall hanging... but is really just a creepy moth.

Exciting sunday morning breakfast buffet -- need that coffee.

One of the two giant rain trees (Albizia saman) around which the resort was designed.

More views of the resort. Our room's one of the ones in the background, on the top floor.

They have a pretty sizable, green property. I guess the rain serves them well.

A view upriver from the hotel, with mountains in the background. The river flowed surprisingly quickly.

A shot of the poolside, artificial pond, and the other giant rain tree around which the resort was designed.

Design not too shabby.

The three-tiered infinity pool. We'd return later.

Now we're at the Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture park, which was originally founded in the 70s as the office of the Thai Hill Crafts Foundation.

Lots of welcoming creatures all over the large property.

Before we even arrived at the first pavilion, we were greeted by a friendly duck couple.

Elephants line the entrance to the Golden Pavilion, a building the people of Chiang Rai built and presented as a gift to the Princess Mother to celebrate her 84th birthday.

It looks like they didn't originally use any nails or screws -- only wooden pegs and clever joints to hold the large structure together.

Inside (where no photos were allowed) there were ornate candelabras from provinces throughout Thailand.

A shot of the entire Golden Pavilion. The architecture was especially stunning from the inside: one giant, open room.

Some (creepy) totem poles carved out of teak.

Another pavilion...

... that housed a *really* long table!

Detailed woodwork on one of the pieces inside the pavilion.

Blending in with the locals?

Little mounds of freshly swept grass were scattered across the lawns.

A famous statue of the Princess Mother (who founded this park).

The entire property was like a well-groomed jungle.

Some of the trees looked like they were straight out of an oil painting!

Some neat leaves.

Another mothy friend.

Two jungle spirit houses, now one with nature.

A creepy pattern of bite marks. Who made these??

A giant teak tree root!

The frame of a traditional Lanna-style pavilion roof.

More really ornate columns (I guess they're not called totem poles in Thailand).

Another large pavilion, this one used for events.

Isn't the interior woodwork mesmerizing?

There's a large pond on the property of this park, and more mountains in the background.

A cute teak staircase.

The next big pavilion is dedicated to teak wood, carvings, and traditional everyday products.

Here, a display comparing all the different types of wood traditionally used in Thailand (not just teak).

Inspecting the age of this former teak tree.

One of the many rooms comprising the pavilion.

A golden wall decoration.

As you can see from the placard, it's a teak hand-cranked water lifting contraption.

And in the background, a spoon made specially for papa bear.

A coin-separating tray that seems clever, but all the slots look the same size to me!

An ornate bed headboard and footboard, plus some other furniture and a doorway carving.

This is a coffin that was donated to the museum after used in the funeral! What devotion by the family.

This is a very clever wash board -- the user sat on the mouse's back.

A contraption for writing scripture, which seems way more complex than it needed to be.

Some old teak instruments. Think they still work?

"Please take your seat." Okay!

Another ornately carved log...

...that's definitely not PG-13 if you look closely.

An army of elephants in the garden.

More giant teek roots. Again, kind of creepy!

Another Thai "totem pole".

One of the giant pavilions, as reflected across the pond.

Some bananas or 30?

Really quite a giant bunch of bamboo!

A little teak farm behind the museum.

And our friends the ducks again, haven't gone far since we passed them the first time.

They're curious to check out this stranger from the south!

Not interested in this person, though. She shows too much interest in them. They gotta act cool.

And off they go. Do they realize they can swim faster?

Wait, false alarm. Time to head back.

Back in town, we begin our temple tour.

This first temple is famous for its fat, happy Buddha.

Otherwise, it was just another temple in the middle of town.

A view of one of the town's central wet markets... covered, unfortunately for the photo.

Ahh... could buying limes be made any more difficult?

Ditto that for garlic.

And dried chilis, for that matter.

Cigars, anyone?

Another temple: Wat Phra Kaew, the original home to the emerald buddha (which is now housed at the Grand Palace in Bangkok).

This was probably the largest temple property in the city itself. Since the emerald buddha was moved to Bangkok, this temple was given a replacement.

Very ornate, and typical Lanna style.

Inside the first, ornate building are several buddha images, but not the replica emerald buddha.

There was a nice temple museum on the site.

Inside were lots of artifacts -- too plentiful to be on display elsewhere in the temple.

This buddha is made of Canadian jade.

Not sure what you call these long, kite-like hangings, but they're popular throughout northern Thailand.

The temple seems to raise turtles in a pond at the back.

This building in the rear is the one that houses the famed emerald buddha (replica).

Said emerald buddha (replica). You can get much closer to this one than you can to the one in Bangkok!

Enthusiastically gonging the gong.

Hmm. Do you think this place serves vegetarian food?

It was like eating lunch in someone's living room. Wait, it was someone's living room.

The shop owner did made-to-order, 100% vegetarian, dishes. Here, the stir-fried wide noodles.

And stir-fried basil with "beef" on rice. This dish was really good!

A peek into yet another temple, as we walk by.

Note the details of the monkeys supporting the elephant, who's supporting some other large two-footed creature.

A mosque peeks out from behind some shophouses. Let's go find it.

And here it is: Darun Aman Mosque, the largest Mosque in Chiang Rai.

Here's a colorful steamed bun shop, with lots of interesting fillings (pumpkin, sesame, corn and coconut, etc.)

The famous clock tower during the day (complete with touristy tuk tuk).

And the more underwhelming clock tower up the street, which hasn't won any accolades itself.

Another shop really likes to advertise its vegetarian cuisine.

After an exhausting day on the town, can't help but collapsing into a nap once returning.

Down at the pool for a late-afternoon swim.

Luckily, pool water's never too cool in Thailand.

Nice design and nice view for this pool.

The deck faces the river.

Not a shabby place to relax and read.

Writing some postcards, before I get too lazy about it.

Sunset over Chiang Rai (whose average elevation is 580m, apparently).

Tonight for dinner, a relaxing meal on the balcony. Not quite room service.

Dishes made freshly for us by our vegetarian lady earlier that afternoon. Too bad we didn't have a microwave in our room.

On Monday morning, another shot of one of the rain trees. Hopefully that tall foreigner gives you a sense of just how large the tree really is!

If only it were a little thicker, it'd make a perfect battle shield.

It was drizzling all morning.

Waiting out the downpour on the balcony, and following the Emmys online.

Beached whale! Getting in some laps before checking out.

Giving the rusty stroke its annual tune up.

And we're off to check out the temples that we haven't seen yet.

Here's Wat Jet Yod, famous for its seven-spired chedi.

It also has a rather large buddha.

This temple dog couldn't contain himself; the itchy back just got the better of him.

Ornate door at the entrance to the temple.

Have to say, the seven-spired chedi (the namesake of the temple) was a bit underwhelming.

And Wat Phra Singh. Can you read the text below?

This chedi is far more impressive than the one at the previous temple.

The entryway to the temple is very minimalist -- the Nagas have been replaced by a lotus-like spiral.

Dew on an assortment of lily pads.

Chiang Rai's train library! Every city worth its name has a train library.

Unfortunately, this one is closed on Mondays.

Lunch at yet another vegetarian restaurant. Starting to wonder if it's some kind of cult or something.

They still use pedicabs in Chiang Rai... but the drivers of most look to be as old as the tradition!

This street, just outside the town center, is lined with beautiful old trees that shade the sidewalks nicely from the sun.

Here's the subtle entrance to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, which sits on the top of a hill. You have to work to visit this temple.

The entrance is in need of a small touch-up.

But it's always protected by a family of hens and roosters.

The temple itself looks, well, just like all the others!

But this one has some handsome dogs guarding it. (Actually, she's a handsome female.)

The dogs know where it's coolest, even if it's with the buddha.

The temple did afford a nice view. (That's not a painting on the back wall of the hut!)

Between us and that mountain is... a golf course.

Giant lotuses hold reminders of that morning's rainstorm.

The site is also home to the City Pillar, which is home to the city spirit deity.

This site is also the belly button of the city.

Here's Overbrook Hospital, founded in 1903 by a missionary in Chiang Rai.

We found a nice little ice cream shop, with home made Thai-style ice cream and coffee.

We both tried the young coconut flavor, and used the break to see what we had left to see before departing.

Completing our unintentional tour of places of worship, here's a church.

The Chiang Rai First Church was built in 1914. Was it the first?

Hmm. Can we really buy our Christmas tickets here?

While killing time before our flight, we stop to put up our tired feet for half an hour.

Last dinner in Chiang Rai, back at the first vegetarian restaurant we found. (They'd managed to completely re-arrange their shop between our two visits.)

Back at the airport, this cut-out has some serious proportion issues.

The airport is still waiting for its first international departure... but when it happens, they'll be ready!

While waiting for our flight, testing out the new Ford Fiesta. Not bad.

Thai Airways' flight to Bangkok departs from the LH door. Air Asia's flight to Bangkok departs on the right. And ladies and gentlemen, that's it for the airport.

Bangkok Week 168

September 15, 2011

What an eventful Bangkok weekend!

Krispy Kreme opened in Bangkok one year ago this month. There's still a queue.

Zen and Central World are not making quite as much progress as Krispy Kreme.

Spotted in the Paragon food court: "KNOCKING ON THE AQUARIUM IS A CONSIDERABLE DISTURBANCE FOR RESIDENT FISH"

A giant Comic-Con fair in Bangkok -- a scene straight out of Big Bang Theory!

Everyone's taking photos of everyone else.

There's a Japanese Manga spin on most of these costumes.

Ahh! Overwhelming.

Even in the mall.

Uniqlo Bangkok! Opened on September 9th... to a huge queue, in true Bangkok fashion.

It keeps going...

... and going ...

...and going...

... aha! In a different section of the mall altogether.

Colorful Bangkok jam!

Bangkok Week 167

September 8, 2011

Low-key weekend in Bangkok.

Friday night dinner at Govinda, a famous vegetarian Italian place.

A cute atmosphere and fairly authentic, homestyle Italian food.

Spinach gnocchi with zucchini.

Freshly baked lasagne. Hot hot hot!

The mascot of Ayuttaya's campaign for Expo2020. Not quite himself yet.

Ahh, that's better. Hello, anyone in there?

Ayuttaya 2020! Where everyone is chubby and has goofy smiles.

Bangkok Week 166

September 1, 2011

Back in Trad for the weekend, for the annual memorial service to the grandparents. This year, it was held at home. What a fun village gathering!

The sleepy mop doesn't realize what a busy day she has ahead of her.

Mr. Lazy can muster enough energy for an enthusiastic greeting.

The ground floor of the house has been completely cleared for the monks.

Lots of salted fried fish queue up for their role in the ceremony.

Radioactive pickled limes... a special side-dish, apparently.

Some of the first people to arrive help by unpacking the dishes and preparing the easy food.

The world's largest rice cooker! She needs to use an entire plate to scoop out the rice!

Suddenly the mop awakens and is quite eager to say hello!

Quick tick check on Mr. Sleepy. He's not bothered.

The ordeal progresses in the kitchen. At least 10 identical sets of trays (one each for mains and desserts) were prepared.

The local grannies chat while waiting for the monks to arrive.

Only a fraction of the total spoons used.

Top's new store! It dwarfs THE store.

The kid who came spent most of his time with the dogs.

Resting before the commotion starts.

Preparations continue in the kitchen.

Outside the kitchen, a pineapple-chopping operation.

Each tray has its own new bottle of fish sauce.

The dessert trays -- stil missing one plate to be added later.

Still dishing out more food for the trays.

Operation almost complete! No room left to walk.

The offering for the grandparents.

The grandpas wait for the monks to arrive.

People are sitting and waiting outside the house, too.

The finished product. Enough food to feed a village! Lucky...

Back in the kitchen, the ladies start eating the leftovers while waiting for the monks to arrive.

To sit in this circle of grannies, you need a lace shirt!

The finished dessert trays, clockwise from top:

Raw/ boiled vegetables, intended to be eaten with spicy dip. Lots of leftovers didn't make it onto the trays!

Not sure if there will be enough food...

Some of the sweets.

Now that the monks arrive, the entire temple is at the house.

People pile into the living room. But many remain in the kitchen or outside in the front.

The overflow room.

After the chanting, the monks are given lunch first.

Now, people sit around waiting for the monks to eat. They have to finish by noon.

Just enjoying all the company.

At last, it's time for all the guests to eat. It's a real feast!

Now, it's the monks who are watching. Awkward?

The kitchen ladies are still in exactly the same spot.

Afterward, it's a lengthy clean-up process. Here, packing up the leftovers!

A 10-person dish washing operation. At least Top's new store is going to good use!

Back inside, we throw coins at the guests, who try to catch them for good luck.

The mop outside was yapping the entire time the monks were chanting!

Taking advantage of the mid-day sun, drying the dishes in the open air. Unfortunately, rain was in the forecast.

A mini-washing operation.

And the drying-and-packing operation, under the shelter of a roof.

After the ceremony at home, we go to a canal to release some fish and turtles for good luck.

I hope they like their new environment!

I think the turtles were in shock. I'd be!

Belated Mother's Day present: lacquered bamboo bowls.

Completely exhausted after the morning's to-do.

Top even has logos for his customers' cars. Good advertising!

Meticulous skill required to apply successfully.

Back inside, the two young ones burn off some evening energy.

Action shot! Look how she blends in with the bed.

Marouy's captured his prey!

And now he's got her pinned up against a dummy.

Anyone know what kind of flower this is???

Morning massage.

Time flies when you're having fun?

Bangkok Week 165

August 25, 2011

Bangkarta.

Indian tempura. Was excited for the okra... until I had the unfortunate realization that they're entire chili peppers!

A big celebratory dinner...

... for the newly-licensed driver!

Enough pizza to feed a whole DMV.

Overly ornate room at the Kempinski Jakarta.

Feels like an over-the-top living room?

With a perfect view of the largest shopping mall in Jakarta (and 10th largest building in the world).

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