Long Live the King

On the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyades's 84th birthday, today was a state holiday in Thailand filled with much pomp and celebration. The government is planning 7 days and 7 nights of celebration because this birthday marks the King's 7th 12-year birthday cycle, a notable milestone for the Thai. The King is very much loved by the Thai people and is currently the longest reigning king in the world.

Today we traveled mostly by water taxi up and down the Chao Phraya River to our various destinations. The river is a great way to avoid the constant traffic jams and crowded streets of Bangkok. We first went to the Grand Palace to catch some of the festivities for the King's birthday. There were 10s of thousands of people around the palace, all waving flags of Thailand and the King's crest. While we didn't see the King, only a brief glimpse of his motorcade, we were able to see a parade of military bands and color guard. Then we walked to experience some of the many street scenes and markets in the area.

In the afternoon, we explored Wat Arun, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Bangkok. It has unique tower-like shape that is a distinctive landmark along the river.