Hopping The Train At Hua Lamphong Station, Bangkok

Bangkok has a nice, old train station in the center of town, a good place to start a day trip on the rails of Thailand. The station's got a European style to it, reminiscent of Paris or Italian examples that feature the new steel work of the time. Hua Lamphong opened in 1916.

Always on guard at the entrance. Nice curve to the central atrium waiting area.

Inside, a bit mucked up with flea market tables of stuff for sale and blah office chairs. But wait, you can get a waffle hot dog! Breakfast and lunch in one bite!
Someone was inspired to do a series of great manger-like scenes at the end of the tracks. Thanks!

Leaving Bangkok, first through the platform and then onto the train.

Sarah and Thai woman, counting miles, passing time.

Getting us where we want to go. An out of place traditional pagoda at a rural stop.

Thailand between cars, rice always in view.

Grand Palace, Bangkok

The Grand Palace was the official residence of the kings of Siam - and later Bangkok - from 1782 to 1925 and it's still used for official events, royal ceremonies and state functions. Fortunately, its sprawling grounds are also open to the public, making it one of Thailand's most popular tourist attractions.

One of the many imposing buildings in the complex.

Gold against blue skies is the over-riding theme of the place. Opulence has found a home.

More buildings, more tiles, more gold.

So what's going on in some of the buildings? A little offering, a lot of prayers. Wait, do we see a bit of nature struggling to be recognized, a little green in the sea of tile?

Photo op. The umbrellas that double as guards against a pocket book ever touching the ground.

One more glance at the Grand Palace grounds.