Short Break In Thailand Amidst Protest.

Went on a short break in Thailand. We flew on the 29th January morning amidst reports of shooting and bombing in Bangkok. We decide to to go as the airport is still open. Out of safety reason, we decided to re-route to Pattaya.

Had breakfast at the airport after we landed, then look up a taxi to take us direct to Pattaya. It's about 2 hours' drive. We by passed Bangkok. We were all exhausted and napped in the car as it was a very early flight. The taxi dropped us off at Premier Signature.

http://www.signaturepattaya.com/eng/

The hotel is great, spacious room with Wifi & pool. We skipped the breakfast as there are plenty to eat in Thailand. Signature is located at the end of the street, South of Pattaya, away from the noises. Tut tut stop right in front of the hotel. It's only 20 Bath per ride per person.

 The room were spacious, with a large bathroom that comes with separate shower and large size bathtub. I personally like the rain shower.

Pattaya is fun. Food, shopping, massage and chill out.

Ripley's Belive It Or Not. There is a balloon ride that takes you up & up.

McD is very nicely decorated in Thailand. It house a McAfee too. It's unlike our monotonous McD in Malaysia.

Even the loos are creatively labeled with is a norm in Thailand.

Temple visit Pattaya Royal Monastry.

http://www.letsrelaxspa.com/

Time to relax. We actually wanted to go to The Relax, but the driver to us to Let's Relax which is also good. We went there twice. Both times I fell asleep, and was told by my wife that I snored too, which was so embarrassing for her. Let's relax is a chain spa, with location in many parts of Thailand. Must make it a point to try the Four Hands Thai Massage on the next trip. Wonder how I'll feel?

http://www.labaguettepattaya.com/

There is a French bakery further up the road. It was pack when we arrived, but as we relaxed for a long time, most of the quest had left by then. They served lots of wonderful food. Ice cream, crepes, sandwiches, cakes, pastries, chocolate etc... All of my favorites. I guess I can eat there for a week.

The deco is marvelous. In-doors and out-doors, both were extremely inviting. We sat out-door. Great view of the busy Street and a cooling tree.

No fun is complete without patronizing the Tiffany's. Managed to get tickets at a discounted price from agents. 700 baths for the ticket priced at 1,200 bath.

We "ran" Fuji Restaurant after Tiffany's. It immediately brought back great memories on our trip to Koh Samui. Sushi for supper.

http://www.fuji.co.th/2009/TH/home/index.php

They have more than 94 branches through out Thailand.
Left for Bangkok in the morning. Had some difficulties arranging for transfer to Bangkok City. We had booking into In Residence, Bagkok Suhkumit. It is located near Nana BTS station. The upper and lower part which is the protest zone. Finally manage to find a transfer on the understanding that should there be a 'lock down' we shall be transferred to the nearest train station. Checked out at noon. The driver checked the situation along the way and finally was told the road is clear.

http://www.inresidencebangkok.com/

 As the occupancy rate was low, we were given an upgrade to a larger suite. Location is also great, within walking distant to the train station. There is also a free shuttle to the station. There is plenty to do in this area, shopping, eating and chilling out. Prices were cheap too, must be due to the 'lock down ' effect. We still see lots of tourist, especially relaxing at the bistros, pubs and bars. Some are practically full.
 Our main iternary for this trip is for Thanks Giving at the Erawan Shrine. It is actually a Hindu shrine, with a statue of Phra Phrom (4 faced Brahma), the Thai representation of the Hindu creation god Brahma. It is located at the intersection of Ratchadammri Road, border of the Ahsok 'lock down'. Access to this area is easy with the sky train Chitlom Station.

Erawan Shrine

 We engaged the Thai Dance Troupe to perform a thanks giving dance. There was a huge crowd, even with the protest on. Lots of tourist too.

The protest was done in an orderly manner. I wish Malaysia can do the same.

Protest Zone.

There are also shopping inside the protest zone. Protest in the center, lined by temporary make shift stalls at both sides.

The Coconut Protest. Let's join in the fun and just protest about the coconut.

There were so much fun at that area, but I think shoppers are lesser. Even super heroes joined in the fun.

Let's Party.

Apologies.

Went back to Nana area at night. Had to leave tomorrow morning (2nd Feb.), things were toned down that night in preparation for the election tomorrow. Even the night spot is alcohol free, but patrons are still hanging around. As usual, we'll definitely be back. I love Thailand.