Second day in Bangkok

On our next day in Bangkok we had 9 am orientation after going to bed at an undetermined time. The orientation was basically a get to know you session that led into our tour of Bangkok. We met all of the other volunteers from around the world most of which are still in their late teens to early 20s (Kelsey even found another ND grad). 

The tour started with a ride on a boat through the canals to our first destination. The first place was a local food market where if you wanted good luck you could eat a live eel! We were still feeling lucky from rubbing the Buddha's hand the day before so we passed on the eel eating. Cyle even ended up getting a bowl of vegetables albeit fried vegetables, which were really delicious. We also tried fried pancakes topped with a custard and Kelsey got a Thai omelette filled with vegetables and sweet pork. 

The next stop was a Hindu temple, Wat Arun. We were allowed to scale the temple and oversee all of Bangkok. The steps were so steep that you had to use two railings to avoid falling backwards. Looking down definitely made one's knees weak. At the top we signed our names on a banner that apparently makes you beautiful (fingers crossed). 

We then had a short boat ride to the next place, Wat Pho. Wat Pho houses the third largest Buddha in Thailand. The Buddha is 42 meters long and is reclining on a propped elbow. It was really quite stunning. Wat Pho is also considered the first Thai university because it is where they first taught Thai massage. 

The last stop on the tour was the Grand Palace. Unfortunately, we were starting to feel a little ill here due to the extreme heat--107 degrees! We couldn't drink enough water to sustain energy in the extreme heat and humidity. Luckily, 1.5 L of water here is less than 50 cents. We managed to power through and take some riveting pictures of the King's house and grounds. 

We then rode a Tuk Tuk (that decided wheelies would be fun with 4 people in the back) to the hotel. We then chugged more water and took a much needed nap. Upon arising from our deep slumber, it was time to go out with the whole starfish group and leaders. We ate dinner, drank some beer, casually ate a scorpion and danced at a chaotic club. (Kelsey and Colleen skipped the scorpion and chaotic club to hunt down the falafel food cart but settled with delicious spring rolls instead). Overall, a pretty good night and tiring day that ended with all of us face planting on our beds.