With camera in hand, I was
easily targeted by street sellers
hawking everything from curios
to pirated goods to tempting
nightlife. The slightest glance
at any item began negotiations,
but I was seeking culture and
a higher sense of being, so I
waited patiently to tour The
Royal Palace and visit the
ancient capital of Ayutthya.
And for souvenirs, the Jim
Thompson Silk Factory would
certainly cover my needs.
Ava wooden Buddha
18th century
Dazzling opulence greeted us
at The Royal Palace, located on
a small island along the Chao
Phraya River, where steeply
pitched roofs covered in orange
and green tiles shared the
skyline with tower-like golden
spires, resting on white stucco
buildings ornately decorated
with glimmering inlaid mirrors,
faceted gemstones, and
gold leaf. Hideous monsters
guarded every doorway and
elaborate murals adorned
entire hallways.
Tourists
pressed together at every
point of interest seeking better
HYLAND
