Sawasdee ka!

Sawasdee ka is the traditional Thai greeting for "hello," although I think it is used much like how we use the word "Aloha" in Hawaii.  Sawasdee ka can mean hello, welcome, and goodbye.

Yesterday was a fun-filled day from start to finish.  We got up early, and took a tuk tuk (one of the best/easiest ways to travel around this CRAZILY busy city) to Mae-Rim to visit the Tiger Kingdom.  The Tiger Kingdom was such a wonderful experience, we got to visit with five different sets of tigers, ranging from 3 months to 2 years old.  They really are just big kitties!  They are playful, loving, lazy, and love having their bellies rubbed -- just like all the other house cats I know!

 

After the Tiger Kingdom, we decided it was finally time to try a traditional Thai massage, which combines elements from yoga and acupressure.  For being so tiny, those ladies sure are strong!!  We both got foot reflexology massages and traditional Thai massages (James - full body, me - head/shoulder/back only).  The four massages were one hour each, and we paid just around $20 USD for everything.  This is definitely a luxury that can, and will, be had daily while I'm here! 

After our massages, we ventured down the street to eat some dinner.  As expected, it was delicious and cheap - our entire meal, including beers, was less than $8 USD!

Pad Thai with shrimp

Chinese kale in a chili/fish sauce

In the evening, we went to the Night Bazaar.  Basically a huge night market where street venders sell you ANY and EVERYthing, and you are expected to bargain for your items.  I didn't think bargaining was in my blood, I mean, I pay full price at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet!  However, James did the first few purchases and I got to see how it should be done.  My best score was getting one skirt at 350 baht down to TWO skirts for 360 baht. 

The Terrible Towel made an appearance at the Night Bazaar

Of course, we had to sample all kinds of random street food!

What an amazing day!!  Today we visited a famous wat (temple), ate more street food, rented and cruised around on our own motorbike (moped), got massages, and watched MUAY THAI boxing at the Thaphae Boxing Stadium!  Stay tuned for those pictures tomorrow, friends!

- Meredith ♡

[Carpe Diem!!]