We arrived in Bangkok late Thursday night and took a bus to Khao San Road, which was the only place in Bangkok we had heard to go to. When we arrived, the street was packed, full of foreigners with big backpacks. We partied here for a couple nights.
One instance in Bangkok stands out. The second day there we were looking for a temple (Wat Phra Kaew). We knew it was walking distance from Khao San Road, but unknowing of the area, we were cautious to go further without double-checking the map. As we looked at the map, a friendly Thai man asked us where we were going. We showed him on the map and he said, "Oh, yes. That is very nice." He asked us where we were from and told us about some sights he recommended for us. He said there was a temple with a sitting Buddha, and another (as he marked on the map) with a standing Buddha. He assured us seeing these Buddhas would bring good luck for the new year. He proceeded to tell us about his year at the monastery when he shaved his head and lived as a monk. This guy spoke perfect English, and his charm was impeccable. When he told us the Tuk-Tuks with yellow signs were more expensive, and the Tuk-Tuks with white signs were hired by the government, we believed him. He said that the temples we wanted to see today were closed because of a Buddhist holiday (a complete lie!), and his itinerary would be better for today. So we got into this Tuk-Tuk, that just happened to be across the street. I have to admit, before we got in I shot Steve a wary glance. But we were both eager to go sight-seeing, so, why not?
Our first stop was the sitting Buddha, to which we prayed. The next stop was a shop that sold quality, custom-tailored suits-- wait, what?! Next stop please! We then looked at each other in acknowledgement that we were being duped, but also a smile like, "mai pen rai" which translates to "it doesn't matter" or "no problem" according to our guidebook (and apparently a common Thai value). The people are very laid back! Anyway, our next stop was the standing Buddha: a very tall, gorgeous Buddha to which we offered incense and flowers. Next on the itinerary was a landmark called Golden Mountain, but the Tuk-Tuk driver said we should go to a souvenir shop first. Needing to buy postcards and such, we agreed. Then we arrived to a building. We walk inside and I was amazed when I saw the biggest Jewelry store I have ever seen. Souvenirs? Oh sure, my sister would LOVE a $600 ring! So when I finally could keep a straight face we listened to the jeweler's spiel. I actually liked being told what nice hands I had, and how cute it would be if I got a ring with my birthstone (sapphire) and Steve's (diamond) together. Then I noticed a sign that said, "Gift Shop" and sneaked away from the saleswoman. The actual gift shop had really great deals, so I bought myself a purse! Our last stop was closed so we went back to Khao San Road.
After a nice day sight-seeing (and slight coercion to buy custom-made suits and jewelry) I couldn't believe we had been tricked into a bogus Tuk-Tuk tour. I mean, at least 3 people and even more websites explained the warning signs. There's even a Wikipedia page about stuff like this. We found out the reason they can drive you around all day for so cheap is that the jewelry stores and suit shops give them gas coupons for bringing in customers. So, when all was said and done, Steve and I had a great time and if we had to do it over, we would still go along with it! As the saying goes, "When in Rome..." and what's that other saying, "You can't scam the willing?" :P
The Infamous Tuk-Tuk of Thailand
Uh-oh, a yellow sign. Better be careful! :P
Stop 1: Sitting Buddha
Stop 3: Standing Buddha (over 50 meters tall!)
No comments:
Post a Comment