February 17 & 18: Ko Samui
Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand. The island was probably first inhabited about 15 centuries ago, settled by fishermen from the Malay Peninsula and Southern China. The name Samui is mysterious. Until the 20th century, it was an isolated self-sufficient community, having little connection with the mainland of Thailand.
We sat in the front of the tinder on the way to shore and got a thorough shower from the waves. First stop with a stop at the Golden Buddha temple which was very beautiful. We had a Thai lunch buffet which was delicious. We stopped to see some coconut picking monkeys which were entertaining. Then we stopped at a beautiful viewpoint.
February 19 : Laem Chabang (Bangkok)
Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and the most populous city in the country. The Ancient City is a re-creation of the city from the past. There are a number of different temples and some live water buffalo along with a display of water buffalo. The tour guide gave historical information on the two-hour ride there and then on a tram ride around the park. The trip there was on a modern highway and there were some modern, high-rise buildings but also many small houses along the river where traditional net fishing was being done. Then, many fields of fish farms. Most of the trip could be considered suburbs of Bangkok.
February 20 : Laem Chabang Grand Palace
The spectacular Grand Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Bangkok. It was built in 1782 and for 150 years was the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government.
February 21 : Sea Day
A change in travel due to Wuhan- Coronavirus. It kept us in Laem Chabang one extra day so additional trips were provided.
Laem Chabang Floating Market
We traveled to the Floating Market. Actually, it was not particularly impressive. It is a replication of what had been original in Bangkok. Simply commercial products and food
We saw the Sanctuary of Truth which is perhaps the most iconic structure in Pattaya. It is intricately carved entirely from teak wood. The 105-meter-tall hall is awe-inspiring and a one-of-a-kind structure in the whole world.
We walked through and then back to the ship.
February 22 : Home Again
The trip back was a nightmare, airport experience due to the fact that all tourists were being sent home. There were repeated screening (temperature), crowds, delays but eventually, we got on a flight and had a good flight home.
Next Stop Caribbean