Back in the long skirts.

That day off was nice though.

After unloading our new goods from Weekend Market, Molly and I set off to explore the Grand Palace and Wat Phraw Kaew (“wat is Thai for temple). Because we read ahead, we knew we needed to be dressed modestly. Long skirts and no bare shoulders. Never dressed within those constraints before. I had packed one of my many long skirts and Molly bought one off the street the night before, so we were ready.

As soon as we entered the grounds we were solicited by tour guides. We decided to join up with Jitra, a little Thai woman with an abundance of energy.

Jitra not only imparted on us her knowledge of the temple, she also took charge when it came to photography. “Take photo of this!” “Take photo here. Very beautiful!” “You stand there. I take photo!” Molly and I have enough photos of us to last a lifetime… or at least the next few years. (Below is just a sampling). Jitra was enjoying directing our afternoon so much that she even directed me into which bathroom stall I should use. Now that’s a service not included in your standard tour guide fee.

Honestly, I don’t remember too much about Wat Phraw Kaew except that it was exceptionally decorated and full of tourists and worshiping Thais. I mean, it is supposed to be the most sacred spot in all of Thailand.

After our tour Jitra helped us get a “deal” on a boat ride to another wat across the river. Ahem… more on that later.

I believe this was also the day my suspicion that I’m allergic to DEET was confirmed.

xo, jill