It's impossible to avoid thinking about the thousands of people who were stranded here a few weeks ago when the airport was closed. Not to downplay the incredible inconvenience of that - or for those with emergencies, even worse - but being stuck in Bangkok would be a bit like being stuck in Manhattan. Anything you could possibly want is available day or night, and possibly just outside your door. Need some silverware? A pair of shoes? Spare part for that '68 Mustang? A potato, maybe? Someone on the street outside will be selling it.
For less than $60 a night I a have a beautifully renovated apartment (with washer/dryer), daily maid service, gym, pool, and breakfast included...just 3 blocks from the Skytrain and river taxi. As I head from the 16th floor down to the street, I am saluted by the elevator attendant. "Good morning sir!" I pass a maid in the hallway who wais and bows graciously to me. "Good morning sir!" The bellman salutes me as I pass the reception desk."Good morning sir!" "The doorman rushes to open the door for me."Good morning sir!"
I leave all this behind as I step through the gate onto the small soi in front of the building. The air fills with the scents of dried fish, diesel fumes, and barbecued pork.Suddenly, a stranger sound. "Baaaaaaa"
And again, louder "BAAAAAA!"
A young boy is walking in the street with a lamb. On a leash.
This is so cute - and unusual - I ask if I can take a photo. As soon as I have the camera out, three more boys appear with another lamb. They all ham it up (lamb it up?) and we take pictures and laugh.
But as I walk away the inevitable thought occurs to me....Pets? Or dinner?
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