A man in Manila, a few trips to Thailand, and Xmas (why not?)

May 2023

We had a three-day weekend, so I took a quick trip to Manila. Next time I go to the Philippines, it will be for beaches and nature. 

Fort Santiago from Manila’s time as a Spanish colony. 

Lego replicas. 

Cute pup. 

Need a lite? 

Cathedral of Manila. It has been destroyed 8 times and they always build it back. 

The cheese and avocado ice cream was surprisingly good. 

Casa Manila

Very European vibes in Manila. 

Nice Natural History Museum.

Lolong, a 20+ foot croc found in 2013.

Colin and Confusius. 

The better KKK helped the Philippines gain independence from Spain in 1892. 

You can certainly have a nice few days in Manila. 

For spring break I went back to my favorite place, Thailand! Started in Thammarat, where I met a cool dog and a friend. 

Made some new friends as well. I was just walking down the dam and this group of people asked for a picture with me, I think because I am a white guy, it has happened a few times. 

Did some kayaking down the river. 

Feeling free as a bird. 

Stayed in a nice little lodge on the river at a place run by a very friendly husband and wife. 

Delicious Thai food. 

Great chefs work here. 

Went on a walk, found a beehive and lots of honey in a tree

Went to a friend’s farm and picked some fresh fruits. 

A quick visit to Koh Samui. 

And then Bangkok. 

I was also in Bangkok for the Chinese New Year in January 2023. 

K-Pop in Bangkok for Chinese New Year. 

Year of the Rabbit. 

I was also in Bangkok for the other New Year in early January. 

Great hand-painted walls at my hotel. 

Went to Chon Buri as well. Saw the other Grand Canyon, a former mine. 

Quality aquarium

Wild school buses. 

Took a drive up Monkey Hill. Picked up some snacks to share. 

A Chinese Buddhist temple. 

A lot to look at. 

Before New Year in Thailand, it was Christmas in Maryland, USA

Great to see family again… 

And the dogs… 

And the donkeys…

Who are great performers. 

Longwood Gardens

I also went to Bangkok for my birthday weekend in November 2022. Needed to pick up new pants on my way to the Grand Palace because you have to dress respectfully. Not sure if I accomplished that. 

Grand indeed. 

Icon Siam is a pretty great mall. 

With a floating market food court. 

These are a few of my favorite things, in my favorite country.