City of Angels

My Photo scholarship 2010 entry

Worldwide | Sunday, October 17, 2010 | 5 photos

Recently, I had a chance to visit Thailand. It was my first time there and heard repeatedly that Thailand is just like my country, Philippines in many ways.
It was only a three and a half hour plane ride from Manila Airport to Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok.
Suvarnabhumi airport is quite big comparable to ours. It sport the Thai national color, purple from its carpet to its floral displays. I knew I was already in a different country because I can no longer understand some of the notices on the walls.
I observed that the Thai nationals and us are like brothers in appearance.
This is however a no contest because we both came from the Malay race. So, during my 5-day stay in Bangkok, it was not surprising that I am often mistaken for a local.
Thai foods are well raved for their delectable taste and over the top chili flavor. On my quest to blend in, I ordered the usual Thai delicacies, tom young and som tam with the usual serving of chili. And boy! I think I can dry up the Nile river so to ease the 'hotness' in my mouth! Oops, I am not talking nasty here. I was later told that a usual serving is a minimum of ten chili!
Prior to flying to Bangkok, I was advised not to wear any red shirt as I might be associated with the Red Shirt protesters. So, during my tour around the city, it is usual to see fully uniformed men guarding the safety of the public.
I spent the five days visiting their sacred temples, plying their rivers, checking their weekend markets and having the famous thai massage at the end of the day.
I love to go places because it is there. And on every chance, I take a shot because these are the only ones I can take, preserve and share. I am curious about a lot of things. Learning to me is an never ending opportunity.
I wanted to be a photographer with values.