SE Asia

Another history based city today, which is Sukhothai! It was the original capital of Thailand, in the 13/14th century, and where the most famous Thai King, King Ramkhamhaeng, ruled and introduced Buddhism and the Thai alphabet, both heavy influences from India. It was taken over by the neighbouring Ayutthaya Kingdom, which left most of its ancient architecture in ruins.
The remains of the royal palace and 26 temples is now encapsulated in Sukhothai history park! The park spans 70km² and is divided into 5 zones. I hired a bike and cycled round two of the zones. The park is kept immaculately, and was so peaceful, with so many less tourists than Ayutthaya.
It was unbelievably hot again but I managed to see most of the good spots before lunch, and there was a lovely breeze going through the park which made sightseeing much more enjoyable!
I escaped to a cafe for lunch and read my book for a couple of hours, before finding more shade and AIRCON at the main museum. I learnt some interesting facts and saw some cool artefacts, but the aircon was the main seller for me.
I wanted to watch the sunset at one of the temples, but the sun had disappeared behind a wall of cloud and smog by 5.30 so I headed back to the hostel. I was craving something greasy so committed sacrilege and order a pizza. I think it was the worse pizza I've had. Serves me right for ordering western food in Thailand. Cheese and spinach was the only veggie option, but I think it was 30% cheese and then 70% mayo for some reason. Quite grim, only managed half before I gave up and bought a big bag of crisps from the hostel instead.
It's thunderstormed all evening and seems the heavens have opened up, so am writing this with the sound of rain hammering down on the roof.
Another travel day tomorrow, off the Chiang Mai, which I've heard great things about from friends who have been before, so I'm very excited!Lue lisää