Asian Adventure - Part 6

Answer to a question: Our trip took place on the Norwegian Star. While we had some technical difficulties and missed ports, it was nothing compared to the most recent Star cruise off of Australia. The second engine died and they had to be towed to shore. While we had technical problems, it was our 3rd Norwegian cruise and it won't be our last - in fact we have another one in November!

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We spent New Year's Day in Pattaya Thailand. The Man kept forgetting the name of the place and called it Papaya. We lovingly call it Papaya now:)

Pattaya is a beach resort town. It became popular as a retreat for American soldiers during the Vietnam war. Today, it is known for clubs that cater to all tastes and the Lady Boy shows. As we were there during the day, we didn't see the Lady Boy shows, but the Man was invited into several massage establishments. It is the sort of town that gives Thailand its reputation. 

Post New Year's Eve Streets

A side street that may illustrate some of what Pattaya is known for and some crazy unsafe wiring

Our interest in Pattaya was true relaxation. We spent several hours sitting under an umbrella (you can rent them for about $1 US per day). We were amused by the locals who found it cold but went swimming in jeans. 

While I didn't go swimming, I did take the opportunity to stand in the Gulf of Thailand.

I also played a little in the sand.

We were greatly amused by the sellers on the beach. Of course their was food like meat and ice cream. There were sand toys. There were clothing. There were bobble head dogs, and my very favourite, toilet paper. 

One of the sellers

I have never seen so many para-sailers in my life

After a few hours on the beach, we had lunch and walked around a high end mall before heading back to the ship.

While many things are different in South-East Asia, we see things that are very familiar:

Next week we have a short visit to Singapore (short as I lost most of my pictures from there) as we end our Asian Adventure.