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Big Buddha

This week I visited Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen in Bangkok. The temple dates back to the Ayutthaya period, but a lot of what you see today is newer. The most striking feature is the massive Buddha statue (about 69m tall), completed in 2021, made of bronze and visible from quite far away. There’s also a large stupa (around 80m high) with detailed interiors, glass, green tones, and a central crystal structure. Getting there is easy via the MRT Blue Line or taxi. Definitely worth a visiting if you're exploring the Thonburi side of Bangkok.
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Highlights of our trip

We've had an amazing 4.5 months over winter in Thailand and Vietnam.  There have been many highlights which I've summed up in my video.  We fly back this evening to the UK.  Thankfully we had direct flights so leave on the scheduled day. Thanks for reading my blog, I hope its given you a great insight into what a wonderful destination Asia is.  Until the next trip!
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Cost of 4.5 months in Thailand and Vietnam

I've done my usual calculation of the total cost of our trip. Including all flights, trains, buses, vans, taxis, accommodation, cash withdrawals, food, drink etc.  Roughly £26pp per day. So we've kept within our budget very well.  Thailand has got more expensive but we managed to avoid touristy areas. Vietnam is cheaper if you're interested in a trip there. 
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Favourite shop

I never return from a holiday to Asia without a trip to Bath & BodyWorks.  So much cheaper than ordering from Next online in the UK. I think a hand soap is the first present I've bought myself in 4.5 months 🤣. 
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Visiting the dentist

I know it's not a glamorous subject.  I've worn a night retainer for many years as I grind my teeth at night.  I needed a new retainer when I came away. The cost at my home dentist for a new one is £200.  And a two week wait to collect.  In Bangkok, a dentist at the bottom of our street did a retainer for me. 10.30am examination, pick retainer up at 4.30pm the same day.  As it was expediated it cost me £10 more. So £90 in total.  Impressive service at a good price.  So I went back to have my teeth cleaned today. Home dentist is £98 for 30 minutes. Today it was £40! 
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Bangkok by night

We ventured to touristy Patpong tonight. It was very entertaining. 😀
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Back to Bangkok

We started our journey here on 4th November 2025.  We are back again as we close out our 4.5 months away. Time to return to the UK next week.  If you've never been to Bangkok, it is an amazing city. It's truly an assault on the senses. It's hot, noisy, congested and wafts of Thai street food. It has amazing temples, shopping malls, markets and restaurants. There is something for everyone to enjoy. I've got a few more posts before we return on Tuesday evening. 
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