This was not my first trip to Asia, or to Bangkok. But because I stayed with William and Samone at their B & B In2siam, it was by far a most memorable, and favored trip. This was like staying with long lost friends, in the "real" Bangkok, experiencing the non touristy aspects (and very wonderful) of Bangkok life. In2Siam is located in a neighborhood that is being surrounded by transportation, and when I first arrived, I thought to myself "oh no.. so much city.. I wanted quiet". I should not have worried. As soon as I went through the gate into the courtyard of this lovely home and B&B, it was like being transported into home away from home. I stayed in what would be called a "studio apartment" with kitchen, western style bathroom, and incredibly comfortable large bed (I think it was king size, but not sure). It was quiet, and very clean. A short walk down the road I found the bus stop for easy, (and cheap), access into the craziness of Bangkok, or, to the river to take the boats over to main tourist and shopping areas, or the skytrain. On Williams recommendation I went to the NOT TO MISS!, Saturday Talingchan floating market where I was the only tourist not speaking Thai, and yet, felt incredibly welcomed (many vendors spoke some english). For me, the Klong boat tour from this market was one of those 10 out of 10 stars recommends, that lasted for about 2 hours, and included a trip to another market (selling crafts primarily for locals that far surpassed anything I saw in downtown Bangkok), stops at klong side temples (including one where you can purchase bread to feed the catfish who apparently aggregate here at one of the few, vegetarian monk centers). A five minute walk from In2Siam is an outstanding community market which had, by far, the best "street food" I have experienced in Thailand (or all of SE Asia). This is where the locals buy lunch and dinner (or the meat and produce to cook at home). The soup ... oh the soup! The curries... the sweets....the fruit!!! Prices here proved to be about 40% less than those across the river in central Bangkok, and I had no concerns of getting sick, and would not hesitate to recommend this market to anyone. Down the road, an easy 10 minute stroll from In2siam is an incredibly wonderful Thai massage center. This is the sort of place where the on duty policeman go to have their feet and legs massaged (totally legit here... not a sex massage place). The massage therapists seem to have magical abilities to heal that nagging back pain, or hip pain, or whatever else it is that has been ailing you for years. And no one here spoke much English, but that was not a problem. Samone arranged all, and interceded for the next visit and the next. Oh.. and did I mention facials? Ask Samone where the best facials in Thailand are... and I promise you will not be disappointed! They are only a 10 minute cab ride away, and again, this is not a place that sees many tourists, so the experience is simply sublime. As a female, who travels extensively, and often by myself, friends always want to know if the areas I was in were safe. My answer YES! And there is the bonus when shopping late in Bangkok, of being able to hail a late night cab, and ask to be taken to the police station in Talingchan... a 5 minute walk from the B&B! The owners, are top notch. 1000% trust worthy. I felt like I was visiting family. William an expat, Samone a native (who speaks fluent English). Oh.. and the breakfasts here, out on the sheltered patio, next to the fish pond, with flowers, and their lovely dog. Divine. Wireless internet too! I liked this place so much, that I extended my stay 5 extra days!
