Bangkok is a city that runs with full speed into modern development. Yet, at the same time, traditions are not only kept alive, but they flourish. It is a paradox mix of old and new, stirred up in a crazy cocktail.
It would be a lie to say that Thais are not materialistic – they are. They care about the latest mobile phone, and a big, representative car, fashionable clothes, and so on. But at the same time, they are also highly spiritual people. Praying and worshiping is a part of daily life. Many Thais will wai whenever they pass a shrine, and they often take time in the day to express their gratitude for the good things they have received in life, and wish for whatever it is they want more o fin life.
When you go sightseeing in Bangkok, you will no doubt see many Thais praying and worshiping in different places, often making offerings to deities, Buddha images, ghost houses and shrines.
photocredits: Gabriel Perez