No I don't want a tuk tuk

So please stop asking.

"Tuk Tuk, cheap cheap?"
Fine thanks.
"Tuk Tuk, Khaosan Road?"
I'm ok to walk, thank you.
"Sex show, Pat Pong. Tuk Tuk, I take."
Thanks but no.
"Tuk Tuk, Sir?"
'Wave of hand and shake of head'

So far Bangkok is beyond a single adjective of description. Everything points upwards, in an upside down teardrop shape. The humidity hits you hard each time the joyous air-conditioned confines of your hotel room are left. It's almost like hitting the wall during a half-marathon, sapping all energy and inclination from you in an instant. And most importantly, yes everyone is incredibly friendly.
There are vicious rumours about scandals, scams and con artists, but it doesn't take a great deal of intelligence to avoid these kinds of sticky situations. Lonely Planet exaggerates. In fact, their guide has been almost useless. I'm struggling to think of anything that's helped. Should you decide to visit Thailand - turn up with a small backpack of items. Important things - insulin if you're diabetic, inhalers for asthma for example. You don't even need to bring enough to last a week, the stalls sell everything in the UK and far far more, but cheaper. Speak to people to find out their suggestions or find your own way. Thailand really has evolved to suit tourists travelling on a shoestring perfectly.
This place never stops, there is no last orders or rush for - well anything in fact. If Laos is supposed to be even more laid back than here, how would anyone get anything done?


So back to the tuk tuks. I almost soiled myself the first corner the driver took. It was a sharp left, and approaching at around 30, he drove over the bumps, rather than taking the corner slower. Perhaps he was aiming for the racing line. Either way, clipping the apex caused my sister to scream (which is a rareity), and my arms to flail wildly for the nearest handrail. Oh, they're on the back, now noted.
Street food is a necessity. If you don't want to try it, don't bother coming. I handed over 30 baht and received a plate stacked full of pad thai. That's 60 pence, and was possibly the best I've ever had. And it doesn't come hot as you add your own chillis. Perfect: More money to spend on accomodation, amongst other things, of course.