We ended up staying a few more days in Bangkok than we had originally planned for a couple of reasons: we needed a few days for some visas to process and we decided to get suits made. We did some research on the internet about some recommended places for suits to be made and decided on a place near our hostel called Milan.
We went to meet the tailor, Kiet, and he helped us to decide the fabric and design of our suit. It was pretty fun! I chose a plain black suit with pants and a skirt along with three dress shirts and Sean chose a brown pinstripe. We had to go in for three separate fittings where we tried on the different parts of the suits that he had been working on. His shop was a small room with his sewing machine and tools on a table to the side with bolts of fabric all around. Sean and I were really happy with the finished product and had them sent home. Let's hope they make it . . .
Our other errand was securing visas for Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Since they were all fairly near each other it wasn't a big deal. We got the Laos and Cambodia visas right away and just had to wait about an hour for each, but for the Vietnam visa we had to wait two days. To get all of these visas requires a picture, some paperwork and cash. The Vietnam visa cost about $50 whereas the others were about $30 each. On a backpacker's budget those visa fees add up quickly - and that's just to get in to the country!
One of the other highlights while hanging out in Bangkok was our hostel, Suk 11. I think it was one of my favorites because of the location, food, friendly staff and cool atmosphere. The rooms were shared bunks with shared bathrooms and they provided free breakfast in the morning. The place was huge and included rooftop gardens, several common rooms and a restaurant. Suk 11 has a total bohemian, easy-going feeling and the other travelers mirrored this vibe as well. All of the walls were covered with writing and signatures and there were random antiques all over. It definitely wasn't one of the crazy-party hostels you can find in Bangkok on Khao San road. The hostel definitely had a lot of character and history and I would recommend staying there if you get the chance.
One night they offered a dinner special for people staying there and we dined on spring rolls, papaya salad, stir fried veggies, grilled chicken, coconut mushroom soup and fruit all cut into the shape of hearts. We hung out on the rooftop lounge with some drinks talking to other travelers and trying to figure out where and how we were going to go next. When we walked down the stairs back to our bunks the graffiti scrawled above our heads read "Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans."
Hey Sarah! I am totally addicted to your blog! :) I miss you so much, but it 's great to be hearing about your life! :)
Also, I've nominated you for the Stiletto Award, cause you definitely deserve it!
--Bethany