The Palace is also magnificent, though it was built only 100 years ago.

Once inside the gates you see nothing but traditional buildings. Some are long temples with snakelike spires (they sort of resemble the horned rooftops of Sumatra); some have complex corners that form different shapes at different viewing angles. The buildings inside the gates have nice color schemes of dark tans, yellows, browns, and reds. Being in here you really can imagine that you have stepped back in time--the modern city is nowhere in sight. Also inside the palace walls is the Temple of the Silver Pagoda, its floor made up of 5000 solid silver tiles. And the throne room was sumptuous.

We were amazed by the splendor and riches we saw in so many palaces and wats. There were huge jeweled display cases with countless golden figures and gems. Then there was an 8-foot-tall Buddha with two huge emeralds for eyes (if I'm remembering right...). These priceless treasures were guarded by boys who looked about 13, some of whom were dozing off (of course they had big guns like everyone in that country).