Having studied a year of Japanese in college, that was naturally going to be my first stop in Asia. And, in a sense, the airport was at least. Like my host, I didn't really plan to go to Thailand, but when I expected two friends to be there at once, I had to go.

Of course only Jeremy ended up being there at the time, but being able to convince Bill and Myong to go made for an excellent trip. It is definitely a country I want to go back to visit. While the air in Bangkok was surprisingly worse than Los Angeles, the sights and incredibly friendly people around the city made it tolerable. I have never felt more at home in a place where I was so obviously out of place.

Most people seem to go to party, which I did not realize before I went. It's easy to see why since the nightlife in Bangkok ranges from incomprehensible (which we thankfully avoided) to merely seedy to trendy and high class. There are some very cool temples throughout the city as well. On Phuket Island, there was some of the most beautiful scenery I've ever seen. A boat tour is a must.

If only it wasn't so hot, I'd probably consider moving there for the nicest people and the best food I've encountered yet.