Magical sunset at Ayutthaya

The sun has started to set when we arrive in Ayutthaya, but it is still extremely warm though. Because of the beautiful light, we decide to visit the ruins of Wat Phra Si Sanphet (if I write correctly) now, instead of tomorrow. The whole area looks pretty magical because of the warm yellow sunlight, and the long shadows covering the sand. Even the flowery trees seem to smell better now. Most wonderful, and best preserved, are the three pagodas that stand at the center of the site. Most other buildings have partly or completely collapsed. This is not only due to aging, but mostly because the city of Ayutthaya was terribly destroyed by the Burmese invasion in the 18th, that burned down the city and stole the gold. Yet there is still a magical atmosphere surrounding the area, and somehow the glory of the old town floats through the remainders. While the evening falls it gets very quite here. Most tourists have already left and apart from some birds and squirrels we are practically alone at the site. It is truly a wonderful moment.

Ones it got dark we drive on to the hotel, which is not as nice as the ones we stayed at before, but yet clean and neat.  There is, however, an Italian restaurant of which is said that the cook is a real Italian chef. For what it's worth, we (the couples and I) decide to give it a try. Turns out the rumors were right. I get a delicious cocktail, lovely appetizers and a delicious huge pizza, all at half the price I would have payed it at home. And every dish tastes wonderful. I know it is a bit stupid to eat Italian while in Thailand, but we are all fans of the Italian cuisine and for one evening, we all feel like having something else than rice for a change. I haven't regret it for a second.

After diner we go to sit at the beautiful terrace of the hotel, next to the water, to have some more drinks. The place is nicely enlightened with nothing but candles and little light bulbs, and the waitresses are very friendly. It is pretty late when I go to bed, but that's ok. After all, I'm on a holiday right?