Wat Pho is rightly renowned for the beautiful Reclining Buddha. The immense, gleaming Buddha is one of the most memorable images of Bangkok and Thailand. But there is a much smaller image close by that most visitors probably don’t even see, but in its own small way reminds me why Thailand is such an enchanting destination. In front of the building where the Reclining Buddha resides is a small ornamental pond with a waterfall. The pond is home to some carp and these fish have a serious point to make. And because this is Thailand they do it in that uniquely Thai way which blends directness with a smidgen of humour and a pinch of cuteness. The faded, weather-beaten sign might not be the most professional I’ve ever ever seen, but it’s one of the most charming and so very Thai.
