From early morning to late at night it is common to see Thai vendors at busy intersections in Thailand. They wait for the red light and begin to peddle their wares. Usually, it is flower garlands but snacks like fried bananas, peanuts or mango are often offered.
Hail a taxi in Bangkok and chances are, there will be a garland hanging from the rearview mirror. These flower garlands are used as good luck charms. They are offerings to Mae Yanang, the goddess of journeys. Her job is to protect vehicles and passengers.
Thai flower garlands go back centuries when flower arranging was a skill practiced by ladies of the royal court. Thai garlands are heavily scented by their use of jasmine along with flowers like marigolds, orchids or roses. Today, decorative garlands are still a part of Thailand’s culture and used throughout in celebrations and events.
Now where is my rabbit’s foot…
The work day starts out early.
Traffic light times vary in Thailand depending upon the intersection. I have seen it range from 30 to 185 seconds. Often times it is a traffic officer sitting in a booth by the intersection controlling the time intervals. But the computer is now being used more and more.
CCTV is rapidly being seen throughout Thailand. Most of the cameras work, but often they are just dummies. Not that it makes much difference. Everyone has a smartphone.
The garland hanging from the rear view mirror is a common site in many taxis. What is not common is the lady driver. Not that many here.
Even though the light will change to green in 20 seconds, that is not a guarantee the traffic will move.
Get your mangoes here! Fresh mangoes here! Got your mangoes here!
More snacks.
Preparing the garlands.
Always looking for a customer.
Serious Sunscreen
A fair bit of walking is required for this job.
Fried bananas are a favorite breakfast fare.
Delivery is prompt. No idea about the tattoos.
Daylight to Dark