Bangkok's Khao San road...

a hidden gem exemplifying the worst excesses of crass consumption-based tourism, untouched by the ravages of natural beauty and/or authentic culture. i was going to do some photo essay type posting on the sightseeing in kyoto, but i feel exhausted and blown out after just a couple of hours here (i was also up at 6am to grab the flight). needless to say, i forgot that actual developing world destinations (even, and perhaps especially, those heavily trafficked by tourits) take some getting used to.