The Auspicious day of the King's birthday. Bangkok is now in the big leagues as this day also marks the opening of the sky train, Bangkok's first effort to relieve the notorious traffic congestion. It was amazing. Running up the steps was bit confusing at first since there wasn't a soul to be found. I was about to have my hopes dashed as I imagined there to be some postponement or hiccup early in the days launch. Upon reaching the ticket platform, however, I noticed a few customer service people in red Wal-mart vests ready to guide the hordes that should be pouring in any moment now. I got to the window and purchased a ticket with 300 baht credit allowing the cost of each ride to be deducted each time I traveled. I made my way up to the platform for my first time experience. There was still an eerie feeling about it as I was the only person on the platform at the moment. I seemed like a long time waiting for the red, white and blue train, but eventually is swooshed in. Getting on was a natural and I joined the present crop of passengers. In taking the train to the end of the line the Thainess of the sky train process was revealed. As everyone exited on this last stop it became painfully apparent that id didn't matter how fast you got there, if you couldn't get off all the benefits of speed were lost. Granted it was the first day, but the 4 gates seemed hardly adequate for the sea of people that was to get off. As I got closer, the learning lag became more apparent. The lady just ahead of me ignored the directional arrow printed on her card and tried to slip it in backwards. Another family though that one card paid for all and tried to fit four thought the quickly closing hip gates. Pushing my way through people was reminiscent of a rock concert. The single human seller of tickets had a line as long as the Pirates of the Caribbean.