Tuscaloosa (LST 1187) - Naval Cruise Book

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ff 'v- . an is 3' . ik,. Y Q 'Q J -1 i 'V f 1 .HK sq, ' 'HN' , 4 A . J' -..- a A -r 'U .-dllfm., The Jewelry industry attracted particular attention for the more romantic Sailors and Marines. Gold, Silver, and other precious stones possessing fine quality workmanship were available at prices much in favor of those in the United States. Thailand offered more tours than any oth- er port. We were able to learn first hand about its deeply religious culture, its eco- nomic struggle and its rich fascinating histo- ry. Bangkok, Sattahip, and the bridge over the River Kwai were only a few options to choose from. We could also opt to see the National Museum, the Old Governor's Pal- ace or the beautiful Summer Palace. Many stopped in to visit one of the breath-taking Temples such as the Temple of the Golden Budda, the Temple of Dawn, or the Temple of the Great Relic. Indeed, Thailand was a wonderful exper- ience. . .,l. T ..Sf 1 '..id LCPL Harris and his new friend enjoying a day of liberty.

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PATTAYA BEACH Soon after wading ashore following a con- venient bangka boat ride, we discovered that Pattaya Beach was not only a relaxing beach front area, but was also surrounded by several small off-shore islands. Basically, all of Pattaya consisted of one straight road approximately 2.5 miles long. Both the northern and southern parts of the beach were bordered by more than 30 hotels and a great variety of taverns and restaurants. Nu- merous cabana umbrellas and palm trees stood between the beach and the main road. Transportation was amply provided for vistiors going both up and down the beach through the use of the 5 Baht buses, which were small open sided trucks capable of car- rying about 12 people. The hotel accomondations ranged from 'I .f deluxe international hotels to petite, 395- breeze cooled bungalows on the beach, Dozens of food stalls were located along the main drag offering the more adventurous Sailors and Marines a strictly Thailand meal, At the upper end of the beach, there were some restaurants that did offer international cuisine. And for those eager to partake in Thailand's exciting night life, there was a wide variety of Nite-Clubs and dancing eg- tablishments which supplied truly fabulous entertainment including the intensely com- petitive Kick-Boxing matches or the capti- vating Elephant and Snake shows. The Golden Budda was found by accident when a destruction company was extending the port of Bangkok. Experts believe that the Golden Budda was camouflaged to keep the invading Burmese from finding it in the early 18th century. 84 5525? 'W

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SINGAPORE Upon arrival at Singapore, we were amazed to see such a beautiful, modern city with a breath taking skyline. We had to take about a fifteen minute boat ride from the ship which was anchored out in the bay. After arriving at Clifford Pier and stepping out its doors, we instantly knew that this city was built on busi- ness and trade. We found various stores selling everything from cameras and computers to ste- reo equipment and household goods. You name it, they had it. There were plenty of cultural activities for the crew to enjoy including dance shows and for the more active, window shopping. Many at- tended the cinemas and theaters which en- abled them to catch up on the newest movie releases. The hotel accommondations were first class and very elite, therefore they were very expensive. Burger King, McDonalds and Kentucky Fried Chicken were conveniently lo- cated. lnternational restaurants and American favorites like the Ponderosa and the Sizzler were also easily found. The White Merlion, half-fish, half-lion, the official symbol of the city state. Malaysian Culture Dance 3iflQ3DOre'S breath taking skyline at dusk