Bangkok, by global terms, is not a really dirty city but compared to Canada it definitely has a grungy factor. It's not uncommon to be hit with a waft of urine that almost makes your eyes water when you step over a sewer grate. (Even the locals are seen covering their nose with their shirt sleeve.) Walking through the flower market you're transported to a magical place of beautiful colours and scents.
Roses, Roses, and more Roses...
In Thailand, flowers are more than just beauty and aroma. They represent a part of the Buddhist culture. Everyday thousands of blooms will be given as offerings at temples. Many will also be used to show respect for ancestors long gone.
The flotus flower is considered pure as it is able to emerge from murky waters in the morning and be perfectly clean.