Thailand...
After traveling to Thailand a while back, I thought I'd share with you some of my experiences and photos, as I think you could find a few useful tips if ever you find yourself traveling Asia. I also only traveled with a hand luggage bag, with a maximum weight of 7kg's for two weeks, yes, you read right 7kg's. If you are looking for what to pack in, head over to my 'How to pack right for 14 days in Thailand', as for a girl, that is a whole other venture on its own.
My boyfriend and I were planning on backpacking and island hopping with a couple of friends on our journey, so packing light was a necessity. This would be my biggest tip to anyone who is planning on island hopping, as quite often at times, you will find yourself crossing the ocean on tiny long-tail boats that may stop miles from the pier if arriving during low tide. Thus leaving you to carry a massive bag above your head, as you venture over coral and rocks in knee deep water before reaching dry land. Besides, you don't need much anyways, Thailand is a tropical country where you rarely need any cold - weather clothing or jackets (except for indoors, where the AC is on it's coldest, but a light jersey will do). As for the islands, you will probably find yourself living in a bikini and sunscreen most days.
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| If it's speed and thrill you are looking for, hop onto a 'tuktuk' for an exhilarating ride. It's also cheaper to barter down to get to your next destination in the city. |
When it comes to shopping for clothing in Thailand (I say clothing, as you can buy pretty much anything in Thailand, but this was my forte), my tip to you is, to make sure to purchase not only in Bangkok, but on the islands too. Such as Phi Phi and Phuket, you can find a lot more once off pieces in the little boutiques/stalls. It is slightly more expensive, but it eliminates the awkwardness of wearing the same top as the girl next to you.
Phuket, was the first island we stopped on. Pretty normal during the day, but wow, their night life is crazy!
Koh PhiPhi:
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| If you do find yourself on PhiPhi, try out a little restaurant called 'GARLIC'! It's such a great vibe, and it was perfect for a date night before heading out for a crazy night out on the beach! The menu is displayed like art on your surrounding walls, which makes it easier to order with the language barrier. |
Another must do while on Phi Phi island is to hop onto a long-tail boat with a group of friends for a day tour to explore surrounding islands! The tour includes a night swim with plankton, sight seeing on Maya bay(where the film 'The Beach' was shot, and where you can see me daydreaming above), a cliff jump into the ocean (please note I was a pansy with this, so let me know if you have done it and what the experience is like)! A snorkel in the clearest waters and cold beers to keep you refreshed and relaxed whilst you travel the ocean.
Then for some fitness and adventure! After a 20 minute uphill lunge session, (stairs... lots of inclined stairs) in forty degree heat, we reached PeePee Viewpoint. Where the view is immaculate, and I found it was a great way to burn off those buckets from the previous night;)
And once you get to the top there's watermelon inspired seating to sit and watch the view, I couldn't think of any better way?
Railay Beach:
- Thalia
xxx
