tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80622248732801236002024-03-13T11:54:10.067+00:00Thailand TravelsA travel blog documenting my month backpacking Thailand.Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-35546015874829294492014-07-15T13:49:00.002+01:002015-07-14T00:17:58.513+01:00Thailand Travels: 1 month (31 days) in Thailand... in 6 minutes<div style="text-align: center;">
Over four months ago I set off on a solo travelling adventure around Thailand. It was the most exciting and scary thing I've ever done in my life but it was certainly the making of me!</div>
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Before I travelled I had been battling with depression for a year and I had a really low sense of self-esteem. However, travelling solo built me back up to the happy, confident can-do person I used to be before the depression and for that I will forever be grateful.</div>
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I spent 31 days travelling Thailand covering, Bangkok, Chiang Mia, Khao Sok National Park, Koh Samui, Ko Tao, Koh Phangan, Ko Phi Phi and Railay Beach!</div>
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Each day I tried to record a few seconds of video and now (FINALLY) I've collated all my recordings to make this mash-up video of my adventure. The video is just over 6 minutes long and mostly contains 3-5 second clips (unless the footage was too good to be cut and then it's more like 10-15 seconds!)</div>
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I meet some incredible people along the way and made memories I'll treasure forever. It really was the BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE (so far) and I want to thank all those that star in the video, for bringing a massive smile back to my face!</div>
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Every time I watch it I remember how lucky I am to have the chance to do this and how much you can do in 31 days if you put your mind to it!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Thailand I ♥ You!</span></div>
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Eshe</div>
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-10531139490563459222014-02-25T13:54:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:46.484+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 26, Pee Pee Viewpoint & Bob's Booze Cruise<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cPOJARCAJyE/UwygooIk5UI/AAAAAAAAHvQ/urbaUPoNd4E/s640/blogger-image-895322031.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cPOJARCAJyE/UwygooIk5UI/AAAAAAAAHvQ/urbaUPoNd4E/s640/blogger-image-895322031.jpg" /></a><br />
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Waking up in my treehouse was as exciting as the day I arrived. This time the sun was beaming through the french doors and I could see the whole of the bay in all it's glory. The tide was now in, and the sea resembled a spilled paint pot, with turquoise blue shades running into a vibrant sky blue ones. It was serious postcard material and felt like the perfect time to write the stack of postcards I'd bought last night.<br />
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After that it was time for breakfast and there were 3 options: full American/English, scrambled eggs on toast or beans on toast. I went for full English, but unfortunately it was cold. Also like everywhere I've eaten in Thailand, the bread and butter tasted sweet and like it had sugar in it. Weirdly they also brought jam to have with the full English! The breakfast area was stunning though, looking out over the bay with parasols to shade you from the intense morning heat.<br />
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Yesterday I signed up for Bob's Booze Cruise, a recommendation from a guy from my full moon hostel. The cruise due to start at 1pm which meant I had the morning to myself. I decided that I wanted to try find Pee Pee viewpoint, which I didn't know at the time... was a very long uphill trek with lots of steps. Using the map, I found Phi Phi viewpoint 1 which is the first viewpoint. It was pretty blinding, but I knew that the next level would be even more spectacular.<br />
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On my way up I started chatting to three very hungover English guys, it was funny because they were obviously struggling a lot more as a result of the hangover and one guy even gave up just 10 minutes before the second summit point!<br />
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Despite dripping with sweat and struggling to gasp air in, I didn't give up and I made it to the top! Unfortunately I only had about 10 minutes to appreciate the view before I realised I had to make my decent back to the pier to meet for the booze cruise. Coming down was obviously a lot easier and 20 minutes later (half the time it took to climb up!!) I was at the pier.<br />
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I was a little early so I took the chance to snap some photos of the beautiful white sandy bay and all the long hosts that were lined up along it.<br />
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At 12:50 it was time to meet. The cruise was very full so we had to have two boats to carry everyone. Luckily I got to go on the yacht which was very cool and felt more like proper sailing as we had a sail and a boom.</div>
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The cruise begun with cliff-jumping which I'd done before, but was a lot tricker! You had to don wet suit shoes before jumping off the boat because the cliff was so spikey, and to make things harder there were huge waves chucking you back and forth against the rocks as you tried to get close enough to climb up.<br />
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I tried my best to climb up onto the rocks, but my shoes were too big and kept slipping off so I had to hold onto them whilst trying to climb. To add further to the challenge my bikini didn't want to stay up! I'm not a strong swimmer, so after 15 minutes of trying to tread water in the queue to get up the cliff, whilst the waves chucked me against the spikey rocks, I had to give up and swim back to the boat for fear of drowning!<br />
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Next stop was Viking Bay where Bob, our captain, explained how there was a drink made from bird snot which was worth lots of money. The bird snot was found in the nests at the top of the rocks in this area which were patrolled by the hunters.<br />
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After that it was on to Maya Bay, which is famous because 'The Beach', staring Leonado DiCaprio, was filmed there. To get from our boat you either had to swim or kayak over, since I wanted to take my camera, kayaking was my only option. Bob very kindly triple-dry-bagged my camera and paddled me across to the rope ladder where you had to climb over to get to Maya Bay. I'd heard Maya Bay was a tourist hotspot but nothing prepared me for the volume of tourists and boats on the beach. There were at least 10 speed boats full of tourists and around 10 long-tail boats as well. It was near impossible to get a photo without another tourist getting in the way! But I waited patiently determined to get a least one!<br />
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The last stop was an amazing cove between two huge cliffs, which just one other boat had found. There we found a rope swing, caves and a sound system playing party music. Excited to go explore we filled up our cups and grabbed new beers and kayaked across to the cove from the boat. Some oven group jumped off their boat wearing life jackets like nappies which was very funny to watch. The water was early warm and shallow so we were able to have a drunken game of frisbee in the water (we weren't very good but it was lots of fun all the same!)<br />
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Here the second boat joined us and we cranked up the music and partied until the sun started to go down.<br />
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As we sailed back to the pier the grand finale of the day was the sun setting gorgeous yolk and tangerine hues, against the silhouette of Phi Phi's cliffs.<br />
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-44444452535991614252014-02-25T13:36:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:46.488+01:00Thailand Travels, Day 25, Hello Phi Phi and Treehouse Living<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6gnrAmH9jT8/Uwya2tGQIFI/AAAAAAAAHq0/1zuPIWCeBW0/s640/blogger-image-1821575645.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6gnrAmH9jT8/Uwya2tGQIFI/AAAAAAAAHq0/1zuPIWCeBW0/s640/blogger-image-1821575645.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It's taken a taxi, a ferry, a coach, a bus and another ferry, but 12 hours travelling has been worth it for this... the stunning view from my treehouse on Phi Phi Don!<br /><br />I'm checked into a dulex seaview cabin at the Phi Phi Sea Sky Resort, which is 7,200 baht for 4 nights including breakfast. Yeah yeah, flashpacker not backpacker... I know! The only bad thing is it's a real trek over from Phi Phi pier, over jungly hilly land and with my increasingly heavy backpack! Luckily, staff from the hotel were there to meet me and carry my backpack to my cabin, otherwise there's no way I would have found it or managed to carry my backpack.<br /><br />The resort is based at the far end of Loh Dalum Bay (which is the same beach where all the partying goes on). The walk is demanding, up and down hills with broken pathways, but this is tempered by very pretty views all along the way.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-TIR9jJ-gGxg/Uwyb_VK3DPI/AAAAAAAAHrM/cVH0K6hqnoQ/s640/blogger-image--889144232.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-TIR9jJ-gGxg/Uwyb_VK3DPI/AAAAAAAAHrM/cVH0K6hqnoQ/s640/blogger-image--889144232.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oFk8b1qTHOQ/UwyZ2D1u1pI/AAAAAAAAHqo/a2MO7nTy1zE/s640/blogger-image-1813770544.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oFk8b1qTHOQ/UwyZ2D1u1pI/AAAAAAAAHqo/a2MO7nTy1zE/s640/blogger-image-1813770544.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Tonight the tide was way out and you could almost walk from one end of the beach to another.<br /><br />When I saw the resort I knew I had found somewhere special. My cabin was at the top of the resort so I had uninterupted sea views. The room was also clean, with aircorn, my own locker in reception and a large double bed and very good wifi. And the cherry on top... My own private balcony with a spectacular view looking directly over the sea. I just can't believe that it's £32 per night for such a stunning place!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TJ3cxxQ2tWM/Uwycd6E0g2I/AAAAAAAAHrk/zrqo5RfWeQs/s640/blogger-image-722653279.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TJ3cxxQ2tWM/Uwycd6E0g2I/AAAAAAAAHrk/zrqo5RfWeQs/s640/blogger-image-722653279.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After freshening up I decided to go back to the centre of Phi Phi village to eat and explore. It was dark by now and it was then that I realised that the path was very poorly lit. Being a solo traveller it wasn't ideal to be walking back in the dark this far away from the centre of Phi Phi.<br /><br />Phi Phi Village was like being in a maze! Made worse by the fact that I'd arrived late in the day and hadn't had chance to find my bearings in the daylight... and I didn't have a map!<br /><br /><div>
After sniffing out all the restaurants trying to decided where to eat I settled for Pirates, which had an extensive Thai menu and looked full of people (always a good sign!). When I was at Full Moon a Canadian guy called Jon had warned me not to eat western food or brush your teeth with the tap water. Apparently nearly everyone gets sick on Phi Phi because it's so dirty. Jon's theory was that after the Tsunami, the locals had tried to rebuild the village quickly and in doing so hadn't put the water system back together all that well.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-zMCXMt1Bqi4/Uwycb2Sp2vI/AAAAAAAAHrc/n50vQKbsyQc/s640/blogger-image-1134802540.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-zMCXMt1Bqi4/Uwycb2Sp2vI/AAAAAAAAHrc/n50vQKbsyQc/s640/blogger-image-1134802540.jpg" /></a><br /><br />So, not fancying getting sick on my first day I decided to stick with Thai cuisine. I went for sweet and sour chicken and a side of rice. It was a good choice, the portion was huge with lots of veg and flavour. After dinner I continued to wander around and try work out my bearings. It was nearly impossible and after a couple of hours I had to go into a shop and ask for a map.<br /><br />The walk home felt like I was doing cross-country and because it was all jungly, there was all manner of movements in the bushes and across the pathways making me jump every 5 seconds. I hate geckos and at least 2 jumped out across the path on my way home! After about 20 minutes I was relieved to be home to my treehouse and air condititoning!</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-5711356436826681142014-02-22T07:05:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:46.492+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 20 - 24, Life on Haad Rin after Full MoonI haven't posted for a while as there's not been much to share whilst I've been chilling and treating these last few days as downtime. Just to recap, after the Full Moon Party I had a terrible hangover and all day I felt like I was going to vom. Luckily our hostel had a great arrangement with the restaurant across the road, whereby you could tell the hostel bar what food you wanted, they ordered it for you and then they come of deliver it to you ASAP. What a service and just what you need after a marathon drinking session like full moon! You pay the delivery person when they come with the food (on china plates with proper knives and forks I might add!) and if you don't have the correct change they come and bring it back to you you. So you don't have to move a muscle! I ordered fried rice and a can of coke around lunchtime which did wonders for my hangover.<br />
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After feasting we set up the big screen to watch a great film called The Wolf of Wall Street. This is what I really loved about hostel life. There was about 15 of us chilling out on sofas, all feeling rough but in good company, with food and drink being brought to us, plus the distraction of a good movie.<br />
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The movie was really long and after it had finished we all had itchy feet. Someone suggested a stroll down to the beach as it was a bit cooler now and we all decided that was a good idea. Seeing the beach post Full Moon Party was so weird. I'd arrived late that evening and hadn't any idea what the beach was like, less all the lights, booze and food stalls. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was rather pretty. White sands, clear waters and hardly any people now the full moon was over.<br />
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The boys had a kick about and a swim and the girls dipped their toes in the cooling sea waves and basked in the last of the sun's rays. After the beach we all went to dinner together and it was farewell to some of my new friends who were moving on to Malaysia early the next day. It was a lovely chilled end to full moon and I felt pretty proud of myself for rockin up by myself and finding lovely people to party with.<br />
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<br /><br />The days that followed involved a bit of pampering, with an amazing six step facial and an oil massage, both an hour long, and some beach lounging and time to read my book, the final instalment of the Hunger Games. <br /><br />One evening I also went up to mushroom mountain which has a spectacular viewing point of Sunrise Beach and a club and bar. At the far end there's also another separate bar which sells 'special shakes' and 'wacky backy', it's all pretty chilled up there after full moon and it was a good place to hangout and chat.<br /><br /><br /><div>
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I also had to do lots of organising and researching for my next stops, Koh Phi Phi and Railay. Through the hostel it was really easy to book onward travel, although everyone had the same plan, so the boats and buses became full very quickly. I booked to go to Phi Phi through the hostel for the morning of the 25th, which came to about 1700 baht. The trip would take about 10 hours in total and involved taking a taxi, ferry, bus and then finally another ferry, starting at 6am!!<br />
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I then needed to book my accommodation which took a bit of work as everywhere kept getting booked up so fast. In the end I found a place to stay for Phi Phi and Railay via hostel bookers and bookers. If you're travelling independently and not through a tour/holiday package I highly recommend using these sites, as you can read recent reviews from other travellers to get an up to date picture of the accommodation standard. Remember though, other people's standards might not be the same as you so don't just go by the score or one bad review, have a good dig around and see what the common points are that come ups and decide for yourself If this is a deal breaker.<br />
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I did enjoy the quieter atmosphere on Haad Rin for the first 2 days; there were still a few people I'd made friends around with doing the same as me, but for the last 2 days I was alone in my 12 bed dorm and feeling the need to move on!<br />
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One night after coming back from dinner I got chased by a mangy looking dog, I was so scared because I haven't had my rabies jab, which I'm sure the dog could sense, and probably caused him to go for me more. Next time I think I will just pay the £100 for the jab to avoid the stress and dog-dodging. </div>
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I probably wouldn't go to Haad Rin for a holiday as there's very little culturally to see, but I would definitely come back for full moon and the pre-parties. I would also book my onward travel arrangements and accommodation beforehand so I don't have to wait too long to get off the island.<br />
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-82502508557156414632014-02-19T03:18:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:04:35.509+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 19, Full Moon PAR-TAY!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Today was my last day in Ko Tao and I really really didn't want to leave, despite my excitement for the full moon party. Ko Tao has been my favourite place of all and I feel like could spend a whole week here.<br />
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Kirsty was starting her Padi diving course today at the Big Blue dive school so I helped her find her accommodation and check into the school. There was a little bit of a panic moment when we realised Kirsty had dropped her elephant shoulder bag with her cards and money in, but luckily, a kind and honest couple had noticed and came after us to give it back! So you see, there are some honest people left in the world :)<br />
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After that I fancied a manicure and pedicure so we went a found a parlour that offered Shellac. For 1,325 baht (about £24) they removed my old Shellac from my toes and redid my toes and fingernails! Such a bargain, as it'll last for 3 weeks and back home that would cost about £80-£90! Last stop was to get my full moon party outfit, which had to be an alluminous colour to ensure I glowed brightly at the party. I went for a highlighter yellow top with pink writing that said full moon party! Before I knew it, it was almost 2pm and time to meet our transfer to pier and say goodbye to the lovely Kirsty who I'd now grown close to having spent more than 2 weeks straight sharing hotel rooms, cabins and sleeper bunk beds with!<br />
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As a group we'd decided we wanted to tip Sek because he'd been such an awesome G Adventures tour guide. I gave 500 baht and I think most of us did the same or more. Sek had been unwell for the second part of our tour yet he'd still arranged activities, group dinners and even my ferry to Koh Phangan which wasn't part of the tour, so in my eyes he'd been a little star!</div>
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We said our goodbyes at the pier and funnily bumped into Emily and Helena who were just arriving in Ko Tao. Then it was just the 4 of us: Carlos, Sarah and Reiss and me off to Ko Phangan.<br />
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The ferry was pretty awful, as the waves were really against us and I hadn't eaten since breakfast. It was basically like being on a rollercoaster ride, but without the option of being able to get off! It was also delayed over an hour because of the conditions. There were lots of people chucking up which wasn't pleasant to hear or see either.<br />
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When we finally arrived none of us had booked transfers so then it was time to find the public buses to Haad Rin, the song-taew was only 100 baht so Reiss and I went for that option. Our hostels were in different areas though so we had to take separate buses, it was then I was of completely alone! The bus was just heading to Haad Rin and I didn't know if my hostel would be easy to find so all the way I was a little on edge. However, I kept looking out the window to ensure we were heading to Haad Rin after 5 minutes I begun to see signs and relax a little. Luckily after about 20 minutes I spotted my hostel (Our House on Tommy Road) and called to the driver to stop. He stopped a minute later and everyone got off the bus, so I guessed the buses usually stop in the centre and you have to find your way from there. Bloody lucky, I'd been looking out for the hostel otherwise I would have been plonked somewhere in Haad Rin with no idea!!<br />
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As soon as I arrived I realised I'd chosen a great hostel! It wasn't fancy or anything but the bar was full of young people and it was really central. Right outside the hotel there was also a line of Thai women doing glow in the dark body painting which I knew I was going to take full advantage of later on.<br />
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I checked in, and straight away two Canadian girls started talking to me and inviting me to come out for food and the party tonight. Result, how easy was that! They had already started drinking though and I was stone cold sober so it was a bit overwhelming. I now think it would have been better to arrive the day before to get to know everyone had I not been on my island hopping tour with G Adventures. My dorm was a full 12 bed and it wasn't long before I made friends with 4 other blokes and 2 girls who seemed to be a bit of a unit. I liked these guys straight away because they were chilled out but super friendly.<br />
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I took stroll down the beach with Kelsey and Steph for food from the stalls, but before we could get down to the beach we had to pay the 100 baht entrance fee, which goes towards the cleanup after the party (nothing really!). Down on the beach there were rows upon rows of booze shacks selling buckets of booze and mixers. Scaffolding towers were erected with lighting and signage on the beach... just incase it wasn't obvious that you were at the Full Moon Party! ;-)<br />
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After a tasty slice of pizza and a chicken kebab, Kelsey and I got painted up on the street outside our hostel. Kelsey went for a flower patterns and I went for stars on my right leg and a butterfly on my left arm, the price was 300 baht for a large design and 200 for a small design.<br />
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When I went back to our hostel I discovered there were all colours of glow-paint to help yourself to, so then we decorated our faces and I moved onto my left leg. </div>
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I was still hungry (having skipped lunch) so I joined the rest of the group from my dorm to eat just across the road from the hostel. There I discovered Jacob and Hayley were a couple and were travelling together since graduating from uni, Rich and Marcus were from South-End and were on a round the world trip which they were 6 months into and Julia (a Maria Carey look-a-like!) was from Germany but had excellent English skills. <br />
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After the food we started on drinks. Basically no one even thinks about buying drinks by the glass on full moon! It's all about the buckets which start around 250 baht up to 500 in busy areas like the beach. They are properly strong and the spirits and mixers come in proper sealed bottles so you know it's not dodgey.<br />
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Everyone had warned me that everyone looses something at the full moon party and not to take any valuables to the party so unfortunately I have limited photos of the night. I found a couple of our hostel pre-party on the Facebook page and via Instagram, but if you want to see what the full moon is like I recommend you book a flight and come for yourself. Words really can't explain how sick the beach party is. 30,000 people, pumping choones, cheap booze and U.V lights all over the beach makes one heavy PARTAY!!!<br />
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If you're a party person it'll be one of the best parties you'll go to and you won't regret it! And... What happens at fullmoon, stays at fullmoon ;-)</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-65461823266676051332014-02-18T04:11:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:35.498+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 18, Snorkelling with Nemo<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Today 7 of us in the group had signed up for a snorkelling expidition to some nearby islands. It was an early start which none of us were keen on after our partying the night before, but in the end, as always, the effort to get up and out was so worth it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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The first challenge was getting onto the boat. Unlike back home where health and safety rules pound any adventure or fun out of most activities, Thailand is very different. At the pier there were rows and rows of boats taking tourists out snorkelling for the day, and the only way to reach your boat was to jump between boats until you reached the one you'd be sailing on. This wasn't the easiest task as sometimes there were pretty big gaps between the boats, or low ceilings to duck, whilst climbing across with you belongings. Anyway we all made it and the boat set sail.<br /><br />The first snorkelling stop was to see the baby sharks. I'd never snorkelled before so I was actually a little bit nervous at first. But one thing I've learnt on this trip is if you overthink something you're worried about, you either chicken out, or make yourself too nervous to properly enjoy it. So without hesitatation I jumped off the back of the boat and into the sea to explore the underwater world.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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It took a little while to get used to breathing underwater, and because I was wearing a buoyancy aid I couldn't swim right down to the sea bed. Although I didn't see any baby sharks, the snorkelling was successful as I spotted a beautiful yellow and blue tropical fish, like Dori from Finding Nemo!! It was even more exciting because this fish was all alone amongst a swarm of other smaller black fish so it stood out like a diamond amongst gravel.<br /><br />The next stop was to a much more impressive coral reef, where the water was filled with tropical fish of all shapes, sizes and colours. One moment I was swimming around wondering where the hell all the fish were and the next minute I was jumping out of the water in shock because my whole body was surrounded by beautiful electric blue and yellow fish. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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It was good to hear our tour guide reiterate that we should be careful not to touch the coral reef, as like the stalagmites in the cave, they take years to form and once touched they stop growing. Unfortunately I noticed a big group of Asian tourists not abiding by this and actually standing on the coral, which made me fume!!! I tried to explain that you shouldn't stand on the coral but it was hopeless as we didn't understand each other. I just hope their tour guide had a word with them when they returned to their boat! Aside from that I had such an amazing day and it was one the big highlights of the whole trip. I only wish I had flippers on and that I was confident enough swimmer to give up the buoyancy aid. Next time I need a waterproof camera too so I can get underwater snaps or the coral and fishies.<br /><br />There was chance to do one more snorkle after that and the Aussies, Aldo and Sam, climbed to the top of the boat and did a big jump into the sea, which was pretty impressive! I was happy sunbathing on the top of the boat and eating the fried rice and chicken for lunch which came as part of the expedition package, so that's where I stayed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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The last stop was Naguyan Resort, which is a very small strip of private resort beach, with stunning white sand and turquoise waters. This place costs 100 baht to visit but we didn't need to pay this fee as it was included in the price of the day (850 baht).<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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As we were docking I thought this is the sort of place you see on postcards and adverts for sandals resorts! We had two hours to explore or sunbath Nangyuan Resort and I started with a very tasty, but expensive (by Thailand prices), fruit shake. I then snapped a few photos and chilled out with Jen and Lydia on the beach. As a comparison somewhere like Bangkok or Chiang Mai will charge you 40 baht for a mixed shake but here it was 120! So you see how see how the luxury resorts cream you a bit more.<br />
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It was all over far to quickly and at 4pm it was time to sail back to Ko Tao. The boat ride only took half an hour and from there Diamond Tours picked us up from the pier and took us back to our hotel.<br /><br />The girls in the group had planned to meet on the beach and 6:15pm to watch sunset, before meeting for dinner. I was a little late as I was making sure I had my tripod and camera kit, but luckily I arrived just at the right time to snap some beautiful sunset shots! I also tried out some of the manual settings on my new Nikon DSRL for the first time and was impressed to see how they improved the shots I took when I followed the guide mode. I still need a bit of practice but it was great not to rely on auto mode!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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All in all, a perfect day in paradise!<div>
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-54079750928762954552014-02-16T17:26:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:35.494+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 17, Hello Paradise (Ko Tao) and Sairee Beach<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Today our tour group caught the ferry from Koh Samui to Ko Tao. It was a choppy three and a half hour ride which made my stomach do several summersaults! However when we arrived it was SO worth it, because Ko Tao was the most beautiful, chilled place I've seen so far in Thailand, In fact it reminded me of Brighton in a way, less the palms and the lovely temperature...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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I felt pretty sick on this boat ride as I'd forgotten to take my sea sickness pills, but Sarah told me the best way to handle it is to distract yourself and try not to worry. So I decided to settle down to an episode of breaking bad and it worked a treat.<br /><br />Before long the journey was over and everyone was rushing to alight the boat and get their feet on steady land. The Seashell Ressort staff came to meet us from the pier and take us to our dwellings for the next 2 nights. It was only a 20 minute drive and when we arrived we realised we'd found paradise!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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Our hotel was the best so far by miles, which was a perfect way to end what has been an amazing second part to the tour. Our room was on the second floor which meant we had a balcony with a gorgeous garden view. The room also had aircon and a big walk in shower. Kirsty and I were were like kids on our birthday, running around excited as anything.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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The rest of the hotel was lovely too, with an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, and just a stone's throw from Sairee beach. Sariee beach was a stunning, white sands and the warmest clear waters! The resort also had a restaurant right on the beach with direct sea views which we would take our breakfast at in the morning.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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After we'd unpacked, paddled in the sea and took a few snaps of paradise, it was time for dinner. As always we went for a group dinner together. Sek took us to a local Mexican restaurant and we filled up on nachos, fajitas and potatoe skins.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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The night from here then turned into a bit of an unplanned party! A PR for the Lotus Bar gave us free drinks vouchers so we decided to check it out. When we turned up the party was in full swing and there were poi performances, fireworks and classic R&B choones blasting out.<br /><br />Checkout this short video I shared on Instagram to see for yourself: <a href="http://instagram.com/p/kbEp_JRs1V/">http://instagram.com/p/kbEp_JRs1V/</a> <br /><br />I ordered my first bucket of booze that night and before long I was dancing away and talking to a group of Australian boys that were diving fanatics and planning to do a wreck dive at the weekend.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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It was soon clear that the night was going to be carnage so I did the sensible thing and took my new camera home and dumped my banks cards and most of my cash in the safe in our room. As it turned out my sixth sense was spot on as I ended up dancing on the tables and doing the limbo under a fire-lit rope on the beach<br /><br />It was unbareably hot under going under the rope and I only managed to do two rounds before I realised that I was too long and inflexible to be carrying on. Sam on the other hand was amazing and was the last one able to do the limbo, just a metre from the ground! There were some nasty accidents by a few too-daring people, one guys whole face came into contact wit the limbo pole so he had a very nasty burn!<br /><br />There was also a burning skipping rope that was very tempting, however the Aussie boys had warned me off of it as they'd seen lots of nasty accidents and had a friend had to spend 12 hours in hospital after a burn. He had a lovely scar to remind him of his jump too. Hayliegh had a go at the skipping the rope and came away with a nasty burn on her ankle, which made me realise however, good a skipper you are, it's quite likely that you'll come away with an injury.<br /><br />A few of us had signed up to an early morning the next day with a day trip to an island and snorkelling so we sent ourselves to bed at 1am and said goodnight the wicked Sairee beach, beach party.<br />Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-2175424752362180022014-02-12T16:49:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:35.489+01:00Thailand Travels, Day 16, Koh Samui Beautiful by Day - Seedy by Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Today was a well needed beach day. After all the travelling we decided that we'd earned a rest. Although our hotel was only 10 minutes from a local beach we decided to catch a taxi to Chaweng beach, just 25 minutes from our hotel, since we'd heard it was a bit of a hot spot.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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We made our way out to the main road to flag down a local bus in order to save money, but as it turned out, a bus didn't come along. Several taxies did though and after some hard negotiating we found one that would take us to Chaweng for 600 baht. The only catch was 8 of us had to squeeze into a 5 seater car!!<br /><br />After a hot and squashed ride we arrived at Chaweng. The town looked like a tourist strip in Spain or Greece but once our feet found the white sands on the beach we knew that we'd made the right decision to come this way.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Throughout the day the beach served as a touting spot for numerous "lookie lookie" beach sellers. The ice cream sellers were useful though, providing me with a constant stream of my new favourite ice cream out here: the strawberry chocolate magnum! However, the other sellers didn't manage to prise any money from me as I knew there wasn't an inch of space left in my backpack!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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Right next to our sun loungers there was a luxury resort which Kirsty and I chose to have a spot of lunch. The views were stunning from here and we discovered they did English-style salads! Leafy fresh salad is something we've all been craving, especially with the hotter temperatures down south! Although the portions were quite small and the bill pricey, the chicken and bacon salad was perfect and just what our diets needed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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In the evening we went out for dinner again and I started to notice how seedy Koh Samui was. Every bar had Thai girls dressed provocatively, either sitting on high stools or draped next to poles. Elderly/overweight/balding men hung about these bars drinking and talking to the young beautiful Thai girls. It made me feel really uncomfortable and was a side to Thailand that disgusted me.<br /><br />I asked Sek a little bit about these women to find out why they would be in this predicament. He explained that girls from the north of Thailand would be sent south for part of the year to make money for their poor families, because in the North they can only harvest for part of the year, and once this is done they must find ways to make money by other means. This made me feel really sad for these women and angry at western men for exploiting these vulnerable girls. Kirsty and Cartsten, like me, didn't fancy drinking in bars around this, so after a late dinner we headed back to the hotel to chill out and get back to bed.Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-69345148681169809202014-02-12T11:46:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:35.503+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 15 Koh Samui Here We ComeYesterday was mainly a travelling day. We had a 3 hour drive in the bus to get to the port where the ferry would take us to Koh Samui. Luckily there were some good playlists amougst us so we had everything from Bob Marley and Mary J to Little Dragon and Disclosure to listen too. Aldo also introduced me to some new tracks by The Classix which I thought were pretty good too.<br /><br />Carlos decided to change the music after a while and put on some chilled house, it was nice stuff but with chill out music and the warmth of the sun it wasn't long before I was dozing off. I was only asleep for 20 minutes or so before the group started to have fun... Toilet paper, toy frogs and all sorts came out to decorate me... Pretty good look don't you think?<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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<br />The ferry was a smooth hour and half ride to Koh Samui and it was made more entertaining by a very dramatic Thai soap that was playing on big screens. Despite not understanding a single word of the soap we discovered that it can be very entertaining if you make up your own dialogue. In our version of this particularl soap we decided we were watching a love triangle between two sisters and a gay Thai man unfold! Highly amusing...<br /><br />Once the ferry docked we carried our backpacks off the boat and our hotel staff were waiting with 3 jeeps to pick us and our luggage up. So we weren't disappointed when we arrived Sek had pre-warned us that Koh Samui was a lot more expensive, as it's a tourist hotspot, and that we wouldn't have the same standard of accommodation. The beds were actually the comfiest yet, but there were ALOT of flies/mozzies in our bedroom and bathroom so I went on a swatting mission and now our bedroom looks like a murder scene!<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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In the evening we went out for dinner on the beach and I had the tastiest calamari I've ever had. The rings were huge and really thick and the batter perfectly crisped up.<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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After dinner we had a couple of drinks at a place called the swing bar. Now I know what you're thinking... It wasn't a swinging bar!! The bar had swings which you could sit at up at. It was also right on the beach and put on a poi show (fire dancing) every hour to entertain guests - it looked great against the night sky and you can checkout the video on my instagram account (@Mi55yBrown). That was the end of day 15!<div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-33551855028856978632014-02-12T11:44:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:09.976+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 14, Finding Paradise in Khao Sok National ParkLake<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"></span><br />
After a rocky ride on the sleeper train, on which I was convinced that we were going to derail, we arrived at Surat Thani at 7am. We were due to arrive at 4:30am so there was a big delay during the night, but that was good for us as it meant we caught extra Zzzz.<br /><br />We had a quick stop at a cafe for breki, and there we discovered free wifi so there was a flurry of Facebook updates, and then our driver arrived to take us to Khao Sok National Park. We'd agreed to pay 1000 baht (£20) for the activities today which would include hire of a private boat, visit to the national park, lunch and kayaking.<br /><br />Our new mode of transport was a rather retro school bus which looked amazing and was rigged up with a TV and MP3 player for our entertainment.<div>
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After an hour of driving we arrived at the departure spot for Khao Sok lake, it was totally picturesque and the lake looked very calm. At 10am the sun was burning our shoulders already, so we all changed into less clothing, slathered on the sun cream and stocked up on cold drinks.<br /><br /><div>
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We left our backpacks on the bus (but bought all our valuables in our daypacks) and hopped on board a long boat to sail to the lake. Sek explained that the area we were going to was a secret beauty spot and weren't disappointed because it was stunning! I sat up front with our driver which enabled me to get unrivalled views of the scenery and brilliant photographs of what I can only describe as paradise.<br /><br /><div>
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At one point the boat stopped at a cove which we could walk through and see the stalagmites. We were told to be careful not to touch the tips of the stalagmites because once touched they would become damaged and stop growing. We also stopped briefly to look at the monkeys hanging from the trees and rocks. After the two stops we then continued to sail to the place where we were to stop for lunch and kayaking.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Here a huge spread of chicken, fish (freshly caught that day), omelet, rice and noodles was provide for us. The food was delicious and the group feasted happily. Sek had a different Thai dish to us and let us try it, it was stonkingly spicy and none of us could handle more than one mouthful without having a coughing fit!<br /></div>
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Then it was time for us to have a splash about. Kirsty and I grabbed a kayak and went sailing to the another small island across the lake. The others joined us and we ended up making a giant line of joined kayaks. Aldo, one of the Aussies that joined our group, had a Go-Pro and he took a fish eye style photograph of us all joined together in the kayaks. Can't wait to see this photo when we all go back home!</div>
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When we were paddling we noticed lots of brown sewage in the lake and we realised that the toilets at the park obviously dump our toilet waste straight into the lake. We made a mental not to gulp any water down right then. :-/<br /><br />
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There was a long wooden plank and jumping station at the park which the group had a laugh jumping off and taking photographs. It was quite slippery though so occasionally one of two people slipped off prematurely. <br /><br />We spent a couple of hours overall at the lake and then it was time to get back on our boat. It was the heat of the day by now and within a few minutes I'd fallen asleep at the front of the boat! I woke myself up just before we were due to dock by rolling and almost falling off the front of the boat, amusing everyone.<br /><br />The rest of the day was spent driving to out next hotel with a quick pitt stop to see and feed the monkeys at a local temple, The monkeys were so friendly!!! They came right up to our hand to take the peanuts from us.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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After that it was straight on to our next accomdation. When we arrived we were impressed to discover we were staying in a treehouse! The treehouse was bar far the best accommodation so far; our room actually had a wetroom and an artificial waterfall in the bathroom!</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-52237694471402640172014-02-10T00:49:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:04:09.984+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 12 & 13, Back in Bangkok, MBK and Evening Cocktails<br />
The last few days have been chill days which were really appreciated after the full on time in the North. After our night on the sleeper train we went back to the Bangkok Centre Hotel and freshened up before taking a ride over to MBK (a massive shopping complex in the centre of Bangkok).<br />
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The centre had 8 floors and as you went up each floor the pricey the shopping became. I found a couple of must haves, including a very good fake Armani wrist watch for 520 TBH and a really bling phone case for 1,200 TBH.<br />
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On Saturday evening we met the new tour members for the southern part of the trip and we all went for a group dinner with them on the Saturday night. After dinner most of the group went to a ping ping show, but Kirsty and I really weren't interested in seeing this seedier side of Thailand so we went for a manicure and cocktails on the Ramburtti Road with Helena and a new addition to our group, Lydia.<br />
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After the Ping pong show everyone joined us at The Greenhouse for cocktails, but by this time it was about 1am and we were both exhausted. We decided to have a cheeky foot massage and then took Flora back to the hotel with us for a reasonably early night.<br />
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The night before we'd decided to enjoy a long lay in and a massage and that's exactly what we did the next day. Round the corner from our hotel there was a massage parlor that Sek had recommended. It was 500 TBH for an hour oil massage and 300 TBH for an hour long facial. This was pricier than other massages I'd had in Thailand but the facial was incredible and left my face feeling as soft as a baby's bum.<br />
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It was a funny experience as Kirsty and I were next to each other behind curtains, which made us able to shout through and check how each other was finding it. From doing this I realised that every massuse uses a very different technique, even in the same parlor. My masseuse, for example, liked to climb onto the bed and put his knees into my back occasionally. At least I hope that's a Thai massage technique and not so weird kinky thing... :-/<br />
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Kirsty had never has a pedicure, facial or massage until this trip so it was an exciting first experience for her. She discovered she had really tickly feet and couldn't keep her feet from twitching when they did certain movements which had us both laughing.<br />
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After that there was just time for a spot of lunch and then we were off to the station (again) for another night on the sleeper train! I'm writing actually writing up all the back posts for the last few days as it's been so full on there's not been time to blog. I want to make sure I capture all the amazing experiences I'm having so I can read them back and smile when I'm back home.<br />
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There's an amazing sunset tonight as we are out of the crazy city and it's filled the sky. Feeling knackered now and our stop is at 4:30am, so I'm going to catch 40 winks before it's time to get up and be on the move again!<br />
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Nun night all xFoodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-46170457867532494032014-02-06T00:42:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:04:09.980+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 11, Adventures with Lady Boys & Thai Cookery School<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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So the gossip from last night is that apparently two of the boys got with lady boys!! Kirsty and I sat up gossiping until about 2am and then we fell asleep. After about an hour or so I was woken by shouting and screaming coming from outside my door (Kirsty was somehow dead to the world!!)<br />
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I went out to see what all the commotion was and found Helena and Emily pissed as anything stumbling around the hotel. Helena had massive cuts on her knees, and her hands were grazed and bleeding. When I asked what had happend she said she'd fallen out of the taxi. She was wailing for someone from Gadventures tour group to provide a plaster. Realising that I couldn't help and it was nothing serious I stumbled back into my room and tried to go back to sleep. However, after a ridiculous amount of noise continued until about 5am so sleep wasn't something I managed much of.<br />
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Kirsty and I had opted to do the morning cookery school so we had to be up and ready to leave at 9am today. This meant we were up before the revellers and unable to find out what went down last night until we returned from the class. When we did come back we discoverd that Emily, Helena, Sarah and Carlos had gone to a club with the boys and 2 lady boys had made a beeline for them as soon as they walked in. The boys spent the night pulling the lady boys and then one of them went back home with a lady boy and the other brought one back to our hotel. Apparently there was full on action... until the girls came back and knocked on the boys room and found the ladyboy.<br />
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Emily and Helena ended up in a brawl with one of the lady boys at our hotel because he/she tried to snatch Emily's mobile phone. Emily and Helena were literally dragged down the stairs by this lady boy, as they held onto the phone, which now explains all the noise! I won't go into the details of the ladyboy action but it was enough to cause some embarrassment for the boys the next day.<br />
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The cookery school on the other hand was fantastic (even on just a few hours sleep!) The morning involved a shopping trip to a local market which had everything you could need to cook any Thai dish in the world. The fish stalls were a bit nauseating and brought a new meaning to fresh fish... many of which were still alive and swimming around in buckets, or flipping around on a table taking their last gasps!<br />
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I also tried a few local delicacies, all of which were pretty awful. Especially this green drink here which I swear was blended grass!<br />
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Once we had all the ingredients we went back to the home of the husband and wife who run 'Home Cooking School' and learnt to make our dishes from scratch.<br />
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I'd chose to make Thai Red Curry paste, Sweet and Sour and Pad Thai Noodles and I was really pleased<br />
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It was also really interesting to see how differently the Thai's cook dishes. For example, some flavours like the spring onion shouldn't go into until the very end of a stir fry and not everything is cooked on a high heat.<br />
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At the end of the lesson we were given a "home cooking school" recipe book to take home for free. I'm really excited to try it out back home and make authentic Thai for my friends and family.<br />
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The cookery school over ran a bit so once we've been dropped back at the hotel we only had enough time to pickup a few snacks from the 7-11 and then grab our washing. For 140 TBH (just over £2!) we had 4 kilos of washing dryed - result! If only I could send my weekly washing load to this lady when I get back home!<br />
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We then hopped on the overnight sleeper train back to Bangkok to complete part one of the tour.<br />
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-61880686891140971342014-02-05T00:45:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:04:09.987+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 10, Day 3 of the Hill Tribe Trek and Chiang Mai Night Bazaar<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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It was our final day of trekking today and boy was I pleased. My body was well and truly pushed to its max and every step and bend caused me to make a little squeak of pain! It was another 3 hour trip down the river on the bamboo rafts, but with the sun out and my walking shoes on my feet instead of in my rucksack I was able to cope better with the longer journey.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-OaaSA-iioTQ/UvjH9IeUaEI/AAAAAAAAHRE/RNof8H1zFJ4/s640/blogger-image-1793745674.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-OaaSA-iioTQ/UvjH9IeUaEI/AAAAAAAAHRE/RNof8H1zFJ4/s640/blogger-image-1793745674.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>
Nanoo warned us that today would be a bit rougher on the river as we'd be going down a lot more rapids, which meant we were likely to get splashed. In preparation he provided plastic bags to put valuables like phones and cameras into for protection. Unfortunately this meant I didn't get a single snap of the rafting, luckily Venisha and Kirsty did so I've popped their piccies in.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0jcO66rmA-w/UvjH4iSlb5I/AAAAAAAAHQ8/SR037p1YBPg/s640/blogger-image-1348431533.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0jcO66rmA-w/UvjH4iSlb5I/AAAAAAAAHQ8/SR037p1YBPg/s640/blogger-image-1348431533.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B8Q_Kps5NkU/UvghJsyrltI/AAAAAAAAHP4/nl5lSxfOu5U/s640/blogger-image--1457724011.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B8Q_Kps5NkU/UvghJsyrltI/AAAAAAAAHP4/nl5lSxfOu5U/s640/blogger-image--1457724011.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />The route through the Chiang Mai countryside was literally incredible and not anything like I'd imagined of Thailand. Before I came to Thailand I'd been dreaming of white sandy beaches and crystal waters, but the north of Thailand was certainly as spectacular as any beach photos I'd seen. There were huge trees and palms everywhere along the river and the only noises were from running water and the surrounding birds and wildlife. It was a true beauty spot.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-c5q1Vg__Nhg/UvghPKO0kSI/AAAAAAAAHQA/EMOF3PSE66E/s640/blogger-image-1654735241.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-c5q1Vg__Nhg/UvghPKO0kSI/AAAAAAAAHQA/EMOF3PSE66E/s640/blogger-image-1654735241.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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After a little less than 3 hours we arrived at our rafting end point where we ate lunch and our pick-up truck collected our weary bodies and took us back to our hotel in Chiang Mai. We said an emotional goodbye to Nanoo who we'd grown very found of and he kissed my hand. What a cutie!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AM3lKQhgiKM/Uvgguo8PAhI/AAAAAAAAHPY/oUWEpX-ihkI/s640/blogger-image-954754305.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AM3lKQhgiKM/Uvgguo8PAhI/AAAAAAAAHPY/oUWEpX-ihkI/s640/blogger-image-954754305.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Back at our hotel it was a whistle stop. Showers, dumping washing and a change into fresh clothes and then we were off again!<br /><br />The evening was spent at the Chiang Mai night bazaar which is a shop-o-holics paradise. Hundreds and hundreds of market stalls selling everything and anything you could ever need with pretty fairy lights and lanterns guiding you along the stalls and entrancing you.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-nbNraiAqk6w/Uvgg36Kgp6I/AAAAAAAAHPg/LjkjD02zdpE/s640/blogger-image-1998464897.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-nbNraiAqk6w/Uvgg36Kgp6I/AAAAAAAAHPg/LjkjD02zdpE/s640/blogger-image-1998464897.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Kirsty and I went a bit crazy this evening, enjoying a marathon shopping and bartering session until gone midnight, when we found a tuk tuk to take us back to our hotel at Chiang Mai Gate.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VV1jWGAE760/UvggiawlysI/AAAAAAAAHPI/IfUFPKktAoY/s640/blogger-image-1967333405.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VV1jWGAE760/UvggiawlysI/AAAAAAAAHPI/IfUFPKktAoY/s640/blogger-image-1967333405.jpg" /></a></div>
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-18766861960630528862014-02-04T00:22:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:04:09.972+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 9, Day 2 of the Hill Tribe TrekLast night was pretty hard going. It was absolutely freezing in the hut! Mainly because there were huge gaps in the bamboos that made up the walls! I woke up with lots of bites all over my arms and legs which could have be from mozzies or bed bugs, since I foolishly didn't have a sleeping liner. I was also busting for the toilet as it had been too cold and I had been too scared to go outside in the dark.<br /><br />There are no hot water taps at the village so it was a baby-wipe wash for me. I felt pretty gross, especially after the trekking the day before, but this is all part of the experience and what I signed up for, so I decided to embrace it and not moan. Breakfast was hard boiled eggs, toast and jam and more pineapple! Pineapple seems to be a staple for all meals out here...<br /><br />We left the village at 9:30am and started on the second leg of our trek. Today was going to involve another 3 hours walking, so I mentally prepared myself for another knackering day, and I wasn't disappointed. I'd worn walking sandals as I knew we were going to be doing bamboo rafting and it wouldn't matter if these got wet but this was a bit of a mistake where the treking was concerned. We were walking up and down slippery hills with loose rock and and pickerly foliage so there were a few times when my open toes were jabbed or stabbed. I also ended up on my bum a few times which Nanoo said meant I had to buy him a beer for every fall... Nice try Nanoo.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fm0MaZnm0x8/UvgbMGVW1uI/AAAAAAAAHM0/Hp-eK6VKVyI/s640/blogger-image-1360587457.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fm0MaZnm0x8/UvgbMGVW1uI/AAAAAAAAHM0/Hp-eK6VKVyI/s640/blogger-image-1360587457.jpg" /></a><br /><br />At one point Nanoo let us stop and rest for a moment, half of the group sat down on a bamboo bench which instantly buckled under everyone's weight and sent everyone tumbling to the floor. It was a classic you've been framed clip and had our tour guides laughing their heads off at us.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-INpgL9xnc-E/UvjIo8L_xKI/AAAAAAAAHRQ/iVOOaJ3GofU/s640/blogger-image-2012442306.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-INpgL9xnc-E/UvjIo8L_xKI/AAAAAAAAHRQ/iVOOaJ3GofU/s640/blogger-image-2012442306.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After 3 hours we turned a corner and saw the elephant park. Hurrah! At last my feet can rest!!! We stopped for about an hour and ate lunch provided by the park. It was a rice free day for a change which we all appreciated. We had a tomato pasta with vegetables and it was so good I had seconds. And the staple pineapple made an appearance again for afters. Although, I was so hungry from the trek I literally would of eaten anything. (Bar perhaps one of those bugs from Khosan road!)<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-luU24kJFscs/UvjQKjRjTXI/AAAAAAAAHR8/TxWEopoPndI/s640/blogger-image--753165359.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-luU24kJFscs/UvjQKjRjTXI/AAAAAAAAHR8/TxWEopoPndI/s640/blogger-image--753165359.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>
Then it was time for one of the activities I have been looking forward to most on the trip... elephant riding! Kirsty and I shared an elephant with Emily, we took the seat and Emily went on the head of the elephant! You wouldn't believe how hairy and prickly the elephants' skin was!!! Emily was cursing that she was wearing shorts as his skin was rather uncomfortable between her legs.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1BlYQHsNhOM/UvgaWA6oSCI/AAAAAAAAHMk/vMoUtXMrfZw/s640/blogger-image-642322443.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1BlYQHsNhOM/UvgaWA6oSCI/AAAAAAAAHMk/vMoUtXMrfZw/s640/blogger-image-642322443.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I'd been really excited about riding the elephant but once we started moving I realised that it was actually terrifying! There was nothing strapping you into the seat and as we started to walk down the really narrow paths that sloped downhill I started to panic that either me or the elephant might slip and I would go tumbling down the hill. <br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QdZwbC7XN9Y/UvjQBLxkklI/AAAAAAAAHR0/pCp1Dvvpl60/s640/blogger-image-281543726.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QdZwbC7XN9Y/UvjQBLxkklI/AAAAAAAAHR0/pCp1Dvvpl60/s640/blogger-image-281543726.jpg" /></a><br /><br />"There's no seatbelt" I squealed as the elephant took slow but wobbly steps downhill.<br /><br />I also had Carlos's camera so I was supposed to be shooting pictures of him and Sarah on their elephant. However I was freaking out so much I couldn't let go of the side bars on the seat. Kirsty, bless her, was laughing at me, which was actually encouraging me you see the funny side of the situation and preventing instead of having a full-on panic attack.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FCAt_9rybg4/UvgaRkpUxsI/AAAAAAAAHMc/EUN4kn5jn-8/s640/blogger-image--1329914748.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FCAt_9rybg4/UvgaRkpUxsI/AAAAAAAAHMc/EUN4kn5jn-8/s640/blogger-image--1329914748.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After 20 minutes we reached a halfway point where we were able to get off. We swapped with group that hadn't yet rode an elephant and I got to relax on solid ground again. Ahhhhh.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kgCa5_s1Dlg/UvjQWLNoMlI/AAAAAAAAHSE/kXNl8OAc5dQ/s640/blogger-image--1809253712.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kgCa5_s1Dlg/UvjQWLNoMlI/AAAAAAAAHSE/kXNl8OAc5dQ/s640/blogger-image--1809253712.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The final part of the trek was a 2.5 hour stint of bamboo rafting which was amazing for the first hour, when the sun was out and we were having a laugh splashing each other. After a while though the sun started to go in and our bodies were really caning from the trekking and standing in the bamboos. I was wet from an earlier water fight with our bamboos and decided to reach for my jumper and trousers, which were wrapped around my daypack and hanging from a bamboo pyramid at the front of the raft. As I reached for warmth, my clothes tumbled into the river. Bad move.<br /><br />The journey from this point was pretty hard going. Every so often I'd ask our rafting guide how much further and he'd say half an hour. After a while a realised there's a big difference between an English half and hour and a Thai one. The next time I asked Sek how much longer, he asked me, English time or Thai time? I smiled and realised I wouldn't know until we arrived.<br /><br />We did arrive in the end and it was all I could do not to flake out on a bed there and then. I managed to stay awake for dinner and play a very funny game called "Hi Harry" which Nanoo taught us. It involved repeating a sentence correctly to the person sitting next to you and if incorrectly repeated you had charcoal drawn all over you face as the consequence. For every incorrect sentence repeated a new marking was made to the players face. The sentences also changed depending on who you were sat next to and how many markings they had on their face. Naturally we used this opportunity to make our group look as funny as possible. So, mono brows, mostoshes, tashes etc.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VQMgz8v0bmo/UvgbHxXEbCI/AAAAAAAAHMs/PBctu06p9tA/s640/blogger-image-1898921297.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VQMgz8v0bmo/UvgbHxXEbCI/AAAAAAAAHMs/PBctu06p9tA/s640/blogger-image-1898921297.jpg" /></a><br /><br />As you can see it got a bit messy before we went to bed...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-64438211700942056292014-02-03T08:10:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:04:09.991+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 8, Day 1 of the Hill Tribe TrekOn Tuesday the group began its hill-tribe trek of the north. We and our rucksacks bundled into the back of a pickup truck and we began our 3 hour drive to the hills. The plan was to stop each hour of the journey at different points. The first time we stopped at a local market to buy water, snacks and very important... loo roll!! (Since there would be no loo roll with the tribes!)<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-S50bq4T-pHE/Uvc2bbvEunI/AAAAAAAAHJo/Lnvrp1Zka4I/s640/blogger-image--2083675033.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-S50bq4T-pHE/Uvc2bbvEunI/AAAAAAAAHJo/Lnvrp1Zka4I/s640/blogger-image--2083675033.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The second stop was at a beautiful cascading waterfall for swimming and photographs.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7C0IL1Dz_To/Uvc2ZPZWeGI/AAAAAAAAHJg/aNmLJSkYtbA/s640/blogger-image-1444912453.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7C0IL1Dz_To/Uvc2ZPZWeGI/AAAAAAAAHJg/aNmLJSkYtbA/s640/blogger-image-1444912453.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>
Normally I just paddle in the water because it's always too cold for me to go for a proper swim. However, today was really hot and there was no way I wasn't getting a selfie under the waterfall!!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BV-qYyS_x0w/Uvc36xwg5kI/AAAAAAAAHK8/XK_JyBBiXzo/s640/blogger-image--1405439338.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BV-qYyS_x0w/Uvc36xwg5kI/AAAAAAAAHK8/XK_JyBBiXzo/s640/blogger-image--1405439338.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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Kirsty and I did some posing together and then she took a few snaps of me doing some calendar-style posing. It just had to be done!!! ;-)<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VblrM24MToM/Uvc31L9rfgI/AAAAAAAAHKk/jZzCq0XgSGw/s640/blogger-image--352148808.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VblrM24MToM/Uvc31L9rfgI/AAAAAAAAHKk/jZzCq0XgSGw/s640/blogger-image--352148808.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hw1W4mENtFU/Uvc35F3krPI/AAAAAAAAHK0/ruouU65bKDs/s640/blogger-image-599685306.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hw1W4mENtFU/Uvc35F3krPI/AAAAAAAAHK0/ruouU65bKDs/s640/blogger-image-599685306.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Our whole group came in for a paddle and we got a great group shot with our G Adventures tour guide, Sek, laying across us.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0rKjgWo_Ihg/Uvc33M8-d-I/AAAAAAAAHKs/Sv_q_D_vgX0/s640/blogger-image--1331742919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0rKjgWo_Ihg/Uvc33M8-d-I/AAAAAAAAHKs/Sv_q_D_vgX0/s640/blogger-image--1331742919.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After this it was time for the final leg of the trip. We clambered back into the truck and set off again. There was one quick stop for lunch at a local hut on the roadside and then we were off again.</div>
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<br />After a total of 3 hours driving we made it to a trek starting point. We trekked up and down hills for about 2.5 hours in the afternoon with two local guides.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AjaGMG6I4LA/Uvc3y9CtbQI/AAAAAAAAHKc/3_EaJ97trPw/s640/blogger-image-1296670358.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AjaGMG6I4LA/Uvc3y9CtbQI/AAAAAAAAHKc/3_EaJ97trPw/s640/blogger-image-1296670358.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EmpVlY6Ixew/Uvc39NOjunI/AAAAAAAAHLE/1nIFJsOqX3g/s640/blogger-image--322509910.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EmpVlY6Ixew/Uvc39NOjunI/AAAAAAAAHLE/1nIFJsOqX3g/s640/blogger-image--322509910.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Thankly most of the trek was in the shade as it was very hot and sunny by this point. However it was still challenging and highlighted how unfit I was!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HqUPzLjrims/Uvc2djyt3nI/AAAAAAAAHJw/OCF7fzR2uBU/s640/blogger-image-1368565119.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HqUPzLjrims/Uvc2djyt3nI/AAAAAAAAHJw/OCF7fzR2uBU/s640/blogger-image-1368565119.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wMTtQzDfGSg/Uvc2iE_7WyI/AAAAAAAAHKA/Pjbsg8iqwck/s640/blogger-image-1418751188.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wMTtQzDfGSg/Uvc2iE_7WyI/AAAAAAAAHKA/Pjbsg8iqwck/s640/blogger-image-1418751188.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t7s0YnzzLnY/Uvc2kfam-mI/AAAAAAAAHKI/GEiblYi-SRg/s640/blogger-image--1503726637.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t7s0YnzzLnY/Uvc2kfam-mI/AAAAAAAAHKI/GEiblYi-SRg/s640/blogger-image--1503726637.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_HlkIUWm5-I/Uvc2f0DFQ8I/AAAAAAAAHJ4/7UzFDeJ8rME/s640/blogger-image--1110770289.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_HlkIUWm5-I/Uvc2f0DFQ8I/AAAAAAAAHJ4/7UzFDeJ8rME/s640/blogger-image--1110770289.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Luckily the views were really beautiful which kept me going when my legs had turned to jelly and had given up on me!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-m4pg63ETajw/Uvc2mS-9CDI/AAAAAAAAHKQ/dn3-F9ntZAE/s640/blogger-image-779724492.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-m4pg63ETajw/Uvc2mS-9CDI/AAAAAAAAHKQ/dn3-F9ntZAE/s640/blogger-image-779724492.jpg" /></a><br /><br />One interesting thing I noticed was there were holes in the soil which were covered in cobwebs - they were everywhere! Our tour guide Anan (we called him Nannoo for some reason...) put his hand into one and pulled out a Tarantula spider which naturally made all the girls scream and run as far away as possible from!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pEficXhWA3k/Uvc3_FL2TJI/AAAAAAAAHLM/vyTJIeAC9Vs/s640/blogger-image--621493110.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pEficXhWA3k/Uvc3_FL2TJI/AAAAAAAAHLM/vyTJIeAC9Vs/s640/blogger-image--621493110.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After what seemed an eternity we arrived at the local village which we were to stay at and met the lovely local people. There were 3 really cute kids running around the village playing football and one particular girl which I wanted to take home!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-73SewQGJpsc/Uvc_oEZE2YI/AAAAAAAAHLs/BFfg2CrPh4U/s640/blogger-image--829695587.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-73SewQGJpsc/Uvc_oEZE2YI/AAAAAAAAHLs/BFfg2CrPh4U/s640/blogger-image--829695587.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kX-RVrq0PF0/Uvc_qUibHsI/AAAAAAAAHL0/V7VdAfjcYSM/s640/blogger-image--359402299.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kX-RVrq0PF0/Uvc_qUibHsI/AAAAAAAAHL0/V7VdAfjcYSM/s640/blogger-image--359402299.jpg" /></a><br /><br />That night the whole group stayed in a hut made from wood and corrugated metal sheets. It was very basic but I was excited to stay the night in the village and experience the tribe's way of life. The beds were made from several blankets instead of mattresses and we each had a mosquito net around our bed to protect us from nasties.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CPGHDoaZj5U/Uvc_soYCiOI/AAAAAAAAHL8/CUdIdAMor_g/s640/blogger-image-1711723588.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CPGHDoaZj5U/Uvc_soYCiOI/AAAAAAAAHL8/CUdIdAMor_g/s640/blogger-image-1711723588.jpg" /></a><br /><br /> The tribe cooked us a red curry with rice and vegetable sides and then we had fresh pineapple for pudding. Whilst the meal was being prepared I went in pto the kitchen and found our tour guide playing the guitar and singing songs. It was one of the WOW moments when you think "I can't believe I'm here, doing this!!!" I felt so far away from my life back home but yet I also felt extremely privileged to be in this position and seeing a whole different way of life.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PGqFTRZUcDM/Uvc_wi9nVxI/AAAAAAAAHMM/Uv7is6_U6gM/s640/blogger-image--1054505339.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-PGqFTRZUcDM/Uvc_wi9nVxI/AAAAAAAAHMM/Uv7is6_U6gM/s640/blogger-image--1054505339.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-kfOfVG0ezmA/Uvc_mOCiUCI/AAAAAAAAHLk/6n5zu-ZaPkE/s640/blogger-image--1433509306.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-kfOfVG0ezmA/Uvc_mOCiUCI/AAAAAAAAHLk/6n5zu-ZaPkE/s640/blogger-image--1433509306.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-SseFvBCXSFQ/Uvc_kE7qMzI/AAAAAAAAHLc/ciSAZL_AxA4/s640/blogger-image--228308611.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-SseFvBCXSFQ/Uvc_kE7qMzI/AAAAAAAAHLc/ciSAZL_AxA4/s640/blogger-image--228308611.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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After dinner we bought beers from the tribe and sat round a fire to keep warm as the temperature dropped. The stars were out and we all commented on how many you could see without the light pollution of the city. Sek continued to play the guitar and we sang along to the songs we knew and I taught everyone how to play zip-zap-bop as a bit of a drinking game.<br /></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rujejuV-N6k/Uvc_ulLmNZI/AAAAAAAAHME/AgMQAoysdh4/s640/blogger-image-1638295546.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rujejuV-N6k/Uvc_ulLmNZI/AAAAAAAAHME/AgMQAoysdh4/s640/blogger-image-1638295546.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We were all pretty knackered after the day of trekking so we went to sleep around midnight.<br /><br /></div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-22957253754667508962014-02-03T02:13:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.237+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 7, Wat Phrathat Dot Suthep and Tiger KingdomWe arrived in Chiang Mai at about 9:30 am and were greeted by our bus driver who took us to our next hotel in Chiang Mai. We'd expected to be able to shower and change after the night on the train, however our rooms were quite ready when we arrived. Instead we had to have a quick freshen up in the toilets before Sek took us to a place called Baan Bakery, just round the corner from the hotel.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IEWhspf32U0/UvWSybjYNcI/AAAAAAAAHIo/AH2sVTgTI_8/s640/blogger-image--1690380573.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IEWhspf32U0/UvWSybjYNcI/AAAAAAAAHIo/AH2sVTgTI_8/s640/blogger-image--1690380573.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Baan was run by a friendly Chinese family and sold very tasty pastries, freshly baked and prepared french bread sandwiches and very strong coffee! It was the best breakfast so far here. To date I've either skipped this meal or only eaten fruit smoothies as the Thai breakfast is far to similar to the Thai lunch and the Thai dinner for my liking!! (Noodles, noodles and more noodles!!)<br /><br />After we were suitably stuffed our driver took us to visit another temple called Wat Phrathat Dot Suthep. There were over 300 steps up to this temple but once we reached the top it was worth it because this was another stunning golden beauty. <br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-kpm34VF-Xl4/UvWSquuG5pI/AAAAAAAAHII/midoiMgUDuY/s640/blogger-image--2035514806.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-kpm34VF-Xl4/UvWSquuG5pI/AAAAAAAAHII/midoiMgUDuY/s640/blogger-image--2035514806.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-F5grfD-UwKc/UvX_AUHn8fI/AAAAAAAAHJI/wSQFMNgZ15U/s640/blogger-image-2113348830.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-F5grfD-UwKc/UvX_AUHn8fI/AAAAAAAAHJI/wSQFMNgZ15U/s640/blogger-image-2113348830.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v4UKBT7DUVA/UvWSi85FkAI/AAAAAAAAHHo/t2FBwCE16-s/s640/blogger-image--2115607003.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v4UKBT7DUVA/UvWSi85FkAI/AAAAAAAAHHo/t2FBwCE16-s/s640/blogger-image--2115607003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PFKpS6GeUvY/UvWSsuq3NJI/AAAAAAAAHIQ/msi3NsUIBdc/s640/blogger-image-1556244839.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PFKpS6GeUvY/UvWSsuq3NJI/AAAAAAAAHIQ/msi3NsUIBdc/s640/blogger-image-1556244839.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZYZTYNi02Kg/UvX_CsYWwqI/AAAAAAAAHJQ/vc1LDHBXUgA/s640/blogger-image--1847332659.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZYZTYNi02Kg/UvX_CsYWwqI/AAAAAAAAHJQ/vc1LDHBXUgA/s640/blogger-image--1847332659.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>
Next up was lunch and Tiger Kingdom. There were 4 options to chose from, all of which included going inside an enclosure and petting the tigers. A really large tiger cost 420 THB, a medium tiger for 420 THB, small tigers for 520 THB and the baby tiger cubs 620 THB.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LhIhPJT2FeE/UvuSuE-DYmI/AAAAAAAAHZY/nnE48DF14fU/s640/blogger-image--1673237294.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LhIhPJT2FeE/UvuSuE-DYmI/AAAAAAAAHZY/nnE48DF14fU/s640/blogger-image--1673237294.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I was naturally drawn to the baby tiger cubs because they are so cute... and I knew I wasn't interested in being anywhere near the big tigers! Far too dangerous and asking for trouble...<br /><br />Tiger Kingdom claims not to drug it's tigers, however I wasn't too sure how true this was as the Tigers were very docile when I saw them and it just doesn't seem natural for a predatory mammal to lay there and let you rub it's belly. I felt quiet guilty once I was in the enclosure because I felt uncomfortable about wild animals being caged in that way purely for my entertainment. I'm glad I went though because it made me realise that it's a cruel way for animals to be treated.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q2KY8hcjJnI/UvuSxV82d6I/AAAAAAAAHZg/-sz_SwvsEbU/s640/blogger-image-252145439.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q2KY8hcjJnI/UvuSxV82d6I/AAAAAAAAHZg/-sz_SwvsEbU/s640/blogger-image-252145439.jpg" /></a><br /><br />As well as tigers there was also a huge Lion in a cage. As I got close to his cage for a photo, he let out an almighty roar and I nearly jumped out of my skin. And I thought to myself... that's probably his entertainment for the day, scaring tourists that are silly enough to put their face up to his cage! Haha!<br /></div>
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After my slot with the baby tiger cubs, I went and waited for Kirsty, Emily and Helena to come out of theirs. They'd picked to see the largest tiger of all and it was amusing to see how petrified they all were when they came out. They were all physically shaking and saying how scared they've been, especially when the zookeeper had encouraged the tiger to jump up onto the tiger and do tricks!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hs8gymFkvds/UvuSrTQufkI/AAAAAAAAHZQ/fiupGE1xLkM/s640/blogger-image-92806215.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hs8gymFkvds/UvuSrTQufkI/AAAAAAAAHZQ/fiupGE1xLkM/s640/blogger-image-92806215.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Once everyone had seen their Tiger, the group split. A few people went to see the long neck tribes and the orchid butterfly farm and the rest of us took the bus back to the hotel to freshen up and unpack. It gets pretty hot on the buses so I decided to get a bit of fresh air and hang out the back with Sek!!<br /><br />Kirsty went to see the long neck tribes and by her accounts it did sound very interesting. <br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-QFbMBurujcY/UvWSutwYPAI/AAAAAAAAHIY/kXYkRfOIhRQ/s640/blogger-image-1247809814.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-QFbMBurujcY/UvWSutwYPAI/AAAAAAAAHIY/kXYkRfOIhRQ/s640/blogger-image-1247809814.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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Later that evening Sek arranged for the group to go to Thai boxing. The tickets and transport were 600 THB and I wasn't too fussed about this option so I skipped this and chose to take advantage of the massage parlour across the road from our hotel. I paid 200 THB for a full body oil massage and it was money well spent because the aromatherapy oils worked wonders and I was off to sleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.<br /><br /></div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-25612030587415545632014-02-02T01:52:00.000+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.241+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 6, Boating, Wat Po & the Overnight Sleeper Train<br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MeXiVr14qY8/UvWN9F6XTyI/AAAAAAAAHHA/_6zOxbP6K_M/s640/blogger-image--1048774897.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MeXiVr14qY8/UvWN9F6XTyI/AAAAAAAAHHA/_6zOxbP6K_M/s640/blogger-image--1048774897.jpg" /></a><br /><br />On Sunday morning our group hired a boat and our tour guide Sek took took us along one of Bangkok's famous canals. There were swarms of catfish in the river which we stopped to feed with bread, before we went on to visit two beautiful, but very different temples.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XA_ijXeBZws/UvWN7CLEdXI/AAAAAAAAHG4/EhgfcXvZqLo/s640/blogger-image-1537441556.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XA_ijXeBZws/UvWN7CLEdXI/AAAAAAAAHG4/EhgfcXvZqLo/s640/blogger-image-1537441556.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7bYBPYXWj5s/UvWMJA4155I/AAAAAAAAHGM/32XKAgXn9qQ/s640/blogger-image-644666508.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7bYBPYXWj5s/UvWMJA4155I/AAAAAAAAHGM/32XKAgXn9qQ/s640/blogger-image-644666508.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The first was Wat Arun (which means temple of dawn) a temple dedicated to the 2nd reign of Chakkri Dynasty and cost 50 THB to visit. It's a landmark of Thailand located on the West Bank of Chao Phraya River and is made of grey stone engraved with beautiful flowery patterns.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cwRjOb0EY3s/UvuR-BGPSBI/AAAAAAAAHY8/Q8970_S4-ZA/s640/blogger-image--2070600605.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cwRjOb0EY3s/UvuR-BGPSBI/AAAAAAAAHY8/Q8970_S4-ZA/s640/blogger-image--2070600605.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It has very steep, vertigo-inducing steps to climb up which you don't realise are pretty high until you reach the top and start thinking "how the hell do I get down!?<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sZQ1Ld5jQRo/UvuSAMKz8kI/AAAAAAAAHZE/2AGIx92VT2M/s640/blogger-image--95703639.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sZQ1Ld5jQRo/UvuSAMKz8kI/AAAAAAAAHZE/2AGIx92VT2M/s640/blogger-image--95703639.jpg" /></a><br /><br />One daring tourist decided to bring a baby up to the top, which was fine until it came to coming down, which was a lot more dangerous. I could barely watch the man and his wife carry the baby over their shoulder as they climbed down the steps gripping the railings!!!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZzO5RDa_U9Y/UvWLp78QmbI/AAAAAAAAHFc/b6p_IzW04KU/s640/blogger-image--263600523.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZzO5RDa_U9Y/UvWLp78QmbI/AAAAAAAAHFc/b6p_IzW04KU/s640/blogger-image--263600523.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The next place we went to was the temple of Wat Pho, a little more at 100 THB, where the gigantic golden sleeping Buddha resides. Literally as I arrived her the battery in my proper camera ran out which meant my iPhone had to suffice for piccies. Luckily I have the iPhone 5 and it has some great filter options for bringing the best out of your photography. This Buddha is actually amongst my favourites from my travels to date.<div>
<br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-cRqRM8Ky6io/UvX-eALKgwI/AAAAAAAAHJA/Dl234egqs9I/s640/blogger-image--1197584756.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-cRqRM8Ky6io/UvX-eALKgwI/AAAAAAAAHJA/Dl234egqs9I/s640/blogger-image--1197584756.jpg" /></a><br /><br />For the journey back, we took a public boat taxi which was really cheap, (just 15 TBH). Unfortunately, Ashlia a friend from another tour, who had joined our group for the day, didn't exit the boat in time and managed to miss the stop and get stuck sailing to the next stop!! Luckily Sek realised and sent a message to the driver on a wallow talkie to send her back to us on the return boat! <br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GZt49DJ2Syo/UvWLvB0U7PI/AAAAAAAAHFs/Lyreho9NviI/s640/blogger-image--1169096761.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GZt49DJ2Syo/UvWLvB0U7PI/AAAAAAAAHFs/Lyreho9NviI/s640/blogger-image--1169096761.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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After the boat ride we walked back to the Bangkok Centre Hotel to pack for our next adventure an overnight ride on a sleeper train! On the walk back there were lots of photography opportunities for some street shots so I kept snapping away and holding up the group!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-T-SUlQxNSlc/UvWLn2sLe6I/AAAAAAAAHFU/LpKDaPkxeRk/s640/blogger-image-18063995.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-T-SUlQxNSlc/UvWLn2sLe6I/AAAAAAAAHFU/LpKDaPkxeRk/s640/blogger-image-18063995.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ypPBgsD0t2E/UvWLlx4HmRI/AAAAAAAAHFM/2zl1SEMmsjk/s640/blogger-image--494515738.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ypPBgsD0t2E/UvWLlx4HmRI/AAAAAAAAHFM/2zl1SEMmsjk/s640/blogger-image--494515738.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Later that evening we took a sleeper train from Bangkok station to Chiang Mai to make the 13 hour journey to the north. Before we boarded, we discovered that there's normally a disco carriage that sells alcohol and plays music in the evenings. Excited at the prospect, after dinner I went exploring with Kirsty (who I've been sharing a room with up until today - now we shared a sleeper bunk). It was about 8 carriages away from the one we were sleeping in but it wasn't long before we knew we'd found it! Some of the worst 90s cheese was blasting out of the carriage... Think Vegaboys, YMCA and the Macarena...</div>
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<br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q1yPCEGZn_A/UvWMHOjm1kI/AAAAAAAAHGE/fW21CZ-B6k0/s640/blogger-image--30593291.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q1yPCEGZn_A/UvWMHOjm1kI/AAAAAAAAHGE/fW21CZ-B6k0/s640/blogger-image--30593291.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The disco carriage had tables and chairs where people could sit and eat dinner, however at this point it was about 8pm and most people had moved onto drinking. The drinking options were a bit limited with just beer or Smirnoff ice but we still managed to put away a good number of both.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-6WMhbNUwDvU/UvWMDWYuf1I/AAAAAAAAHF0/ZCk9Q1ofVWI/s640/blogger-image-1753659643.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-6WMhbNUwDvU/UvWMDWYuf1I/AAAAAAAAHF0/ZCk9Q1ofVWI/s640/blogger-image-1753659643.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Once the alcohol set in the music seemed very entertaining and it wasn't long before we had a carriage with about 40 people doing the Macarena... (the shame!) the Thai's found It very entertaining and started filming our antics on their camera phones. There was a security guard on the train behaving very oddly. He kept taking photos of the palest skin members of the groups as he walked past... Very unnerving but apparently it's quite normal as the Thai's love the pale skin and aspire to be the same.<br /><br />Unfortunately the disco carriage closes at 11pm so the rest of the passengers can get some sleep, so our party was short-lived!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aS_O9RMIeOY/UvWPO5sKFJI/AAAAAAAAHHM/Q_eY6bhRQ5c/s640/blogger-image--223306260.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aS_O9RMIeOY/UvWPO5sKFJI/AAAAAAAAHHM/Q_eY6bhRQ5c/s640/blogger-image--223306260.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Tomorrow we will arrive in Chiang Mai and venture out to another temple and Tiger Kingdom. Part of the group is also choosing to go to see the long neck tribe after Tiger Kingdom, but I'm going to pass on this as it's an extra 600 TBH to pay.h</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-18398528953188413772014-02-01T17:06:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.227+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 5, Protests Up Close<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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I checked out of the Buddy Boutique Inn this morning and made my way across town to the Bangkok Centre Hotel to meet my G Adventures tour companions. Ashlia was already staying at the hotel so we arranged to meet in reception once I'd checked in.<br />
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I went up to my room and was pleased to find my room mate Kristy had already arrived. She was using the bathroom when I let myself into the room so I called through the bathroom door to say hello and let her know I'd arrived. It was a funny way to introduce myself but she instantly made me feel comfortable and after a minute we were chatting and laughing away and sharing travelling stories.<br />
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After a while we noticed whistling and drumming noises coming from outside; and getting louder and louder! We opened up the window in our room to see what all the racket was about. (Our room is on the eighth floor of the hotel which meant we had great views across this part of the capital.) We spotted that the protests were kicking off right outside our hotel and hords of people were marching through the streets shouting. Tomorrow is Election Day and the protesters are trying to block people from getting to the voting polls so tension is building. There was a bomb and some shooting this evening, but not near our hotel, close to the polls.</div>
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Once we were settled in our room and had stopped filming all the action from our window we arranged to meet Ashlia and go out and explore nearby Chinatown. However, as soon as we stepped outside we found we were in the thick of the protests. They were peaceful protests nonetheless and the Thai people were friendly to us and even helped us cross the road. It's funny really because if you only saw the media's report you assume it was dangerous all over Bangkok when in fact it's more areas close to the voting polls where the opposing parties are getting riled up by each other.<br />
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We decided to brave it and walk amongst the peaceful protestors to get to the 7-11 to buy water and snacks. All was fine and a couple of protestors even posed for a shot for me with my DSRL.</div>
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After that we returned to the safety of the hotel to relax by the pool and chat. Before long it was time to freshen up and go meet our tour guide in the hotel lobby.</div>
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Sek introduced himself to us as our CEO (chief experience officer) and it was great to discover he was a native Thai and locally raised. He was really enthusiastic about the tour and the authentic experiences we were going to have and I felt assured we were in good hands.</div>
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After our introductory talk he took us to a local restaurant called Larp Park where he recommended I try the Papya salad with BBQ chicken and sticky rice. It wasn't a dish I would have chosen but I've decided that I want to try something new everyday, if possible, so I don't miss out on finding something amazing!</div>
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When I was very young my dad took me to Jamaica for 6 weeks. Whilst we were there he tried to get me to try sugar cane almost every day, but I was going through a fussy stage and wouldn't. On the last day somehow he persuaded me to try it and I absolutely loved it! But I was gutted because it was our last day and for the whole holiday I'd missed out on having it fresh from the fields. For years after I'd ask my dad to look out for it in the shops but it never came to our local shops :( So now I've gone 22 years without trying it again!! That's a valuable lesson learnt and I must remember it whilst I am away for this month.</div>
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Anyway, when the dish arrived Sek explained that in Bangkok they use cutlery like westerners do because of tourist influence, but in his hometown (Chiang Mai) they use their hands to eat. He then encouraged us to wash our hands and do the same. And I thought why not?! So I did. Sek had his camera out snapping away as I did because he thought it was very funny, and it was. It was SO stupidly messy, especially the combination of sticky rice and sticky BBQ sauce!!! But it was very tasty and surprisingly filling so I was happy with the recommendation.<br />
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Tomorrow we're off on a canal tour and to visit more temples and then we set off on a sleeper train overnight to Chiang Mai - it's a 14 hour train journey so I'll be off wifi for a while. They'll be lots of amazing updates after Chiang Mai to be shared as we're visiting Tiger Kingdom, trekking through the hills and taking a cookery class with locals. I really can't wait for this tour to kick off now, feel blessed to be doing so much and with a lovely bunch of people!<br />
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Updates to follow in a few days or so... X</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-43509459103346311012014-01-31T21:31:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.246+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 4, Cocktail O'clock in Bangkok<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Ashlia (a fellow solo traveller) flew into Bangkok today, so I had a playmate for the evening! Unfortunately her flight was a bit delayed so I started the night without her. I ate in a restaurant on the Rambuttri Road, called My Darling and I chose to try a Thai red curry with coconut milk and rice, which I've not had before. The red curry was tasty and a little milder than a green curry, but still full of flavour; I'd definely pick it again. Eating on my own was weird at first but it's surprising how quickly you relax and feel comfortable. Plus there's so much to look stand take in from new surroundings.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-P9S3uCMnGpE/Uuwcj6DRNvI/AAAAAAAAHDE/E7_siHR6ofs/s640/blogger-image-778465192.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-P9S3uCMnGpE/Uuwcj6DRNvI/AAAAAAAAHDE/E7_siHR6ofs/s640/blogger-image-778465192.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Ashlia and I arranged to meet at the Greenhouse (a restaurant/hostel). While I was waiting I decided to start as I meant to go on... with a Apple Martini cocktail! I ordered one and then thought it would be nice if Ashlia had one waiting for her after her long (and delayed) flight. Ashlia's first taxi that arrived tried to charge her double the price it should be, (cheeky whatsit!) so she refused (g'wan girl!) and had to wait for another one to turn up, which made her later than planned. I was happy as larry though, as the cocktails were 3 for 2. I started on Ashlia's and ordered another one for her when she arrived.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wewmj32zUeg/UuwVtwxllAI/AAAAAAAAHCE/x-Ea8KR9As0/s640/blogger-image-1716967023.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wewmj32zUeg/UuwVtwxllAI/AAAAAAAAHCE/x-Ea8KR9As0/s640/blogger-image-1716967023.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After a good natter I showed Ashlia down the Rambuttri Road. Weaving through the copious bars, tattoo parlours, food and clothing stalls and pushy tuk tuk drivers we decided that a foot massage was needed! We paid 220THB each for an hour of pampering on side-by-side reclining deckchairs. Lushness!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ujhzEkP3NUc/UuwcoU6Oy8I/AAAAAAAAHDM/CLe6YAZsfqY/s640/blogger-image--973780441.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ujhzEkP3NUc/UuwcoU6Oy8I/AAAAAAAAHDM/CLe6YAZsfqY/s640/blogger-image--973780441.jpg" /></a><br /></div>
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After that we walked round to the Khaosan road which was like being on another planet! After 12pm the music gets heavier and louder and everyone comes out to party hard. I'd not stayed out this late yet so it was a new experience for me! It was crazy, but a right laugh, lots of drunken travellers chatting away to you and wanting to dance with you in the street!</div>
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We both clocked a funky shack with a wicked DJ playing old school R&B and selling cocktails by buckets and decided to check it out. After ordering a sex on the beach cocktail in a bucket to share for 200 THB (total bargain!) some Frenchies in the bar beckoned us over to join them, so we did! They were daring each each other to eat huge bugs from the foodie stalls, so naturally I got my camera out and caught it on film! It was so gross!!</div>
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<br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Uo-nojcKq3Q/UuwV8Sde68I/AAAAAAAAHCk/ScECRWFCTX8/s640/blogger-image-345098672.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Uo-nojcKq3Q/UuwV8Sde68I/AAAAAAAAHCk/ScECRWFCTX8/s640/blogger-image-345098672.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We moved on after this and got costered by a red-haired guy who had a very 'proper' English accent, felt sick and had lost his friends (he made a point of telling us all this). Somehow he got himself involved in a street performance which involved 10 or so people laying down in the road and a little Thai guy doing a run up into a summersault over all of the people. Luckily for him the Thai made it... JUST!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-bqI_-SfW2wQ/UuwWH7rJEeI/AAAAAAAAHCs/_CTcxr5U_EI/s640/blogger-image--1531799463.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-bqI_-SfW2wQ/UuwWH7rJEeI/AAAAAAAAHCs/_CTcxr5U_EI/s640/blogger-image--1531799463.jpg" /></a><br /><br />By 2pm we were both flagging, so we left our new friend and went into McDonald's (oh my god the shame!) There I came face to face with my first Lady Boy in Bangkok! S/he loved us and insisted in teaching us how to say (and correctly pronounce) Thai phrases, like 'nice to meet you' and 'hello'. S/he also snapped away at us in McDonald's, badgering us to make peace signs like we were the blooming Spice Girls!! Amusing and a little bizarre! The Facebook addy situation then came up and it was time to leave sharpish.<br /><br />At 3pm Ashlia caught a cab back to her hotel and I skipped off into mine to write up this blog. I'm excited for tomorrow now when we will go explore the floating markets! But now Cocktail O'clock is Snooze O'clock! Nighttttttt x</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-63571888003939287132014-01-30T16:47:00.003+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.255+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 3, Street Dinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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I'm just back from foraging the local food stalls for my dinner and I'm so stuffed I can't moved! Tonight I tried my first Pad Thai from a food seller on the Khaosan road. For 50 THB, (less than £1) you get a huge portion of Eggy noodles with veg and shrimp, plus a selection of sweet or hot sauces to add to it.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-A2QO6awHCbM/UuqBGhFLRII/AAAAAAAAG-A/tdxrmRfZV9A/s640/blogger-image--1275223172.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-A2QO6awHCbM/UuqBGhFLRII/AAAAAAAAG-A/tdxrmRfZV9A/s640/blogger-image--1275223172.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Some people say to avoid the food stalls in Thailand, for fear of food poisoning, but in my experience local street food is always the best and if it's good enough for the locals... then it's good enough for me. Plus it's heaps cheaper than anywhere else!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dVbLlBAbAgg/UuqA6FiC-WI/AAAAAAAAG9o/FWpIqr3Py3c/s640/blogger-image-579915094.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dVbLlBAbAgg/UuqA6FiC-WI/AAAAAAAAG9o/FWpIqr3Py3c/s640/blogger-image-579915094.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>
The other good thing about street stalls is it's a good way to chat to and meet other travellers. When I sat down to eat my Patthai I struck up a chat with 2 Latinos from California and LA who were travelling all over Asia. After we'd finished eating they invited me to join them wandering the streets and chilling out at bars. I was keen and took them up as I had started to get lonesome on my own in the evenings.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rPalxH03l6Y/UuqBQGdjnRI/AAAAAAAAG-Q/TZJFZ8Gm714/s640/blogger-image-1061476802.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-rPalxH03l6Y/UuqBQGdjnRI/AAAAAAAAG-Q/TZJFZ8Gm714/s640/blogger-image-1061476802.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TFTB2uZU92s/UuqBCh5fjQI/AAAAAAAAG94/K52Wdp_bCH8/s640/blogger-image--344514582.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TFTB2uZU92s/UuqBCh5fjQI/AAAAAAAAG94/K52Wdp_bCH8/s640/blogger-image--344514582.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We wandered down the Khaosan road and came across some interesting food stalls selling 'edible' bugs! Christina and Willie (my Latino friends) had filmed themselves eating these a few days ago and the footage was hilarious, but also very off putting... So, needless to say I didn't take up their challenge to try one!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JiFS1TQrFgc/UuqBW2YC93I/AAAAAAAAG-Y/ZJM7ZSAReX8/s640/blogger-image--1620846575.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JiFS1TQrFgc/UuqBW2YC93I/AAAAAAAAG-Y/ZJM7ZSAReX8/s640/blogger-image--1620846575.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-uVAHfGfZOw8/UuqBLxk6QGI/AAAAAAAAG-I/ymzxYBi-cCo/s640/blogger-image-1064398899.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-uVAHfGfZOw8/UuqBLxk6QGI/AAAAAAAAG-I/ymzxYBi-cCo/s640/blogger-image-1064398899.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We then stopped at a juice bar to pick up our dessert, a delicious freshly-made smoothie. For one type of fruit you pay 30 THB and for a mixed smoothie you pay 40 THB. It was really tasty and lovely and cooling in the humid evening.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-x_3CHtoEsRo/UuqBbVnMsSI/AAAAAAAAG-g/pEZdJ2BCdfY/s640/blogger-image-297579358.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-x_3CHtoEsRo/UuqBbVnMsSI/AAAAAAAAG-g/pEZdJ2BCdfY/s640/blogger-image-297579358.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Christina and Willie took me a couple of streets away from the Khaosan Road, to Rambuttri Road. It was so much nicer in this spot. The area had a more chilled out vibe and there were lots of beautiful coloured lanterns and fairy lights hanging from all the trees and bars. They were staying at a place called the Greenhouse so we went and sat in its bar, finished our smoothies and exchanged facebook details.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tfBXxmlvEIw/UuqA9lZV6mI/AAAAAAAAG9w/V-_u8z7kgqc/s640/blogger-image--107139224.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tfBXxmlvEIw/UuqA9lZV6mI/AAAAAAAAG9w/V-_u8z7kgqc/s640/blogger-image--107139224.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It was a lovely relaxing evening until Willie and I spotted a HUGE rat run across the floor in the bar, not once but twice! We both pulled our feet up to our knees and squealed! Once everyone else in the bar worked out why we'd squealed, panic ensued in the bar and women everywhere begun to leave or clutch at their boyfriends! That was when we I decided it was time to leave too!<br /><br />Another great evening and another new area in Bangkok ventured into :)</div>
Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-81746394435495639402014-01-30T11:21:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.260+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 3, In Search of the Emerald Buddha<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After surviving an evening on the Khaosan Road independently, I felt ready to tackle exploring further afield. My friend had recommended I visit the Emerald Buddah in the morning before the heat of the day. When I'd checked out its position on Google maps it looked like it was just 14 minutes walk from my hotel. Excellent, I don't need one of those cheeky taxi drivers to take me off route!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Before I left the hotel I read up on the dress code in my Lonely Planet guidebook. It said, shoulders and knees should not be shown in the temple and proper closed toe shoes were preferable. So, despite it being about 30 degrees outside I donned my closed toed Toms, lightweight trousers and pashmina to cover my shoulders. And just to be on the safe side I packed a long sleeved top. With my attire sorted, Google maps and guide book in hand, I set out in search for the Emerald Buddha.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vAVL6v3rYpY/Uuo1Fh-woyI/AAAAAAAAG8g/WnW22GvuFGk/s640/blogger-image--805592204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vAVL6v3rYpY/Uuo1Fh-woyI/AAAAAAAAG8g/WnW22GvuFGk/s640/blogger-image--805592204.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As soon as I stepped out the door of course I had 10+ tuk tuk drivers asking me: "Where you go? Temple?". "How do they know..." I wondered. Then I thought, "Clothing, map, camera and the direction I was walking.... Obvs!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The navigating was going well until a Thai sitting by a group of Tuk Tuks stopped me and said: "Hey misses, where you go? Temple?" whilst pointing in the opposite direction I thought I should be going!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"Hmmm" doubt then entered my mind. "Am I going the wrong way, google maps might have got it wrong".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I ignored the Thai and walked purposely across the road, but then deciding to walk a little way in the direction he was pointing, just to see if that was right way. 15 minutes later I can see I've been duped! Ahhh man and it's SO hot in all this clothing!!! So then I have a 15 minute walk back to where I was. I stay on route after that and after 10 minutes I spot the ornate spires of The Grand Palace (Wat Phra Kaew) and I know I've made it! Lesson of the day: Always trust your instincts!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Gf1hqvuteRE/Uuo1qUVyfVI/AAAAAAAAG84/37uCKt2qk0s/s640/blogger-image--182023154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Gf1hqvuteRE/Uuo1qUVyfVI/AAAAAAAAG84/37uCKt2qk0s/s640/blogger-image--182023154.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Before you're allowed into the complex the security checkout your clothing and approve or disapprove. I thought I was sorted but apparently my pashmina wasn't enough (despite the lonely planet guide advising this), luckily I had my other top, but a warning to anyone else planning a visit, the pashmina won't get you in!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Entrance to the Wat Phra Kaew (temple complex) was £500 THB (about £9) and boy was it worth it. I hadn't really looked at any pictures of the site before decided to go, so when I arrived I was blown-away with how spectacular it was! I've never seen so many ornate and opulate temples. Every inch of every building is decorated in gold leaf and gems, it puts even Versailles to shame!</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V4Y1A0DXjvU/Uuo1TkTUbqI/AAAAAAAAG8w/3OTnsArfe7Y/s640/blogger-image-2059061078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V4Y1A0DXjvU/Uuo1TkTUbqI/AAAAAAAAG8w/3OTnsArfe7Y/s640/blogger-image-2059061078.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">Anyone who knows me knows I'm a fan of OTT bling, so this place was right up my street! I took some amazing photographs on my DSLR which I can't wait to print and look at up-close. For now though you can get a pretty good look at the place from these snaps from my iPhone.</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-czcj4Rf3fXY/Uuo1KnxCo2I/AAAAAAAAG8o/bY4vx0lU8IM/s640/blogger-image-114423204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-czcj4Rf3fXY/Uuo1KnxCo2I/AAAAAAAAG8o/bY4vx0lU8IM/s640/blogger-image-114423204.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;">Unfortunately the temple with the Emerald Buddah was closed for renovation, so after all that, I didn't get to see it! However I went into all the other temples, including the Phra Siratana Chedi which is the most beautiful of all. It's very sacred so you're not allowed to wear shoes or take photographs when you're inside, (so you'll just have to take my word for how stunning it is). Inside there's a huge golden glittering alter with a golden Buddah which you must not point your feet at. The floors, walls and ceiling are also adorned with hand-painted art. It's a very quiet and calming space and I enjoyed taking a little time there to meditate and be greatful for all I have.</div><div class="separator" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yRi2R0wBxIk/Uup3vih4poI/AAAAAAAAG9Y/3LMuj5PIqnY/s640/blogger-image-217399915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yRi2R0wBxIk/Uup3vih4poI/AAAAAAAAG9Y/3LMuj5PIqnY/s640/blogger-image-217399915.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The one thing that was a shame was there was no one to take pictures of me at the temples so I had to do the unthinkable to snap a selfie in the temple.... just to prove I actually got here! ;-) I did manage a couple of timed shots with my gorilla tripod and DSLR, but I think I may come back again with my group tour to get some more photos with me in them!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-nlYVrS9oKR8/Uuo1Aly0RKI/AAAAAAAAG8Y/pDrimgrsQlM/s640/blogger-image-1858701259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-nlYVrS9oKR8/Uuo1Aly0RKI/AAAAAAAAG8Y/pDrimgrsQlM/s640/blogger-image-1858701259.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today was fantastic! I'm really glad I went exploring and even getting lost was good because I found a pretty spot on a river bridge to stop and photographs on. I'm now pretty exhausted from all the walking and the heat today, so I think it's time for another massage!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Life's hard here... :-)</div><br></div></div></div></div></div>Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com3Buddy Boutique Inn Chakrabongse Rd, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon13.758876 100.49459tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-20149503666468835732014-01-29T17:14:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.233+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 2, Bangkok Nightlife<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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There's only so much poolside lounging you can do before you begin to get itchy feet, so this evening I decided it was time to go explore Bangkok by night.<br /><br />If I'm honest, initially the thought of the Khaosan Road on my own at night was a bit intimadating! However, after getting it over and done with, I realised it wasn't such a big deal. In fact I relished in making all the decisions of where to go and when to turn back, without compromising for someone else.<br /><br />I'm staying just on the corner of the Khaosan Road which is perfect because it's quiet enough to get to sleep at night, but I'm still just a few steps away from the excitement.<br /><br />My first task was to find food. I hadn't bothered to eat any lunch by the pool and I'd slept through breakfast so I was more than ready to devour a Thai foodie feast!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AJ9UjX2QjkA/UulAEF3GqQI/AAAAAAAAG8I/1tr8ZjEgdkA/s640/blogger-image-37126119.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AJ9UjX2QjkA/UulAEF3GqQI/AAAAAAAAG8I/1tr8ZjEgdkA/s640/blogger-image-37126119.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>
As soon as I stepped out of the door I knew dinner was going to be a difficult decision to make. Do I go for the authentic street stalls, or find a busy Thai restaurant where the locals are eating?<br /><br /><div>
As I'm travelling on my own I decided that sitting in a busy restaurant was a more favourable option for my first night. I spotted a colourful place banging out sexy reggae choones and thought: "Yep that looks like my kind of joint."<br /><br />I went to sit down on my own and after a moment a a group of Thai's were beckoning me to come over and sit with them. There were two other Europeans sitting with them so I decided this would be more appealing than dining solo.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LM-duetufMU/Uuk9UZX2DVI/AAAAAAAAG8A/joP-EYk2Zuo/s640/blogger-image--916781915.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LM-duetufMU/Uuk9UZX2DVI/AAAAAAAAG8A/joP-EYk2Zuo/s640/blogger-image--916781915.jpg" /></a><br /><br />My new Thai friends were fascinated with my hair and did not believe I was from England, well until I explained my background was Jamaican. They loved that and started singing "no woman no cry" at the tops of their voices. I had to giggle. The Thai's ran a stall next door to the restaurant so they were actually 'working' whilst drinking in the bar/restaurant (nice work-life balance!)<br /><br />I ordered a chicken and veg Thai green curry, but it was so good and I was so hungry that I wolfed it down before I thought about taking a photo for this post. It was blow-your-head-off spicy, but fresh and full of lots of flavour.<br /><br />After my curry and a chat with my new companions (2 Frenchies and 4 Thai's) I decided to move on.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSab8TQxsXg/Uuk2_NwZSPI/AAAAAAAAG7k/_egV9hSvZnI/s640/blogger-image--1837661543.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSab8TQxsXg/Uuk2_NwZSPI/AAAAAAAAG7k/_egV9hSvZnI/s640/blogger-image--1837661543.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Ever since I got here I've been checking out the massages stalls and yearning for one, so tonight I decided it was time to try one out. For as little at 120 TBH (approx. £2.20) you can indulge in a half an hour foot massage. A Thai masseuse sits you down on very comfy deck chairs, washes your weary feet clean and then rub aromatic oils all over your legs and feet, it's pure heaven!<br /></div>
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Before starting the massage the masseur says a brief prayer, which I think makes all the difference, as I've never had such a relaxing foot massage, especially considering the chaotic surroundings!!<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iPGNPGbiFmQ/Uuk7TUn4FbI/AAAAAAAAG70/7fMrrD5YRP8/s640/blogger-image-1635162668.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iPGNPGbiFmQ/Uuk7TUn4FbI/AAAAAAAAG70/7fMrrD5YRP8/s640/blogger-image-1635162668.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Tomorrow I'm planning to go find the a Emerald Buddha, I think it's a little walk away, so I imagine I'll need to rejuvenate my tired feet again... Next time for a full hour though! :)</div>
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Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com2Buddy Boutique Inn Chakrabongse Rd, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon13.759245 100.495747tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062224873280123600.post-63214375320701102462014-01-28T06:04:00.001+00:002015-07-14T00:03:39.251+01:00Thailand Travels: Day 1, Arriving in Bangkok<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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My flight touched down in Bangkok at 8am this morning, and from there I took a metered cab (as advised) to my hotel. If only it was that simple.<br />
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When my taxi driver discovered where my hotel was (just off the Kaosan Road) he started muttering. "Oh dear, here we go", I thought.<br />
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He couldn't understand why I was heading to Bangkok and kept repeating "road closed" and "mobs".<br />
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Just what to want to hear on your first solo travelling experience.... He started suggesting he drop me near the hotel and then I could walk.<br />
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"Hell no!" I thought. Even though I knew my hotel was just off the Kaosan Road I didn't know what direction to walk...<br />
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So that was a nerve-wracking taxi ride... I kept thinking that any moment we'd turn a corner and they'll be a mob of protestors and he'll refuse to go any further.<br />
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There wasn't though. Just one of the main roads on route was closed, which meant we had to go a longer route and hit lots of traffic jams. In the end the ride cost 540 tbht instead of something like 300. But that's about £10 so it's not the end of the world!<br />
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"Lucky, you very lucky" he said to me.<br />
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Lucky indeed. I breathed a sigh of relief... And then I felt great. I stood my ground and made him take me to my hotel and all was fine. A little self-assurance restored.<br />
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Except then I realised he'd taken me to the wrong hotel!!! This was the Buddy Lodge, not the Buddy Boutique Inn. I'd argued that this wasn't the right place when he'd pulled up, but the hotel porter had said it was and taken my bag.<br />
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Reception informed me that this was a sister hotel to the one I was booked into and that it was only round the corner... So I walked... And I found it. Result!<br />
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I dropped my backpack off in hotel storage and now I'm hanging out back at the Buddy Lodge roof-top pool until I'm allowed to check into my room. There's funky house music, free wifi, drinks, food, free towels and plenty of sun loungers. So I'm soaking up the sun and taking a dip to cool off.<br />
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This place is a total haven in the chaotic hustle and bustle of Kaosan Road.<br />
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CCyx68tJZ80/UudIGzfLjxI/AAAAAAAAG7U/0r2PeCBXGGA/s640/blogger-image-887315271.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CCyx68tJZ80/UudIGzfLjxI/AAAAAAAAG7U/0r2PeCBXGGA/s640/blogger-image-887315271.jpg" /></a>Foodie Eshéhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02354444789336513294noreply@blogger.com2Buddy Lodge 265 Khaosan Rd., Taladyod, Phranakorn, Bangkok 10200 Thailand, Buri Ram, 265 Khaosan Rd., Taladyod, Phranakorn, Bangkok 10200 Thailand, Buri Ram13.759139 100.49673