Travel to the Point

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is accurate as of November 2019.

CONTENTS

• 🤔 – What to Expect
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🍛 – Food
• 🚇 – Transport
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to Expect

• A French inspired city.
• French street names and architecture (unfortunately, mostly run down).
• Littered and dirty streets.
• The smell of fermenting rubbish.
• French baguettes – that aren’t sweet!
• Roads are busy but the buildings are empty.
• A relaxed pace of life.
• Roughly 11,000 Kip to £1.00.

🌅 Activities

Patuxai

• 3,000 kip entrance fee to reach the observation section of the monunent and see views over the city.
• Free to walk around the grounds.
• Patuxai translates to Victory Gate.
• A victory monument to commemorate Laos resilience and independence.
• Resemblance of L’Arc De Triomphe in Paris, France with a Laostian twist.
• The 5 towers symbolise the 5 Buddhist principles of thoughtful amiability, flexibility, honesty, honour and prosperity.
• As you walk up there are multiple stalls selling the usual souvenirs.

• Lovely park to wander through.
• A musical water fountain donated by China.

COPE Visitor Centre

• Free entry however there is a donation box.
• The staff are friendly and encourage any questions to be asked.
• COPE helps and supports people in Lao with physical disabilities providing prosthetics, treatment, care and accessibility.

• Aims to educate and provide support to communities who live in Unexploded Ordinance (UXO) areas of Laos.
  Learn about how the history of the Secret War is still effecting Laostians today.

• Many people still suffer from injury or die due to unexploded cluster bombs.
• Laos is the most heavily bombed country per capita in the world.

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan )

• 15,000 kip entrance fee. There are also parking fees if you decide to drive.
• Accessible via public bus.
• Could easily spend one and a half to two hours here.
• Vendors, gift shops and a restaurant overlooking the Mekong River are onsite.

• Built in 1958 by Luang Pu Bounleua Sulilat.
• Over 200 Sculptures of Buddha, Hindu Gods, Demons and Mythological Creatures.
• Located on the side of the Mekong River and 25km from the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.
• The name should be changed to Buddha and Butterfy Park as there were lots of them fluttering around. So beautiful!

Chao Anouvong Statue and Park

• No entrance fee.
• Built in 2010 to commemorate the 450th anniversary of the city of Vientiane.
• Lovely green park.
• Holds the night market at the West side of the park.
• Lively at night due to cooler temperatures with people running, taking part in workout classes and children playing.

Other Things To Do

• National Museum however from what we’ve read it’s closed for renovations.
• Visit multiple temples located throughout Vientiane.
• Morning Market.

🍛 Food

Day2Night

(We didn’t get the name… oops!)

• Moderately priced food.
• Laotian and French cuisine.
• Food was good however we’ve had similar for cheaper prices.
• We spent 83,000 kip on a main, half a main (just meat, no side dish included) and 2 sodas.

Fruity Heaven

• Average priced food.
• Small menu.
• The food was really standard, best described as “meh”.
• Don’t understand why it’s so busy. Maybe it’s the fruit shakes as they looked rather good.

Bacan Cafe

• Moderate prices. Two mains and 2 softs cost 82,000 kip.
• If you’re looking for something different but also tasty – try here!
• Portions were a little smaller, especially if you have a big appetite.
• Heinz ketchup & French’s mustard. 😋 It’s been a while!
• Lovely little setting with friendly staff.

Al-Haram Indian

• An affordable Indian ranging from 35,000 – 55,000 Kip depending on meat choice.
• Portion sizes are decent.
• Taste was great.
• Filling we did not finish ours.
• Would eat here again.

Croissant Cafe

• Cheap but also lacking luster. 20,000 Kip for a basic breakfast – eggs, tiny sausages and miniature bacon.
• Fruit juices, coffee, soft drinks and beer are relatively cheap. A hot coffee 18,000 Kip or Iced for 20,000 Kip. Tea was 8,000 for hot or 10,000 for Iced.
• Fried eggs were very runny/uncooked for my liking.

🚇 Transport

Public Bus

• Cheapest way to get around!
• Get you around the city, airport and some attractions a little further out.
• We paid 8,000 kip each one way to reach Buddha Park, approximately 35 minutes out of the city centre.
• Catch the number 14 bus for Buddha Park.
• There is a public bus that also goes to and from the Airport – 15,000 Kip per person.

Tuk Tuks

• Classic way to get around.
• Can be expensive.
• We ended up getting a Tuk Tuk to the Airport for 15,000 kip each. This is a similar price to the public bus, which can get you there.
• The cheap price was because we refused and they saw us waiting at the public bus stop – I think they just wanted the custom so dropped the price.
• A sign in the Tuk Tuk said 1-3 people 60,000 Kip.
• They sound as though they shouldn’t be driven.

🛌 Accommodation

InTouch Guesthouse

• 103,000 Kip (£9.06) per night for a standard double room.
• Basic double room with private bathroom, Aircon and fan.
• Hot showers.
• Towels provided but no other amenities.
• Noisy at night e.g. dogs barking, other people.
• 25 minutes walk to the city centre.

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is accurate as of November 2019.

CONTENTS

• 🤔 – What to Expect
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🍛 – Food
• 🚇 – Transport
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to Expect

• Beautiful Greenery and Mountains
• Lots of Construction Sites
• Cute stray puppies.
• Escape the heat as Vang Vieng is much cooler.
• Great place for adventure based activities.
• You can hire buggies!

🌅 Activities

Day Trip: Cave Tubing, Zip Lining and Kayaking

• Bartered down to 190,000 from 200,000 kip.
• You can choose from a variety of activities e.g. blue lagoon, caving however prices also then vary.
• Life jackets, helmets, 10L waterproof bags and other safety/ activity equipment provided.

Tham Xang Cave

• Also known as Elephant Cave due to a limestone formation inside.
• An important Buddhist Temple where locals come to worship.
• Not much to look at for the non-buddhist apart from a few Buddha statues, including a reclining Buddha.

Tham Nam Cave

• Time to get wet by tubing into Tham Nam Cave (aka Water Cave).
• Be prepared for cold water.
• Take some shoes/ sandals you don’t mind getting wet as you’ll have to walk through parts of the cave.
• Arran went bare foot.
• All belongings are left at the café.

Zip Lining

• Zip lining was so much fun! Some people waited around dependent on the package they bought.
• Beautiful views of the mountains and surrounding landscape as you zip line above the trees.
• Be prepared for a good laugh with cheeky guides pretending to push you over the edge and bounce on the line. 😂

• BBQ lunch, fried rice and bread for lunch (included in the price). The rice was really tasty!
• Non-sweet bread too! Hallelujah!!

Kayaking

• Not the leisurely one hour kayak down the Nam Song River I thought, instead it felt like I’d entered a race!
• Still great fun!
• Requires some communication skills which we weren’t so great at – still, we didn’t capcise 🤗
• Watch the sneaky tour guides and other tourists splash or should I say soak you with water!
• I think the views were nice – though I was too busy concentrating 😅

Night Market

A smaller yet similar version of the night market in Luang Prabang.

Other Things To Do

• Plenty of bars and restaurants to meet your needs.
• Hire an off-road buggy for up to 6 hours costing around 300,000 kip for 2 people.
• Hire a scooter and go exploring.

🍛 Food

A.M.D Restaurant

• Small, street style, family run restaurant.
• Cheap and tasty food with plenty of selection.
• Just further back than the main street in Vang Vieng.

Vang Vieng Pizza

• Average prices but cheap pizzas for the size (39,000 kip for pepperoni pizza).
• Cheap spirits including rum, Malibu and vodka at 20,000 kip with mixer.
• Pleasant Staff.
• Free WiFi.

🚇 Transport

We haven’t used any however there are the truck style tuk-tuk’s available. Unsure how much they are or where they go. Visitors usually hire a scooter or buggy for venturing outside the town. Otherwise, Vang Vieng is small enough to walk around.

We booked a minivan to Vientiane which cost 48,000 kip from Vang Vieng Green Morning Bus Company 2 (on the main street). There are other alternatives, most costing 50,000 – 60,000 kip.

Minivans and sleeper buses travelling to Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand are available from tour operators.

🛌 Accommodation

Army Barrack Guesthouse

• 100,000 kip per night (around £9) for deluxe double room with WiFi, fan and Aircon.
• Private Bathroom with Hot, Hot Shower! 😍
• Rooms can be cleaned and made daily on request.
• Free Breakfast Included. The usual eggs done different ways and fried rice, all with fruit, tea or coffee.
• Bus, Laundry and Trip Services are Available (although we went elsewhere).

Disclaimer

This is our experience as of November 2019. Yours could be worse or it could be better.

CONTENTS

• Stage 1: Purchasing the Tickets.
• Stage 2: Getting to Terminal 2.
• Stage 3: Bully’s Special Prize.
• Stage 4: Welcome to Hell: A Pick Your Own Torture Experience.
• Stage 5: Internal Monologues
• Stage 6: What have we done?
• Stage 7: A Cattle of Nations
• Stage 8: Goodbye Thailand
• Stage 9: Three F*cking Windows – Visa Check
• Stage 10: Are we there yet?
• Stage 11: Night Terrors
• Stage 12: Welcome to the Family
• Stage 13: Nightmare on Sleeper Street
• Stage 14: What now?
• Stage 15: Living in a Ghost Town
• Stage 16: Dawn of the Bed

Stage 1: Purchasing the Tickets

This was obviously the easiest part of the journey. Rachael and I read online that tickets could only be booked via the bus terminal. This was evidently true after conducting our own research and found…nothing.

Due to hiring a scooter, we decided to use this time to head to the bus terminal 2. Alternatively, it is also possible to get to the terminal via public bus for 20 Baht per person, one way.

Arriving at the terminal we ventured in with a positive and excited attitude. Thus the next step was to get the best deal from the many vendors. There was one. Only one.

This was a sign of relief because it meant we did not need to manage a barrage of vendors stating they had the best deal.

The sounds of explosions and gunfire could be heard whilst venturing towards the ticket office window. On the other side was a young gentleman tentively peering and bashing at his mobile phone.

With a gentle hello our conversation began but not once did his hand let go of that damn mobile phone. The short dialogue exchanges that took place resulted in the following information:

• Sunday.
• 12.30pm.
• 2 people.
• 950 Baht each.
• Here 11.00am tomorrow.
• Pay tomorrow.

On a booking form Rachael and I simply wrote out first names under seats C3 and D3. Happy we had been able to organise our lives and travel plans with ease we returned back to our hotel.

Stage 2: Getting to Terminal 2.

Chiang Rai has two terminals. Number one is perfectly positioned in the centre of town. The second just outside the boarder and a little bit of a walk.

Mentioned previously was the public bus, which we took because it was/is the cheapest option (20 Baht each). The bus arrives every 30 minutes after 9.00am. Furthermore, it drops you right in the station.

Rachael and I caught the bus around 10.20am, which got us there mere minutes before 11.00am. Proceeding to the ticket window the procedure took less than 2 minutes. Now 1,900 Baht lighter it dawned on the two of us we still had a 90 minute wait.

Stage 3: Bully’s Special Prize

Our waiting time was used productively because it gave us time to catch up with our writing. Whilst sat at stand 3, a bus arrived with the label Luang Prabang.

Excitedly I stated that it must be the bus we were about to board. Peering at my mobile the time chimed 11.30am. Early too!

10 minutes later Rachael and I watched that magnificent beast exit the terminal.

Fast forward another 20 minutes and there were spluttering sounds of popping exhausts as our bus parked into stand 3. I guess we’ll settle for Bully’s Special Prize.

Stage 4: Welcome to Hell: A Pick your Own Torture Experience.

Our eyes glanced over the bus whilst passing our backpacks to the attendants. Rachael spotted V.I.P with the line, “I don’t think they know what it means.” In a startled manner I replied, “They’re beds Rachael. Beds.”

To our suprise another attendant started handing out plastic bags. Puzzled, we were firmly told to take our shoes off before entering. Rachael exclaimed, “I am not standing out here in my socks.” Then began to fumble around on the bottom step of the bus.

Every dreaded step entering that bus was a realisation that we just paid twenty five sterling pounds for this ‘V.I.P’ bus journey.

Venturing down the main aisle our spirits lifted because the beds were spacious. I had the bunk whilst Rachael took the bottom. However, our spirits were soon crushed further when told, “No. Two to one bed. C3. D3.”

Rachael and I looked despairingly at the seat numbers written in permanent marker above our leathery bed, or should I say coffin. Then I replied, “Move over then.”

Stage 5: Internal Monologues

Rachael’s Edition

This was not what I had read. We were promised reclining seats, great snacks and a toilet on board. In addition to having my own seat with seatbelt and personal space. At this point I was raging because knowing what I thought I knew, I had prepared myself for the long bumpy journey ahead. And if you know me at all, you know I find long distance, winding travelling a struggle. 🤮

Arran’s Edition

I crouched in our cramped bed space looking at Rachael, who proceed to state, “I am not happy, Arran.” My emotions were numb. Was it a defence mechanism or had I accepted our fate? Honestly, I was not sure but I knew I needed to help Rachael through it. However, the reply went like this, “Well what do you want to do? Do you wanna get off the bus? We still have time. We have four minutes to decide.” In hindsight I am not sure giving the decision to Rachael was the best course of action. In the past lesser decisions, such as what do we have for lunch, have required higher levels of critical thinking and communication between the two of us.

Stage 6: What have we done?

Rachael, with a huff, sharply stated, “I am not wasting twenty five quid.” Then the sudden rumble of the engine sealed our fate.

Chugging along Rachael and I started to survey our surroundings. The decor of the bus was a mash of chrome and brown leather. Furthermore, our position on the lower bunk meant we had a slither of window and day light.

One can only describe the motion of the bus as the following. Imagine a rollercoaster. Strip away the seatbelt and extra padding, whilst adding more sharp turns and belly dipping moments.

For one person the beds would have been sufficient. However, for two it felt like the two of us had been vacuum bagged together. Furthermore, Rachael is five foot and half a inch…

Disclaimer: Rachael states the half inch is important thus it needed to be added.

…Being five foot…and half an inch it was clear that the beds must have been smaller than five foot. This was due to the fact even when laid flat Rachael’s head was bent forward.

On the other hand I had the pleasure of knowing the smell of my own knees. A mixture of sea salt and mountain breeze.

This was the start of our long tiring 16 hour journey.

Stage 7: A Cattle of Nations

It was not all doom and gloom. Obviously we were not alone on this bucket of rust. The other passengers included a German backpacking couple, a solo Amsterdam traveller called Polo, an older USA couple and a young couple from Italy.

The hours ticked on and naturally pockets of social interactions began to bubble. It became clear that our freight emotions and journey apprehension was a community felt endeavour.

Thus our little united nations community began swapping stories of adventure and travel. The laughter lifted the spirit and the exchanging of travel tips diverted our minds. A part of the journey we will never forget.

Stage 8: Goodbye Thailand

The departure out of Thailand was pretty simple. Our little community bundled off the bus and made a queue to the only attendant available.

One by one the stern Thai border official stamped our passports, took our finger prints and captured our picture. The party had officially left Thailand.

Stage 9: Three F*cking Windows – Visa Checks

Let me flashback to our first introduction and boarding of the bus. Through all the emotions two pieces of paper were thrust into our hands. Those piece of paper were our Laos visa applications.

Flashforward two hours and everyone is being told to exit the bus. Leave bags. Quick. Quick.

Prior to reaching the boarder our many united nation discussions revolved around filling out the visa application. What did you put for this? What did you put for that section?

In the end our application was only half complete. There was no forwarding address stated, next destination or contact information. The departure card was also left blank. Let’s just say Rachael and I was a little nervous about being refused entry. How would we get our bags back?

However, like sheep we followed the heard to the border crossing and visa offices. Not sure if we were lucky but it was not busy. Rachael and I speculate it could be due to the fact it was just starting the peak season or that it was a Sunday. 

Arriving at the windows there was not a clear process or set of steps laid out. What we did know was the following:

• Visas could be paid in Kip, Baht or American Dollars.
• It was best to pay in dollars because crappy exchange rates were provided for Kip and Baht. In turn costing more.
• There was an ATM at the crossing that dispensed dollars!
• Visas cost 30 dollars each. (£24.00)
• An over time fee of 1 dollar would be added on because it was the weekend. This extra cost also applied if visas were processed after 3pm.

The first thing we did was try to locate the USA Dollar dispensing ATM. In short, it was a lie! There was no such ATM and our hopes were squashed when we asked one of our helpful bus attendants, who simply told us no.

Our strategy needed to change but another bus load of people had just arrived. Feeling the pressure I decided to get in the queue with Rachael behind me. Waiting, we noticed a large sign stating the cost of a visa for the different countries in the world. Curious, the two of us located the United Kingdom and once again our spirits were quashed. Our visas would cost 35 dollars each. No explanation given but I assume they think we’re rich. The other countries of the European Union was still 30 dollars.

I reached the window and the attendant asked for my passport. The communication exchange was classic British in a non English speaking country etiquette. It started with pointing, moved onto one word questions, confusion, one word question said slowly, more pointing and finally hand actions.

Somehow in this exchange the attendant had been given our passports. He asked for our visa papers. Rachael and I glanced at each other because they were still blank. Without hesitation the gentleman peered at them, took his stamp, bashed our passports and ushered us to move onto the next window.

Walking away, dread hit me, the attendant still had our passports. Back tracking I flew to the window and with a hand gesture like opening a book I said, “Passport?”.

With a gestural point and a stern reply he told us, “Next window, pay and then get passport.”

The next window was there for us to pay the overtime fee, 10,000 Kip (£1.00) each. The only currency we had was Thai Baht, which the female attendant told us would cost 40 Baht each (£1.20). Reluctantly but no longer needing our Thai currency we handed over 80 Baht. Passports and a new bundle of papers in hand the female attendant informed us to pay for our visa at the next window.

The security check was just a bored looking lady who simply waved us through the bleeping metal detector. Somehow our bags had the easiest process because their check was a gentleman with a torch. There was no get your 100ml liquids out or electronic items. They were simply waiting for us on the other side.

Still not sure how we were going to pay for the visas we approached the third window. Thrusting forward our $35 visa payment slip (a QPR code) I timidly asked, “What would it be in Kip?” The third attendant pulled out his trusty calculator and began tapping in digits. I saw his finger hit the multiply button and my stomach dropped with nerves. This was going to be a large expense. Holding it up to the window the number 310,000 was evident – this was each.

Accepting the cost Rachael and I bashed the digits into our currency convertor. To our surprise £27.50 flashed up and to possibly feed our annoyance further we looked at the conversion in dollars. Phew! £27.50 flashed up – glad we were not paying more by using Kip we headed back to the ATM.

Strolling back through security we approached the closest ATM. I bashed in my pin and pressed enter. The ‘other amount’ option was not available so I proceeded to take out the maximum amount (1,500,000 or £135). The next screen to flash up stated the transaction would cost 20,000 Kip (£2.00). There was only one way forward so I clicked accept.

Back to the window I handed over 700,000 for the both of us. The attendant suddenly gestured one and pointed at a 100,000 note. Tired, fed up and noticing the rest of our bus had passed through I told him to count again. He recounted responding with “700,000”, he laughed, I laughed and before we knew it another piece of paper with another QPR code was thrust into our hands.

Once again through gestures we were told to scan our QPR code onto the waist high digital turnstiles. They beeped and turned green – we did it!

Visa Process Summary

• 1st Window – Handover passport and visa papers.
• 2nd Window – Pay the overtime fee (if required). Get visa QPR slip. Receive passport.
• Security – Saunter through like a badass.
• 3rd Window – Pay for Visa.
• ATM – No dollars. Only Kip. 20,000 Kip charge for withdrawls.
• Dollars, Baht and Kip are accepted forms of payment.
• Dollars provide the best rate and then Kip. Avoid Baht.

Stage 10: Are we there yet?

The stress of getting to and crossing the border was actually the shortest section of our journey.

Back on the bus and everyone peered out the windows as our newly formed community crossed over the friendship bridge. It was official everyone had entered Laos at the same time.

Honestly the next part of the journey was pretty straight forward. The bus route took us up and down valleys with breathtaking views. However, the roads now also became bumpy and winding. Every dip threw you into the air and every bend pushed your face into the chrome or leather.

The night drew ever closer but just before saying goodbye to the sun the bus came to a halt. A toilet stop was called and everyone exhaustingly exited.

Looking around all that could be seen was green. Another passenger timidly asked for the location of the toilet. The reply was a simple point to the bushes.

Rachael was not game and refused to have a pee. Instead she had to witness one of the local women whipping down her knickers and taking a piss without the thought of using a bush for modesty.

With the toilet break finished everyone was back on the bus to continue the journey.

Stage 11: Night Terrors

The veal of darkness had blanketed our sky leaving little to see. Thus, the only option was Netflix, music or reading. Rachael and I opted to settle for a season binge watch.

Then came the vomit. Every bend and dip was met with a bleurg from one of the other passengers. Thankfully the smell did not flood the cabins or our nostrils.

Stage 12: Welcome to the Family.

At around 9pm the bus came to another halting stop. This was the mid-way hot food point. Zombie-esq the whole party grunted and sighed their way off the bus. At home you would expect a motorway services but this was obviously not home.

Instead the band of travellers were treated to a farm like collection of shacks. Our driver pointed to the family run “restaurant” in the centre and gave us thirty minutes. Luckily for us it also happened to be the most run down.

When you’re hungry all food tastes glorious but our Chicken Fried Rice was honestly really good. At 20,000 Kip or 80 Baht a standard dish could be ordered.

It was clearly a family run event as you saw sisters, mothers, fathers and brothers all working together. At one point Rachael and I spent time interacting with a young baby who simply stared back at these odd looking strangers. The family laughed, played and swapped jokes in their own language.

Earlier I mentioned payments could be made in Kip or Baht. The currency could also transverse between the two. Paying with left over Baht I was provided change in Kip. Then I bought a drink in Kip but re-payed in Baht.

Tip: Know your currency exchanges between Kip and Baht. Get a currency convertor app.

This tip is to ensure you check your change as we found the transaction confusing at times. We never had a problem, as we received the correct change, however it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Stage 13: Nightmare on Sleeper Street

It was evident that a couple of our community had left without us realising. No numbers or contacts were swapped but travelling is like that. You have fleeting relationships.

Why the damn buses are called Sleepers is baffling to me. There was not one minute of sleep to be had due to the roads. The bends ensured your cheeks felt the full friction of leather as you rolled and peeled with the motion of the bus. Whilst the hills bounced you between the head and foot boards similar to Newton’s Cradle.

Furthermore the chorus of snores and engine revs kept the hearing senses in tip top shape. Another six and a half hours the rest of us would be free.

Stage 14: What now?

Around two in the morning the bus came to a stop again. Expecting another toilet break I ventured to the front. What I found was our three different drivers outside pointing and trying to hurry along the lorry that blocked the road.

Unsure what made me look up but the night sky was littered with stars. There were billions and more than I had ever seen. Roughly, twenty minutes later and the bus was heading down a weaving valley road. There were lorries on the other side mere inches away.

Stage 15: Living in a Ghost Town

Once again we had previously read our arrival time would be seven in the morning. Rachael and I thought this would be the best because it gave us the rest of the day. We could grab breakfast, check in and then explore.

At 4am we were awoken to find we had arrived in Luang Prabang. We were simply dumbed at a local bus station and before we knew it the bus had gone. However, our adventure was far from over.

Stage 16: Dawn of the Bed

Due to us thinking our arrival time was going to be 7am Rachael and I did not book accommodation. This was a problem because it was majorly unlikely that places would be open.

Polo, another traveller, had found a 24 hour hostel so we decided to take his lead. The only way into town from the bus terminal at this time was tuk tuk. Through some level of confusion our team was split between 2 tuk tuks. At 20,000 Kip each it was not too expensive but Polo only had 17,000 so I gave him the extra 3,000.

The tuk tuks shot off and we had not even given directions to our accomodation. The driver must have also been having problems with the vehicle due to a rough and spluttering start of the engine and multiple roadside stops. The unsettling sound coming from the engine clearly indicated it had not been serviced in years.

15 minutes later and the rust bucket came to a screeching stop. The driver began asking us for our accomodation and once again communication issues arose. Trying to explain we had nowhere to stay Rachael and I looked at each other. Across from us were two locals simply watching and clearly wanting us to get of the damn tuk tuk.

Luckily for us further up the street we saw Polo jump out of his tuk tuk. Reunited, Polo explained that he found this hostel and wanted to check it out. So we followed and obviously no one was up.

The next half hour found all three of us walking around a deserted town looking for the mysterious golden 24 hour hostel. There was never going to be a damn 24 hour hostel – everywhere was dead.

Instead we stumbled upon a place at 5am. The gate was shut with a chain and lock but there was just enough of a gap for us to squeeze through. Mobile torches in hand Polo and I surveyed the area to find a wooden porch littered with beer cans, bottles of coke and vodka. In all honesty I am not sure what made me do it but I quietly said, “Hello”.

Suddenly from darkness we heard zombie like groans. The darkness moved into the shape of a classic bed sheet ghost. Then the zipper noise revealed a groggy looking local exiting a mosquito tent.

His breath stunk of alcohol but informed us we could crash on the decking until 7am. At this point in the journey we were happy to have somewhere safe to take a seat and most importantly WiFi.

Exhausted, the three of us welcomed the new day as the sun rose at 5am.

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is accurate as of November 2019.

CONTENTS

• 🤔 – What to Expect
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🍛 – Food
• 🚇 – Transport
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to Expect

• Gorgeous Hilly Landscapes.
• Bumpy and Uneven Pavements.
• Stunning views of the Mekong River.
• A Morning Market to put you off your breakfast.
• 2-3 nights maximum.

🌅 Activities

Morning Market

• Locals selling local produce including fruit, vegetables, herbs, meat and drinks.
• The protein on offer was not for the faint hearted as you could have yourself crickets, chickens feet, cow/buffalo hooves, silk worms and even bats!
• There were also meats more familiar to Western palates e.g. chicken, liver, pork, fish, seafood and beef.
• People chopping up vegetables on the pavement – no table, no board, just the pavement.
• As always, keep your belongings close and be prepared to barter.

Kuang Si Waterfall & Bear Rescue Centre

• 20, 000 kip entrance fee plus 40, 000 kip minivan service per person (bought from guesthouse). There are other transport options available however this is one of the cheapest with longer time to spend at the waterfall.
• Beautiful blue lagoons to swim in.
• Magnificent views of the Kuang Si Waterfall cascading over the rocks.
• Two Pathways up to the top of the waterfall. One is for wet season and the other dry. The wet season is more of a climb in parts not recommended for those without proper shoes or who have mobility issues.
• Once at the top, there are stunning views overlooking the surrounding mountainside.

• A Bear Rescue Sanctuary is situated on the walk through to the falls.
• No additional entrance fee.
• Donations are welcomed and souvenirs available to buy.
• The Bear Rescue Sanctuary looks after Asiatic Black Bears who have been rescued from bear bile farming where their bile is extracted to be used in Chinese medicine.

Mount Phousi

• 20,000 kip entrance fee – not really worth the money in our opinion.
• 300 steps.
• Views over the city, particularly wonderful at sunset however also extremely crowded.
• A temple at the top however not much to comment on.

Slow Boat on the Mekong River

• Bought as part of a trip including Whiskey Village and Pak Ou Cave for 100,000 kip per person plus entrance fee of 20,000 kip for cave.
• Similar trips can be bought from your agents and sellers near the river bank.
• Stunning views of the greenery and mountains as you float down the Mekong River.
• See elephants bathing at the river’s edge.
• Watch locals complete their daily routines whether bathing, working or fishing.

Whiskey Village

• A village of wooden stalls with only 2 that are ‘whiskey’ or should I say rice wine.
• Should have been called the scarf village as this was what most stalls sold.
• Some gorgeous scarves to be seen and you can catch the locals making them.
• There is also a village temple but we only had 15 minutes so couldn’t really explore. Doubt there’s much though.

Pak Ou Cave

• 20,000 kip Entrance Fee. Totally not worth it.
• Lots of steps.
• Lots of locals begging/ selling.
• Lower temple more interesting than upper however neither stand out.
• Upper temple is very dark.
• Lots of Buddha statues – all shapes and sizes.
• Wish we’d stayed on the boat and not bothered with the caves – the views were so much nicer!

Night Market

Another place, another market selling the same stuff most others do, for example magnets, bracelets, paintings, lanterns, street food etc.

Other Things To Do

• See the Alms giving to the monks at 5.30am daily.
• Visit some of the local temples (we were templed out after Thailand).
• Visit the Royal Palace which is now a museum.
• Learn about Laos ethnic cultural heritage and livelihoods at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre.

🍛 Food

Bamboo Gardens

• Cheap and delicious food.
• Cost around £5 each time we ate here for 2 mains and 2 beverages.
• Friendly waitresses.
• Tooled away off the main road.

Utopia

• Moderately priced eatery. We spent almost £16 on 2 breakfasts, 3 softs and 1 beer (even though it was only 8.30am, after the journey we’d had Arran needed it).
• Good breakfast menu with different options on offer.
• The place has a hippy feel.
• Nice views over the Mekong River (minus the digger and truck) and possibly could be peaceful.
• Think of themselves as tranquil by day and party by night.

Pha Khao Lao

• Cheaply priced food – 2 mains and 2 beverages for £10.50.
• Plenty of choice. Food was tasty.
• Larger than meets the eye restaurant with outdoor decking. Not much of a view but sweet.

Local Sandwich Shops

• Great for a cheap sarnie, between 10,000 and 15,000 kip.
• Plenty of choice for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.
• There are plenty located throughout the city.

🚇 Transport

• Local taxis/ tuk-tuk vans are available on every corner. Barter though as we’ve heard they are rather expensive.
• Minivans, often organised for day trips, available in tour shops and at the accomodation. Price varies dependant on destination location and company.
• Hire a scooter for the day costing around 80,000 to 100,000 kip plus buying your petrol.
• Hire a bicycle for around 20,000 kip for the day.
• Walk. The city is small enough to cover on foot.

🛌 Accommodation

Thavisouk Guesthouse

• kip per night.
• Private bathroom, with refridgerator and fan, air con was extra.
• Interesting pink and white lights with a green bedside lamp. 😂
• Only hot water in the morning.
• Good location.
• Offers amenities, transport and trips.
• Seemingly friendly staff.
• Wouldn’t stay again.

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is accurate as of November 2019.

CONTENTS

• 🤔 – What to Expect
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🍛 – Amazing Eats
• 🚇 – Transport
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to Expect

A step away from Chiang Mai but a leap from the bustling Bangkok. This quiet little town takes you further North.

• Less Hectic.
• Distant Mountains are a 1 Hour Drive away.
• Three Major Sites – Black House, Blue Temple and White Temple.
• If confident hire a scooter – great way to get around. Roads are quieter.
• 2-3 Night stay is more than enough.
• Illuminating Clock Tower.
• Can get a sleeper coach to Laos: Luang Prabang.

🌅 Activities

Baan Dam Museum aka Black House

The Baan Dam is an ode to artist Thawan Duchanee and also features other contemporary Thai artists work. The museum was once Duchanee’s residence and there are lots of quirky, mysterious and dark objects to explore.

• 80 Baht per person.
• Straightforward journey from Chiang Rai – one main road.
• We hired a scooter for the day but it is not easy to find due to lack of sign posts.
• Free parking.
• Interesting place that is worth the cost.
• 2-3 hours spent here.

Wat Rong Suea Ten aka Blue Temple

This (free entry) temple is small compared to others and their attached grounds nonetheless it is spectacular and a must see. Food, just across the way, at the local Biker Cafe is a great cheap eat too.

• No entrance fee but there are vendors selling flowers/gifts to be placed inside the temple as an offering. 20-30 Baht per gift.
• Just outside the city limits – not far but a good 40 minute walk from near the centre where we stayed.
• Impressive and unique with plenty of photo opportunities.

Wat Rong Khun aka White Temple

The surrounding grounds and free exhibition are the hidden jewels to visiting the white temple. However, for 100 Baht each to simply enter the temple was a rip off and an underwhelming experience.

• 100 Baht entrance fee to enter the temple – no photography allowed inside.
• Save yourself money and enjoy the grounds instead.
• Overcrowded with tourist that pushed and shoved.
• Constantly told to keep walking, which rushed us through the experience.
• Photo opportunities are limited because there are a sea of umbrellas and selfie sticks. Furthermore, tourists don’t give a shit you’re trying to take a picture and will constantly walk into your shot or push through you for their own photo opportunities.
• Did I mention tourists?!
• It’s not all bad – the grounds are lovely and there is a gallery of other works done by Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Illuminating Clock Tower

Gooooold-Tickaaa. It’s a clock. A clock that Midas has touched.

• An impressive local monument piece.
• Did I mention it was a clock.
• Unveiled in 2013.
• It was built to honour the king, Bhumibol Adulyadej.
• Built by Chalermchai Khositpipat who is the same artist behind the white Temple.
• At 7, 8 and 9pm there is a “show” with lights and music.
• In comparison to the Old Tower Clock the new one is rather fancy.

Night Baazar & Saturday Night Market

Once again the markets offers the same goods, street foods and nick nacks.

Tea Plantation & Waterfall

There are tours available that could let you explore the local tea plantations and see how the locals harvest. Furthermore, there are also waterfalls. Not sure on price or wow factor because we skipped this experience. However, maybe next time.

🍛 Amazing Eats

Oak and Awe

• Thai Food Menu.
• Cheap but decent food our meal was £5.20 including one dish each, a soft drink and a beer.
• The green curry fried rice was tasty.

@Burger

This was the cheapest place I managed to find for a burger. Because sometimes it’s nice to have a little home comfort.

• Juicy burgers for a reasonable price – 79 Baht (£2.10) for an Angus Premium Burger with bacon without chips.
• This sounds like a lot but the next cheapest place we found was 160 Baht (£4.20) without chips.

• Not gonna lie the patty was not massive but they did run out of beef. This made me think I got smaller than normal.
• Rachael got the pork burger which was equally tasty and a great alternative.
• The meat was juicy and tasted just like home.
• The fries were tasty for me but a little salty for Rachael.
• I would totally eat here again but next time go for the combo set.

Biker Cafe

• Located just opposite the blue Temple.
• Convenient cheap eatery that is great for a lunch. Only £4.90 for 2 mains & 2 softs.
• Thai based dishes.

Pad Thai

• Thai based dishes.
• Trip advisor had great reviews for this place but not sure why.
• Cheapish but we have had cheaper.
• Food was okay not brilliant. You also get a free nuts and a plate of fruit.
• Owners were lovely.

🚇 Transport

Public Bus

• 20 Baht per person for each ride.
• Easy connection to White Temple and Bus Terminal 2.
• No service to Black House or Blue Temple.
• Air con.

Songkraew (Red Trucks)

Again, like most places in Thailand, the red trucks are local taxis which provide transport around town and to local attractions. We boarded one back from the White Temple to Chiang Rai bus terminal and it only cost 20 baht each. I’d certainly say check & barter (if required) before you board.

Sleeper “VIP” Coach to Laos: Luang Prabang

See our upcoming blog, Jeepers Sleepers, for the full details.

• Not for the fainthearted.
• A coach of chrome, leather mattresses and embroidered pillows.
• 2 people share a “bed/seating” space. You could share with complete strangers if on your own.
• Bumpy and weavy roads.
• Someone was sick. We’d advise to take travel sickness pills.
• 950 Baht per person (£24.00)
• Snacks and water provided.
• Halfway point to grab food.

🛌 Accommodation

Tourist Inn

A great central location that offers the basics and smashes it with a hearty breakfast.

• 500 Baht Per Night (£13.00)
• Large plug in fan only.
• Aircon was an extra 500 Baht per night.
• King size bed but mattress a little on the hard side.
• Hot water. Soap and Shampoo provided.
• Relatively clean.
• If requested your room can be cleaned daily, including fresh towels and new sheets.
• Communal Fridge/Freezer.
• Standard scrambled egg, plate of fruit and yogurt for breakfast. However, there is plenty of bread, croissants, jam, cereal, coffee and tea.
• Highlight – bread is not sweet! They bake it fresh daily too. #breadgoals

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is accurate as of October 2019.

Contents

• 🤔 – What to Expect
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🍛 – Food
• 🚇 – Transport
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to Expect

• A squared city soaked in Thai culture.
• Greenery and mountains
• Smaller than Bangkok.
• Mosquitoes, lots of them.
• Home of the elephant sanctuaries – majority now have NO RIDING. 😀

🌅 Activities

Muay Thai Boxing

• Standard seat entrance fee 500 baht (around £13) when bought on the door or we bought via Klook app for £10.29
• 5 fights, starting with young teen Thai boxers and gradually goes up in age groups, ending with an adult fight.
• The young teen (we speculate around 13 years old) boxing was uncomfortable to watch especially as we were expecting adult matches.
• Interesting to watch the match with older boxers, especially seeing the Wai Kru Ram Muay ritual dance at the start of the match to pay homage (respect) and gratitude to their teachers, family and ancestors.
• Drinks are a little expensive but are generally what you’d pay at most of the bars on the main streets (120 baht for large Chang or Leo beer).

Doi Inthanon National Park

• Doi Inthanon National Park Day tour bought on Klook for £27.80 per person (includes all day transfers, English speaking tour guide, lunch and entrance fees)
• Great price as it costs 300 baht per person at 2 different check points plus … baht for a car or … baht for a motorcycle.
• First stop was at the highest point in Thailand where we learnt about the types of trees in the forest and the shrine to King Inthanon.
• The Royal pagodas, each built to commemorate the birthdays of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and his queen, are surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Thai Cooking Class – Lanna Smile

• Bought voucher on Klook at £18.05 per person.
• The price includes making a soup, noodle dish, vegetable spring tools, curry paste, Thai curry and a Thai dessert.
• Lanna Smile had the best choices of 3 per item (excluding spring rolls).
• Nim is passionate and knowledge about Thai cooking. She also has a great sense of humour!
• You get to visit a local market and learn about the key ingredients of Thai cooking (which Rachael knew already). You also get time to wander around, take pictures if you are not sure of anything and get them answered by Nim or Pim.
• The cooking class was awesome and there was no rush! The times on the voucher stated from 4pm till 8pm, including drop off & pick up, but we didn’t get back till going up 9pm.
• As it was slightly out of peak season we ended up having a private class however generally expect up to 12 people.
• You also get a recipe book to take home!
• Check this amazing experience out!

Home

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Camp 8

• There is plenty of choice for Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, we opted for Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
• We bought a half day tour bought via Klook at £36 however you can also opt for a full day, one day walk with elephants and 1 or 2 night visits (which is obviously increases the price £££).
• Half day experience includes transfers to & from hotel (within 3km radius of Chiang Mai), lunch, feeding and playing with the elephants in water and mud.
• There were 9 camps at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary however there are various sized Sanctuaries available. Most camps don’t ride now either which is best for the elephants.
• You get the opportunity to meet, feed, play and bathe different aged elephants.
• We learnt about their previous use for logging work and how the sanctuary is the best place for them. This is due to previous owners simply releasing elephants back into the wild. This in turn causes them to be killed because they eat crops or out of fear due to these “domesticated” creatures approaching locals.
• Did you know? Elephants eat 10% of their body weight daily.
• Fantastic experience for all ages!

Anusarn Night Market

• Free entry unless you plan on grabbing some souvenirs.
• Jewellery, scarves, clothing, wooden bowls and utensils galore.
• Pretty much sells the same stuff as most other markets.
• Be prepared to barter to get the best deal.
• There’s also lots of stalls lining the streets running up to the market.
• If all the shopping has worked up an appetite then there’s plenty of restaurants and bars located around the edge of the market.
• If you’re all shopped out or shopping isn’t your thing, alternative options within the market are Chiang Mai Cabaret, in other words a lady boy show (see next title), and Muay Thai Boxing.

Chiang Mai Cabaret Show

• 350 baht per person including 1 drink (beer, softs and juice available).
• 100 baht for a small beer however there is a happy hour (which Arran missed by minutes) where they sell them for 80 baht. Or, if you’re not feeling a beer, buckets are 500 baht.
• It whiled away an hour or so.
• Entertaining and hilarious – their lip syncing and dancing is somewhat to be desired. I could teach them a thing or two!
• If you want to be a regular prop/ part of the show sit near the front. If you’re a little shy then my advice is sit nearer the back or the performers will eat you alive. 😂
• Oh and they always choose one guy to go up on stage, dance over them, take off his top and have a little fun. Your reward is a beer.

Amazing Eats

Delish Kafe

• Great Thai food at great prices.
• We had krapao duck, chicken and pumpkin red curry, duck red curry and chicken with cashews – they were all delicious!
• Main dishes were from 70-150 baht so just under £2-4.
• An English guy named Mark owns the place – he’s fab and gave us loads of recommendations on where to go and who to book with.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293917-d7204664-Reviews-DeLish_Kafe-Chiang_Mai.html

Angels Secrets

• Quaint little place off the main road.
• It has a fairy tale feel with fresh flowers and miss matched wooden furniture.
• A little more expensive than other places we’ve eaten but doesn’t break the bank.
• We spent around £10 each time we visited.
• Lovely selection of food including sandwiches, pancakes, smoothie bowls and Thai food. Also lots of drinks to choose from e.g. fruit juice, beer, Thai tea, coffee etc.
• Portions are decent too!

Transport

Local Bus

• Quite a new transport system, set up in 2018.
• 20 baht flat fare.
• Bus route goes around old city, night bazaars and to the airport.
• We went on to tour the city one evening thinking it would cost 20 baht for a loop but they charge you another 20 baht at the airport as this is the start & end of a route. So cost 40 baht in total.

Red Songthaew

• Generally 30 baht per ride.
• They also have other fares which depend on where you are travelling to in the city ranging from 100-250 baht.
• We got one from Bus Terminal 3 to 1984 Holiday Residence and it cost 150 baht for the two of us. (It’s only an 8 minute drive 🙄) I reckon you could have bartered a tuk-tuk cheaper.

Accomodation

1984 Holiday Residence

https://youtu.be/w4Hp6QncxI4

• Clean.
• Spacious – large double bed with private bathroom.
• Hot Water Shower.
• Shared common room.
• Free use of a washing machine!
• Fridge but in separate flat next door.
• Cooking facilities are in a sperate villa further up the street. However, it looks as though there would be one on site soon.
• Great WiFi.
• Gym.
• Yes, would stay here again.

Would be better if…

• A fridge in the common area. There was plenty of space for one.
• A sweeping brush for the room – just to keep things tidy.

A charming bustling city that needs to be explored.

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is accurate as of October 2019.

CONTENTS

• 🤔 – What to Expect
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🍛 – Food
• 🚇 – Transport
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to Expect

• Clean – compared to other places we have previously visited.
• Great transport system that is relatively cheap.
• Majority of the sights are in one area.
• Bangkok can be explored in 3 days but we stayed for 4.
• Awesome food.
• China Town is a must do foodie experience.
• There are 2 airports – BKK and DMK
• Roughly 36-37 Baht to the £1.

🌅 Activities

Siam Museum

An awesome place to start when you arrive in Bangkok. It drops you straight into the history of Thailand and it’s culture. Discover what 3 key aspects make up ‘Thainess’.

• There are four floors to explore.
• Very interactive which is great for kids!
• 100 Baht – Adult. 50 Baht – Student, OAPs and Children.
• A special exhibition on the Ground Level that was included in our ticket price.

Wat Arun Ratchavararam

• Known as the ‘Temple of Dawn’
• Small entrance fee – only 50 baht per person.
• Best time to visit is early morning as it’s cooler and you beat the crowds.
• Unique floral decoration on the temple.
• Stands majestically over the bank of the river Chao Phraya. The prang (spire) stands 70 metres high.
• The prang is beautifully decorated with coloured glass and Chinese porcelain.
• Ensure you wear something that covers your shoulders and legs, both men and women.
• Its larger than meets the eye. Make sure you explore all the different parts!

Chatuchak Weekend Market

• Free entry – you just require spending money.
• Lots of bargains to be had.
• A variety of stalls including those selling artwork, natural products, pet products/accessories, vintage clothing, food, drinks, sandals, lights – you name it they’ve probably got it!
• It’s a huge place with indoor and outdoor stalls. You could easily spend a full day here.
• Restaurants, cafes and coffee shops can be found throughout.
• Across the road from the local bus station and a 8 minute walk from Chatuchak Park MRT station.

Khao San Road

• Quiet by day, lively by night.
• Backpackers paradise.
• A great place to eat, drink and socialise – but no sleep 😅
• Drinks are generally slightly more expensive than elsewhere in Bangkok.
• Plenty of market stalls to grab a souvenir – be prepared to barter, barter, barter.

Democracy Monument

• Built to commemorate the 1932 revolution that ended the absolute monarchy before becoming constitutional.
• The monument is in the middle of a busy roundabout so be careful!
• It was designed and built based on the key information regarding the event, e.g. the 4 wings stand 24 metres high as the constitution was signed on the 24th June.

Giant Swing

• Located in old city area of Bangkok, just outside Wat Suthat.
• The giant swing is an old Brahman structure.
• Originally used as part of the Brahman festival where men would swing themselves, using the teak poles as a slingshot, to reach gold coins hung at 50 metres. If they succeeded they could keep the treasure but many didn’t. It was later stopped due to accidents and deaths.
• We didn’t visit Wat Suthat however I believe it’s a 20 baht entrance fee and it is open 8.30am till 9pm.

MBK Center (American Spelling)

• A giant mall with lots of stores and goods.
• On the 5th/6th floor there is a food court.
• Lots of different choices from local food to Indian and Korean cuisine.
• Card required to pay at each food/drink station. Cash only at these tills. No deposit required and any money left on the card is given back.
• We’d advise having a look round first before putting money on your card.

The Grand Palace

Rachael and I were a bit miffed off with the cost of the Grand Palace. This meant we ended up sacking it off for another temple.

• Shoulders and legs need to be covered.
• T-shirt and long trousers should do the trick.
• If not you can buy items there but they’re expensive – 200 Baht for trousers.
• 500 Baht each Enterance fee – this is expensive.
• It looks amazing and they have the jade green statue of Budda.

🍛 Food

Street Food

Compared to Indonesia you actually see people eating the street food.

• Rachael and I spent most of our time eating street food.
• Great way to explore the culture through the taste buds.
• Cheap – 50 Baht each for Mango Sticky Rice, Spring rolls or Gyozas.
• Look around because prices do vary.
• Go with friends get different dishes and share.

China Town – Food Experience

Food glorious food. Squid, Gyoza and Custard – filled steam buns.

• Crazy busy.
• Awesome place to start your street food experience.
• Street food prices ranged from 30 – 120 Baht.
• Pad Thai – 70 Baht – Delicious!
• Not much else to say – head down the main strip and explore the delights.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Once again another great place for street food. With this I wanted to mention more of the restaurant esq street food – often just a vendor with a few tables.

• This type of street food often gives more options than your usual spring rolls, Thai sausage and Gayoza.
• Dishes are usually rice with something e.g. Rice with chicken and basil.
• Noodle dishes.
• Some do Thai curries.
• Usually cheaper than main restaurants.
• 70 – 100 Baht.

Baan Tha Tien

This was possibly the cheapest restaurant we dined at within Bangkok.

• Nice selection of dishes.
• Cheap – 70 – 150 Baht depending on order.
• Near to the Metro – Sanam Chai, Siam Museum and the Grand Palace.
• Lovely social eatery that places you on long benches and tables with other locals and travellers.
• Panang Curry was brilliant!

392/2 Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

https://www.facebook.co/BaanThaTienCafe/

Supa Thai

• Across from Bangkok Station.
• There are a few restaurants on the road but this was the cheapest.
• 80 Baht for curry but 20B extra if you want rice.
• Photos online are old. The place is a little more tired.
• The curry was tasty!

Supa
512 Rong Mueang Rd, Rong Muang, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
+66 2 061 5645
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HWP5imbFoNUdXudJ8

🚇 Transport

Train

Rachael and I landed at DMK, which was further out of the city than BKK. This meant we had to either hail a taxi or catch the train. Despite it being late at night (22.00) we opted for the train.

• There seemed to be 3 kinds: Slow, Express and Express Fast.
• We caught the last one of the night – Express Fast, which ended up being the most expensive.
• Ticket – Economy 1 – £8.26 Per person.
• Journey was roughly 1 hour.
• Economy 1 was the cheapest of the classes yet comfortable.

Subway

• Cheap and effective way of getting around the city.
• Clean.
• Did not get squashed but can be busy.
• Price depends on distance.
• 16 Baht (£0.45) each for our shortest journey – one way.
• 32 Baht (£0.90) each for our longest journey – one way.
• Mainly used the MRT Line.
• Uses a coin ticket (picture above) – Scan on entry and insert on exit.

Bus

• Cheap – 20 Baht each.
• Plan your journey in advance to know which number bus you need.
• I think there was an expensive service and a cheaper service.
• I saw a shit heap of a bus for the #95 Route but we caught a modern version.

Coach from Bangkok to Sukhothai

• Cost: 365 Baht Each (£9.38)
• The price depended on time of departure.
• Earlier was cheaper.
• Journey Time: 8 Hours (Should have been 7) 😓
• Comfortable chairs and journey.
• Free food! – Unexpected but was a nice surprise – Basic Chicken and Rice.
• One, half way, stop off – use the bathroom then grab a tasty steam bun from the vendor outside for 10 Baht.

🛌 Accomodation

Chic Hostel

A great little hostel that was clean, quiet and close to the subway and China Town.

• Near Hua Lamphong subway.
• Near Bangkok Train Station.
• Cost – £15 per night for standard double room with shared bathroom.
• Discount for staying longer.
• Basic but everything you need.
• The rooms are big but a little vacant and would have benefited from a luggage table and clothing rail.

To sink another beer or spend a night in a piss smelling cockroach infested twelve bunk hostel.

Here are some cheap drinks to ensure there is enough money for that higher price tagged private accomodation. Though, you could just drink more and stay in the hostel.

The Philippines was actually relatively cheap when drinking the local beers.

Quick Points

• Supermarkets obviously supplied the cheapest.
• Look for a Robinsons Supermarket if possible.
• Prices always varied but beer was often cheaper to drink than soft drinks!
• There are bars that offer all you can drink.
• Drink the local brew. Imported (Home Beer) is always expensive.

Red Horse Beer

• Red Horse Beer
• 330ml Bottle
• 6.9% Vol
• 31.75 Pesos (£0.49)

Apple Flavoured Beer

• San Miguel Apple Flavoured
• 3% Vol
• Not strong but awesome taste.
• Often the cheapest beer in pubs and supermarkets.
• Roughly 25 to 30 Pesos (£0.40 – £0.49)

GINebra S.Miguel

• Gin.
• 350ml Bottle.
• 47 Pesos (£0.72)
• Crisp clean flavour.
• Not much taste but…47 Pesos for a bottle of gin.
• Bang in a mixer and you’re on to a winner.

Kartel Rooftop Bar

• No elevator! Bar on 5th floor.
• Happy Hour – 6 til 8pm – 750 Pesos (£11.50) each.
• All you can drink – one drink at a time though.
• Set menu but varied drink options to suit all tastes.
• Cocktails.
• Close to the party hub of Manila.
• Rachael and I arrived around 6.45 and still managed five each at a slowish pace.

A vast city with contrasting regions that each have their own characteristics.

CONTENTS

• 🤔 – What to expect.
• 🌅 – Activities
• 🚉 – Transport
• 🍛 – Food
• 🛌 – Accomodation

🤔 What to expect

• Bustling City
• Pollution, pollution, pollution
• Genuinely friendly and polite people
• Be prepared to be referred to as Sir and Ma’am
• If you’re European, expect to be stared at… A lot.
• Roughly 63 Pesos to the £1. Since gone up to 65.

🌅 Activities

Fort Santiago, Manila

• 75 pesos each so around £1.14 (students get a reduced rate with ID)
• One of the most important historical sites in Manila.
• Most of the fort has been destroyed.
• Personally, I felt there was a lack of information to educate you on the importance of the fort in the Philippines history.
• Built in 1593 to defend the city of Mailnuls in the Spanish cival war and World War II.
• Where Jose Rizal, a Filipino national hero, was imprisoned before his execution.

Salcedo Saturday Market, Makati

• Food galore!
• 7am – 2pm every Saturday, free entry
• Variety of cuisine and market stalls selling fresh produce
• A place to find some home comforts (eg. Proper white bread – not sweet, crumpets, biscuits)
• Take plenty of money to treat yourself to the amazing food on offer! We ended up with meatballs and spaghetti, Vege samosas, crumpets, biscuits, ginger ale and butter beer which was only to take home😂

Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati

• Quiet greenery nestled in the tower block city
• A small selection of cafes, coffee shops and restaurants available
• Great to chill and unwind to catch your breath
• Beautiful Rainbow Eucalyptus trees, native to the Philippines, are found throughout the gardens

Taste and See the Real Manila Living Tour

Link to Bernadette’s Airbnb experience: https://www.airbnb.co.uk/experiences/480360?location=Manila&source=p2

• £18 per person on Airbnb experiences
• Fabulous host Bernadette who works the itinerary around you
• Eye opening and informative to see beyond the surface of Manila
• Ability to see the contrast between richer and poorer areas of Manila
• Transportation included throughout the tour (although you make your own way to and from – Bernadette also helped us get home)
• Visit a local church
• See Spanish colonial architecture and learn about some of Manila’s history
• Choice of food and drink (included in price)
• You’d be a fool to miss this experience, especially if you want to see a less touristy side of Manila.

Taal Volcano Hike 🌋

• Tickets bought via Klook app costing £45 per person for ‘Taal volcano day tour from Manila’ with the touring company Tanlines. See more information below (SMIB)
• Day starts at 7am (also optional for breakfast at 6am for additional cost) and returns to Makati, Manila for approx 8.30pm however this was not the case for us (SMIB)
• Transport includes departure and return from Makati, Manila, boat to and from volcano (you need to make your own way to the meeting point and back to your accomodation)
• The trip includes a hike on the secret trail (4 hour more challenging hike, 2 hours each way) which leads into the crater of the volcano (SMIB as this is not the trail we hiked)
• Stunning views of the 10th most active volcano in the world and 2nd in the Philippines
• Unique volcano as the previous eruptions have formed a lake and an island insides it’s crater
• Tanlines host, Diana, was lovely and interactive
• English speaking guide provided

SMIB

Value for Money

There are many Taal volcano trips on the internet which we found via blogs and apps such as Airbnb experiences and Klook. We found the price range often varied (£15- £110) however mainly on the more expensive end, with little to no difference in the itinerary. As previously stated, we bought our trip on Klook for £45, but only paid £35 due to a partial refund (see why below!) which on reflection we felt was still a little expensive for the trip we ended up getting…

Change after change…

We booked the trip on Saturday to leave on Tuesday and had the date of the booking confirmed the day after (Sunday). However, later on Sunday we had a message via WhatsApp asking if we were okay to change the trip date to Saturday but we were leaving the country prior to then. They then offered Wednesday and we accepted.

The night before our trip we were excited but on eventually gaining WiFi around 6pm (as we were out all day) we had received another WhatsApp from our host at Tanlines saying the government had closed the secret trail due to seismic activity at the volcano. We were GUTTED but understood it was to ensure our safety. The message offered us an easier hike, usually taken by tourists, around 2 hours (1 hour ascent and the other to decent) or a full refund. We opted to still go on the Taal volcano trip but as this was now a different trip to what we originally paid for and a second compromise we asked for a partial refund which was agreed at 1500 pesos, around £20 for the two of us. This made the trip £35 per person. We were then also offered a completely different hike up Masungi Georeserve through the beautiful mountains which has gained recognition and accolades in its 20+ years conservation but we declined as we’d set our hearts on Taal. We soon realised after arriving at the Tanlines lounge the alternative trip they offered already had 4 others booked and we were the only ones on the Taal volcano hike – much to our delight as it was a private tour!

Timings

On Klook it said that the day trip would last approximately 12 hours, pending on travel time from and to Manila. We were told to arrive between 6 and 7.30am as we promptly leaving at 7am – which doesn’t make sense but we arrived before 7 to be on the safe side. We didn’t end up departing until 7.45am and it takes approx 2 hours as the traffic is awful. We arrived in good time, the boat took around 20-30 mins, hiked in less than two hours up and down, crossed the lake and returned to Manila for 2pm. So in reality the majority of the trip ended up being travelling, around 5 out of 7.5 hours. With the trip being less hours than what we had paid for and a different hike we felt £35 was pricey but also questioned the original price of £45 too, especially seen as we’d read a blog which independently completed the same trip for half the price (bartering required).

English Speaking Tour Guide

The tour guide was lovely and accompanied us on the boat and hike. He was informative but required a little prompting and questioning. He also forewarned us that we did not have to tip or buy anything the locals offered e.g a horse ride up the volcano (which I wouldn’t recommend as the horses looked very malnourished) which was nice to be reminded of incase we were unsure.

Viewing Point

We weren’t disappointed by the stunning views at the viewing point of the crater nor the sights along the hike. The beautiful, rich green plants and trees embedded in volcanic rich sand against the aqua blue waters and hazy, humid sky. Looking down over the lake was truly breathtaking but also a little scary as Taal is the smallest most active volcano, only standing 311metres above sea level – just like me, small but fierce. We had views of the little island inside the lake and a meteorologist in a dingy boat studying elements of the sulphuric lake. We were disappointed however when our guide told us where we could have hiked – into the crater and to the edge of the lake, if the secret trail wasn’t shut.

Overall, we would definitely recommend visiting Taal Volcano however ensure you look around, comparing and checking itineraries and prices to ensure you get the best deal. If you’re feeling adventurous why not try a D.I.Y trip.

Puerto Gallera

• Nice way to escape the chaos and pollution of the city for a day
• Best to set off early, especially if it’s a day trip – as early as 1am (we set off at 5.30am)
• Consider an overnight trip, at least, depending on how long you are willing to spend travelling in a day
• Book your return ferry when you arrive if travelling in one day to ensure you have the time you want
• Unexpected fees per person – terminal fees (entry: 30 pesos and exit: 10 pesos) and environmental (50 pesos)
• White beach was small and quiet besides the local vendors
• Sandy beach with cool blue waters and a mountainous backdrop
• A calm wave and decent depth to the sea making it great for swimming
• Few restaurants and bars to choose from on the front

The Journey

• Be prepared for a long journey as, for us, it took from setting off at our accomodation to arriving at white beach around 5 hours and vice versa 6.5 hours to return.
• Total journey there and back cost 2,458 peso’s, around £37.70 for 2 people including terminal fees and environmental fee which we were unaware of. (See price breakdown below)
• First check the times and prices available rather than listening to the barrage of local salesmen, from different companies, trying to get you to buy a ticket. We found it extremely overwhelming, which wasn’t helped by being up at 4am. Take a minute.
• No passport or identification required at the ferry port but they do offer student discount which you will be required to prove.

Journey Breakdown

• Grab to Buendia Jam Bus Terminal
• Jam Liner Bus to Batangas Port
• Ferry from Batangas Port to Balatero Port (you can also get a ferry to Muelle Port)
• Motorcycle with sidecar from Balatero Port to White Beach
• In reverse to return, except we took a Jeepney from near Buendia MRT station to Ayala Station. Then MRT Ayala to Shaw Boulevard. A grab would be easier but more expensive and you could be stuck in peak traffic.

Price Breakdown

• Grab: dependent on time you order, peak times = higher price and could struggle for availability
• Jam Liner Bus: 197 peso’s each way
• Ferry: dependent on company and class. We paid for tourist class, 320 peso’s to and 300 peso’s return (we did see open-air for 250 peso’s)
• Motorcycle with sidecar: 100 pesos each way.
• Jeepney: 9 peso’s each
• MRT: ranges from 13 to 24 peso’s, dependent on where you are travelling to.

🚉 Transport

Train Network

• There are two main lines – LRT and MRT.
• At peak times (2pm – 8pm) it is very busy and you will know how tinned Sardines feel – imagine London underground multiplied by three.
• Price depends on distance – our highest 20 Pesos (£0.30) to lowest 13 Pesos (£0.20) each journey.
• If possible have the correct change – great for getting rid of those pesos coins.
• Reliability? – 50/50 – We had a good run the first half of the week and a bad run the second.
• Bad – A 30 minute delay trapped between stations.
• Bad – Being told a train was delayed with no other information on time.
• Bad – Avoid the middle of commuter’s times! Lines. Angry locals. Squashed. Pushing.
• Good – The delay meant we got a free journey back! (1️⃣ See Picture).
• Good – Decent connections that get you across the city. However, still expect walking from station to attractions/locations.
• Good – Straight forward to use.

Jeepney

• Confusing and Cheap!
• 9 Pesos (£0.14) each person and journey.
• Locations are written on the front and sides of the jeep.
• Drivers have a habit of changing route mid way, which can be confusing.
• Safe – Depends on the driver.
• There are a lot of routes!

Taxis – Grab Edition

• Grab Cars (driven by locals) were our most reliable.
• Grab Taxis stated one price on the app but it always cost more. Sometimes even double the original amount.
• Links to a credit card but like stated above Taxis can take advantage of this.
• On a couple of occasions we had difficulty getting a taxi due to busier or earlier times.
• Seatbelts were a pain and often trapped behind the seats – check before you sit in.

🍛 Food

• Lots of fast food e.g. Jollibee
• They like to mix cultural dishes onto one plate e.g. spag bol, rice and fried chicken
• Fried everything
• BBQ skewers from pork and chicken to intestine
• Some of the best food was tasted on Salcedo Saturday market, Makati
• Prices vary depending on type of establishment (e.g. restaurant, fast food, cafe) and cuisine
• Jollibees everywhere! (Best way to describe it: Filipino version of Macdonald’s)

🛌 Accomodation

Link to Airbnb accomodation: https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/38632936?location=Stays%20Manila&source_impression_id=p3_1571564337_dc0Pxm2g6k5xzDOR

• We used Airbnb as we wanted to stay in one place due to island hopping being expensive
• £150 for 9 nights, which includes a discount and cleaning fee
• We stayed in Mandaluyong, Manila (in the Greenhill District) in the lovely Yaan and Lorenz’s apartment
• The apartment had a double bunk bed, sofa bed, wet room (toilet and shower), sink, fridge, WiFi and TV with Netflix. Towels, water and coffee is provided but other snacks/ drinks are available at a small fee
• Apartment was a little on the small side for us as we stayed for 9 nights however great for short stays
• Close to local amenities including supermarkets, malls, restaurants and the MRT line