So Far, So Amazing

I am a week into my trip and have seen so much. There are stories for many of the events but for now I will just relate a few highlights:

Bangkok - a chaotic, teeming mass of people. Transportation has to be the biggest business sector, except maybe for the unnamed numbers of people that cook cheap delicious food on every street.

Food - No one must eat at home. It can cost twice as much for a loft to have a kitchen and you can get a meal on the street for $1.

Dogs - Dr. Sara would go crazy with the number of stray dogs that roam the streets.

Weather - It is the coolest time of year now but it is hot enough to want to spend all your time in the shade of a building outside since most of the people do not have AC. Life is lived outside.

Flora - Bougainvilla is grown like weeds. They use it like CA uses oleanders along the freeway.

People - Very nice folks that are happy to help but if they have a taxi or a clothes stand they want your business.

Backpackers - This is still very high on the list for the itinerant backpacking group. The effect is cheap internet cafes interespersed with cheap clothes that are strictly for this group since you don't see the locals dressed in them.

If you want the funny side of the trip, check out Kim's blog. http://gorillabits.blogspot.com/

Thanks for Reading.

More Than One Night in Bangkok

The time has come, I leave Thursday morning. MW will take me to the airport and I will pretty much disappear from your lives until I return on February 9. I will be checking e-mail and Facebook when I have the chance, however I will not have the ability to maintain my blog but intend to take good notes while on the trip and write it up when I get back. My itinerary is below, so you can follow along if you like. I will be staying extra days in Bangkok before and after the tour, so Day 1 of the tour is January 10th and I end the tour Feb 6 but won't leave until February 9.

The tour is through Intrepid Travel and the name of the trip is Thailand North and South. Check out their website.

trip map

itinerary

Day 1 Bangkok

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand.

You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 18:00 (this time may vary from time to time). Your leader will leave a note at reception telling you where this important meeting will take place. Please ask a member of reception for this information.

Bangkok has so much to offer those with time to explore - why not take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, or wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road?

Our comfortable hotel in Bangkok is centrally located near Khao San Rd and the Chao Phraya River and has ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and a swimming pool.

Days 2-4 Kanchanaburi/River Kwai

Early on day 2 we head off in a longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous 'khlongs' (canals) of Bangkok (approx. 1 hour). The life that goes on along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets. We then visit Wat Po, the home of the magnificent reclining Buddha and keeper of the magic behind Thai massage. We return to the hotel to pick up our bags and transfer to the bus station.

Travelling by local bus for approximately 3 hours in the afternoon, we reach Kanchanaburi, home to the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai'. There may be time here for an optional samlaw (bicycle rickshaw) tour around Kanchanaburi, the perfect way to take in the splendour of this city and the monuments to its tragic past.

Our comfortable guesthouse in Kanchanaburi is a short walk to the shops and restaurants and has ensuite bathrooms and fan-cooled rooms.

On day 3 we board a big floating barge and spend the day cruising down the river Kwai. We have plenty of time to relax and swim. We also stop and visit some amazing temples during our journey. Tonight, spend a memorable night on board, sleeping under the stars. We sleep all together on fold-out mattresses on the open deck (or undercover if it rains) with shared bathrooms.

On day 4 we visit the Jeath War Museum and then head off to Erawan National Park (approx. 1.5 hours each way from Kanchanaburi), where we can explore the famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. On the return journey, there is the possibility of grabbing a kayak and taking the River Kwai back towards town, paddling under the infamous bridge for a unique view. If kayaking is not your thing, there are always majestic Buddhist temples to explore. We return to our guesthouse in Kanchanaburi for the evening.

Day 5 Ayuthaya

After a local bus/songthaew ride from Kanchanaburi (approx. 4 hours) we arrive in Ayuthaya, one of the ancient capitals of Siam. As we have an overnight train journey tonight we have shared day rooms in a clean basic guesthouse in a quiet part of town which has basic facilities and a restaurant.

We have ample time for a guided tour of the picturesque ruins and temples spread across the town. The ruins at Wat Phra Mahathat provide many a photo opportunity, and the Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site of all in Ayuthaya. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon affords the opportunity for a glimpse into the future and Wat Phanan Cheoeng is Ayuthaya's answer to the Taj Mahal, built out of love for a wife departed.

There is time here also for a final swim and dinner before boarding the overnight train on the evening of day 5 bound for Chiang Mai (approx. 11 hours). We use soft sleeper class trains for all our overnight train journeys. Multi share compartments are air-conditioned, with bunk beds; sheets and pillow provided. Our baggage travels in the carriage with us. There is a food and drink service available on board.

Days 6-7 Chiang Mai

We arrive in Chiang Mai in the morning of day 6.

Dubbed 'The Rose of the North' by the Thais for its beauty and the friendliness of the people, Chiang Mai is our base for the next 2 days, giving us ample time to explore this amazing city and its lush surroundings. From Chiang Mai we take a short trip (1 hour) to a nearby national park where domesticated elephants, previously used for logging, take you for a ride through their natural environment (approx. 1 hour). After completing your journey on these majestic creatures, bamboo rafts await those who would like to try a relaxing float down a jungle river. Of course, the tranquillity of river rafting is often quickly replaced with mayhem as water fights with local children break out along the river bank.

Back in Chiang Mai there is the chance to have a traditional Thai massage before heading down to the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a shopaholic's dream.

Day 7 allows you to choose from a plethora of activities that are on offer in the city and its surrounds. The Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School offers courses for budding chefs and will definitely allow you to impress your friends upon your return. A novel way to see the surrounding countryside is to take a cycling tour, on which you will visit temples and ruins, the McCain institute for handicapped artists, and possibly a sticky rice factory among other sites.

This evening sees us off to explore the famous temple complex of Doi Suthep. A short songthaew drive from our guesthouse (approx. 45 minutes) along a scenic, winding mountain road ends at the impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway. The rewards justify the ascension to the top, with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand on display, not to mention fantastic panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to listen to hypnotic evening chanting by resident Buddhist monks.

Our clean, comfortable guesthouse in Chiang Mai is located by the famous night markets and has ensuite bathrooms and air-conditioning.

Day 8 Homestay

Via Chiang Rai, we travel approximately 4 hours to a small Thai village to stay in the home of some local friends. There is plenty of time to experience the quiet village life before sampling a traditional northern Thai kantoke dinner, complete with a dance performance presented by the school children of the village. Staying here is a true privilege and a chance to experience the real Thailand - something very few travellers are able to do.

Our basic multi share homestay is in a local village. There will be fold-out mattresses on the floor and shared bathrooms.

Days 9-11 Hilltribe Trek

Walking through hilltribe villages and meeting the locals is, for many, the highlight of this trip. We visit various villages, each with their own unique language, clothing style and belief system.

Please note that you should be fairly fit as we hike across hilly countryside and rain as well as hot, humid weather pose extra challenges. We walk for approximately 5 hours each day so there is no great rush. The terrain is rural rather than jungle - the hilltribes grow rice and other vegetables on the slopes - and we trek along village tracks. There is also the possibility of some shallow river crossings. Please note, there may be times during the trek when the use of video and/or still cameras may be inappropriate. Your group leader will advise you further. Each person carries their own pack for the whole trek (see 'what to take' section for luggage requirements). All meals are included while trekking, but you will need to purchase and carry your own water (please allow US$8 for the entire trek).

Accommodation is multi share, sleeping on fold-out mattresses on the floors of the wooden/bamboo huts typical of the villages. There are shared squat toilets and basic washing facilities in most villages (i.e. hose or water pipe) or we may be able to wash in a nearby stream. Warmer clothing & sleeping bags are recommended from November to January as the nights are usually quite cool during this period.

Days 12-13 Golden Triangle

Using local transport - songthaews - we visit the point of the Golden Triangle where the Thailand, Burma and Laos borders meet, stopping also at the border town of Mae Sai, which is full of colourful shops stacked with Chinese goods. After dining at one of the many restaurants located on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, we pay a visit to the Opium Museum for a deeper insight into this area's problematic past. Following this, there is time for an optional fast boat ride down the Mekong River.

Today involves a total of around 3 hours travelling and we spend the night at a hotel/guesthouse in Chiang Rai. Almost like a little sister to Chiang Mai, this city boasts a great night market and a variety of good restaurants. We may also have the option of briefly crossing into Burma to attend a Burmese market (not included).

Our clean, comfortable guesthouse in Chiang Rai has ensuite bathrooms and air-conditioning and is located in a quiet part of town near the local markets.

From Chiang Rai, we return by bus to Chiang Mai (approx. 4 hours) on day 13 before boarding the overnight train south to Bangkok (approx. 13 hours).

Days 14-15 Bangkok

We arrive in Bangkok this morning and check back into our hotel, leaving a free day for shopping or sightseeing before meeting again for our final night's dinner with those who are leaving the trip here in Bangkok. Being a weekend, this is a great opportunity to visit the weekend market at Chatuchak - one of the biggest and busiest markets you will ever see. Your leader can also give you other ideas of what to do - places like Jim Thompson's House and Chinatown are all great to explore. There's a fantastic array of transport options available for getting around this traffic-choked city and although it's most efficient to stick to the canals, river and Skytrain, a trip in a tuk-tuk is certainly an experience!

As this is a combination trip the composition of your group and your group leader may change today. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next leg of your journey.

On day 15 we explore the canals of Bangkok in a longtail boat. We also visit the Grand Palace, with its many spectacular temples and secular buildings. The most famous of these is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

There is time for stocking up on any last minute items before we board a comfortable overnight train in the evening to the southern railway junction of Phun Phin (Surat Thani), a journey of approximately 13 hours.

Days 16-19 Khao Sok

Arriving at Surat Thani early in the morning, we take a ride (approx. 1.5 hours) to Khao Sok National Park where we find some of the best remaining rainforest in Thailand. The park covers an area of 646 sq km and has an ecosystem that is reputed to outdate even the Amazon.

Boarding a longtail boat we head out on the Chiaw Lan Lake (approx. 50 minutes) to spend 2 nights in remote floating rafthouses, surrounded by spectacular mountains and rainforest. There's plenty of time to relax, swim or try an early morning rise to spot wildlife such as gibbons and hornbills.

On days 16 and 17, we stay in bamboo rafthouses in Khao Sok National Park which are basic, with shared bathrooms.

Returning across the lake, we continue to the Park headquarters (approx. 1 hour on a boat, plus 1 hour by car) where our accommodation includes simple but comfortable bungalows with local-style bathrooms. The afternoon of day 18 sees us go on a short (approx. 1 hour round trip) jungle walk to a fantastic cave temple and have a talk with the locals about the history and legends behind the cavern.

Day 19 allows plenty of time for exploration, and with so many superb walking trails, rivers and waterfalls to discover, the day can be easily filled. You could take a ride on an elephant, or in the rainy season there is an option to take to the water in inner tubes and float down the river through the rainforest.

On days 18 and 19, our accommodation is in simple fan-cooled forest huts close to a stream just outside the National Park. Huts are twin share, simple but comfortable bungalows with bathrooms attached.

For trips Nov-Apr (West Coast)... Days 20-23 Ao Nang/Krabi

Leaving Khao Sok National Park we drive approximately 3 hours to Takua Pa to the west coast Province of Krabi to our village homestay. Here we can walk around the village, try out rubber tapping and enjoy the great food and hospitality of the region. There is even the possibility of assisting with the preparation of the night's meal. Please be aware that this is a Muslim region so conservative dress standards are in order.

Tonight, our basic multi share homestay is in a local village. There will be fold out mattresses on the floor and shared bathrooms.

On day 21 we head for the small beach town of Ao Nang (approx. 10 minutes), close to Krabi and the stunning limestone karst scenery of the headland for a day of relaxing on the beach or getting active. There are many activities that can be done in Ao Nang, ranging from sea kayaking, to some world class rockclimbing, its all here for you to enjoy.

The evening affords us the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunset while dining on seafood in a beachside restaurant, followed by an evening enjoying a drink in one of the many clubs and bars situated on the beach.

Our comfortable guest house is centrally located just a short walk to the beach, shops and restaurants and has ensuite bathrooms and air conditioned rooms.

Days 24-26 Phang-Nga Bay/Sea Safari

This morning we take a short walk to Ao Nang Beach where we take a 2 hour boat ride to Chicken Island located in the stunning Phang Nga Bay. Here we snorkel and continue on to Poda Island for lunch. After lunch we head to nearby Bamboo Island where we will set up camp for the next 2 nights.

The bulk of our luggage will be left at our Guesthouse in Ao Nang so it's a good idea to have a daypack for the essentials - sleeping sheet, sarong, towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, etc. Tents and basic sleeping mats are supplied, but you may wish to bring your own air mattress.

There are many activities available on Bamboo Island such as coconut picking, fishing for Barracuda & Squid, swimming & snorkelling. Spend your evening by the camp fire, with local games & fire dancing.

On Day 25 we head out on the boat to Maya Beach on the neighbouring Island of Phi Phi Lek. Maya Beach is where they filmed The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay is perfect for that photo opportunity and snorkeling & swimming. At 11am we head to Phi Phi Don Island and stop for lunch with time to explore the Island for a few hours. After lunch we head to the other side of the Phi Phi Island to Lip Bay for a swim and then return to our evening camp on Bamboo Island. When leaving Lip Bay we may throw a line in to try and catch some fish and squid for dinner.

On day 26 we head back to Ao Nang (approx. 2 hours) to pick up our stored luggage, shower, and head to the bus station (approx 2.5 hours) to take the overnight train back to Bangkok (approx 13 hours).

Please note: An alternative itinerary may apply to Days 24-25 subject to seasonal weather conditions, tides or camping booking periods. In the event of bad weather we will arrange alternative activities for these days.

Both itineraries... Days 27-28 Bangkok

Arriving in Bangkok in the morning we check back into our hotel, then you are free to check out markets or shopping centres, catch a river ferry or explore Buddhist sights. This evening, enjoy a final night's dinner in one of the great local restaurants.

There are no activities planned for day 28 and you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time from the hotel is at 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel