Travel: My Trip to Thailand (Bangkok and Phuket)

I've been excited for this trip to happen because our last trip together was way back 2012 and I haven't been able to join the succeeding ones because I've been busy with work. I missed the Cambodia trip last 2013 (booking it the year before, I didn't realize I'll be having a business trip to the US the day before our departure) and Vietnam trip 2014 (I thought I was going to go to another business trip) so I was excited to go on a vacation with my so called "travel buddies".

At the airport, Cha and I were nervous because it was almost boarding time and Karl wasn't there yet. He could not miss this flight because he has our money! (we deposited money to Karl's account because he bought for us Thailand Baht to use at a BDO branch close to where he lives. Also learning from a friend who likes to travel a lot too, she advise that the money exchange chain Czarina also sells Baht and other currencies). As a tip, make sure you call your credit card issuers for a travel advise to inform them of your destination and dates. Also, it would help to call your bank so that you can use your ATM outside the country and withdraw money if needed.

It was a full flight and good thing I was seated with Cha and Erik. I dozed off immediately only to be awakened by loud conversations by some ladies behind us. I amost thought they wanted everyone to hear what they were talking about. Erik was a little annoyed and from time to time tried to sshhhhhhh but the ladies were too occupied or probably didn't care. I guess I was too sleepy that I fell asleep again.

Having traveled quite often, I can say that I've had my fair share of experiences, stories and airline boo boos. Having just taxied to our gate, this guy stood up already and was getting his stuff from the overhead with the seat belt sign still on. Ofcourse he got the attention of the cabin crew that called him out. What's funny was that he didn't think it was him because he still looked around and realized he was the only person standing up. Awkward.

Part 1: 48 Hours in Bangkok 

1st stop on our trip is Bangkok. We were clueless and didn't really know how to use the public transportation that's why we decided to get the airport taxi instead. The advantage of traveling with a group is that you can split the cost. The taxi costs around 1500 Baht to bring us to our hotel, Oaks Sathorn (booked through Agoda.com) and breaking it down, just around 250 Baht each.

Traffic is an issue in all major cities and Bangkok is not immune to it. Yes we were stuck and slowly crawling through the city but we were too occupied either sleeping or talking and being excited exploring the city. Since it was almost lunch when we got to our hotel (the trip from the airport should be around an hour but it took us more time), what else to do but eat! It was early for us to check-in anyway so we left our bags at with the reception area and just brought our valuables.

Accommodations in Bangkok is fairly affordable and since I'm splitting the room with another person, makes it even better. I like our hotel, its centrally located (its a short walk from the main road) and there's a Family Mart nearby, ATM machine as well as a massage place.

Near our hotel we saw this modest eatery that serves Thai food so we were excited. There was some language barrier issues but both sides managed to communicate somehow.

I got their soup with some pork noodles but didn't really know what it was. It was tasty but the serving a little modest and I was still hungry.

The next thing I got was their Pad Thai which was yummy and definitely filling. Burp!

Its was a definite food trip, Bangkok style. I guess no one cared about being on a beach and ordered more noodles. More carbs please!

 

After lunch, we got back just in time to check in. We got a studio room and its more than enough space for 2 people. The room had a small sitting area which was enough for one person to sleep in as well. In the Philippine terms "pwede ka magtumbling sa laki ng room (you can cartwheel inside the room). 

Our room also has a balcony so you can see the view of Bangkok. Not much of a view though. Also it took some time for me to figure out how to open the glass door to the balcony. I think I was already trying to break trying to force it open until I noticed there's another latch. Good thing or else I would have paid extra and I don't want to buy the hotel new glass doors.

There's a pool if you want to cool off on hot days and best thing is that there's free wifi service so you can keep everyone updated on your whereabouts and keep connected in Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. When I mean connected, meaning brag about how your having a fabulous vacation while they are at work on a Thursday.

Since some of us had to work the night before, some took an afternoon siesta so we kinda was off track with our itinerary a little. We were supposed to go and visit the temples however since it was already late in the afternoon and these temples will be closing soon, we asked the hotel staff what activity can we do. We had a choice of shopping at Siam Paragon or going on a river cruise at the Chao Praya river.

Well we thought that there was nothing exciting about shopping since we thought we didn't come all this was to go to a mall so we chose the river cruise as I think this was oversold by the staff a little (and which we will eventually regret later).

The bell hop called a cab for us and told the cab driver where to go (we didn't understand anything they said). The cab took us to this alley which you wouldn't think will lead to anything and I felt a little uncomfortable. When we got to the end, there's this dock where you'll ride your boat. Again, I felt a little uncomfortable because it was kinda expected that we'll take the tour and that there's no backing out. Plus if we didn't take it, how will we go back to the main street or something. Initial price was 3500 Baht which I thought was outrageous but we managed to bring it down to 3000 Baht (again big mistake, read along).

The ride was bumpy and I had my hanky covering my mouth the entire time, unless you want a shot of river water in your mouth (and its not particularly clean water).

The tour we took will take us around the river and the connecting "canals' and drop us off at Asiatique. We passed by Wat Arun and we asked if we can go down but our boat driver said no, remember why I said big mistake when we lowered the price down? (we were joking that because we haggled for the price that's the reason why we can't go to Wat Arun).

I didn't fully smile because I don't want to accidentally have water splashed in my face and drink the water

Wat Arun behind me

Temple by the river

After traversing the main river, now we went to the "canals" to go around Bangkok. There's nothing really special about it because all you'll see is dirty water and sewage being dumped to the river. On the side you'll see houses and like people taking a bath, its like a typical day living at the river side. 

I was actually confused on why we were there and for the most part I was wishing for the tour to end already. I think other people that we passed by are also thinking the same thing, why am I here and when will it end. Funny, the boat stopped a little for a "floating market", which was basically a boat with an old lady offering souvenirs and drinks, I felt a little bad that we didn't get anything but the stuff was way over priced. 

One of the most unexpected happened was when we switched boats. We were on our way back to the main river when our new boat collided with another boat. The impact was strong but good thing we didn't have any injuries and the boat didn't get any damage whatsoever. I mean I was scared because 1. our new boat didn't have life vests and 2. what a very unglamorous way to go, drowning in dirty river. Not my style.

After all has settled down, I was glad that we were about to go down in a few minutes.

Still smiling even though we accidentally collided with another boat a few minutes ago

We were relieved to reach Asiatique already before the sun set.

Sunset over the Chao Praya river

Asiatique Riverfront is an attraction in Bangkok that combines shopping, food and activities. Going around, visitors are a mix of tourist and locals alike so its seems like a very popular place. Here you can get lost in a lot of stalls offering different types of goods and souvenirs. Good thing there's a slew of ATM's and there are also money changers so you'll have that extra cash available. 

My friends did some major shopping (can you say I heart Bangkok shirts?) and I was modest. All I got was a tank top that I bargained from 250 to 220 Baht. Seriously, the guy didn't really want to give any discount. Good thing Karl and I did a tag team and said we'll buy two for 220 and kept on begging him saying "First time here, give discount" (ofcourse simple English was the rule of thumb). I also got this nice floral shirt, for no discount, but was already on sale for 180 Baht so I thought it was a good deal already (I tired to bargain but the guy just didn't want to budge).

   

After some serious shopping (literally my feet hurt from all that walking, standing and finding each other because we split up) it was time to eat. Again, Thai food for dinner ofcourse. This time I got chicken satay and some crispy noodles (again with the noodles, more carbs please).

   

Major shopping with all our bags at the table

Capping of the day with a picture of Bangkok and the riverfront.



The following day was a busy day for us because 1. we'll be going to the bus terminal to buy tickets going to Phuket and 2. we'll be going around to see the temples. Per advise of the hotel staff, since we're 6 people, we can rent a big taxi for 6 hours for 1500 Baht to bring us around. Again divided by 6 people, it was already affordable. 

After getting our bus tickets going to Phuket, 1st stop was Wat Arun. The temple is being repaired that's why there are scaffolding but the temple was still impressive. Fee costs 50 Baht and be reminded that there's a dress code. It was a seriously hot day and wearing jeans and shoes didn't really help with the humidity. I mean I wished I applied double deodorant that day.

There are lots of other tourist as well so you have to take turns if you want that "no other people shot". Being patient is waiting under the sun while the person before you takes 100 selfies and trying to audit each one while you wait (all you can is think "move its my turn!").

   

Since it is a temple, Karlo took the chance to light some incense as well as go inside, he not really Buddhist but since he's there already, why not. And yes, there are souvenirs available for purchase as well (though we didn't get any).

Next stop was another Wat (I forgot the name) but we didn't stay for long and just took pictures.

   

The last temple that we visited and made us all excited was ofcourse, Wat Pho were the famous reclining Buddha is housed. Fee is 100 Baht and there's free water in the ticket (I was wishing for free ice instead because seriously, it was a really hot day and I wouldn't chomping on ice to cool off). 

There is a lot to see inside and a lot of great pictures to be taken. Also be prepared to remove your shoes when going inside the temples (good thing I had a pedicure the week before). 





The complex is big and we didn't really know where the big Buddha was. When in doubt, follow the crowd, and we did find the place where it is housed. 

Unlike the other smaller temples where you'll leave your shoes outside, here, you'll be provided with a reusable bag so you can carry your shoes with you. The bag seemed better days and for sure it hasn't been washed in a while. 

Being the main attraction, there were a lot of people (people who have been under the sun and touring like us, and also barefoot. Be prepared to smell other people's sweat and feet).

    

  

Its a hot and tiring day but seeing the reclining Buddha was worth it. Its magnificent! Despite the crowd, I managed to take nice pictures.

After a long and hot day, it was time to relax back in our room to get ready for our trip to Phuket. Before we went out exploring the temples, we checked out 2 of the rooms already and left 1 room which we paid extra for an extended check-out so we can keep our stuff and have a place to freshen up.

Our bus leaves at 8PM so before 6 we already left, making sure we have enough time to go through Bangkok's Friday traffic.

We made it in time with an hour to spare which was a relief. We booked a VIP bus which was very spacious and comfortable.

 

Though we only stayed in Bangkok for 48 hours, I feel we did a lot already. I wouldn't mind going here again to still go around and explore what it still has to offer. For now, off to Phuket for part 2 of our trip. 


Part 2: Beach Weekend in Phuket

After a 13 hour overnight bus ride from Bangkok, we finally arrived in Phuket bus terminal (there's a stop over at the middle so you can have a break as well as go to the restroom, also, before reaching the terminal, there's a checkpoint where a police personnel will come inside the bus and check your id's /passports). We slept for like hours but it was good to finally go down and stretch our legs. 

There are other buses going to different places so unless you know which one to take, there's a taxi service that will bring you to your hotel. Since we didn't know how or where, we took a taxi (100 Baht each) to our hotel and we were already on our way. The terminal is on the other side of where the beaches are so it took about 30 - 45 minutes to get to our area which is Karon beach. 

Our hotel, Coral Inn (booked through Agoda.com) is centrally located in Karon beach. It is at the beach front (there are no hotels at the actual beach front, you have to cross the street) and at the turn about so you can easily see it. Its also surrounded by a lot of convenience stores, money changers, shopping and places to eat so it was definitely a good choice. There are also pharmacies, massage (Thai massage anyone?) and some specialty shops which was cool. If you want to book a tour to go around, there are also lots to choose from so better shop around to get a good price.

We booked 3 rooms and an extra bed is available for 500 Baht. The rooms are simple but beautifully furnished. Just like Oaks Sathorn hotel, the bathroom is glass and is definitely nice for couples. I thought the place was bang for the buck, nice and conveniently located. They also have a restaurant downstairs serving Thai and international dishes. 

We don't have any activities for the first day so we decided to spend our afternoon at the beach. Our hotel provides an umbrella for use free of charge so we'll have some shade under the hot sun.

Karon is a public beach so it may not be as manicured as you would want it. You may have to clean your spot a little before settling down (there's a lot of cigarette butts being left there).

Karon is not as crowded and there's enough space for everyone for sun bathing or just swimming. Be warned though that the waves may be a little strong at times.

Karon is my beach for the weekend

Sunset over Karon beach

For dinner, its seafood Tom Yum (make sure to ask if what you are ordering is spicy, also, when I said medium spicy, it was already a little too hot for me, but it was still delicious) and some local beer to cap the night.

   

The next day,we woke up early, grabbed breakfast (plated breakfast and included with our stay) and waited for a van to pick us up for our island hopping tour of Phi Phi islands.

There's a lot of other tourist, different nationalities when we came to the jump-off point. We were grouped into 3, each color coded, and my friends and I were the orange team (orange heart sticker was given out). This was helpful in identifying what boat to ride and if your group will proceed to the next activity. You also have an assigned tour master who will be providing instructions all throughout and answer some questions if you have any.

There's a briefing for around 30 minutes explaining the activities as well as do's and dont's. They'll also provide anti-dizziness medicine if you have any issues with sea sickness. I don't have any history getting sick but I took one as a precaution anyway. There are also some shops available there so you can buy anything that you may have forgotten to bring. Ofcourse prices are steeper here.

   

We rode a speed boat and if you're OK sitting under the sun, then sit at the front area. Although it doesn't have any shade, it feel its more spacious because you can move around. We were seated in the middle and felt kinda sitting like an airplane cabin or bus because space was tight. Imagine yourself wet and your stuff on your lap, bummer right?

The 1st leg of the trip will take about an hour to get to monkey beach. Its a small cove with monkeys at the beach. They may be cute but be extra careful as they may bite (and you'll end up getting anti rabies shots and regretting having touched one to begin with). The guides will be throwing food to attract them and everyone just wanted to take a picture. I however took the opportunity to take a picture of myself so there's no tourist at the background.

After that, we had our snorkeling time. Like what they reminded us, make sure not to lose the gear as you will be fined 1500 Baht. While snorkeling, they will be throwing food so that the fish will come. My friend RJ freaked out a little because they threw food in front of her so a swarm of fish suddenly went to her, it was a little funny though because she kept shouting. After around 30 to 45 minutes swimming it was time for lunch.

We stopped by an island to grab our buffet lunch which was good. Food is so so, and what confused me is spaghetti in the middle of other Asian dishes. There's coffee and tea for free but other beverages are to be bought (no alcohol though).



The groupings will come in handy because you'll be joined by other tour groups who are also on tour. Your tour master will shout your color (orenj tem!) and remind you of the time to head back to the boat.



Next stop was Maya bay. There's you'll be able to take some pictures as well as swim for a bit before heading out again to a different island. The cove is beautiful, its just that there were too many of us there (I guess you can tell by my pictures).

 

The last island that we went to I already forgot the name because it was a tourist trap / money pit. I feel like it was intentionally put there for you to spend money and it was where you'll stay the longest.

The chairs costs 150 Baht for two. When you go to the middle, there's a bar area that sells alcohol as well as other mixed drinks. In my opinion it smelled like fish because they were doing barbecue and some trash as there was a lot. Also the beach has cigarette butts and while we were swimming, I feel like the water around it wasn't as clean (there were plastic floating). While swimming, this guy (who is part of our group) went to the water near where we were. By looking at him we knew, because we were talking, that he was peeing (there's a restroom in the island but you have to pay to use it). Why did we think he was peeing? 1. He only went waist deep 2. he stayed for like a minute or two and 3. he had this smile where you know he's doing something. After that assumption, we went out of the water.

I feel like the island is a little shanti town with sad faded umbrellas and too many people in one place.

I didn't want to pay for a chair so I'm sitting in a sand drinking my mixed drink inside a coconut.

The tour ended at 4 PM and we were brought back to the port where our driver was waiting for us. All in all the tour was OK. If you want to go to what they call James Bond island, its a different tour already and we didn't get it.

Since we have time that night we decided to roam around our area where we ate some street food for dinner.

Also, there was a night market going on so we went out to buy our souvenirs and gifts for people when we came back home (as if my friends didn't have enough shopping already from Bangkok).

There you'll find a mixture of novelty items, clothes, food, and beauty products. A guy selling jewelry called me by shouting Pandora because he saw the Pandora bracelet I was wearing. He had some silver charms I can add to my bracelet but I didn't buy any. It ranges around 500 to 800 Baht per charm.

Again, like in any other place, haggling is the name of the game. Since I was in Bangkok, I was wanting a little novelty elephant. I found one that  I liked in a stall and was able to get it for half the price by doing the "I'll look around"  and slowly walking away technique. I also got some tea for a good price by buying 3 and not just one.

After some shopping we were supposed to still go to Patong beach for a night out but called it a night since we were exhausted from all the touring and swimming we did earlier.

On our last day, some of us went for the white water rafting/elephant trek tour while we stayed and wanted to relax by the beach and do more shopping.

It was early and I was up already to I decided to go around the area and take some pictures.

There are also people making the most of their morning at the beach.

After breakfast, we went around Karon looking for the best deals. Thing to note that some vendors are a little aggressive and expect you to buy the item in that moment. Don't be pressured and politely say no if you don't like the price. I experienced this first hand when checking out a stall full of leather. The items were so so and I would only buy one if the price was right. I asked how much this organizer was (perfect for traveling to keep your passport, boarding pass, etc.) and she told me I have to buy it so she can give me discount. I said how much first then (with an aggressive tone) said, "you buy now I give you discount". I didn't want to buy anything I don't know the price because what if it was expensive. The same conversation ensued until she shooed me away because she said it was bad business. I guess they think that all people/tourist are there to spend and don't care about the price, not me. 

Also, its a matter of price as the stalls will definitely sell the same thing, same shirt, same cover up etc. I however found a nice shop that sells novelty items like figurines, perfect for the interior designer in you. I got myself a Buddha (although in one of the temples in Bangkok, they reminded that Buddha is not for display and for decoration, then why are they selling those?). As far as jewelry goes, there's a store named Vertigo although its high end with prices going to the thousands of Baht. There's a cheaper jewelry store along the same road, more of fancy jewelry. All these 3 shops are along the same street (pictured below).

Its street food again for lunch since I was already on a budget and couldn't spend anymore. Its barbecued chicken, pork and some Coke light.

Since our flight back to Manila was still in the evening, we extended the room until 6:00 PM that costs around 500 Baht so we can still spend the afternoon at the beach and freshen up before heading to the airport.

What a better way to spend the afternoon, reading a magazine by the beach, with a cold drink and a good friend to have a good time with.

After checking out and waiting for our ride back to the airport, its time to load up on Thai food. For dinner, what else but chicken satay and pad thai.

 

Overall, it was a fun trip, not just because of the destination, but because it was shared with good friends. 

We had fun exploring stuff together even though we were clueless at times, definitely this is one trip we'll still be talking about for years to come. Cheers! 

Last night at Karon beach