A spectacular 60 day visa-free entry into Thailand comes to a close so here are a couple of things that come to mind. I’ll revisit and update this blog with anything else that comes to me.
In no particular order:
Massages
Do not skip the massages! The first few were just foot/leg after going running, but my eyes and mind were opened with the 60 minute Thai massages. In retrospect, they should have been part of my daily routine.
I didn’t realise this was one of things Thailand was most known for (thought it was what may come after a massage) but they are brilliant.
There’s a quite a range in prices from 250 - 1000 Baht and I usually went for the cheaper ones which were grand. In fact the cheapest one ended up being the best (Buak Haad Park after the marathon).
Thai People
The locals are lovely. Very friendly people from my experience and everywhere I stayed had pleasant and helpful staff.
Non Thai People
Thailand is such a tourist spot so there are plenty of Westerners about. Defaulting to Irish bars I met a bunch of sound ex-pats and fellow wanderers. The hostels trended younger naturally enough and met a bunch of sound Brits.
Sex-tourism is definitely a big thing and it was quite eye-opening and in your face in Bangkok. You get used to it, but does give the ick.
Getting Around
Travelling in the modern era with local SIM cards and apps make things a bit of a breeze. I spoke with people who had been to Bangkok a decade prior and they said it was pandemonium. Never had this experience myself—happy out using apps like Bolt & Grab.
In BKK and CM the back of the bike is so handy for getting around. Bikes can be rented all over but seeing the amount of injuries from other’s I wasn’t too keen on that, other than Pai which is a lot less busy.
Having a proper licence is something I might look into when I’m back.
Heat
Goes without saying, but tis quite a lot warmer than this pasty Irish fella is used to. It was north of 30° for the first couple of weeks so get the factor 50 on and try and do things early, especially activities.
When it comes to accommodation always go with aircon1 over a fan, if the budget allows. There’s really no comparison.
Gaffs
Stayed in a range of places: hostels, hostels, guest-houses, bamboo huts, a bench. Big fan of the guest-houses—like a cheaper hotel and more down to earth is how I’d put it.
So much cheaper than back home with most places less than €20/night. Did go for a €4/night hostel but to quote Detective Murtagh, “I’m too old for this shit”. Much rather pay the (relatively small) increase to have my own place. Especially when hungover.
Finances
Card payments aren’t too common other than big expenses, much to the disappointment of my Revolut withdrawal limit. Plenty of ATMs about but of course you spend about a fiver each time you use it. Could be a good option to come with a decent amount of cash with you.
I did notice a lot of QR payment options, but to use these you need a Thai bank as far as I know.
Summary
Having heard such great things from others, there were high expectations of Thailand. Despite this it managed to exceed them all—a truly incredible time was spent there with many a memory and friend made.
First winter away was a blast and I think this warm winter approach has legs.
Initially thought the whole of Thailand would be squeezed into the 60 days but really glad I didn’t go down that route. Took things slow and had a great time in BKK and up North.
So I definitely have unfinished business down south and on the islands—really looking forward to the return!
Footnotes
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Air Con as opposed to Con Air, the masterpiece starring Nicholas Cage. ↩
DavAI SummAIriser
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