Hi everyone! I’m really excited to share with you an awesome itinerary for a very special trip that we will be going on in April this year. As you know, last year saw me travelling across a total of six countries, including sunny California in the U.S.A, Italy and picturesque Austria. This year I decided to go totally out of my comfort zone, and travel somewhere unlike any place I’ve ever been before.
Just before Christmas, Jack and I decided to visit our local Kuoni to see if there were cool trips that might be on offer (it’s not like we’re buying a house or anything, but travel comes first!). After much discussion (and biscuits) with their friendly staff, we created the perfect holiday for us both, filled with sun, culture, wildlife and incredible views. We are going to the land of smiles; Thailand.
Our trip starts in the capital city of Bangkok where we will be staying for 3 nights. Here, we’re going to see all the famous sites, such as standing in awe at the Golden Palace, bartering at the famous Thai markets, and then will hopefully venture out to see the mystical ruins of Ayutthaya. Of course, in true Girl on the Move style, we’ll be searching out some local things that are off the tourist trail too! I have already been told about some really cool restaurants and coffee places that I simply must try when I am in Bangkok, but if you have any recommendations definitely throw them my way!
Having experienced the busy, bustling city life in Bangkok, we’re going to fly to the traveller-hotspot of Chiang-Mai. We’re only here for a few nights, but will be able to tick off a bucketlist thing for me; get up-close with elephants. We’re going to an elephant sanctuary just outside of the city, which gives rescued elephants a happy home. In the sanctuary we’re going to be bathing and feeding the elephants, including giving them a good scratch in a luxurious mudbath. I cannot say how excited I am for this, and for me this will be a real highlight of the trip.
To finish off, we’re heading for paradise. Our last stop is the picturesque Khao Lak, where we will be staying in a stunningly secluded hotel, with views of a natural lagoon and the ocean. It is also located just by a dense mangrove forest, through which you are able to paddle a canoe to see local wildlife. It is also just in reach of the famous Phang Nga Bay where James Bond classic, The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed, as well as being a stone-throw away from temples, mountain walks and, should I be brave enough, diving hotspots. Khao Lak certainly opens up the world and beauty of rural Thailand, something I just have to see before I leave the country.
Thailand promises to be an unforgettable trip, and as I said before it will be unlike anywhere I’ve been to previously. I am hoping that it opens the door to exploring the Eastern World, which I’ve always wanted to visit, but have always seen as so far away.
I will of course keep you guys updated with everything as I plan this epic adventure, and as always please message me if you have any recommendations of things to do in any of our stops! Love V x
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I tried to write this comment from my phone and it didn’t seem to work. I hope you aren’t getting multiples of this comment, and I apologize if you are!
Elephant Nature Park is incredible. You won’t be disappointed. I had one of the best days of my life there. In Chiang Mai, I recommend Imm Aim Vegetarian. It’s in a new location since I’ve been and very western, but I always enjoyed the food there. Make sure to try Thai Coffee in a bag from a street vendor (you can probably get this elswhere in Thailand, but I have vivid memories of drinking it in Chiang Mai) and ride in a red Songthaw at least once! Also, don’t be afraid to try street food! There’s a general fear among westerners that it’s unsanitary, but the street food vendors know what they’re doing and they do it well. I never got sick from street food. It’s a cheap, easy way to eat a meal or snack.
ArtBox is a really cool pop up night market in Bangkok. When I was there, it was in the Em District, but it moves around. It’s not your average Asian market–it has all kinds of fun, artsy vendors and crazy food options! It’s definitely has more of a local vibe. I also know it is only certain days of the month, so no guarantees it will be going on when you are there. It would certainly be a fun way to spend part of an evening, though.
You’ll have a great time at Phang Nga Bay. They give great tours around there.
Thailand is so incredible and I wish you the best on your travels there. You’re in a for a real treat.