Day 21: Transitioning to Koh Lanta

Our day began with an inclusive tuk-tuk ride from our hotel to the pier, a reminder of Thailand’s all-encompassing travel packages. At the pier, amidst the anticipation of our next island destination, we sought out breakfast at Mr. Boy Cafe (Mr. Boy Cafe), where the setting triumphed over taste. The coffee may have been forgettable, but the waterside view offered a serene backdrop. Seeking redemption, Koh Jam Local Cafe, with its passionate barista, restored our faith in good coffee, setting the mood for our ferry journey to Koh Lanta.

Upon arriving in Koh Lanta, the expected 10 baht fee per person for entry mysteriously bypassed us. Our exploration for onward travel options led us to numerous travel agencies lining the pier, a hub of possibilities for our next adventure.

Motorbike Rental – The Shock Of Being Back In Civilization

Our quest for independent mobility introduced us to Wyane, who guided us to a motorbike rental – a stark contrast to our previous laid-back experiences. The formalities of contracts and passport exchanges marked our reentry into civilization, a culture shock of sorts after the laissez-faire island life.
We rented a motorbike for 300 Baht per day, but had to leave our passport there and pay in advance.

Exploring Koh Lanta’s Beaches – LYM’s Bar & Restaurant

Settling in at Hassana Garden Home Resort (Hassana Garden Home Resort), we were impressed by the comfortable room and the expressive bathroom design. Our beach exploration led us to Pra Ae Beach (Pra Ae Beach), where the ESC Café (Escape Café) stood out for its overpriced offerings. In search of value, LYM’s Bar & Restaurant (LYM’s Bar & Restaurant) delivered with enjoyable shakes and a beachfront dining experience, albeit with a rather underwhelming pineapple fried rice which was priced at 180 Baht – pretty expensive compared to fried rice without that type of presentation.

The evening was spent on the beach at “The Beach” bar, relishing shakes and the breathtaking sunset, before venturing to the local food market near the harbor. The street food scene captivated us with its affordable and delectable offerings, from sticky rice and mango shakes to chicken skewers.

Day 22: A German Touch on Koh Lanta

Our breakfast with Dana’s friend Clemens at Ina’s German, also known as Nang Sabai (Nang Sabai), introduced us to a delightful blend of Western and Thai cuisine right on the beach. Ina, a German expat, has created a cozy haven with excellent food and a refreshing shower in her backyard – a testament to the island’s welcoming expat community.

Ending the day, we dined at Cook Kai restaurant (Cook Kai restaurant), close to Ina’s cafe, where reasonable prices and quality meals allowed us to enjoy dinner with our toes in the sand, affirming Koh Lanta’s reputation for beachside culinary experiences.

Reflections on our Koh Lanta Adventures

Days 21 and 22 on Koh Lanta encapsulated the essence of island hopping in Thailand – from the simplicity of local cafes to the complex beauty of its beaches and the gastronomic pleasures in between. Each step of our journey, accompanied by the warmth of new friendships and the discovery of secluded spots, painted a vivid picture of Koh Lanta’s unique charm.

#KohLantaAdventures #IslandHopping #ThaiCuisineExploration

The post Island Hopping to Koh Lanta Adventures: A Tale of Travel, Taste, and Tranquility – Days 21 & 22 appeared first on DANA & WILD - The Bonnie & Clyde Of Music.

Day 19: Simple Breakfast At Simple Life

The day started amazing for us again. In the wonderful surrounding of the Simple Life Bar we enjoyed a great breakfast with excellent coffee. From the shakes to the waffles everything was delicious, although they forgot to deliver a meal we ordered.
To compensate that mistake, they offered us some home made waffles. That’s how you should treat clients when you made a mistake.

Dining at Drift Wood Koh Jum Restaurant

Our culinary journey led us to Drift Wood Koh Jum Restaurant, a mere 10-minute ride south. The ambiance, service, and food were impeccable, with two fruit shakes, two meals, and a salad costing 580 Baht. It was an exceptional dining experience that beautifully concluded our day.

Day 20: Discovering Ting Rai Beach

Thanks to Frank from Luboa, we ventured to the stunning Ting Rai Beach (Ting Rai Beach). Hidden away and accessible via a bumpy road, this beach was a paradisiacal escape, boasting clean sands, minimal rocks, and tranquility. It was a reminder of nature’s untouched beauty.

Sunset and Sounds at Sun Smile Beach Bungalows

Our day extended into the evening at Sun Smile Beach Bungalows (Sun Smile Beach Bungalows), where we indulged in Thai cuisine against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset. Despite the watery shake and diminutive cocktail, the dinner and service left us content. The Wi-Fi connectivity allowed us to work amidst nature’s embrace.

An Evening of Music and Fire

The night was young, and the sound of music led us to a beachside live band performance. Surrounded by open fire, the intimate setting and heartfelt music created an atmosphere of joy and community. We stayed, enchanted, until the late hours, fully immersed in the island’s vibrancy.

Reflections on Koh Jum Hidden Gems

Days 19 and 20 on Koh Jum were a testament to the island’s ability to surprise and delight. From the authentic living at Blue Sky Bungalows to the serene beauty of Ting Rai Beach and the spontaneous musical night, each moment was a discovery. Koh Jum, with its blend of untouched landscapes and warm community, offered us experiences that went beyond the typical tourist path, capturing the essence of our adventurous spirits.

#KohJumExploration #IslandAdventures #ThaiCuisine

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Day 17: Ferry Adventures, Coral Bay Resort And Sunset Dining

Our journey from Krabi to Koh Jum was nothing short of an adventure.
When we arrived at Krabi we went to a travel agency on the bus terminal.
It’s very common in Thailand to just go to any travel office you come across. They are well organized and can support you in getting from A to B very well.

We booked the ferry to Koh Jum for 1.000 Baht (ca. 26€) there including pickup from the hotel and transfer to Krabi for 2 persons.
As you can see in the pictures, if you are Thai, you pay 250 Baht for the ferry and if you are a foreigner, you pay 450 Baht. But no transfer from the hotel included (which would have cost us additional 100 Baht per person). That makes the way how we booked the most affordable.

The ferry ride from Krabi to Koh Jum introduced us to the novel experience of switching to a longtail boat mid-sea, delivering us directly to the shores of Coral Bay Resort (Coral Bay Resort). The resort welcomed us with its breathtaking sea view bungalow for 28 Euro per night, promising a stay enveloped in nature’s embrace.

However, the island revealed its rocky secrets at low tide, transforming the beach into a rugged landscape and making sea entry a careful dance. Despite this, the allure of the island remained undiminished, with its secluded charm and sparse population.

Simple Life Amazing Dinner – At The Simple Life Resort

Our quest for dinner led us to Simple Life (Simple Life), where the ambiance was as inviting as the promise of a meal. The evening exceeded our expectations, offering us a beachside table and a Thai-style white snapper for 700 Baht. The dinner, complemented by cocktails and the slow descent of the sun, marked one of the most memorable evenings of our trip. Yet, patience was key, as our exquisite meal took its time, embodying the island’s laid-back spirit.

Day 18: Bonhomi Bliss and Coconut Beach Disappointment

The following day was dedicated to beachside productivity at Bonhomi (Bonhomi), where the friendly owner, delightful smoothies, and a simple breakfast set the tone. While the coffee was basic, the setting was anything but, providing a perfect backdrop for a day of work with the soothing sounds of the sea.

Our afternoon exploration to Coconut Beach (Coconut Beach) unveiled a less pristine side of the island, with its brown foam-tainted waters and litter-strewn sands, challenging our beach idyll.

Seeking solace, we discovered Rockview Terrace (Rockview Terrace), a spot that captivated us with its scenic views and warm ambiance. Here, sundowners and dinner felt like an exclusive event, costing us 530 Baht for a delightful end to the day.

The journey back to Coral Bay Resort under a starlit sky was a trek of intrigue, culminating in a spontaneous nightcap at Peace Paradise Resort (Peace Paradise Resort), where a mango daiquiri and a jovial waiter added a touch of whimsy to our night.

Reflections

Days 17 and 18 on Koh Jum were a testament to the island’s dual nature – from its serene mornings to its rocky revelations, and from culinary feasts to beachside retreats. Each experience, with its unique charm and challenge, wove into the fabric of our adventure, reminding us of the beauty and unpredictability of island life. Stay tuned for more tales from Dana & Wild as we continue to explore the wonders of Thailand.

#KohJumBeachAdventure #IslandLife #CulinaryJourneys

The post From Krabi To Koh Jum Beaches: From Serene Shores to Culinary Delights – Days 17 & 18 appeared first on DANA & WILD - The Bonnie & Clyde Of Music.

Day 14: Farewell Koh Phayam, Hello Ranong

Our last morning in Koh Phayam started with a pragmatic mission: luggage storage and motorbike return. Dropping our bags at Tom’s for safekeeping, we returned our trusty motorbike, costing us 200 Baht per day. The rental owner, ever so helpful, arranged our ride to the harbor for 100 Baht per person, ensuring a seamless departure.

Breakfast at Homemade Bakery

Next stop: Homemade Bakery (Homemade Bakery), a spot we’d heard much about but left us with mixed feelings. Arriving just before 10, we found the coveted croissants sold out, leading to a slight disappointment and a contemplation on the hype vs. value after shelling out 405 Baht for a simple breakfast.

Chill Afternoon and Departure

Seeking comfort, we retreated to Bamboo Bungalows (Bamboo Bungalows) for a few final hours of work and beach time before our 3 p.m. speedboat to Ranong. The boat ride, a smooth 40-minute transition, gave us time to book our night at the Iconic Hotel (Iconic Hotel).
And we used book-a-way again to arrange our next day’s bus to Krabi for 760 Baht for both of us, marveling at the ease of online bookings.

We had dinner in Ranong at Barnchuen – this is a restaurant, where a lot of Thais are eating as well. It’s affordable and the food was good. This is a recommendation to get some food there. It’s very basic, but solid. And we had “Bingsu” – a Korean dessert made of shaved ice. It looks amazing and comes in different flavours (Kit Kat, Oreo, Banana Chocolate etc.). It looks better than it tastes. We had the Kit Kat version and the ice was a mix of coconut milk with a lot of water. A Bingsu costs around 150 Baht and there are also hot Bingsus, although we don’t know how these look like.

Day 15: Getting From Ranong To Krabi

In the morning we had breakfast in the hotel, which was included in the price and which was very ok. We were picked up from the hotel for our 6 hours bus tour from Ranong to Krabi. The bus departs at 11:00.
You need to be at the bus terminal ca. 30 minutes before departure to get your tickets (you need to exchange the vouchers from book-a-way to tickets).
The bus turned out to be a bit older, but it was ok. The A/C in the bus was good, so we had a comfortable ride.
There are 3 stops during the tour, the middle one a bit longer (ca. 20 minutes), so you have time to get something for lunch etc.

Arriving in Krabi at Jack’s House

We arrived at Krabi and immediately went to a travel agency on the bus terminal.
It’s very common in Thailand to just go to any travel office you come across. They are well organized and can support you in getting from A to B very well.

We booked the boat to Koh Jum two days later for 1.000 Baht for 2 people including pickup from the hotel. We decided spontaneiously we want to stay in Krabi for two days because I wanted to see the Tiger Temple and Danja wanted to see Rai Leh beach.
Two days of Krabi ahead .
We took the taxi to the accommodation we booked which is called Jack’s house

Discovering A Bar From Outa Space Again: Jungle Bar In Krabi

Before we arrived in Jack’s house, we were passing by a bar called Jungle Bar. From outside it looked very interesting, so we decided to go there for dinner.
When we approached it, it was just like the hippie bar on Koh Phayam.

When you enter it, it’s like another world that you’re entering.
It’s a great atmosphere there. Choy – the owner – is an architect, and his story is really touching because he lost everything during the tsunami in 2004.
He’s a musician, and after having a great dinner and nice cocktails – they also have nice drinks – we ended that evening with Dana and him jamming around and playing a session where she was singing and he was playing the guitar.

The prices in the Jungle Bar are really good as well, and the quality is amazing, so definitely a recommendation.

Late Night Talks With Kay About What To Do In Krabi

When we came back to Jack’s House, Kay – the owner – was waiting for us. We sat down with her asking her about the possibilities to get to the Tiger Cave Temple and she said she could do the transfer. And she could pick us up after that to get us to the pier for the long tail boat to Rai Leh for 600 Baht in total.
We decided to get up early to climb up the 1260 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi…

Day 16: Tiger Temple and Rai Leh Disappointment

With a 6 a.m. wake-up call, Kay and her husband escorted us to the majestic Tiger Cave Temple (Tiger Cave Temple), a spiritual ascent up 1260 stairs marked by an amusing detour and breathtaking early morning serenity. This energizing start cost us 600 Baht for the round trip.

Our journey to Rai Leh (Rai Leh) for 100 Baht per person was met with disappointment; the east coast’s muddy waters and crowded shores contrasted sharply with our tranquil experiences. Seeking solace, Bark Railay Krabi (Bark Railay Krabi) provided a brief respite with good breakfast amidst the chaos.

Escape to Aonang and Krabi’s Charms

Disenchanted with Rai Leh’s crowded beaches, we ventured to Aonang (Aonang Beach), only to find similar crowds. A gem among the bustle was Much & Mellow (Much & Mellow), where we indulged in exceptional coffees and desserts, a moment of peace before our public bus adventure back to Krabi, which, despite a 20-minute wait, was a pleasant and affordable 60 Baht per person ride.

Evening in Krabi At The Jungle Bar Again

Our return to Krabi was crowned with another visit to the Jungle Bar (Jungle Bar), where we unwound with delicious food and drinks for 700 Baht, reaffirming its place in our list of recommendations.

Summary

Days 14 and 15 were a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences, from the highs of Tiger Cave Temple’s serene beauty to the lows of Rai Leh’s overcrowded beaches. Yet, the culinary delights and the vibrant life in Krabi and Aonang offered a comforting contrast. As we navigated through these days, the magic of travel – with its unexpected turns and discoveries – reminded us why we embarked on this journey. Stay tuned for more adventures from Dana & Wild!

#KohPhayamToKrabiJourney #IslandAdventures #CulinaryExploration

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Day 11: A Varied Culinary Experience – The Magic Cafe

Our Day 11 began at the Magic Café, a quaint spot with a reputation for great cakes and croissants. We opted for omelettes, eggs, and fruit shakes. While the breakfast was satisfactory, it was the warm, freshly baked croissant that truly delighted us, even though the overall cost (405 Baht) was a bit steep compared to other places. The café’s inviting atmosphere and tempting cake display promised more treats for future visits.

Google Maps Link to Magic Café: Magic Café

Buffalo Bay Work and Evening Delights at Supranee

Post-breakfast, we retreated to our haven, the Buffalo Bay Vacation Club, where we spent the day balancing work with serene ocean views. As evening approached, we discovered the culinary gem of Supranee. Dining here was not just a meal; it was an experience of authentic local flavors, fresh from Supranee’s garden. The simplicity of the setting contrasted with the rich, home-cooked vegetarian dishes, making it a must-visit spot.

Google Maps Link to Buffalo Bay Vacation Club: Buffalo Bay Vacation Club

Google Maps Link to Supranee: Supranee

Self Made Ice Cream From Another Planet at Koh Co Ice Cream

Later, we indulged in handmade coconut and mango ice cream at Koh Co Ice Cream. The flavors were natural and refreshing, a perfect treat to conclude our day.

Google Maps Link to Koh Co Ice Cream: Koh Co Ice Cream

Day 12: Beachside Bliss and Relaxing Massages

The next morning, we resumed work before heading to Bamboo Bungalows for a beachside breakfast. The rest of the day was spent working and enjoying occasional dips in the sea, embracing the laid-back island lifestyle.

Google Maps Link to Bamboo Bungalows: Bamboo Bungalows

Our evening was a blend of relaxation and indulgence at Relax Massage. Dana opted for a soothing warm oil massage, while I chose the traditional Thai massage. The experience was rejuvenating, capped off with refreshing drinks and a serene ambiance.

Google Maps Link to Relax Massage: Relax Massage

Day 13: Exploring Ban Suan Kaiyou 2 and Hippie Bar Sunsets

On Day 13, we discovered Ban Suan Kaiyou 2, a charming beachside resort. Breakfast here was a tropical affair with fresh coconuts and delicious local desserts. We spent the entire day savoring the serene beachfront, enveloped by the gentle sound of the waves.

Google Maps Link to Ban Suan Kaiyou 2: Ban Suan Kaiyou 2

As the day transitioned to evening, we moved to the Hippie Bar, captivated again by its unique world. Watching the sunset from this elevated spot while enjoying mojitos and fruit shakes was an experience in itself.

Google Maps Link to Hippie Bar: Hippie Bar

A Night To Remember At Musika Goa Party

The highlight was the Goa party at Musika. Nestled deep in the forest, the journey there was an adventure, leading us to a night of dancing, vibrant music, and great company. The atmosphere was electric, yet intimate, embodying the ‘Koh Phayam Magic’ in every aspect.

Google Maps Link to Musika: Musika

Summary

Days 11 to 13 in Koh Phayam were a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and exhilaration. From quaint breakfast spots to serene massages and vibrant evenings, each experience added to the island’s enchanting allure. The ‘Koh Phayam Magic’ is real and ever-present, making every moment here truly special. Stay tuned as we continue to share our adventures in this tropical paradise!

#KohPhayamMagic #IslandAdventures #TropicalEscapades

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Day 9: Work And Discovering Koh Phayam Cafes

Our Day 9 kicked off with a productive session at Lucky Rock Bar. Nestled beside the iconic Lucky Rock, this spot provided the perfect blend of work and relaxation, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the sea.

Google Maps Link to Lucky Rock Bar: Lucky Rock Bar

Afternoon at Hippie Bar

Later, we ventured to the mesmerizing Hippie Bar on Buffalo Bay’s other side. This place was more than a bar; it was an experience. Every corner brimmed with creativity, from the handcrafted boat bow to the vibrant decor. The smoothies were a delight, adding to the bar’s magical vibe.

Google Maps Link to Hippie Bar: Hippie Bar

Dinner at Lotus 51

For dinner, we headed to Lotus 51, where the beachside setting and delicious food created an unforgettable evening. The red snapper here was a highlight, perfectly complementing the tranquil beach atmosphere.

Google Maps Link to Lotus 51: Lotus 51

Ending the Night at Cha Chai Bar

To cap off the night, we visited Cha Chai Bar. The chai was excellent, though the overall ambiance left us with mixed feelings. Still, it was a worthwhile stop for a good cup of chai and a moment of relaxation.

Google Maps Link to Cha Chai Bar: Cha Chai Bar

Day 10: The Garden and East Coast Exploration

The next day, we started at The Garden, a charming cafe known for its great coffee and ambiance. Later, we explored the east coast of Koh Phayam on a motorbike, seeking our next accommodation and making a necessary ATM run – a reminder that cash is essential on this island!

Google Maps Link to The Garden: The Garden

Lunch at Flower Power Village

Our culinary journey continued at Flower Power. This expansive restaurant and shop offered a diverse menu, including freshly made noodles. We enjoyed the variety of food options and the overall quality of our meal.

Google Maps Link to Flower Power: Flower Power

Unique Experience at Rock Bar

Later, we visited the Rock Bar, a unique establishment built into the natural rocks. The adventurous setting and wild design made our visit both thrilling and memorable.

Google Maps Link to Rock Bar: Rock Bar

Summary

Days 9 & 10 on Koh Phayam were filled with discovery, from the artistic Hippie Bar to the serene dining at Lotus 51 and the eclectic Rock Bar. Each spot we visited added to the diverse tapestry of our island adventure. As we continue to explore Koh Phayam, its laid-back charm and unique spots never cease to amaze us. Stay tuned for more of our island stories and experiences!

#KohPhayamCafes #BeachfrontDining #IslandAdventures

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Day 7: Koh Phayam Surfing Adventures and Beachside Breakfast

Our morning on Koh Phayam started with a mouth-watering falafel plate at the beachfront. The sight of perfect waves was too tempting to pass up, so I (Wild) decided to try surfing for the first time. Renting a board for 150 Baht per hour, I managed to catch some waves and even stood up a few times. It was thrilling!

Bungalow Quest Along the Beach

In the afternoon, our stroll along the beach turned into a quest for our next stay. We explored various resorts, finding options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. The search was as much fun as it was challenging.

A Refreshing Pause at the Reggae Bar

Needing a break, we stopped by the Reggae Bar for some incredible smoothies. The mango and pineapple concoctions were just what we needed to recharge before continuing our exploration.

Evening Delight at JJ

Dinner was a beachside treat at JJ, where we enjoyed a scrumptious red snapper. The sound of the waves complemented our meal perfectly, creating a memorable dining experience under the stars.

Day 8: An Amazing Breakfast – The Perfect Start

The next day started with an amazing breakfast at “Bilbo’s”. They have self baked cinamon rolls, great fruit bowls and the best coffee we drank so far on the island (we have to mention, that we didn’t drink much coffee yet ).
So this cafe is definitely worth a visit…

Motorbike Ride to Buffalo Bay

This day brought a new adventure as we rented a motorbike to check out Buffalo Bay. The beach there had a different vibe, less inviting than our current spot but still worth the visit. Our hunt for accommodation led us to a solidly built bungalow at Buffalo Bay Vacation Club, a significant upgrade from our previous stay, especially the toilet!

Google Maps Link to Buffalo Bay Vacation Club: Buffalo Bay Vacation Club

Dinner and Work at Gypsy Bar

Our evening unfolded at the Gypsy Bar, where we combined dinner with a productive work session. The atmosphere was just right for both relaxation and getting things done – a rare find on Koh Phayam.

Summary

Days 7 & 8 were a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation on Koh Phayam. From my first surfing experience to finding the ideal bungalow, every moment added to the charm of this tropical haven. As we continue to explore and uncover the secrets of this island, we’re reminded of the beauty of discovering lesser-known paradises. Join us for more tales and tips as Dana & Wild keep unraveling the wonders of this hidden gem!

#KohPhayamSurfing #HiddenParadise #IslandAdventures

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The Journey to Bamboo Bungalows

On Koh Phayam, our first stop was a cozy shop where we met another Tom, who recommended the Bamboo Bungalows. His suggestion sounded perfect – beach access and a chill vibe were just what we needed. So, we hopped into a tuk-tuk (200 Baht/8€) and headed there.

Google Maps Link to Bamboo Bungalows: Bamboo Bungalows

Settling into Our Bamboo Abode

At the bungalows, we snagged the last available room – a simple, rustic bamboo bungalow for 600 Baht (about 16€) a night. While the room had its charm, the toilet situation was… let’s just say, less than ideal. But hey, that’s island life for you! Despite the smell, the overall ambiance of the place won us over.

Exploring Koh Phayam Paradise

Hungry for more than just scenery, we ventured out to explore the local dining scene. Koh Phayam is lined with cafes and eateries, offering a tempting array of choices right by the roadside. It’s a food lover’s paradise!

A Pizza Redemption at Paolo Italian Pizza

We stumbled upon ‘Paolo Italian Pizza’ and decided to give pizza another shot. We violated our 3 rules for eating in Thailand (see our other post), but we took the risk and it paid off! This time, the wood-fired oven promised a better experience. And it delivered! The pizza was fantastic, coupled with a fresh salad – a meal that definitely made up for our previous pizza misadventures.

Google Maps Link to Paolo Italian Pizza: Paolo Italian Pizza

Evening Beach Walks and Sunset Wonders

Post-dinner, we meandered back to Long Beach, a stretch of sandy shores perfect for leisurely walks. The sand was fine, and the best part? It didn’t stick to our feet – a small but significant joy! As we strolled, we found ourselves captivated by the breathtaking sunset, a perfect end to our first day in this island paradise.

Google Maps Link to Long Beach: Long Beach

Summary

Arriving on Koh Phayam was like stepping into a postcard, with just a hint of adventure (courtesy of our bungalow’s toilet!). From heartfelt breakfasts to beachside bliss, our day was a blend of island serenity, culinary delights, and those unforgettable sunset moments. As we settle into this slice of paradise, despite its quirky challenges, we’re reminded of why we love traveling so much. Stick around for more stories from Dana & Wild as we continue exploring the enchanting the Koh Phayam!

#KohPhayamParadise #IslandAdventures #TravelDiary

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Breakfast with Friends

Our morning started with a casual stroll down Ram Buttri Street for breakfast, and guess who we bumped into? Tom & Steffi! It was one of those brilliant, unplanned moments. Over breakfast, we chatted about everything from business to travel – the perfect start to an adventurous day.

Google Maps Link to Ram Buttri Street: Ram Buttri Street

Final Hours at Samsen Cafe

After breakfast, we headed back to our beloved “office” – the Samsen Café. It’s been our little haven for work and good coffee. We spent our last few hours there tying up loose ends and soaking up the café vibes before our big move.

Google Maps Link to Samsen Café: Samsen Café

Journey to the Bus Station

At 18:15, it was time to hit the road. We needed to be at the bus station by 19:00 for our 20:00 departure. Opting for convenience, I booked a Grab taxi for 240 Baht from the hotel, a bit pricey but hassle-free. The taxi ride was smooth, and soon we were at the Southern Bus Terminal, ready for the next chapter.

Google Maps Link to Southern Bus Terminal: Southern Bus Terminal

Pre-Bus Preparations

The bus terminal was a maze, but thanks to the excellent service from Book-a-way, we navigated it like pros. They sent us an email with all the necessary info, including pictures of the counter for our tickets – talk about being thorough! Meanwhile, Dana’s quick snack hunt at KFC turned into a no-go – the chicken didn’t pass the sniff test, straight into the bin it went.

The VIP Bus Experience from Bangkok To The Secret Island

Our bus was something else – think business class on wheels! The seats could almost fully recline into beds, promising a comfy ride. I managed to get some work done while Dana caught up on podcasts. Our mid-journey stop around 23:00 gave us a chance to stretch our legs and grab some more (hopefully fresher) food.

Arrival in Ranong

The journey, smooth for me but sleepless for Dana, brought us to Ranong by 5 AM. We were whisked off to a café near the pier, the jumping-off point for our speedboat to the secret island.

Speedboat to the “secret island“

At 7:30, we hopped onto the speedboat, our excitement building. The 40-minute ride was a blend of anticipation and stunning sea views. And then, there it was – the secret island. We stepped off the boat feeling thrilled and ready for this new island adventure.
Wanna know the name of the secret island? Stay tuned…

Summary

Day 5 was a day of transitions and new beginnings. From a friendly breakfast in Bangkok to the exciting journey towards the secret island, every moment was a part of our unfolding story. The contrasts between city life and island vibes couldn’t be starker, and we can’t wait to share what the secret island has in store for us. Stay tuned for more updates from Dana & Wild – the adventure is just getting started!

#BangkokToTheSecretIsland #IslandAdventure #TravelDiary

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Morning Majesty: The Bangkok Grand Palace Visit

Eager for a change of pace, we set off early to explore the Bangkok Grand Palace. Just steps from our hotel, we found a convenient tuk-tuk ride for 100 Baht, whisking us away to this historic landmark. The 500 Baht entry fee per person was a gateway to the past, revealing the grandeur and intricacy of Thailand’s royal heritage. As we strolled through the palace grounds, we were captivated by the stunning architecture and the rich tapestry of Thai history.

Google Maps Link to Bangkok Grand Palace: Bangkok Grand Palace

A Refreshing Breakfast at Slowbar

Post-palace, we ventured to Slowbar, a delightful café we discovered on Google Maps.

Google Maps Link to Slowbar: Slowbar

Here, we indulged in a culinary surprise – fresh fruit bowls and smoothies. The berry bowl with cocoa, an unexpected twist of blended bananas and berries with cocoa powder, was a revelation. Dana’s mango smoothie was equally impressive, a testament to the café’s commitment to quality and freshness.

Afternoon Work Session

Our afternoon was a blend of work and relaxation. Dana found comfort working in the hotel room, while I headed to the Samsen Café, a perfect spot for digital nomads with its friendly service, reliable Wi-Fi, and ample power outlets.

Google Maps Link to Samsen Café: Samsen Café

Evening of Surprises

The evening brought unexpected delights. Initially planning to meet a friend at a rooftop bar, we shifted gears when we learned it was an hour away by taxi. Instead, Dana surprised us with an impromptu dinner with friends living in Cyprus, who happened to be nearby.

Dinner at Madame Musur

We strolled to Madame Musur, located on the enchanting Ram Buttri Alley, for dinner. The ambiance and company more than made up for the just-okay food.

Google Maps Link to Madame Musur: Madame Musur

A Secret Rooftop Bar Discovery

Post-dinner, our friends introduced us to a secret rooftop bar near Olive Kitchen. The journey there was an adventure in itself, passing through secret doors and creatively decorated rooms. Once there, we lounged on an old metal bed transformed into a seat, enjoying cocktails and the unique atmosphere.

Google Maps Link to Secret Rooftop Bar: Secret Rooftop Bar

Planning the Next Leg of Our Journey

As our stay at Chillax Resort was coming to an end, we pondered our next move. With inland flights being pricey, we decided to extend our stay in Bangkok. A chance conversation with our friends led us to consider traveling by bus, a new adventure in itself.

A Late-Night Excursion and Bus Booking

On our way back to the hotel, Dana spotted a small shop offering excursions. A friendly local gave us valuable tips for exploring non-touristic islands and recommended a secret island. Initially planning to book a 24-seater VIP bus, a last-minute clarification led us to book the trip through the ‘book a way’ platform, securing a VIP bus ride for 47€ per person.

Conclusion

Day 4 in Bangkok was a tapestry of cultural exploration, delightful encounters, and unexpected turns. From the grandeur of the Bangkok Grand Palace to the hidden rooftop bars and the excitement of planning our next journey, each moment added a unique flavor to our adventure. Stay tuned as Dana & Wild continue to explore the vibrant streets and hidden corners of Bangkok, sharing their stories and tips along the way!

#BangkokGrandPalace #BangkokAdventures #CulturalJourney

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