Thailand Naturally (page 12 of 13)

Thanks Philippe for the compliment—it really means a lot! This year, we tried to balance quantity and quality. Looks like it worked out, and sometimes the weather even gave us a helping hand. 🙂

So, let's see... Thailand vacations... when exactly do they end again...?

https://youtu.be/wSjpM7E_PLs

It never ends because you bring it to life for us through the photos and the story... bravo!

A little wink from Nonthaburi, like passing the baton 😉

Thanks to you two for doing what others don’t... 😕

Didn’t type, didn’t type... 😛 😎

A sincere thank you to all the contributors to this thread, who’ve breathed a bit of life into it. As I’ve mentioned before, before posting a travel journal, we think of those who enjoyed the previous ones, and that definitely gives us a little thrill of anticipated pleasure.

What was missing were our interactions with people. During any visit to Thailand, if you show even a little interest in the locals, some truly fascinating exchanges happen. You meet people who are curious about us, who are ready to get involved to help, people with big hearts. We also missed out on sharing some amazing culinary discoveries. There were actually quite a few this year—it really pays off to take a chance now and then and not always judge a dish by its appearance.

We’re wrapping up with this last photo, which is a bit special since, unusually, the little photographer is in it.

Safe travels to those who are leaving or about to set off, and best wishes to all the expats!

The ending might be a bit too theatrical.

Otherwise, great idea! Next time I have friends or family visiting, instead of taking them to Wat Po and the Grand Palace in the middle of a mostly Chinese crowd, why not take them to one of these temples in the suburbs? They’ll have just as much charm (unless the photos are too beautiful and misleading).

Bravo

Thanks to you, Joël, for this beautifully written story as always, and thanks to Françoise for her sensitivity in those gorgeous photos

Hi there! 🙂

A practical question—sorry if this has already been covered: how do you all get around from one place to another, or from one region to another? Rental car without a driver? Car with a driver? Public transport?

Thanks anyway for this interesting "travelogue"!

Dolma

I’ve gone through all 12 pages of this travel journal and admired Françoise’s photos.

You already know I’m like others—not too keen on temple overload... I let the thread unfold without chiming in, except maybe a little at the start. A few days ago, we made it out to Prachuap Khiri Khan. I’d been there 14 years ago, and well, nothing—or almost nothing—has changed. It’s still just as beautiful, just as peaceful, just as... well, koa! 😉 Though, there are even more monkeys now on the 390 steep steps leading up to the small temple on the hill, and it *reeks* of monkey pee and poop...

Didn’t spot any langurs at the military base—you can just drive in without showing ID; you just slow down a bit, roll down the driver’s side window, and the guy in his sharp uniform doesn’t ask any questions, doesn’t ask for any papers, and lets you right in.

Thanks for this lovely travel journal, Françoise and Joël. 🙂

Thanks to both of you for this travel journal that makes me want to discover Thailand "au naturel" (perfect, since that’s totally my cup of tea!). Still, since I’ve never been to Thailand yet (except for 3 days), there are tons of regions in this country that are calling my name 😇.

I have the same question as Dolma about getting around.... Muriel

Hello! :)

A practical question—sorry if this has already been covered: how do you all get around from one place to another, or from one region to another? Rental car without a driver? Car with a driver? Public transport?

Thanks anyway for this interesting "travel report"!

Dolma

Hi there,

We’ve tried all of those! What’s not surprising is that travelers who come back regularly tend to want more independence as they gain experience and confidence.

For the more cautious, I’d recommend long-distance buses between regions and hiring taxis, tuk-tuks, or samlors locally.

Others go for two-wheelers or cars. Just make sure you have an international driver’s permit and don’t skimp on good insurance.

Hello,

I read your travel journal a bit late...

Some women never lose their touch—they even get better with time. The photographer behind this journal is a brilliant example.

Some of the photos are just *wow*—or, to put it in French: of astonishing beauty.

I think the videos are a great addition; movement brings dynamism. (Since I’ve decided to do some myself on my next visit to PDS, I wasn’t about to say otherwise.)

Northern Thailand (meaning north of CM) is truly a fascinating place. That said, I think it’s best suited for travelers with a bit of independence and resourcefulness.

This is a really lovely journal that brought back great memories of when we visited the same spots.

Great work—it must’ve taken quite a bit of time. Well done to both of you! 🙂

Great work—it must’ve taken quite a bit of time. Kudos to you both! 🙂

Enjoy this great work while you can, because before long, we’ll be back to the "pre-internet" era 😉:

"For many of us, the internet feels invulnerable. But researchers are worried about a potential "blackout." The structure of the "network of networks" is struggling to keep up with increasingly heavy—and energy-intensive—usage."

https://www.cnetfrance.fr/news/en-2050-internet-sera-t-il-toujours-debout-39891341.htm

As the poet says:

The travel journal without SuisseChris Is like a miniskirt without pretty legs 😉

We thought you were boycotting us. So, the photographer is even happier with your appreciation. Thailand really gives us a lot of inspiration, to be honest.

As for resourcefulness, I’d put it into perspective. When you’re set on seeing certain things and you know what you want, there’s always a taxi, a private driver, a tuk-tuk, or a samlor that’ll do the trick. But once you want to get lost and not depend on anyone, a scooter, a motorbike, or renting a car or 4x4 becomes essential.

Sincerely, thank you, and we’re honored by your visit here.

Hello,

When it comes to resourcefulness, I’d say it’s all relative. If you’re set on seeing specific things, there’s always a taxi, a private driver, a tuk-tuk, or a samlor that’ll do the trick. But once you want to wander off and not rely on anyone, a scooter, motorbike, or renting a car or 4x4 becomes essential.

As a certain Karadoc would say: "Can’t argue with that."

That said, you shouldn’t underestimate the experience you’ve gained over the years. We’ve learned more than we realize. Sure, there’s still a lot to learn, but compared to travelers on their first trip...

Just look—most people stick to the well-known spots: Phuket, Samui, Chiang Mai, etc...

As soon as you step off the beaten path, you’ll see far fewer tourists. Something you probably noticed during your trip in the North.

I’m so excited to leave in about 3 weeks.... 😉 😎

Have a lovely evening, you two.

I just discovered this wonderful travel journal that reminds me of parts of my trip last February. The photos are stunning! I’m thinking of going back in a year and also visiting Angkor Wat. I’m actually planning the itinerary right now—the North and the East are calling to me. Thanks again!

Great travel journal! I’d love to DM you for some extra info, but I can’t seem to do it. It says your account isn’t set up for it… Best, Tania

At the top of a mountain, you can visit royal gardens. Even though the best time is January-February, this kind of visit is always worth the trip, as long as you can handle a few changes in elevation. The setting is stunning, provided the view is clear. That’s not always guaranteed at high altitudes. After a terraced flower bed, you’ll come to an artificial pond where ducks and swans play a supporting role. Right next to it is the entrance to the "Tree Top Walk and Zipline," a 300-meter walkway 30 meters high ending with a zipline finish.

Hi Joël, All of this sounds so appealing. I *have* to check it out when I’m in the area... If you could just tell me where it is... 😉

The rest of the park features a symphony of colors around a structure housing a stunning collection of orchids.

All these photos are gorgeous. Well done and thank you!

Here we go again for another getaway in the Chiang Mai region, which is a dream for tourism since this is our third visit and we’ll still only see new things.



I must admit that sometimes, just after setting off, tempted by the smell of barbecue, we give in early to a little chicken skewer.



Off to the hills, but not the same ones as yesterday. We’re visiting a village split into three very spread-out parts.

As soon as possible, we stop at a café backed by a royal coffee-growing project. Coffee plants are even planted all around.



On the terrace, you could do worse for a setting to enjoy your coffee.





A little further on, an old man insists on showing us his old house. Once upstairs, we wonder if the floor will hold and if we’ll all end up in the river. But let’s not forget we’ve been blessed, and nothing can happen to us.





The very flowery village is crossed by a stream, giving it undeniable charm.

















The old temple was built at the foot of a larger section of the stream. When the rain gets heavier, it sometimes ends up surrounded by water. Charming.





Another stunning place and beautiful photos that make you want to go there... But the location’s secret is well kept! ;) I get it. I do the same. Magical places only in DMs and not to just anyone...

Wow, Joël and Françoise... it's been ages! VoyageForum reminds me I'm several threads behind after years away from VF.

What a joy to read you both again! 2019 was the last carefree year before that blasted COVID hit!

In 2020, we had a wonderful family trip planned, organized during our winter 2019 travels. We were set for a 6-week journey, starting in the north (of course), then heading down to Chiew Larn Lake (Khao Sok National Park) for 3 days, followed by Koh Lanta, where we'd rented a villa so our kids and grandkids could join us during the school holidays in early April. And then—poof—after just a few days in Koh Lanta, we had to take the last flight out of Thailand to get back to Belgium on March 31. :/ Flights canceled for everyone, plans ruined, and... lockdown.

But since 2022, we're back at it! And just 20 days to go before our 7-week trip (lots of Thailand... when you love it... and a little Laos).

Looking forward to reading you both again and savoring your prose, Joël, and your stunning photos, Françoise! !