My Experiences
Well were do I start with Thailand? It’s a magical crazy
country and whatever your needs and desires Thailand seems to cater for every
taste.
I was a young guy of 22, and I still say this magical country was one of two
things that shaped the person I am today. The person that left for Thailand was
not the same person who returned infact I think I grew up rather fast but was a
better person for it ready to take whatever life decided to throw at me.I
guess being naïve at the time seemed to add even more to the flavour of the
place, I would wonder the dark streets of Bangkok at night totally oblivious to
trouble which could of came my way.
I had just split with my girlfriend whom previously I had planned the trip with
(with hindsight what a bonus that was!).
Even trying to find a cheap flight to Bangkok was an adventure in itself with all
the different deals and stop offs available.
I finally entered the country after a long flight in January 86. As soon as I
arrived at Don Muang airport just the smell in the air was enough to convince
me I’d arrived on a different planet.
After clearing customs I was taken aback by all the beggars at the terminal, it was
all something of a culture shock for me at the time. I was so worn out and
tired, part of me wanted to get back on the plane were I felt so secure being
cocooned for so long. Well forward I pressed not having a clue where I was staying
and clutching a small pamphlet which supplied all the knowledge I had of Thailand up to now.
(Well I was only 23!). One of the beggars ran up to me thrusting is small hand out with
a sad look in his eyes,oh what the hell. I give him some lose change I had in
my pocket (I was a beer down already!). 5 minutes later during which time I was
trying to find my bearings, my new found little friend called me over to an
orderly line of about 10 people standing there,he introduced them as his
friends, they all then started smiling and each proceeded to hold their hands
out. Ha ha I was hooked; This was better than TV (but not much more expensive
than the licence!) I’d caught the bug already, I wanted to stay forever.
Finding accommodation
Just getting a taxi or a bus from the airport seemed an
impossible task and my lack of information didn’t help with the matter.
I spotted a taxi sign and set out to hail one. But life in Thailand is not that simple.
It was like being at a cup final or being a rock star for a day (well it seemed
like it) I was suddenly mobbed (not by women YET!!) with everyone shouting the
names of different hotels at the top of their voice. I cried out “cheap hotel”
and a driver replied “yes cheap” I fought my way through the crowd and forward
to his taxi.
After refusing every drug and massage in the book (OK I thought about the massage) I
finally arrived at the Century Hotel downtown Bangkok. There were females
everywhere; I couldn’t believe it I’d died and woke up in heaven, what had I
done to deserve this. Well of course I indulged I’m human for Christ sake. I’d
not yet even been there 24 hours, what a place!!
After a few hours sleep I managed to purchase a map and some info so I decided to
walk around the city with the help of the odd Tuk Tuk (A small joke like 3
wheeled taxi). What
an experience it was there were lights flashing and all night bars and clubs
catering for your every need down the roads Patpong 1 & 2. There was fast
food sold roadside consisting of old ladies with cauldrons of soup, roasted
sweet corn & barbequed meat of a description I couldn’t describe and many
other things to guarantee you’d never go hungry at 3 am. I could write much
more about my adventures in Bangkok, but there could be minors reading and
besides it would take to long to write.
I only had two nights to stay, but I would return at the end of my long stay for
three more nights, but for now it was a sleep and time to move on.
Travelling South
I
left the hotel the next day on my quest to the island of Phuket; I managed a
cab to the southern bus terminal, which is the hub of all buses South of the
country. The bus terminal is an adventure in itself consisting of many kinds of
people (And fumes) all going their own way. There were lambs, chickens and
other animals all very much alive, all waiting for their connections. It was
quite interesting chatting to fellow travellers there all giving you there own
tips on the country and some looking a lot worse for wear (well she was 120).
I took a government bus and started my 20-hour journey on a crushed cramped bus
with no aircon. If I ever was to return I would either fly or opt for the more
expensive bus option as 20 hours takes its toll, but hey I knew nothing and
this was adventures and fun.
What
was to fascinate me most about the journey was the stops on route. Each time
the bus stopped swarms of locals of all ages would surround the bus and also
come on board selling everything from sunglasses and videos to various kinds of
cheap refreshments which were most welcome as the journey progressed, even the
children would be walking up and down the bus with baskets on there heads selling
cigarettes and sweets. They were such nice people doing all they could to
survive, as they do not have the benefits of social security. Can you imagine
this on the Liverpool to London National Express, I think not. It would be so
boring by comparison
Well
after many hours sitting next to a fat man snoring, having my fortune told and
booking the next excursion on the space shuttle mission, I finally arrived at
Phuket.
Phuket
Situated on the southern tip Thailand 600 miles south of Bangkok this Island is exellent
for water sports, nightlife and all varieties of Thai and continental food it
has stunning beaches and Alchoves and cannot help to have a lasting effect on
all who visit. The only down side I can think of are the monsoons so exercise
caution if hiring a scooter and travelling long journeys.
I’ll
never forget this beautiful paradise till the day I die. I remember Madonna’s
borderline blasting from a local bar, I still get a shiver when I hear that
record till this day. I stood in total amazement this was my first time and God
I felt so happy, this was my escape my paradise the stuff that only existed in
dreams but I was here and I’d made it on my own I felt a great sense of
achievement.
I joined a taxi with two Italian guys they’d been before and recommended some
good places, on there advice I headed with them to Kata beach, the beach I’d
heard so much about by this time.
The first thing I remember as I arrived at the beach was the sea, it was just like
tap water, the whole beach was impressive, it didn’t contain any high rise
hotels (I’m afraid now that has changed) and the sand was pure white, I could
here the sound of someone playing a guitar. There were little huts scattered
around the beach behind the palm and coconut trees each had a hammock in which
there were a number of people asleep. Yes this was an unspoilt paradise, who
needs boring monolithic high-rise hotels in which the residents aren’t even
allowed to think just stuffed with food and drink and shuffled around like
sheep, it may be ok for some, but for me this was it. I had arrived. I managed
to secure a beach hut for the extortionate price of 40 Baht (about 1 pound) a
night the places were very basic and some nights even the power would go off,
but it all added to the magic and the fun I had a great time on the island and
travelled to many beaches and met many friends of all nationalities. Every
night was more or less a party. I travelled by boat to many other islands but
this was one I’d never forget. The adventure had just begun.
Transport
Inexpensive car rentals are available all over Thailand and
it's a great way to see the country. A major rail system links northern and north-eastern
towns with Bangkok. The trains are split into three classes but for a few extra
Baht I'd recommend the higher classes just to save yourself from any strange
characters especially if you're travelling alone.
The traffic in Bangkok is heavy but a fun way to travel around is by a little
three wheeled taxi they call a Tuk Tuk, it will take you all day but what the hell
your on holiday!!! Mainly around Bangkok taxis and buses are cheap, but be sure
to bargain your prices first. There are also (BMTA) buses, which are a cheap
and cheerful way to see the capital and come in three categories, but be sure
to get one that at least has a fan if you don't fancy being cooked to death.
At the more tourist parts south in Phuket and Samui, jeeps and scooters are
available to rent which can be a great way to see the islands, but be sure to
check the insurance coverage as bionic limbs can run into millions !!!.
Climate
Thailand has a humid, tropical climate, and it is hot all year round. Summer is from March to May
with average temperatures around 93ºF (34ºC), but the temperature can reach over 105ºF (40ºC) for
extended periods. Summer monsoons begin as the warm air flows towards the north from
the Indian Ocean. I was once caught in the middle of a monsoon in Phuket,
beleive me it can be a frightening
experience. I could not see 6 feet infront of me, lucky for me I had a local at hand who quickly guided me to the nearest
shelter.
The monsoons end in the fall when the wind reverses direction with the dry
southwesterlies. The rainy season, with periods of sunshine, lasts from June to September, with
temperatures ranging fro m 80ºF to 89ºF (27ºC to 32ºC). The amount of rainfall varies with
topography. The northeast receives the least rain, while the south is flooded during the summer
months. The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool season, from October though February,
when the weather though still hot can be tolerated,
though be warned prices will be hiked up during this period, as it is the time of maximum tourist density. Still there are
bargains to be had whatever the season.
All visitors must have a passport valid at least six months beyond
than their intended stay in Thailand. Generally if you are staying
less than 30 days a visa is not required.
There are two main types of visa: Tourist (up to 60 days) and
Non Immigrant visas for employment (up to 90 days). If you decide
to stay longer you will be fined B100 for each day, and will be
charged on departure. Visas can be obtained from the Thai consulate
of your home country. I should add that on departing Thailand make
sure you have an exit stamp in your passport as to show you left
legally, if not you will be accused of leaving the country illegally.
Should you return you may be refused entry.
Bangkok
There is a lot to see in Bangkok - palaces, temples and museums. A visit is never enough and once entranced by the magic this city exudes, you keep coming back for more. Bangkok, known to the Thais as ``Krungthep", which means the City of Angels, was established in 1782 by King Rama I as capital of Siam. Over the past two centuries, it has developed into a great metropolis. Like other modern cities in the world, Bangkok boasts lots of massive buildings, numerous luxurious hotels, shopping centers, and a modern international airport.
But Bangkok has also retained its traditional charm. It is a mixture of East and West, the ancient and the modern. The City of Angels - Bangkok is all that and more. It is a city of many shades, many layers. It is the modern Asian metropolis, with tradition never far away.
Where to stay
There are a number of places to stay in Bangkok and on the islands, though the quality will differ
On the islands cheap beach houses can be rented though in Bangkok be carefull of being led to
cheap rundown hotels,there are plenty of both.
Bargains can always be had so be sure to shop around. I managed to find a guest house for 60
Baht a night (About £1.50 at the time)It was called Freddys No 1 just by the Malaysia hotel.
If you do decide on a cheap guest house always make sure it has a fan
and clean sheets it can get uncomfortably hot at nights and you never know
what the room has been used for previously (unlesss thats your intention!)
Khaosen road is a good place to start as lots of people gather there so there
is always safety in numbers, and besides there is lots of entertainment and a
chance to meet fellow travelers who may give you a few good tips. Be sure to
bargain as they will always negotiate especially off season.
At Phuket there are always beach houses to rent but I'm afraid budget accomadation is now rare
especially at Patpong beach were all is happening.
Now that the tour companies have a grip
and visitors are guarenteed,the locals have more power, still dont let this deter you its a great island!
. My advice would be to share with friends or have wads of cash
to give yourself bargaining power and split the cost or alternatively have wads of cash.
