Kanchanaburi province’s exotic mix of natural beauty and historical sites are worth more than the day trip allotted to it by Bangkok day-trippers. Those who stay often opt for the livelier Kanchanaburi, but the tranquil Khwae Yai, where WW2’s most notorious bridge crosses the river, holds undeniable charm. These four stylish stays are a convenient 10 minutes walk away from bridge and train station.
I love Bangkok, but after 4 days by the peaceful banks of the River Kwai, the city’s traffic, noise and crowds felt oppressive. Fortunately escaping the hustle and bustle of this busy metropolis is easy – I arranged a bicycle tour of Bang Krachao, a small artificial island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River.
If there is an Eden, then Erawan Falls is surely fashioned after it. Located within the biodiversity hotspot of Erawan National Park just an 1 1/2 hours outside of Kwai Noi and Kanchanacuri, the iconic Erawan Waterfalls is arguably the most breathtaking falls in all of Thailand. I explored every level of this 7 level wonder.
So much of a visit to Kanchanaburi and Kwai is focused on the railway: from the track originally built during the war; to the train journey there; and the iron bridge that crosses it. But to only gaze on the river from your hotel, or cross it by bridge, well … that is to miss a very important part of it: being on it.
I like to think I can cook, and I would probably continue to harbour such delusions were it not for TV programmes like Master Chef Junior, seemingly designed to remind me what a hopelessly talentless amateur I am. So when Leigh suggested taking a cooking class while we were in Bangkok, I jumped at opportunity. Here was a chance to hone my skills, learn some new recipes, and perhaps show up those Junior Masterchefs….
I’m not going to pretend the street art I snapped in Siam, where I was based for the first 3 days of my Bangkok trip, is representative of all street art in Bangkok. This creative metropolis is just too big to get through on one visit. But Siam is a great place to start….
With the Malaysian Ringgit taking an almighty plunge, getting more value out of every hard earned Ringgit is more important than ever. Searching for a comfortable stay in Bangkok with character and within budget, here are my top picks for some seriously super stays under RM250.
Bangkok doesn’t just have to be about shopping and bars and clubs. It can be about culture. The old city on Rattanakosin island is perfect for sightseeing. Located amidst the temples and palaces, nearby to where water taxis wait to jettison you to floating markets, here are 6 great stays I’m considering for my next great escape.