Sep
22
2011
Yes two whole blog posts on Lamphun! (Whatever next — a feature on Phichit!?) Actually one of the best things about Lamphun is getting there — or away — with the Old Lamphun Road being one of the most scenic roads in the kingdom. The views aren’t anything special but it’s the road itself that’s … read the full post
Sep
21
2011
Rain can be a buzzkill in Bangkok. The city reacts in a level of panic reminiscent of New Yorkers during Hurricane Irene: shut all windows, stock up on essentials like water and ramen noodles, and bail out of work early. But this collapse in infrastructure happens on a daily basis from May to October, taking … read the full post
Sep
20
2011
In a city known for its night time indulgences, great late night street eats are a must. There are always a few noodle soup carts, grillers of pork sate, or the flames of a fried noodle wok clustered around popular clubs and bars — but it’s more hangover cure/dancing fuel than culinary delight. But what … read the full post
Sep
19
2011
Bangkok scams are rampant. A while back we featured a story on scams throughout Thailand, but after living in The Big Mango I do think these city streets deserve some special attention. Now you might fancy yourself a savvy traveller but let me just say that these scammers are skilled. In fact, let’s start off … read the full post
Sep
16
2011
Vegetarian food in Bangkok usually falls into two categories: vaguely Mediterranean-style (roasted vegetables and couscous) or aahaan je, Chinese-style Buddhist cuisine heavy on seitan and tofu [for an excellent je option, see previous post -- and we've also covered a few other veggie options here]. Well-prepared, both styles stand ready to prove that even meat … read the full post
Sep
16
2011
On our ongoing search for Chiang Mai’s best khao soi we checked out a new spot on fashionable Nimmanhemin’s Soi 7 with the promising name of Kao Soy Nimman. Spellings may vary but it’s a standard — signature really — north Thai and Chiang Mai dish; both soft and crispy wheat noodles in a curry … read the full post
Sep
15
2011
Meat pops up when you least expect it in Bangkok. You’ll place an order for vegetarian spring rolls, assured by the bold print on the menu, the waiter, and the manager that they are, indeed, vegetarian. The rolls arrive, looking crispy and inviting. You bite down eagerly and … what’s that you feel? You pause … read the full post
Sep
14
2011
With its mostly calm waters, long, well-shaded beaches and accommodating places to stay, Ko Phi Phi can be a great destination for travellers with children, though go for accommodation away from Ton Sai village. Accommodation-wise, if you’re in the market for hot-water and air-con, budget for at least 1,500 baht a night. Contact the resorts … read the full post
Sep
13
2011
Well, more accurately what we enjoyed visiting most in Lamphun was Wat Chama Devi (or Thewi). Without meaning to be rude, and while being a pleasant-enough spot, the small, sleepy, provincial town of Lamphun isn’t exactly the tourist epicentre of northern Thailand. However in an earlier Mon, Dvaravati period incarnation as Haripunchai it was indeed … read the full post
Sep
13
2011
Wet markets in Thailand are easy to come across — gigantic Khlong Toei simmers in the south of Bangkok near the river and Hwai Kwang bubbles and brews in Ratchada — but orderly Or Tor Kor is a real treat in the north. Or Tor Kor (actually pronounced Aw Taw Kaw, every syllable rhyming with … read the full post