If you want to try eating something a bit different in Chiang Mai, we strongly recommend Free Bird Cafe, a vegetarian Shan food restaurant, where there really are no meat or fish options, and profits go to a good cause as well. Free Bird Cafe does actually offer Thai, Burmese and Western options as well … read the full post

You could be forgiven for thinking that Ko Tao is just about diving and partying, with no thought to healthy lifestyles and fitness pursuits, but you’d be wrong. Here’s a wrap on fitness activities on the island. Yoga is an island mainstay in Thailand, Ko Tao included. The longest running sala, Shambala, is in Sairee … read the full post

A boat journey on the Kok River (Mae Kok) between Chiang Mai’s Tha Ton town and Chiang Rai city is one of the most scenic river journeys you can do in Northern Thailand. It’s also a generally reliable, reasonably priced and well organised trip yet a relatively under-used one. Here’s a rundown on this picturesque … read the full post

For 90 years, the Neilson Hays Library has encouraged English-language readers to expand their minds while enjoying a slice of peace and quiet in hectic Bangkok. A library may not sound like the city’s most exciting attraction, but those seeking culture and sophistication won’t be disappointed by the soothing atmosphere, elegant architecture and formidable collections … read the full post

Phuket is often bypassed by backpackers who worry about how expensive it is. But there are some backpacker-oriented places to stay at. Shanti Lodge is a friendly traveller’s haven in Ao Chalong. Found just off a busy road lined mostly with boring concrete shophouses, this family-run guesthouse offers a welcome oasis. With heaps of character … read the full post

“Cheap price but nice” are the words strung up in bamboo lettering at the entrance to the ever-charming Mama Pooh’s on Ko Pha Ngan. This popular joint is favoured by travellers, locals, yogis, and basically everyone in between. The bamboo salas with thatched rooves make this restaurant an ideal spot to come and stay for … read the full post

We’ve written about secondhand bookstores in Chiang Mai so next up is a wrap on where to buy new books, even if the options in Thailand’s northern capital are rather sadly limited. While Thai language readers are spoiled for choice and plenty of excellent secondhand hand options are available, considering the large expat community and … read the full post

Ko Samui has more than its share of good hospitals, including Thai International, Bangkok International and Samui International. Although all offer good service and medical standards, we’ve used Samui International several times, and they’ve been professional, efficient and well-priced. They’re located at the northern point of Chaweng beach road, close to the main tourist drag, … read the full post

No one has ever accused the Thailand State Railway of pushing the technological limits of train travel, and it has just taken a big step backwards by axing its online booking service. A message popped up a few days ago on the official website’s e-ticket (E-SRT) page that “The State Railway of Thailand has decided … read the full post

Having travelled with a sports fanatic I know how important seeing the game, match, fight, race or whatever can be. I don’t understand it, but know to some it’s like air. So when you’re travelling to Ko Tao, where to go when you really can’t miss… that thing? If you are in Sairee then it’s … read the full post