Showing posts with label Place. Show all posts

[PLACE] 20151111 Walking Street @ Koh Lipe, Thailand


Koh Lipe is a relatively small island and the locals cleverly developed the Walking Street in Koh Lipe is the centre of attraction of tourism for the whole island, creating lots of commercial value to sustain the economy for the island.

It stretches from the Pattaya beach front until the middle of the island, which connects to the main road. You can basically find everything you need on this island from the Walking Street from convenient store, pharmacy, clinics, street food, restaurants, massage parlours or even night bars.

While the main activity starts in the night, the Walking Street during day time is still active with basic needs such as convenient stores and clinics opened. Some restaurants are also opened for breakfast and lunch. You may also book your island hopping or diving tours via the various travel agencies at the Walking Street.

There are a few interesting bars with very unique characters which opens until late. Food option are abundant with selections from authentic Thai food, Western, Italian, BBQ. Halal food are also available with a few stalls and restaurants operate by Muslims. The one and only 7-11 store is also located at the Walking Street.

The shops in Koh Lipe seemed to have a mutual agreement and a fixed price policy whereby everything (souvenirs) sold here are fixed price with no discount. Yes, no "wholesale" here. However, you may try your luck for some "free gift" instead which some stalls are kind enough to give. Prices of massage services are also fixed with typical Thai and oil massage at 300 Baht. No discount even if you come in group.

Koh Lipe Walking Street
Opening Hours: 6:00pm until 12:00am

TO GO


Koh Lipe is so small that you basically don't need a map to travel around because theoretically you won't get lost in this small island. Besides, you definitely won't miss the entrance of the Walking Street as it's fronting the Pattaya beach or the main road of the island.

Tip: Do remember to get a local tourist map from your hotel or travel agency as it will have the latest map with ads and promotion for various services.



ATTRACTION



The walking street during day time is rather quiet which most shops and stalls were closed.


On and off there are some interesting decorations along the walking street that offers a photospot for visitors.


Koh Lipe's very own garbage truck. What's special about this truck the engine is modified from a boat's engine and is exposed directly. A very simple and straight forward design that serves its purpose.


One of a few clinics available on the island. If you are having any illness or food poisoning, you know where to head to.


While most of the stalls are closed during the day, there are still a few stalls opened with some mouth watering street food.


The coconut ice cream is surprisingly good and cheap with option to choose from small to big. 5 big scoops of the ice cream cost 60 Baht. The ice cream is very flavourful compare to those in Bangkok. Not as creamy and bit coarse but the strong coconut flavour overcomes the shortcomings.

The Pattaya Beach fronting entrance arch

Night time is where all the fun starts. Most restaurants and shops open at 6pm, welcoming the crowd especially during the peak season from Nov to May every year.


Many interesting bars and cafe around, like the one in the picture above known as Maya Bar.


Each bar has their every own style and design to attract patrons. Some have interesting bartenders, while others might have live band, some even have live performance to keep us entertained. While the interior and design plays a big role, the most important is the feel and atmosphere that counts.


The one and only 7-11 on the island, with prices slightly more expensive than Bangkok as expected. The dogs here are very clean and obedient. 


Some Halal restaurants around serving Malay style ayam percik for Muslim tourists.


The yoohoo aunty who operates a pancake stall (roti canai alike) who will keep "yoohoo" to attract people to patronize her stall.


The big boob Ms Aiwa statue in front of a souvenir shop is another photospot. Many people like to, erm, you know, pose with Aiwa.


Some travel agencies around that offers island hopping or diving packages which are very affordable in my opinion. You wouldn't want to miss out snorkelling in such crystal clear water, so it is a must do in Koh Lipe.


We booked our tour earlier in the afternoon this agency called Dayatravel which located next to Limoncello restaurant near the inner entrance. Mahadee is able to speak decent English and is very friendly and kind to explain the difference of the trip. We booked the highlight tour which covers most of the key spots for a day trip and managed to negotiate a good price due to travelling in a big group. Free advertisement for Bro Mahadee for him and his staff's hospitality and service during the trip. Their facebook address: https://www.facebook.com/daya.travel.koh.lipe/


SUMMARY


A very interesting street that has all to offer. Some very good restaurants around like the Rak Lay Seafood is one of the must try around. The bars and cafe are good place to hang out after dinner to catch up with your friends or family, or even to know new friends. One minus point will be the price fixing for souvenirs and massage, which can be a good or bad thing, depending your point of view.


Attraction
☆☆☆☆☆
very lively and interesting street
Cleanliness
☆☆☆☆
Sandy but overall clean
Entrance Fee
Nil
Opening Hours
Night life starts 6pm until late
Wifi
Selected outlets
Parking
N/A
Website
N/A

GPS: 6.487026, 99.304568
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[PLACE] 20130804 Pulau Dayang Bunting @ Langkawi


Pulau Dayang Bunting (translate: Pregnant Maiden Island) is the second largest island in Langkawi which is located at the south of Langkawi Island. It has a large fresh water lake known as the Lake of Pregnant Maiden. I was told by my parents long time ago during my first visit to Langkawi that the water of the lake possessed special powers according to the legend.

Legend says that any woman who take a dip in the water of the lake would become fertile, hence the name. Quoted from the source "a man named Mat Teja met and fell in love with the princess Mambang Sari at the lake. They eventually married and the princess gave birth to a son. However their son did not live long and soon died. Having reconciled with their misfortune, they decided to lay their son in the water of the lake and allow him to rest in peace. The gracious princess also blessed all women having difficulty in conceiving a child."

The beautiful limestone cliffs and the lake, coupled with the legend has made this island a popular spot to visit and is one of the island hopping stop. Visitors are required to climb about 15 minutes hike followed by a downhill track to the lake where there's a floating platform with a pontoon for visitors to go for a dip (please prepare your own swimsuit before hand). Solar powered or manual paddle boats are available for rent for those who fancy a paddle ride on the lake. Rental of the paddle boat costs RM20 (manual) and RM30 (solar) back then and I believe the price should have increased.

You can also discover and explore the natural tracks around the lake if you opt not to go for the paddle boat or swim. We are allowed to explore the island for one and a half hour before proceeding to the next destination.

The facilities on the island lacks maintenance during my visit and hopefully things have changed this year since they have started to implement entrance fee for visitors. Adult fee costs RM5 while children fee will cost RM3.

Pulau Dayang Bunting
Telephone: Nil
Opening Hours: Nil

TO GO


The island is remotely located at the southern side of the island and is usually part of the island hopping package which is available via many tour agents on the island. If you are visiting during peak season then my advice is for you to book in advance to avoid disappointment. However, if you are visiting during non-peak season, then you will have the luxury to bargain tour packages with the travel agents. Island hopping packages can be as long as RM20/pax up to RM150/pax, depending on number of islands and season.

Alternatively, you can arrange your own private tour or join the jet ski group island hopping. Do click on the street view to have a feel on the island hopping trail along Pulau Beras Basah, Eagle Cove and Pulau Dayang Bunting.


ATTRACTION



The island hopping tour brought us to the Pulau Dayang Bunting as the final stop after feeding the eagles at the Eagle Cove. The nice weather and calm sea was very welcoming.


Other tourist boats approaching the jetty one by one. 


The entrance signboard has shown that the island is lacking maintenance and something must be done to upkeep this popular tourist destination.


The pathway to the lake requires some climb uphill along the steps. Not recommended if you have difficulty in hiking.


The pathway is surrounded by undisturbed forest and trees.


... and also naughty "locals" who always keeping an eye on what you are carrying. They will not hesitate to grab your bag or food. Hence, it's advisable for you to keep food away from their sight and stay alert of these pesky snatchers.


Of course there will be some cute ones around as well..


After the 10 minutes "dreadful" climb, the pathway will then lead to a downhill slope towards the Lake of Pregnant Maiden.


Behold! The lake of the Pregnant Maiden! This picture is actually taken from the middle of the lake when I'm on the paddle boat. Take a look at the shape of the mountain range and apply some imagination. It's not surprising how the legend and blend in so well with the landscape.


Here, meet "Ducky", my cute (or rundown) paddle boat. It cost RM20 for a 30 minute (or more?) ride on the lake.


The lake was formed when the underground cave collapsed due to downward pressure applied by the accumulating waters. Hence, you may want to think twice before challenging the depth of the lake water. The natural limestone and marble cliff surrounding the lake with the deep green lake water. It gives me a chill when I try to look into the water, not knowing what weird creature might suddenly appear from the deep murky lake water. Too much movie, perhaps.


Despite being enclave by mountains, the lake was actually quite windy and my Ducky will turn into a surf boat when the wind is strong enough. Something is indeed magical with this island. 

Besides swimming and paddling, other activities include jungle trekking along the pathway around the lake which is also part of the geoforest. Pulau Dayang Bunting is the last stop of my island hopping tour which covers some interesting points although I was hoping for more stops. The journey back to Kuah jetty took us another 15 to 20 minutes before calling it a day.


SUMMARY


The legend of the Pregnant Maiden Island gives a very mystical feel about the island (placebo effect?) which makes you feel everything on the island is magical. The Lake of Pregnant Maiden is worth a visit, not really for the view, but more of for the legend. I will recommend visitors to Langkawi to at least visit the island once to experience the legend, as Langkawi is an island full of legends.

Attraction
☆☆☆☆
for the experience
Cleanliness
☆☆☆☆
low maintenance but clean
Entrance Fee
RM5 (Adults)
RM3 (Children)
Starting 1st Feb 2015.
Opening Hours
Always
Wifi
Nil
Parking
Nil
Website
Nil

GPS: 6.204696, 99.783706
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[PLACE] 20150114 Khaosan Road @ Phra Nakhon, Bangkok


Khaosan Road or Khao San Road was once a main rice market, suggested from the name "Khaosan" which literally means "milled rice". It is now a famous night market and backpacker's street with cheap accommodation which attracts many backpackers from around the world.

It is also a travel hub where many travel agents providing cheap and affordable tours to various destination around Thailand and even outside Thailand with one stop Visa application services. My half day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is also arranged by one of the travel agent from here.

At night, the street transforms into a very happening place with street vendors, food stalls, pubs and other entertainment. Khaosan Road is considered to be a more hippy place and is flooded with more foreign tourists than any other night market around Bangkok.

You may find many interesting in Khaosan Road that you may rarely encounter else where like makeshift mobile pubs, campervan pubs, edible bugs stalls etc.

Khaosan Rd Khet Phra Nakhon Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200 Thailand
Nearest BTS Stations: Nil
Telephone: Nil
Opening Hours: Nil

TO GO


Khaosan Road is not near to any BTS nor MRT stations and mostly you would need to grab a cab to reach here.



ATTRACTION


Khaosan Road is more lively at night with the variety of pubs and cafe. It caters more for the younger market with its strong music and adventurous offerings such as on-the-spot tattoos, fried scorpions on-the-go, street challenges etc.


More than half of the visitors here are foreigners and mostly staying nearby at the backpackers' lounge or hotels.


Temporary or permanent tattoos stalls are commonly seen here in Khaosan Road and they will do it on the spot like a free show.



Not forgetting the traditional Thai massage, from the cheap open air mass-production type, to the slightly premium air-conditioned parlours along the streets. A great way to pamper your foot after a long walk.


The Khaosan Road expands into the alley from the main street which will lead you to the other side of Khaosan Road where they are more restaurants and pubs awaiting for you.


In contrast to the more happening main street, the side walk is more cozy and relaxing with pubs and restaurants if you are looking for a bite.



The BBQ seafood is very tempting and inviting with the aroma. If it wasn't because I was still full from the earlier seafood dinner at T&K Seafood, I might end up having my dinner here instead. Probably next time.


Further down the streets, the crowd became lesser and the streets are quiet and dark. However, this is where all the cute little campervan bars are located. The locals creatively transformed these old campervan into vibrant and colourful road side bars. Each having its own distinctive characteristics.


Some with loud techno music while some others with soothing chillax melodies.


Some cuter version of the campervan bars.


No campervan? Nevermind, old pick up trucks will do just fine.


Towards the very end of the street, there's this red looking cafe with some tents outside for those who are looking for a quiet environment away from the busy streets.


SUMMARY


Khaosan Road caters more to youngsters who are more adventurous and active with a variety of unique experience. It is a relatively short street but a more hipster area compared to other night markets and it is very lively. It is known as the backpacker's street with many backpacker's lounge established within the vicinity. Here is also one of a few places that you are able to find exotic bug/insect snacks for those who dare to try.

Attraction
☆☆☆☆☆
very lively and happening street.
Cleanliness
☆☆☆

Entrance Fee
Nil
Opening Hours
Daily
Wifi
Nil
Parking
Limited
Website
Nil

GPS: 13.759012, 100.497098
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[PLACE] 20150114 Temple of Dawn - Wat Arun @ Bangkok


Wat Arun, or also known as the Temple of Dawn has a history that stretches way back into the seventeenth century and has undergone various restoration. It is a Buddhist temple which a central prang which measures more than 200 feet along with four smaller satellite prang which was built later in the nineteenth century during the reign of King Rama II. It is situated by the river bank of Chao Phraya River and is visible from far due to its height.

In addition to the history, the highlight of Wat Arun would be the architecture and the steep climb to the top platform of the central prang. The central prang has 3 levels in total and encrusted with colourful tiles and porcelain. Well, most of it are broken pieces of porcelain. The main challenge will be climbing up to the platform where many tourist may halt due to fear of height. The stairs are indeed very steep but climbable with the help of railings and ropes.

An entrance fee of 50 Baht is chargeable for foreigners and the temple opens until 5:30pm. Wat Arun is a favourite spot for photography enthusiast with its unique architecture and the landscape. Capturing a picture during the dawn or the sunset with the magical colours of the sky enhances the mysterious feel, whether from near or afar.

There's some rooftop bars and cafe at the opposite side of Wat Arun, at the Tha Tian Pier which gives you a very good vantage point for photoshooting. However, despite the nice weather during the day, the sunset did not give much colours to my photo. Perhaps next time.

Wat Arun, west side of Chao Phraya River, opposite Tha Tian Pier (Pier 8)
Nearest BTS Stations: Nil
Telephone: +66 2891 2978
Opening Hours: 08:00am until 5:30pm

TO GO


There are a few methods to get to Wat Arun and unfortunately there's no direct assess by BTS nor MRT. While taking cab or tuk tuk is the most convenient way, you may still be able to reach Wat Arun if you have to take the BTS. 

Take the Silom Line (Dark Green) and disembark at Saphan Taksin Station. Walk towards Exit 2 towards the Central Pier, you may then purchase the boat ticket from the ticket counter for 40 Baht per pax and then take the Chao Phraya tourist boat. Get off at Pier 8 - Tha Tian Pier. Wat Arun is located at the opposite bank hence you need to take another cross river shuttle for another 3 Baht per pax per trip.

Wat Arun is right after Wat Pho in my itinerary, due to the proximity of both temples. Would recommend to visit both together.

ATTRACTION



I travelled across the Chao Phraya River after visiting Wat Pho with a fee of 3 Baht per pax per trip. Buddhist monks get to transit for free as there are many temples around this area. It is hard to shoot into the sun without blowing out the mid tone and highlights.



However, when you shoot with the sun at your back, the wonderful colours of the bright sky and the temple shines. Wat Arun is one of the prettiest temples around Bangkok even without the vivid colour structures or roof, thanks to its detailed glass and porcelain. The prangs have a base of devils or monkeys statues that supports the upper structure.


The temple is undergoing restoration work during my visit, which cause quite a disappointment for photoshooting due to the scaffoldings. This is the only satellite prang that is not covered by the scaffoldings.


The straight and steep climb at the central prang. The ascend and descend shares the same stairs as other three entrances are closed. I'm not sure whether there is a limit of numbers that are allowed at one time. Proper attire is advised to pay respect to the sacred grounds, and you probably also do not want to wear too short for the climb as well.


The climb will lead you to the first platform or terrace, which is bigger and wider and able to accommodate more people. The adventurous ones will probably continue to climb further to the second terrace or platform, which is steeper and narrower than the first.


You can judge the steepness of the stairs from this picture. Also notice the ascend of each stair is much taller than our usual steps.


From the top, you will be able to have an overview of the surroundings, including the Chao Phraya River, which you also can observe the Wat Pho and Grand Palace from here.


The details of the porcelain and sculptures of the prang that makes Thai architecture so unique, with the trace of Indian and Chinese structures.


The top of the central prang, where the Hindu God, Indra riding on Erawan. Each of the details on the temple has its meanings that relates to Buddhism and Hinduism. It is an interest blend of both teachings.


 The scaffolding put me off to shoot an overview of Wat Arun unfortunately. I tried to wait for the sunset but the colours just fade quickly behind the clouds without much contrast. The image above is already enhanced in Lightroom but is only able to bring out some colours. Maybe next time, Wat Arun.

You may also consider visiting Wat Pho after Wat Arun but be mindful of the closing hours.


SUMMARY


A very unique and historical site of the beauty lies on the detail and the structure of the temple. Advised to come in the morning before the crowd, or before sunset for a nice picture. Dress code is applicable and the steep climb is not for the fainted heart.

Attraction
☆☆☆☆☆
unique, historical, and challenging
Cleanliness
☆☆☆☆

Entrance Fee
50 Baht
Opening Hours
08:00am until 5:30pm
Wifi
N/A
Parking
N/A
Website
N/A

GPS: 13.743600, 100.489049
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