My Travel Blog

I have heard so much about Baiyoke because it’s the tallest building in Thailand. It’s not really that tall to me, considering that I’ve seen a few others which is taller.

But then, it’s still nice to make a trip to Baiyoke Sky Hotel and see how it looks like. Besides that, there are a lot of stalls nearby, and it’s great for shopping. The things are pretty cheap, but they sell mostly clothes. If you are looking for Bluetooth headset here, I’m not sure if you can find one, but maybe you can walk further down the streets with more shops and stores.

Our friends stayed here yesterday and we paid them a visit. I like the view from the hotel, you can see more from the viewing deck.

Hubby caught his eyes on the small driving range. Frankly, it’s really SMALL!

I think we will come here again, with our kids next time to try out the buffet. The view of Bangkok city is too hard to be missed.

It took me something to pick our resort in Chiangmai. Fondcome Resort was not my first choice, but I’m glad that I made the right decision of staying there on our trip. It’s such a nice boutique hotel in the lush of mountains, and this area is cool during winter.

I took the package so it came with some complimentary benefits. Furthermore, we were allowed to check in early since we arrived there by train. Normal check in is after 12pm, as usual.

Our room

with Lanna setting

I like the view from the window, overlooking the bamboo trees.

 
Everything is antique in the room…

 
Including the “electrical” kettle!

We had most of our meals at the restaurant, and I’m glad that they have both Thai and international cuisines. The food is nice, and I gained weight after 4 days. LOL! I surely need to check out the Hydroxycut reviews now…

The tables at the restaurant.

I like the swimming pool, which uses natural water treatment. Too bad it’s winter and it’s too cold to get a dip.

The swimming pool, with a waterfall.

There are a few villas which you can choose to stay in, so check out their website for more information.

Photos taken at the resort.

Maybe I will go there again, if we travel to Chiangmai.

 I don’t like trains and coaches because I used to take them for long distance journey home, and each time, it would take me 10 – 12 hours to reach my destination. It’s unbearable to me, even if I take the overnight ride as I can’t sleep with strangers around.

But my perception changed after I took the overnight train ride from Bangkok to Chiangmai as we managed to get the first class sleeper compartment, and we had total privacy. If you plan to take the train from Bangkok to Chiangmai, you can get more information about it from the link. If you are interested to get the 1st class tickets, you better get them fast as they sold off pretty quick especially during peak seasons.

We boarded the train from Hualamphong Train Station

The train station was crowded as we departed on Boxing Day, and the weekend when the long holiday started.

This is how the first class berth looks like.

When the train departed, you will be asked about your choice of dinner and breakfast for the next morning. The food can be overpriced, so if you prefer something else, pack your own food.

We didn’t eat a lot that night, and I don’t feel like eating too much as well. Don’t want to gain weight and chew on diet pills after my vacation!

 Besides that, you don’t have much to do in the train except staying in your own compartment. Nonetheless, if you get the 2nd class tickets, with sleeping berth but not individual compartment, you might be able to make some friends and have companies on the train ride. For us, we preferred to have some privacy.

Our beds were made by 9pm, and I was glad to see the white sheets and white blankets. They were so thoughtful to give us 2 extra kiddie blankets for my kids.

Our bed were being made.

If you travel with kids, make sure that you bring something to keep them occupied for the night. Our kids read and watched some movies, so they didn’t feel bored at all. We tugged in them early too, so that they would be fresh and cheerful in the morning.

The view from the end of the carriage.

The morning view from my window.

Our train was delayed, so we arrived late in Chiangmai. It was quite cold that morning, and we really liked the weather.

Chiangmai Train Station

In short, I don’t mind taking train rides again, if we can get the 1st class tickets!

I think Ban Krut Beach is under developed and there are not a lot of tourists, as comparing to other popular beaches in Thailand. Nonetheless, I love it here. It’s quiet and totally relaxing. The long sandy beach and strong waves are enough to make me go there again, despite the fact that there are not a lot of tourist attractions around.

But then, if you are interested to go for some sightseeing, there are a few places which I can recommend.

• There is a temple up on the hill, which can be seen from Ban Krut beach. I didn’t get the name of the temple, but just ask around and they will show you the way to get to the temple.

The Buddha statue on the hill

The nice temple, with a breathtaking sea view

This temple is a great spot for photography.

• Waghor Aquarium is just about 30 minutes away from Ban Krut.

We went to Waghor Aquarium, but don’t expect it to be as good as the aquarium at Siam Paragon.

• The border between Thailand and Myanmar

There is a flea market here, and the orchids are lovely. Other than that, there is nothing much to offer.

But personally, I still prefer to stay by the beach and enjoy the sea breeze.

If you think it’s too boring, just go for cycling along the beach.

Cycling by the beach is more enjoyable than working out with an exercise equipment.

The best thing is, the sunset is superb!

Enjoying the sunset in Ban Krut.

 We stayed at Baan-Grood Arcadia Resort and Spa by Ban Krut beach for 2 nights, and since this resort is fairly new, it was not really occupied. There are villas and chalets for rent as well, but we only booked for the books.

I wonder why it has spa for its name, but they don’t really have a massage spa here. If you need to get a massage, they will call the freelance masseur, and I guess massage is done in your room.

As for food, we only tried the buffet breakfast. Judging from the price we paid for the rooms, breakfast was satisfying.

The pool is nice, but the water was too cold during winter. Nonetheless, it didn’t stop my kids from swimming in in for 3 days! They could really stand the coldness, but not me.

In short, it’s a nice resort and it’s not pricey. I will love to come back here again.