FROM MY TRAVEL DIARY

A Glimpse of My First International Travel

An impromptu plan to Thailand that introduced me to a whole new world of travel blogging

Embarking on this journey was like stepping into an uncharted realm, a quest to unearth the wanderlust-driven soul I'd scarcely met — the aspirant travel blogger.

Imagine this: my inaugural venture into documenting a journey despite weaving innumerable photographic tales on Instagram.

This voyage commenced in the alluring embrace of Thailand, a realm teeming with majestic palaces, sun-kissed beaches, and ancient temples — an idyllic sanctuary for nomadic spirits.

But why Thailand, you might ask?

It wasn't the postcard-worthy scenes that lured me; it was the thrill of skydiving, an adventure I've vividly narrated elsewhere.

Yet, this story isn't about soaring heights; it's about delving into the vibrant city of Bangkok, a tale brimming with moments etched in my soul and insights awaiting fellow travellers.

Join me as I unravel the pulse of Bangkok, weaving practical wisdom with unforgettable escapades.

Entry to the Bustling City of Bangkok

Upon my arrival in the vibrant heart of Bangkok, I dove straight into the city's eclectic transportation network. As I landed, my immediate reflex was to secure a cab for the journey to my accommodation, swiftly tapping into the widely-used Grab app.

To my amazement, a sleek, upscale car glided up to whisk me away. I was in disbelief, checking the number plate twice, yet it was indeed my ride.

Throughout the journey, I couldn't shake off my astonishment at finding myself in such luxurious transportation. After a quick dive into the app and some online sleuthing, I discovered that Grab offered GrabCars, not your typical taxis, but rides from private cars driven by individuals.

My driver was utilizing his personal car as a part-time taxi, revealing to me the unexpected fusion of tradition and luxury that epitomizes Bangkok's essence.

And there it was, my grand entrance into Bangkok.

That evening, I ventured to the renowned Siam Paragon, drawn by the allure of shopping complexes illuminated against the night sky.

Beyond being one of Thailand's largest malls, it unveiled itself as a sanctuary of automotive marvels, showcasing the finest vehicular innovations from global brands.

As I approached, its exterior boasted aesthetics surpassing any other shopping haven in the city. However, stepping onto the second floor, I was spellbound.

Before me lay a captivating display of supercars, each a multimillion-dollar masterpiece crafted by renowned manufacturers — a breathtaking spectacle transcending imagination.

Spiritual Reflections at Wat Pho and Wat Arun

The visit to Wat Pho was a sightseeing stop and a spiritual journey. It is one of Bangkok's most prominent temples and one of the six temples in Thailand, classed as the highest grade of the first-class royal temples.

The highlight: A 46-meter-long reclining Buddha that left me in awe.

The Reclining Buddha embodies Buddha's tranquil expression in the moments before his passage into the afterlife.

Crafted to commemorate his passing, this serene statue encapsulates the essence of his final moments.

The reclining Budha was a sight, but this unique activity resonated with me the most. In the main temple, there are 108 bronze bowls in the corridor representing the 108 auspicious characters of Buddha.

Dropping a coin in each bowl, a ritual believed to bring good fortune, was a memorable and new experience.

You need to pay 20 Baht (this helps the monks maintain the Wat) to get 108 copper coins, and then you have to put a single coin in each bowl, meaning 108 coins for 108 bowls.

Wat Arun — Temple of the Dawn

I had the privilege of exploring this temple just before it closed at 6 PM, accessible by a quick ferry trip from Wat Pho.

It is one of Bangkok's most captivating temples, boasting a unique design that sets it apart from others in Thailand.

As the sun dipped, painting the Chao Phraya River in a golden hue, I found myself immersed in a serene calmness and deeply connected to Bangkok's cultural essence.

Pro Tip: Time your visit for the late afternoon, ideally before the 6 PM closing time, to be spellbound by a breathtaking sunset and the enchanting transformation of river views as night falls.

A Day of Exploration in Bangkok

My exploration of Bangkok continued with a morning walk, immersing myself in the city's rhythm.

The sights and sounds of the streets, from the chatter of locals to the aroma of street food, painted a vivid picture of daily life. It is a great way to soak in the city's vibe and learn more about its culture.

On my way back, I visited Lumphini Park, a green oasis in the city's heart. This morning stroll helped me set the mood for the day's adventures.

I reserved this day to soak in the city's atmosphere, savour local food, explore street markets, and embrace whatever surprises come my way.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the iconic Tuk Tuk ride. I got so fascinated by them that I even bought a fridge magnet of Tuk Tuk.

A bit about Tuk Tuk

Tuk Tuk is an iconic Thai urban transport system symbol. Riding in it is not just about reaching a destination; it's an experience of Thai local life, a must-do activity. They're great for short trips and give you a fun, open-air city view.

I also witnessed a Thai ritual ceremony. I wasn't sure what was happening, but the experience of seeing local dance forms and other cultural elements was genuinely captivating.

The bustling city also provided ample opportunities for street photography, capturing the vibrant energy and unique moments. While I couldn't include all the shots in this article, I still tried my best :)

The End of the Journey

As this journey draws to a close, it's clear it wasn't just a series of checked boxes but a journey woven with emotions, unexpected discoveries, and personal growth.

From the indulgence of a luxury taxi ride to the simple act of dropping a copper coin in Wat Pho, each moment has crafted its own story.

While skydiving was the initial spark, Bangkok, with its vibrant spirit, became the pulsating heart of this remarkable journey.

Some practical tips for first-time travellers to Thailand

Flexibility is key when travelling; being open to new experiences will make your trip even more memorable.

Currency and Cash: Thai Baht (THB) is the official currency. Carry cash for smaller purchases, as not all places accept cards, especially in local markets.

Language: Thai is the official language. While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Thai phrases is appreciated and can be helpful.

Connectivity: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for your phone to access data for maps and communication during your stay.

Local Transportation: Tuk-tuks and local buses are unique experiences. Ensure you agree on prices before hopping in for a ride.

Bargaining Etiquette: Bargaining is common in markets. Approach it respectfully, with a smile. Know when to step away if the price doesn’t match your expectations.

Local Events and Festivals: Check the local calendar for festivals and events happening during your visit. They offer a unique insight into Thai culture.

If you enjoyed this story, you might also check out my experience in the great Himalayas.

Thanks for reading my story. If you like to read more stories like this, I invite you to follow me. Till then, Sayonara! I wish you the best in your travel journey.

I am a software engineer who enjoys travelling and writing — About Me.