[Trip Report] Solo Ride to North Thailand

[GuiNNeSS]

This thread is solely for info sharing since I leeched a lot of tips and information from this section. Only right for me to pay back.

 

Start off with accommodation since you guys might need it first if heading up soon.

 

1) Surat Thani - TheOne Hotel

 

Price - 590 Baht

Free WifFi, Free computer with internet, Nice room, Private parking. Air-con & hot shower

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0014.jpg

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0008.jpg

 

2) Kanchanaburi - Noble Night Guesthouse

 

Price - 400Baht

 

Private parking. Air-con & hot shower. Swimming pool. Nice view. Shared toilet with 3 rooms. On floating platform, will shake if someone walks past. Not recommended for those who get seasick/easily awaken by noise. Toilet is run down.

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0073.jpg

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0180.jpg

 

3) Mae Sot- First Hotel

 

Price - 450 Baht

 

Full teak as described by Pipipapipu. Private parking. Air-con & hot shower.

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0270.jpg

 

 

 

4) Pai - Brook view

 

Price - 600 Baht (With no view. Might be due to peak season, Kmax got it for 550B.)

 

Private parking. Air-con & hot shower. Near night Bazaar

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0431.jpg

 

 

 

5) Chiang Rai - Diamond Park Inn

 

Price - 650 Baht

 

Private parking. Air-con & hot shower.

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0623.jpg

 

 

6) Chiang Mai - Tapae Place Hotel

 

Price - 690 Baht

 

Private parking. Air-con & hot shower. Walking distance to Night Bazaar.

 

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Enjoy83/North%20Thailand/DSC_0912.jpg

 

 

7) Tak - Tang Keaw House / Kang Kiao House (GPS and local map give different names)

 

Price - 450 Baht

 

Free Wifi. Private parking. Air-con & hot shower. Clean room.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TSgdX6akn6I/AAAAAAAABNM/sg24UsA5trk/s800/DSC_0286.JPG

 

8) Hua Hin - Tananchai Hotel

 

Price - 800 Baht (Extreme high season, I THINK it's 600B on a norm)

 

Private parking. Air-con & hot shower.

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TSgdxDZdG1I/AAAAAAAABOs/VVUZgLVTB-c/s800/DSC_0312.JPG

 

 

9) Trang - Queen Hotel

 

Price - 600B

 

Free Wifi. Free computer with internet (1 unit only). Private parking. Air-con & hot shower.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TSgeQmr5vfI/AAAAAAAABQY/ooJyjiqpnPE/s800/DSC_0339.JPG

 

10) Hatyai - Golden Crown Plaza Hotel - 4*

 

Price - 900B

 

Private parking. Air-con & hot shower. Very nice room. Payable WiFi. Fridge. Just behind main shopping area - Lee Garden

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TSgeloxW68I/AAAAAAAABRI/VKMwkqh5jRI/s800/DSC_0352.JPG

 

11) Penang - Cititel - 4*

 

Price - RM 226.20 (with 2 breakfast)

 

Free Wifi. Private parking. Air-con & hot shower. Very nice room. Fridge

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TSgfaSA6QKI/AAAAAAAABTI/o3eYDFL2xdg/s800/DSC_0385.JPG

 

 

 

 

I made an excel worksheet before I left. There is an updated version at the end of this post.

 

 

Direction to MHS Chamber of Commerce Office (MHS Cert)

If you are coming from Mae Sariang, there is a T-Junction that you need to turn right INSIDE MHS town. Going straight is an upslope and seems (I didn't go, so I dont know) to lead you to nowhere. The office is on your left. Before Baiyoke chalet hotel, opposite Post Office. If you see KFC or even Panorama Hotel, you have overshot. U-turn and go slow. You should see it in a moment or two.

 

GPS Co-Ordinates

N 19.29930

E 097.96561

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsKJFvelaI/AAAAAAAAAY4/fpBVObdGc2k/s800/DSC_0378.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsKLO1aP0I/AAAAAAAAAY8/HaqYEfYnn1Y/s800/DSC_0379.JPG

 

 

Extension of Temporary Import Cert/Document

 

'VISA' for our bike is for 1 month as we all know. But if you have whatever reason/s and require it to be extended, go straight to the Customs office of major town to get it done. The fine is 100B per day if it's already expired. They will extend the expiry date to your last date that you are permitted to stay in Thailand.

 

The customs at Chiang Mai stamped a new date at the current document. Had a hiccup when I leave Sadao. They said it SHOULD be cancelling the old and issuing a new one. I don't know who's correct, but anyway they let me off after verifying with a few calls and some waiting time.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TSgXS-FwQsI/AAAAAAAABBk/jIZBC1DT-O4/s800/DSC_0099.JPG

Accommodation.xls

Edited January 8, 2011 by Enjoy

[GuiNNeSS]

Firstly, thanks for all the information I got from this section. Would be a lot harder for me if I have none. Kmax for his map (even though it's in thai language). Helped to see the overview of roads that would otherwise be hard to view on GPS.

 

This trip is supposed to be on 05/11 to 17/11, 13 days to travel, perfect date as it's over 2 weekends + 2 PHs. Got postponed due to floods.

 

Day 0-1 (Home - Surat Thani)

 

Anyway, set off from home at about 10pm on 26/11. I knew I travel slow on this bike and have to move early. Kmax just happened to be in the carpark and bidded me goodbye and a safe trip, thanks dude! Started raining heavily along AYE and I had to stop to wear my raincoat which is extremely rare. In my years of riding, the number of times I wore a raincoat can be calculated by 10 fingers. I have a long ride and can't afford to get myself wet throughout the night. Reached Tuas checkpoint and was caught in a jam for half an hour or so, what a start! Proceed on to Petronas station and waited it out hoping that rain will lighten. No luck, I have wasted a fair amount of time in jam and waiting. It's monsoon season and it might just rain all night long, I have to move on. Luckily, it stopped before I exited 2nd link into NSHW.

 

So, long and straight roads awaits me. Boring ride. Got really foggy on the hills after Ipoh and my visor was 'dripping' water. Had to slow down significantly. Managed to take advantage of bike's big tank and stop for only 2 petrol stops. Maintain about 120-140kmh. Went in Gurun for Thai insurance but it wasn't open yet. Then there was this insect infested area that landed my bike in this state in a span of 20 secs.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr7tD-996I/AAAAAAAAABQ/xvoayyZP3y8/s800/DSC_0003.JPG

 

Stopped at the last petrol station for last taste of cheap petrol, clean up the dead bodies and exited m'sia in a flash. Got held up by thai custom due to long queues and was only after 1.5 hrs that I cleared it together with my Thai insurance. The weather and my pace was good so I did not want to stop for breakfast at Hatyai, Proceeded on to Surat Thani.

 

Reached Surat and reckon I should check in hotel as I did not want to stress myself too much and have aches the next day. It was only 1+pm and I could still ride at least 200km comfortably. The moment I checked into hotel room, loneliness hammered on me hard. The first time I walked into hotel room alone and this thought arises,"What the hell am I doing?!" I'm in Surat, there's no turning back or chicken out and I just have to believe in this trip. So quickly went on to wash clothes, shower and have my first meal. I didn't want to eat anything in m'sia as I was afraid that I have to do big business(toilet) along NSHW. All alone and certainly not comfortable leaving my bike, helmet, etc openly.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr7yv3idaI/AAAAAAAAABo/DMOlx4OkI-A/s800/DSC_0009.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr7zag6_VI/AAAAAAAAABs/voaV7FftPnE/s800/DSC_0010.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr701t8DzI/AAAAAAAAABw/Y6wk2I623og/s800/DSC_0012.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr7-e8kmFI/AAAAAAAAACE/65Oh2wR-Vp4/s800/DSC_0018.JPG

 

Walk around and Surat is plain boring (or I didn't explore much) so went for a massage, dinner, buy bread for breakfast and slept early.

 

 

 

Day 2 (Surat Thani - Kanchanaburi)

 

Woke up early to make full use of daylight. Do my routine of having breakfast, toilet, shower and packing. Head up north and had no idea where I want to stay for the night.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr8DYuJq-I/AAAAAAAAACU/WxgG_EsiTlQ/s800/DSC_0023.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr8HBqIfII/AAAAAAAAACg/CFBCj4MnLeg/s800/DSC_0026.JPG

 

Managed to find calling card along the way. A must as I promised my wife to call her once I checked into hotel and before I sleep. A hell lot cheaper. The one on the right is a sample I brought so that it's easier to buy due to the language barrier. Got a different one though, but they all work on the same principle.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr8JDYlmGI/AAAAAAAAACk/XEUUFNMcC7k/s800/DSC_0027.JPG

 

I didn't want to just travel and travel without stopping for photo taking and stuffs. So I went in Chumphon and have a look.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr8TBGsLJI/AAAAAAAAADE/ilDCK6SmEV4/s800/DSC_0034.JPG

 

Headed up a place I chance upon that had a signboard stating 'Scenic Area'. In just a couple of steep turns;

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr8llcHw6I/AAAAAAAAAD0/h-Lz_8BDx5c/s800/DSC_0042.JPG

 

My ears were wide open when I took this

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr8zQt6OiI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/Qn8ZZGK67XM/s800/DSC_0048.JPG

 

Dropped my number plate along the way

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr89nMpEaI/AAAAAAAAAEo/WlqrS8W5dvg/s800/DSC_0054.JPG

 

Decided to stay at Kanchanaburi as it's worth a visit. Have been here when I was on an overseas reservist's R&R and had no camera.

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr9FlO9f3I/AAAAAAAAAE4/ZcosDDL0qoU/s800/DSC_0058.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr9HQSodzI/AAAAAAAAAE8/_taw326fN3k/s800/DSC_0059.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr9LEqa8TI/AAAAAAAAAFE/3D6K8VKqA0A/s800/DSC_0061.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr9R5yWqvI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/0SvhAbS4YqE/s800/DSC_0064.JPG

 

Got myself a bicycle after checking in.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr9xC7P_-I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/mG_acCBwI9A/s800/DSC_0080.JPG

 

They are having a carnival and I paid 20B to go in

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsAqlChuRI/AAAAAAAAAKM/nYM9XayQ06w/s800/DSC_0145.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPr_TOnsdLI/AAAAAAAAAIk/3cB4Xj58S2Q/s800/DSC_0122.JPG

 

Didn't managed to finish walking around and went back to sleep. In the guesthouse

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsAv2EzalI/AAAAAAAAAKY/lKg8s3xporQ/s800/DSC_0149.JPG

 

The hell fire pass is a good place to go to if you would like to know more about the Death Railway. Free entrance managed by Australian people if I remember correctly.

Edited January 8, 2011 by Enjoy

[GuiNNeSS]

Day 3 (Kanchanaburi - Mae Sot)

 

Checked out and went over to 'The bridge over River Kwai' for more photos.

 

Can see that they are very thankful it's peace time.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsBxkxREvI/AAAAAAAAAMo/gMx2m36YzXA/s800/DSC_0187.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsBzECTf5I/AAAAAAAAAMs/nRjlNYv7A3s/s800/DSC_0188.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsCFWlsN7I/AAAAAAAAANc/fyWERBwmN2o/s800/DSC_0199.JPG

 

Yes please, nobody knows what will happen to the kingdom after .....

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsCOtZTrYI/AAAAAAAAANw/oWHGiunO-SU/s800/DSC_0204.JPG

 

How proud they are

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsCXmuRy5I/AAAAAAAAAN8/CpvtV5WS6Fw/s800/DSC_0207.JPG

 

And I left Kanchanaburi for Mae Sot.

 

Had a hard time looking for this allen key to open up my EO cap for topping up of EO. Dumb dumb me forget to check.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsCkv_W8BI/AAAAAAAAAOc/Uw6UHsePOZc/s800/DSC_0215.JPG

 

Nice view along the way

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsCwIm8W4I/AAAAAAAAAO0/SpSY_ZJqBjI/s800/DSC_0221.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsC7WfQEKI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/N1iLvJDqkVk/s800/DSC_0228.JPG

 

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsC9Uv6hPI/AAAAAAAAAPU/E8cV3rfcV_w/s800/DSC_0229.JPG

 

Arrived at scenic area before Mae Sot

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsDQcYO17I/AAAAAAAAAQA/OiBwOsgPptc/s800/DSC_0238.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsDVT2H5rI/AAAAAAAAAQM/J0aSz-kYG44/s800/DSC_0241.JPG

 

Getting dry up the hills

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsDVwcMntI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/_Tu79CxwpNY/s800/DSC_0242.JPG

 

Arrived in Mae Sot border, didn't expect it to be so near town.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsDbNaphWI/AAAAAAAAAQc/ycBNmGtbOkY/s800/DSC_0245.JPG

 

 

Little river that separates the 2 countries.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsDzBHbZOI/AAAAAAAAARI/-6EQTcmMPXU/s800/DSC_0258.JPG

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsFbfXb3LI/AAAAAAAAARo/GBUFPmOycTs/s800/DSC_0266.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsFi7nK-OI/AAAAAAAAAR0/aKo5ABVhZEY/s800/DSC_0269.JPG

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsFo3UtdQI/AAAAAAAAASI/CH_F1hESCU4/s800/DSC_0275.JPG

 

Some of them here speaks Mandarin

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsF7JaBB0I/AAAAAAAAAS8/OsvFwXFLVtU/s800/DSC_0288.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsGCGyGxTI/AAAAAAAAATQ/KWGhis2ea60/s800/DSC_0295.JPG

 

I thought the bed frame is a little spooky.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsGFYVSHwI/AAAAAAAAATc/nICNnfTh3fM/s800/DSC_0298.JPG

Edited December 6, 2010 by Enjoy

[GuiNNeSS]

Day 3 (Mae Sot - Pai)

 

Managed to wake up early again as I have hundreds of klicks of corners to conquer.

 

Early morning

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsGQS5A4vI/AAAAAAAAAUE/Mn4qWsw4tLA/s800/DSC_0309.JPG

 

Feels good. I am ready for the actions! Long gone were the loneliness felt in Surat and here comes awesome weather and roads ahead. Check bike, tire pressure (lost about 30KPA liao, but that's perfect for the twisties) top up EO (yeah, boxer is known to 'eat' oil) and left.

 

Turned foggy along the way

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsGaXIDhwI/AAAAAAAAAUc/cm3IpTGO8lg/s800/DSC_0314.JPG

And this is the last time I saw this gauge after I forgot to put in back.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsGbjHsCBI/AAAAAAAAAUg/-Ba-z1N-Q1c/s800/DSC_0315.JPG

 

Been running wide on most turns and couldn't take it anyway. Stopped by somewhere and increase rear shock damping by 2 clicks. And hell, that's a sh*t load of difference. Really enjoying the bike and road.

 

Stopped many many times for photographs

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsHIM0l6sI/AAAAAAAAAUw/Mxl3QGtrsfE/s800/DSC_0318.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsHqU8V2VI/AAAAAAAAAVU/WNq74Cj16tM/s800/DSC_0327.JPG

 

And then hellish roads arrive in no time. Roads start to get narrower, more sands, more gravels, more potholes, etc. Rode for some time and felt it's not as bad as imagined or as described by Pipipapipu. And I thought the GS must be eating up bumps like PacMan eating up dots. Great! That's what it's built for, isn't it? So I got used to potholes and gravels and went faster.

 

Till......

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIFAdhdVI/AAAAAAAAAWI/dz882B_BNMk/s800/DSC_0339.JPG

 

It was a totally unexpected blind spot right turn with steep elevation and not forgetting FULL of gravels and stones in the turn. Once I turn in, I shouted Hong Gan........Slowed down the bike immediately and the brakes are not working well due to ABS. Managed to get to a slow speed somehow and the weight of Queen Kong (I name my bike) overcomes me and fell. Engine was still running while she's on her side. I looked around for any incoming vehicles, took a few deep breathes and went to switch off engine.

 

Literally stoned there for a couple of moments catching my breath. Assess the situation and think. I don't remember seeing any vehicles passing by, at most 1 or 2 at the interval of at least 20 mins. I have to settle this myself. I walked down the steep slope and have a good look at the terrain. Looks ok after this portion. Went back up, took out my camera and take some pictures first, LOL.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIIkEPpNI/AAAAAAAAAWM/gecp-hrKz3g/s800/DSC_0340.JPG

 

Rest for a short while and proceeded to remove the right pannier first. Couldn't remove the left one. Stone there again and think what's the possibilities.

 

1) Cannot lift up at all due to weight, need someone to help. (I dropped her twice before and never been able to pick her up myself even though there isn't much load in the panniers)

 

2) I get out of this situation.

 

3) I lift her up and she goes over the point of balance and flip to drop over to the other side due to the steep slope. Even more jialat. I confirm sit there cry for a good 5 mins first.

 

I knew I only have one chance. To use all my energy for that one time to pick up her. Took some very deep breathes, held on to her handlebar, summon Popeye and voila!

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIMOBhDvI/AAAAAAAAAWU/rwmT2bWH8pI/s800/DSC_0341.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsF8cHfbpI/AAAAAAAAATA/k2RPRVaJFjs/s800/DSC_0290.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIPFfr2dI/AAAAAAAAAWY/kmbYDZMGbPw/s800/DSC_0342.JPG

 

But now I have another problem, the grass patch is running out (drain) and I'm stuck. The slope is too steep. The moment I clutch in, the bike rolls as if I throw the clutch on gear 1. So I took out the left box this time and stoned again. Rest for some time and think of solution. End up I full lock handlebar to right, hold the brake, clutch in just a little to let 1 teeth roll. And by doing this repeatedly, I got out of the grass patch! It was so steep that I can use a bit of strength to push the bike to roll even when it's in gear 1.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsISSWzUbI/AAAAAAAAAWc/s_Ysej-nBdk/s800/DSC_0343.JPG

 

Put back boxes, recover a while and rode down with ABS off. Rode extremely careful to Mae Sariang.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIj-uOtXI/AAAAAAAAAXA/UsmU9tEaudA/s800/DSC_0351.JPG

 

And then to MHS. By then, I have forgotten the incident and was playing corners again.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsKFJLoNAI/AAAAAAAAAYs/eX0HR364LpE/s800/DSC_0376.JPG

 

And I know you guys are waiting for this

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuv0VgHt5I/AAAAAAAAAZ4/y1b_cthEvBI/s800/DSC_0390.JPG

 

 

Look at the time, look at how far Pai is in GPS, 100 odd klicks. Look at MHS town, damn, I dont wanna stay here for tonight. So quickly hurried my way there. Told myself not to take anymore photos since the sun is setting.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuwJutCZZI/AAAAAAAAAaU/zjMPjv8ynIw/s800/DSC_0399.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuwaiExo1I/AAAAAAAAAao/eNqCvJhaVk8/s800/DSC_0402.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuwobJTDxI/AAAAAAAAAbA/pjTJ-RpciW4/s800/DSC_0408.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuwtzvIFpI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/HLXGPXXE3NU/s800/DSC_0410.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuxOEurvKI/AAAAAAAAAcA/q1AMLNEtCzE/s800/DSC_0418.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuxTxN3VAI/AAAAAAAAAcI/x4U0ush4ez0/s800/DSC_0420.JPG

 

I was bull-shitting. I stopped for countless times.

Edited December 9, 2010 by Enjoy

[GuiNNeSS]

The sun is setting down really quick, the cold wind blows right into me giving me some good hints. I looked at my GPS and it was still 50km of twisties away. WTF! I don't have much daylight left. That's when I am dead serious about clearing every single turn quickly in a safe manner. If it turns dark, every single turn that I cleared when there's still some daylight counts.

 

Managed to reach Pai just before it turns completely dark. (I overexpose this picture)

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuxrSoePyI/AAAAAAAAAco/r-02RVNaaLo/s800/DSC_0428.JPG

 

Did usual routine of wash up and went out for dinner. Everything as described. Very touristy with lots of farangs but very reasonable price. Prices are well marked and everyone pays the same price. Fantastic.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPux8_U2WpI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/TAHZ-jyo9uQ/s800/DSC_0438.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuyPWuhxgI/AAAAAAAAAeE/_1RDvBV3bQc/s800/DSC_0451.JPG

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuyesFtvNI/AAAAAAAAAew/c_XEmIVL7Qo/s800/DSC_0461.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuywvkX5qI/AAAAAAAAAfc/m2WDwNhQu94/s800/DSC_0475.JPG

 

Day 4 (Pai - ChiangRai)

 

Next morning, I drag myself up and laze around. I love Pai and refuse to move.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu00bIbvOI/AAAAAAAAAgg/yWygSItShlU/s800/DSC_0492.JPG

 

The pretty receptionist that served me last night bluffed me. She asked if I needed air-con room and I asked what's the temp. like at night. She said 20⁰C. And this is already in the morning.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu086KhllI/AAAAAAAAAgw/kLI6FIEngrg/s800/DSC_0495.JPG

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu1HhNFW9I/AAAAAAAAAhM/AW13Y6jw0kI/s800/DSC_0503.JPG

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu2E1QZzhI/AAAAAAAAAi4/5lbzkfp7tgc/s800/DSC_0527.JPG

 

Made Queen Kong a temporary number plate, topped up EO and left reluctantly. Proceed to ChiangRai.

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu3kxWz7II/AAAAAAAAAkk/xhIXuHWdYWM/s800/DSC_0553.JPG

 

And I saw 2 singapore bikes, U-turn and chatted up with them.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu38Y1oYmI/AAAAAAAAAlI/zhcl-pbHo4U/s800/DSC_0561.JPG

 

They were heading to Pai. Doing the reverse route with me. Felt so homely speaking singlish so we shared our experiences. At least half an hour spent here.

 

Was feeling hot and missing some twisties, I decided to turn here since I can afford that 50km to and fro.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu3-cX8FPI/AAAAAAAAAlM/_5F1nYJyplo/s800/DSC_0562.JPG

 

Be warned, roads up are very steep and hairpin.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu4HgZFILI/AAAAAAAAAlY/_qFoDebhMzI/s800/DSC_0565.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu4N2Q6VTI/AAAAAAAAAlk/vPzaUcBw9Kc/s800/DSC_0567.JPG

 

Had my lunch there. Great food, brilliant view, cool weather.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu4uGLR-wI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/LNjcHUlLNOo/s800/DSC_0578.JPG

 

In an army campsite.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu4_YHb4SI/AAAAAAAAAms/AluVI0drq5g/s800/DSC_0585.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu5FA2V8aI/AAAAAAAAAm4/m2GoCMBUnm0/s800/DSC_0588.JPG

 

Went back down and headed up Mae Salong

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu5dZ9JHdI/AAAAAAAAAnY/BzR5ImKm1BA/s800/DSC_0595.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu5mo1PAmI/AAAAAAAAAno/_JIQMB7SLWM/s800/DSC_0599.JPG

 

So surprised that they ALL speak mandarin here, ignorant me. Tea plantation is the main business here.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu5ssnB9DI/AAAAAAAAAn4/FxdkG4LGO9M/s800/DSC_0602.JPG

Edited December 9, 2010 by Enjoy

[GuiNNeSS]

Nice flowers along the way

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu6Sbb6hhI/AAAAAAAAAo0/Q6SLok_tZpE/s800/DSC_0616.JPG

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu6cmVa_sI/AAAAAAAAApA/we68a2mtOfc/s800/DSC_0619.JPG

 

Look around Mae Salong and it doesn't appeal good enough for me to spend a night here. That is unless you like the quietness, beauty of tea plantation, flowers, etc.

 

And I head to ChiangRai....no photo taking since it's getting dark too. Saw this msia bike together with a 30 years anniversary 1200GSA at the hotel. Actually I met them when I was in Sadao and rode together for some distance in Thai towards north. Judging from the looks, must have just came back from GT and Mae Sai.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu6j9c-cTI/AAAAAAAAApQ/08CH1dtoGNc/s800/DSC_0624.JPG

 

Quite a city

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu6shqrzUI/AAAAAAAAApk/tiVBGwBY6OY/s800/DSC_0629.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu6yQ9wGmI/AAAAAAAAAps/y-XdAS_kavQ/s800/DSC_0631.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu7jgzgSvI/AAAAAAAAAq4/uOR7P3IK78Q/s800/DSC_0651.JPG

 

Day 5 (ChiangRai - ChiangMai)

 

Cleared twisties for the past few days and today heading up GT and Mae Sai. Off road this time and hope nothing goes wrong.

 

Enjoyed the road to GT a lot. Very cool weather and became foggy when I turned right towards Chiang Saen.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPu7qKqV3II/AAAAAAAAArU/V_hc9AKoD5Y/s800/DSC_0656.JPG

 

Visited House of Opium for 50baht (I think)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvAPG-8W5I/AAAAAAAAAuk/0RTzJgNrRTE/s800/DSC_0705.JPG

 

And temple for a safe trip

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvBCW_NqII/AAAAAAAAAxA/zrTEFQEC-sc/s800/DSC_0750.JPG

 

Magnificent Mekong River

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvBSyfgnPI/AAAAAAAAAxs/UBYS7inp_6E/s800/DSC_0762.JPG

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvBgHpz3PI/AAAAAAAAAyM/Q3Xro5xJTMs/s800/DSC_0769.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvCFt8Ul2I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/UTBB5OX9vd4/s800/DSC_0786.JPG

 

And then the fun begins.....Didn't forget to turn off my ABS!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvCH4wVlFI/AAAAAAAAAzY/Oe6C8Fe0fTM/s800/DSC_0787.JPG

 

Can travel at 40-60kmh at this sort of ground.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvCUBABTNI/AAAAAAAAAz4/cIZlsv2vPWI/s800/DSC_0795.JPG

 

Then there was some (off) road works that I really had to slow down. They were piling up a patch of sand onto the ground. At even the slightest brake pressure on 20kmh, my bike takes her own course. I had to control my speed with only the throttle. I had both my legs down, of course. No pic for that. I was more concerned about keeping the bike upright.

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvCfWD7CGI/AAAAAAAAA0U/VNi_6SFHCNI/s800/DSC_0802.JPG

 

Cleared it without any big issues, thankfully. And then here comes the Police. Road Block. ****, I thought caught for speeding liao, $ gone. Was asked to park and dismount. Checked my licence and ask where I heading to. Said ok and started to talk cock with me! Ask me loads of questions like how much it cost lar, where I came from, bla bla bla.... And even took a pic! Lol.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvCohC5UBI/AAAAAAAAA0k/vzEUPCmIqxc/s800/DSC_0806.JPG

 

And to Mae Sai

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvCsa-CxjI/AAAAAAAAA00/O8Xm4NC5lnA/s800/DSC_0809.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvC15ByDRI/AAAAAAAAA1M/Ne8H_OB7N9Q/s800/DSC_0815.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvDRDVFuoI/AAAAAAAAA10/b4rxiyvfeWw/s800/DSC_0824.JPG

 

I looked at the map and time. There's still time for me to explore more before I head to ChiangMai. So I turned right at the cross junction and headed towards the mountainous area. I miss the twisties and cool weather.

 

I past through many army checkpoints and they looked shocked to see me. Asked me where I heading to. I said Mae Fa luang and they gave me a weird look. Doesn't seems good. But anyway, they let me through.

 

And moments later, I knew the reason.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvDVY3G-4I/AAAAAAAAA14/nNv1t3LlhLA/s800/DSC_0825.JPG

 

The roads got extremely narrow and with this sort of tight roads, there were very steep elevation and hairpin turns. I had to hit the horn every now and then at the blind spots to warn other road users even though I didn't see any! Because if I brake at that steep slope, I'm sure to fall. Was praying at each turn that there won't be any cars. I am too deep in. Too dangerous to u-turn and take this sort of route DOWN. No choice but to bite the bullet and move on. Took out my mp3 and replace it with earplugs. I need 200% of concentration.

 

 

Continue on Post #19

Edited December 9, 2010 by Enjoy

[pipipapipu]

GOOD JOB!!!

set up camp here 1st.

hope to see more details soon =)

[kmax]

waiting.....

[mumumu]

Hi nice trip! Do you know the street name of the Chiang Mai - Tapae Place Hotel. I am thinking of going there in the near future. I have been there and circle round n round but cannot find a hotel with reasonable rate or it's a bit rundown. Is it near the Anusarn Market? Thanks and safe trip

[GuiNNeSS]

Hi nice trip! Do you know the street name of the Chiang Mai - Tapae Place Hotel. I am thinking of going there in the near future. I have been there and circle round n round but cannot find a hotel with reasonable rate or it's a bit rundown. Is it near the Anusarn Market? Thanks and safe trip

 

Tapae Road, Soi 3.

[mumumu]

Thanks. I found it too

 

http://www.chiang-mai-hotel-link.com/Tapae_Place_Hotel/accm_location

[pktan]

Very nice trip I should say, will camp for more

[pipipapipu]

Day 3 (Mae Sot - Pai)

 

And then hellish roads arrive in no time. Roads start to get narrower, more sands, more gravels, more potholes, etc. Rode for some time and felt it's not as bad as imagined or as described by Pipipapipu. And I thought the GS must be eating up bumps like PacMan eating up dots. Great! That's what it's built for, isn't it? So I got used to potholes and gravels and went faster.

 

Till......

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIFAdhdVI/AAAAAAAAAWI/dz882B_BNMk/s800/DSC_0339.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuxTxN3VAI/AAAAAAAAAcI/x4U0ush4ez0/s800/DSC_0420.JPG

 

I was bull-shitting. I stopped for countless times.

 

 

I eyes opened big big when I saw this and I LOL-ed. Well only those who when through this road will fully appreaciate it.

 

Hey I stopped at the exact same spot and snapped a picture too.. haha..

 

Ok I'm bullshitting too. but it feels the same lah.

 

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs193.ash2/45622_10150263725095026_644070025_14472375_5006647_n.jpg

Edited December 7, 2010 by pipipapipu

[kmax]

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPuxTxN3VAI/AAAAAAAAAcI/x4U0ush4ez0/s800/DSC_0420.JPG

 

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs193.ash2/45622_10150263725095026_644070025_14472375_5006647_n.jpg

 

corner photo compilation ah...

 

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs602.snc4/58211_1595111955390_1163693440_31721702_7543415_n.jpg

[kmax]

very nice...

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsHqU8V2VI/AAAAAAAAAVU/WNq74Cj16tM/s800/DSC_0327.JPG

 

not very nice....

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPsIFAdhdVI/AAAAAAAAAWI/dz882B_BNMk/s800/DSC_0339.JPG

Edited December 7, 2010 by kmax

[GuiNNeSS]

I eyes opened big big when I saw this and I LOL-ed. Well only those who when through this road will fully appreaciate it.

 

Hey I stopped at the exact same spot and snapped a picture too.. haha..

 

Ok I'm bullshitting too. but it feels the same lah.

 

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs193.ash2/45622_10150263725095026_644070025_14472375_5006647_n.jpg

 

very nice...

 

 

not very nice....

 

 

 

Wahaha....alittle big headed me learns a lesson. But hey, this is an adventure! Every hiccup is part and parcel of the game.

 

So moral of the story: Bring a bike that you can afford to fall without crying.

[pipipapipu]

corner photo compilation ah...

 

Actually still got drop bike compilation.

[papabread79]

Very good write-up with nice pics. Must have been a wonderful experience.

 

Did i hear drop-bike compilation????????? I am sure i can contribute!

[GuiNNeSS]

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvGOmUY1bI/AAAAAAAAA2o/sMY5LkOMJko/s800/DSC_0836.JPG

 

But the view is great. Over looking Myanmar

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvGQze-lfI/AAAAAAAAA2w/9sR2nzHYAPE/s800/DSC_0837.jpg

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvHZgCE6_I/AAAAAAAAA3Y/wmcmfEIEN24/s800/DSC_0845.JPG

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvHfB5w7gI/AAAAAAAAA3g/uiSJPN2iqqA/s800/DSC_0847.JPG

 

I have been very wary about what I eat all long since the last thing I want is to fall sick on a solo trip. Not taking in fried food, ti-bits, drinks with high sugar content and stuffs. But I was too hungry here and thought since I have already covered all my target destinations, whack lar!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvHmAq-YiI/AAAAAAAAA3s/E9P8Rpccbds/s800/DSC_0850.JPG

 

Tasted really good!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvHso_Cx4I/AAAAAAAAA34/mOYgEs1wrH0/s800/DSC_0853.JPG

 

And to Mae Fa Luang Garden. A must go for flowers lover.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvH3Rpbm1I/AAAAAAAAA4I/WvYhhP_JTKM/s800/DSC_0857.JPG

 

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvH0seUzGI/AAAAAAAAA4E/Wvg-RN48Z8Y/s800/DSC_0856.JPG

 

And left for ChiangMai. Straight and long road bores me out.

 

Is this the real long neck village? I had no idea. Was asked to pay 300B inside and to trek for 30 mins. No way. Look around for alternative roads in, couldn't find any.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvIANFdPYI/AAAAAAAAA4c/ucG6eXLvWkg/s800/DSC_0861.JPG

 

And I stopped along here for my super late lunch.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvIM0fiFLI/AAAAAAAAA4o/lxyZygruCMI/s800/DSC_0865.JPG

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvIRgg3PrI/AAAAAAAAA4s/itk2M8PUgjA/s800/DSC_0867.JPG

 

Had noodles for dinner at ChiangMai between Burger King and Macdonalds. Haha. But If I'm eating common food that can be found locally, maybe I shouldn't travel in the first place.

 

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvIVxgGFhI/AAAAAAAAA48/JkKCm_kdcg0/s800/DSC_0871.JPG

 

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvIXN-YCwI/AAAAAAAAA5A/0JfZUfb0cYg/s800/DSC_0872.JPG

 

Didn't like the night market here. They treat you like carrot heads once you speak english, the price just raised up by a few folds. Walk away and you hear the background shouting half the price initially offered. Feels like Bangkok, I miss Pai.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJEvaJtkI/AAAAAAAAA50/YweCdzFEt2s/s800/DSC_0884.JPG

 

Day 6 (ChiangMai - ChiangMai)

 

And then disaster strikes! I heard sound coming from the drive shaft. No good! Stopped by the road side and check visually. Nothing. I went over to Ping river for photographs first since I'm just round the corner.

 

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJL-ygSqI/AAAAAAAAA6M/AIYdvVdXaYY/s800/DSC_0890.JPG

 

Looked up my GPS immediately for Barcelona Motors (BMW) and head straight there.

 

The more I rode, the more uneasy I felt. I know I'm farked. But at the same time, I was lucky to be in ChiangMai and not some ulu places.

 

Felt so homely when I saw this

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJaQEEZxI/AAAAAAAAA68/XT3jE3KnOwc/s800/DSC_0902.JPG

 

I know I can get good help here.

 

Kumphol attended to me almost immediately when I rode in and I told him the problem. He checked my bike and realised there's some tiny gap at the rear wheel when shaking from 12 and 6 o'clock. Preliminary suspect is bearings but have to remove to give a good check.

 

So there goes....

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJQcg6BBI/AAAAAAAAA6c/BjjXI57Khys/s800/DSC_0894.JPG

 

Not here, have to go deeper.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJRfa4nsI/AAAAAAAAA6g/L_JSWgME7Ho/s800/DSC_0895.JPG

 

Everytime he smiles after removing a certain portion, my heart skipped a beat. In no time, he got the whole rear off.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJUP7qvnI/AAAAAAAAA6o/7NoNklx3GWI/s800/DSC_0897.JPG

 

I have never seen a mechanic work so fast and professionally. He is by far the best mechanic I have seen with my own eyes. Even though my bike broke down, I feel very safe here.

 

He then guided me on what actually went wrong and showed me the shaft, a couple of bearings and seals. Worn out. I mentioned it's 110k on the clock for this bike and he goes, ok. Wear and tear, not misuse or parts failing prematurely. But there's no parts. So I got him to list out all the parts required to see if it's possible to get parts from Singapore, KL or bangkok to fly in by DHL. When I saw him writing, I know I have to book my flight tickets home. Consulted him and he agrees.

 

So, with very very helpful receptionists, they help me out to check for tickets. Decided to transit at Bangkok since direct silkair at that moment is far too expensive. Book my flight to bangkok with a call to a travel agency and they delivery the tickets here in an hour. Talk about service! I spent that time buying a tiger airways flight back to SIN with their computer at the reception and pack the necessary stuffs that I need. The ticket arrives on time and the gals (receptionists) offered to call a cab to my hotel, which I already checked out. Said a million thanks to each and everyone that served me and especially to kumphol.

 

Bidded Queen Kong goodbye and said some words to her. You sure know how to choose places to break down! When we have completed the destinations, and just less than 5km away from a BMW dealer! I knew it when you ditched your singapore number plate as a hint to me that you wanted to drop that Singapore PR status and become a Thai. Damn you, I gave her a good kick in the ass, not!

 

Seeya!

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Xs8qjqmG_5s/TPvJSmq_pjI/AAAAAAAAA6k/pXnhLfcjRko/s800/DSC_0896.JPG

Edited December 9, 2010 by Enjoy

[GuiNNeSS]

Updated. With directions to MHS cert. at first post.

 

 

 

Very good write-up with nice pics. Must have been a wonderful experience.

 

Did i hear drop-bike compilation????????? I am sure i can contribute!

 

Yeah, was awesome! Thanks for your information too!

[kmax]

good luck bro.. hope Queen Kong can come back home in one piece..

[pipipapipu]

So there is part 2 to his adventure..

 

Chiang Mai to Secret location X. (to be continued)

 

Cheers to your courage for there are countless others who dare not embark on such a journey, much less alone.

The hardest part is making the decision to go, preparation is routine and the actual journey is just a process that will fall into place from the word GO. ^^

[papabread79]

The hardest part is making the decision to go, preparation is routine and the actual journey is just a process that will fall into place from the word GO. ^^

Hi Handsome,

 

I find that the hardest part was when the below-mentioned hit me, the same way it hit Enjoy. About being daring enough or not... i think once you moved off from GP, you have already overcame that.

 

The moment I checked into hotel room, loneliness hammered on me hard. The first time I walked into hotel room alone and this thought arises,"What the hell am I doing?!" I'm in Surat, there's no turning back or chicken out and I just have to believe in this trip.

Its just mental strength here that needs to be overcome.

[pipipapipu]

Hi Handsome,

 

I find that the hardest part was when the below-mentioned hit me, the same way it hit Enjoy. About being daring enough or not... i think once you moved off from GP, you have already overcame that.

 

Its just mental strength here that needs to be overcome.

 

 

 

I got hit by the same train of thought as you guys too, I'm no man of steel.

 

It was face to face with reality, you got to be 100% honest with yourself to either to overcome the obstacles ahead or to go home like a dog with its tails between its legs. But you got to 'there' before the thoughts hits you.

 

Other major obstacle I faced was diverting 'spooky' thoughts from my mind; I slept with the lights on. 'I was scared'

 

I really wonder why they put big mirrors in the room.. i really wonder.. eekksss..

 

Edited December 9, 2010 by pipipapipu

[GuiNNeSS]

Going on such a solo trip does take some courage and coming from a traditional chinese family with old fashion parents (in-laws included), it was hard to convince them. But I know my directions and where they are. Just have to believe in myself and head towards it. I thought that is very important. I don't wanna regret years later (when responsibilities are much more and such a trip is just not possible) and say silly stuffs like,"I should have done this.....done that." Life is too short to have regrets!

 

But of course I did an analyse on how capable I am to do such a trip. Yeah, I am not those lao-jiao riders. But hey, I am no newbie too! I do have certain amount of knowledge on bikes (technical, I diy stuffs on bikes), years of riding experience, touring experiences, etc.

 

With you guys trip reports as encouragements that so many have done it. And a thread in another forum that features a LADY quitting her job for a solo backpacking RTW trip for 1 year+. I thought my solo trip is really peanut.

 

Spooky? Then avoid First hotel and the one I mentioned in Kanachanaburi, Noble Night.

 

The bed frame is spooky. The huge ring with the key + walking along the corridor makes you feel like you are walking into a prison cell or hell.

In Noble Night (Kanachanaburi), the floating platform makes noise whenever someone walks past. Especially eerie when it's in the middle of the night with you hearing eeeekkk, oooorrrrk, eeeeeekk, ooooorrrrk.......But well, they have normal houses with nice rooms too. And there are tons of guesthouse in that area. 400B with nice views and swimming pool is just too hard to resist.

 

Whenever you feel uneasy at the reception of an unknown hotel, ask politely to view the rooms. Take a good look around and decide from there.

 

After a long day of riding, I am usually too tired to think about spooky things when it's bed time. Just divert my attention to how I can enjoy the queen/king size bed all to myself! LOL!