01
Bangkok
5 days
We choose Chinatown as our base in Bangkok as I have the fondest memories there from my first visit. Prices are cheap and it has the most local charm right on your doorstep. There is colourful inspiration on every corner. It is next to the Chao Phraya river with its convenient river bus and it is the best place for streetfood.
We take a bike tour around Chinatown and across the river. My dad comes to visit us and shows us around. He introduces us to Khao Tom Mud, sweet sticky rice steamed in a bananaleaf. I finally find the typically Thai melamine bowls I wanted for years.
With our bellies full of pad thai and Thai style coffees we set off to take the night train to Chiang Mai. Although our seats are close to the open doors and dust flies in our faces, we had a surprisingly decent sleep. Waking up with the morning sun on the green forest while the train slowly makes its way to Chiang Mai makes for an ideal start of the day. The train stops along the way at a small station so we can get out and stretch our legs and brush our teeth in the crisp morning air.