Heading east for my holiday, rather than west as usual (I am part of the Latin America Team at Steppes), I travelled to revisit Thailand, I haven’t been for over 10 years when I embarked upon my solo round the world trip.

Bangkok is still as delightful as ever, a taste sensation with delicious street food and incredible temples set throughout the city. Most notably the Grand Palace and Wat Po which are still as remarkable as they once were or perhaps better; I have travelled so much in the past 10 years giving me a new appreciation for their grand splendour. In fact, I thought the city had cleaned up its act, cleaning the streets and not to mention the new airport and sky train, which I had to go on to access Chatuchak weekend market on my last day – fantastic for shopping!

This trip took me south to Thailand’s islands and beaches which did not disappoint. I gained my open water certification on the charming island of Koh Tao – incredible!

I also headed off the beaten track on a local train to Ayutthaya, the second capital of Siam after Sukhotai and the trading capital of Asia, with its beautiful temples it was like being transported back to the 16th Century. Set at the confluence of three rivers the many temples can easily be accessed by boat, on foot or by bike, if you can brave the heat! Both Mahathat, with its famous Buddha head consumed in a fig tree and Ratchburana, where you can venture inside, stood out so much so that I headed to the Chao Sam Phraya Museum to see the fascinating artefacts from Ayutthaya period. Bronze and gold Buddha’s along with intricate wooden carvings – well worth the visit.

I am already planning my next visit, and hope to include Cambodia and Laos next time. Right, back to work and back to selling South America!

If I’ve inspired you to consider a holiday to Thailand please contact Sally for ideas or information. Sally grew up in Bangkok and shares my enthusiasm for the land of smiles.

Thanks for reading

Author: Steppes Travel