Thailand beyond the images: my story of an intensely lived journey
- Giovanna Maria Depriori
- Jun 3
- 25 min read
A practical tale, but with an eye also on the emotions and sensations that certain places and certain experiences can make you live: the charm of the new, the thrill of discovery and that sense of wonder that awakens in front of the beauty of the world.
If I were asked to describe my trip to Thailand in a few words, I would say: “intense, exciting, enriching”.
It is difficult to summarize such a dense and varied experience in just one adjective, especially because the trip that my partner and I organized in Thailand took us from one end of the country to the other. When we chose Thailand as the destination of our first trip to Asia, we expected a challenge: we knew that there would be intense rhythms and that we would encounter a reality very different from ours, but we did not imagine how much it would influence our way of perceiving everyday life.
There is one aspect of travel that guidebooks fail to fully capture: the sensations you feel when you set foot in a culturally different country for the first time, and the impact that certain places and people can have on you. Bangkok, for example, a vibrant metropolis that never seems to sleep, was an overwhelming start: a huge city, alive at all hours, chaotic and fascinating at the same time. On the contrary, the mountains near the Chiang Mai area, where time passes slowly among forests and temples immersed in nature, gave us moments of quiet in a natural context that seems made specifically to slow down the pace. Then there are places that seem to have come out of a dream, like Cheow Lan Lake, in the heart of Khao Sok National Park: a surreal place, with its sea stacks that are reflected in calm waters surrounded by an ancient forest.
This journey was not only a discovery of landscapes, but also of a culture that, with its traditions and rhythms, offered us various food for thought. The differences can be perceived in every aspect: from the cuisine - rich in flavors and contrasts - to the relationship with spirituality, so rooted in daily life, to the priorities of life. Every experience, from visiting a crowded temple to walking for hours in the silence of an immense nature, taught us something new.
This article is a practical story, but with an eye also on the emotions and sensations that certain places and certain experiences can make you live. The charm of the new, the thrill of discovery and that sense of wonder that awakens in front of the beauty of the world: all this was our Thailand.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Organizational measures
Organizing a trip to a country as diverse as Thailand requires attention, good planning and a pinch of flexibility. We decided to do everything independently: from choosing the itinerary to booking the accommodations, to managing the trips, relying on local guides only for some more challenging excursions. I can confirm that, despite the study and research, the trip was still very demanding! I therefore reiterate that preparation (also on the culture of this country) is essential to best enjoy a similar experience.
Here, then, is a series of practical tips that I hope will be useful.
1. Plan your itinerary based on your goals
Before you leave, ask yourself: what do you want to get out of the trip? Relaxation, culture, adventure or a mix of all? Thailand offers experiences for all tastes, but you need to have a clear idea of your priorities. We chose an itinerary that allowed us to explore both the metropolises and the rural and natural areas, balancing discovery and relaxation.
2. Consider the climate
The climate in Thailand varies greatly between the north and south and depending on the season. Check carefully the period in which you will travel: you may find good weather in the north and constant rain in the south or vice versa.
3. Approach local cuisine with curiosity, but also with caution
Thai cuisine is known for its intense and spicy flavors. If you are not used to strong spices, approach the dishes gradually. Try local dishes such as Pad Thai or Tom Yam, but remember that you can always ask for a "less spicy" version.
4. Be prepared for travel times
Bangkok, in particular, is notorious for traffic congestion: traveling a few kilometers can take a long time. We walked a lot and found the Grab app particularly convenient for hailing taxis or private cars. For short trips, tuk tuks can also be a good choice, but be careful.
5. Bring local cash
The local currency is the Thai Baht. Although you can use credit cards in major cities and large shops, cash is essential in local markets, smaller restaurants, tuk tuks or in remote areas.
6. Remember that you are in a non-EU country (for us Europeans)
Being a non-EU country, be prepared with:
Valid passport and, if required, visa (check the rules for your country);
Travel health insurance, essential;
Health advice for any vaccinations or precautions at least one month before leaving.
7. Don't take English for granted
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but you may have some difficulty in less frequented areas: use an offline translation application to facilitate communication in Thai.
8. Travel consciously and respectfully
Learn about local customs, especially regarding Buddhism (which is practiced by the majority of the population) and respect for the royal family, and other particularities of Thai society. It is important to dress appropriately when visiting temples, for example, and to show respect for the local culture and customs.
9. Buy a local SIM
At the airport you will easily find local SIM cards for data traffic at affordable prices. Having a constant connection will be useful for maps, translators and communications.
10. Protect yourself from mosquitoes
Thailand is a tropical country, so mosquitoes can be a problem. Use appropriate repellent and, if possible, wear long clothes when hiking or in the evening hours, especially in rural areas.
11. Always consider safety
Avoid putting yourself in risky situations. Whether it’s hiking without a guide, using unsafe transportation, or visiting unusual neighborhoods, caution should always be your top priority.
Our Tour
We decided to explore Thailand in 12 days, choosing an itinerary that combined culture, nature and relaxation.
Three days in Bangkok immersed us in the liveliness of the capital between temples, markets, the old city and a visit to Ayutthaya. In Chiang Mai, we experienced two unforgettable excursions: one to the Doi Inthanon National Park and a trek in the Doi Suthep temple area and surroundings. To conclude, we moved to Khao Lak, perfect for relaxing and a convenient base for exploring Khao Sok National Park.
There are still endless wonders to discover in this country, such as the Similan and Surin Islands, Pai, Chiang Rai and much more, but for reasons of time and budget optimization on this trip we have chosen to make the most of the things that are most important to us.
And now let's see the various stages in detail...
Bangkok: Our First Encounter with Thailand
Bangkok is a metropolis that leaves no one indifferent. With over eleven million inhabitants, incessant traffic, two airports serving national and international flights, and an endless tangle of streets, this city can be intimidating to those visiting for the first time. Yet, behind the apparent chaos, Bangkok turns out to be surprisingly organized. It was able to transform our initial disorientation into pure curiosity, thanks to its fascinating contradictions . We spent four days exploring it, dedicating each day to a different theme, with the aim of fully immersing ourselves in the many facets of this very complex capital.
The First Night: The Contrast Between Past and Future
After the long flight from Italy and a short transfer to our hotel – a simple and welcoming family-run establishment located near the Old Town – we decided to start the trip by immersing ourselves in modern Bangkok. A perfect way to combat tiredness and begin to familiarize ourselves with the frenetic pace of the city.
In just a few kilometers, we found ourselves catapulted from an atmosphere of simple houses, dusty streets and noisy tuk tuks, to the glitter of skyscrapers that characterize Sukhumvit, one of the most modern and sophisticated neighborhoods in Bangkok. This abrupt and fascinating transition between two worlds seemed to embody the very essence of the city: a place where the past and the future coexist side by side, as well as poverty and wealth.
On the one hand, we observed the daily life made of improvised stalls, construction work in progress and faces marked by fatigue. On the other, we were fascinated by the glittering lights of a future-oriented metropolis, with ultramodern shopping malls and breathtaking rooftops. Our choice for the first dinner fell on one of these rooftops, which gave us a spectacular view of the skyline: a mix of lights, wonder and a pinch of estrangement.
If you decide to explore this part of the city, keep in mind that traffic is particularly heavy, not only during rush hour but often all day long. Walking may not be the best option, both for safety and for the difficulty of managing movements in such a busy environment. We opted for a slow journey by car.
The second day: from the modern city to local life
After this first immersion in the most cosmopolitan and dynamic part of the city, we chose to dedicate the following days to discovering the authentic Bangkok (in our opinion). The true soul of the city lives in its historic districts, among temples rich in spirituality, colorful markets, busy streets and a rhythm of life that seems never to stop.
The second day was dedicated to the Old Town, cycling around. It was an experience as fascinating as it was challenging: cycling on busy streets where they drive on the left is not for the faint of heart! But it was worth it. This itinerary took us through picturesque and crowded alleys, but also showed us more peripheral, less maintained areas, until we reached two of the most iconic attractions: Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Royal Palace, and then Wat Pho, with its imposing reclining Buddha.
Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace
Visiting Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace is like entering a golden fairy tale : a total immersion in the gleam and grandeur that characterise the traditional architecture of this country.
Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the most important complex of the site and houses the famous Emerald Buddha. Although it is a small statue (about 66 cm), inserted in a context of grandiose and glittering buildings, this small figure manages to capture attention and emerge for its strong symbolic and spiritual value, a contrast that makes it even more fascinating in the eyes of those who observe it.
Walking through the complex is an experience that is difficult to describe in words: the aesthetic beauty is mixed with an atmosphere that seems suspended in time. Even for those who are not attracted by the pomp, there is something intangible and fascinating that can be perceived in every corner.
One element that struck us deeply were the Ramakian murals that decorate the perimeter of the temple. These paintings tell the Ramayana, the great Indian epic adapted to Thai culture, which tells the story of Prince Rama's struggle to save his wife Sita, who has been kidnapped by the king of demons. The panels are incredibly detailed and full of life with a precision in detail and an emotional charge that make it impossible to look away: for me, they were among the most memorable moments of the visit.
Continuing on, you enter the Grand Palace, once the official residence of Thailand's kings. Although most of the buildings are not open to the public today, the exterior offers a fascinating mix of Thai architecture and Western influences. Every detail seems designed to evoke power and royalty, making the entire complex a visual spectacle.
The entire visit requires at least 1 hour and a half, better if two, to have time to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere and grasp its nuances.
Wat Pho: The Temple of the Reclining Buddha
A short distance from the Grand Palace we find this temple, famous for housing the immense statue of the Reclining Buddha, one of the most visited attractions by tourists. The Reclining Buddha is modeled around a brick core 46 meters long and 15 meters high, finished in plaster and gold leaf.
Its grandeur is breathtaking, but it is the details that make the experience even more memorable: the statue's feet are decorated with intricate mother-of-pearl inlays representing the 108 physical characteristics of the Buddha.
This place also houses one of the largest collections of Buddha statues in all of Thailand, which are located under the galleries that surround the complex. Walking under these arcades offers an atmosphere of serenity and reflection, a pleasant contrast to the dynamism and bustle of the city. The many smaller buildings and courtyards within Wat Pho are also worth exploring, which in my opinion represent a simpler architecture than the Grand Palace, but thanks to the bright colors and glazed tiles, still have an impact.
China Town: A Dive into the Vibrant Soul of Bangkok
After exploring the spirituality and art of its temples, we decided to end the evening by immersing ourselves in the noisy and lively atmosphere of China Town.
In the evening, this neighborhood comes alive in a special way. Neon signs illuminate the main streets, and street food stalls are crowded with vendors intent on preparing dishes that recall Chinese tradition. Between skewers (including insects), noodles and local sweets, the air is filled with intense and particular aromas. Walking through these streets means finding yourself surrounded by a mix of colors, sounds and smells that can sometimes seem chaotic, but which tells the identity of a community rooted in the heart of Bangkok.
Returning to the hotel at the end of this long day was almost strange: after having experienced the silence of the temples and the din of China Town, it seemed like we had crossed two completely different worlds in a few hours.
This continuous alternation of atmospheres is perhaps one of the most authentic characteristics of Bangkok.
A Day Away from the Chaos: Panoramas and Contemporary Art
After two intense days among iconic temples and the chaotic energy of Bangkok, we decide to slow down and discover a less traveled side of the city. Our third day is dedicated to two places far from the center and the urban noise: Wat Saket, known as the Golden Mountain, and MOCA, the Museum of Contemporary Art Bangkok.
The Golden Mountain: A Break Between Spirituality and Panorama
Wat Saket, better known as the Temple of the Golden Mountain, is a less crowded temple than those visited in the previous days.
Immersed in a tranquil atmosphere, the staircase (over 300 steps) that leads to the top of the Golden Mountain winds through a pleasant environment, with artificial waterfalls, small statues and the relaxing sound of bells and gongs along the way. This climb is a slow journey, to be experienced by looking at the different spaces of the city that can be seen from here, in silence, in contrast with the urban chaos that stretches out on the horizon. It is a different temple compared to the large complexes that we visited previously and inside the decorative details are simpler, but the spirituality is perceived in a more intimate way, with an atmosphere of meditation and peace. Once you have finished the climb to the Golden Mountain, which is the main attraction, at Wat Saket you can also visit smaller buildings that surround it.
The MOCA: Exploring Contemporary Thai Art
After leaving the Golden Mountain and taking a short break to recover from the heat, we head to MOCA, the Museum of Contemporary Art Bangkok. This modern building, located outside the city center, is a real gem for art lovers: it is a perfect fusion of contemporary art and traditional Thai culture.
Organized on several thematic floors, the museum boasts a vast collection of permanent works but also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, and in addition to local art you can find some works by international artists, with a global perspective.
Personally, I can say that each of the five floors of the museum offers a unique theme, which takes the visitor on a fascinating personal journey. I found works rich in details and symbolism, with a visual narrative of great impact, works that strike for their complexity and symbolic depth, making the visit stimulating and unique.
Among the rooms that impressed me the most, the one dedicated to "fantasy art", where imagination reigns supreme, fascinated me for its ability to mix the real and the unreal in a way that is both disturbing and attractive.
An evening of relaxation and street food: the ChangChui Creative Park market
Our day ends with a visit to ChangChui Creative Park, a market that combines art, design and street food. This place, far from the frenzy of the central markets, is a mix of creativity and local flavors. The stalls and small restaurants present offer traditional Thai dishes with an innovative touch, making the culinary experience surprising and satisfying.
The atmosphere is intimate and relaxing: soft lighting, art installations and a unique design create an environment that invites you to take your time to observe and savor every detail. We end our day here, enjoying delicious dishes and appreciating this more peaceful and creative side of Bangkok.
Ayutthaya: a journey beyond history, between temples, emotions and reflections
For the last day in central Thailand, we decide to leave Bangkok to immerse ourselves in an even more ancient history: with the help of a local guide, we move towards Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam, today a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This place, full of historical memory, offered us a break from the present to rediscover the grandeur of a time gone by, capable of transmitting an immense force through its ruins.
Once we reached Ayutthaya, we found ourselves in front of a unique landscape: expanses of ruined temples that tell the glorious past of a city that was the capital of Siam from 1350 until 1767, when it was destroyed by the Burmese army.
With the support of our guide, we explored the most emblematic sites, letting ourselves be carried away by the stories that every brick and every sculpture seemed to whisper.
The first stop was Wat Phra Si Sanphet, one of the most important and sacred temples of the ancient capital. Its iconic chedi (stupa), with their slender and imposing forms, seem to defy time, transmitting a sense of grandeur and power.
Walking here was like walking a path between past and present, surrounded by an energy that envelops you and makes you feel the weight of history.
Continuing we visited Wat Maha That, a place with an almost mystical charm, famous for the Buddha's head nestled between the roots of a tree. Here, nature and history seem to merge into a single entity: the roots seem to protect the Buddha, as if nature itself had chosen to guard and preserve the spirituality of this place.
Finally, we visited Wat Na Phra Men, renovated during the reign of Rama III, where we find an imposing bronze statue of the Buddha, completely covered with gold leaves, where the Buddha is depicted with a series of royal ornaments. Precisely for this reason, the image is called "The Crowned Buddha", and is one of the few large images of the Buddha that remained almost intact following the Burmese invasion of 1767.
Spending the day among these places gave us emotions that are difficult to describe. Walking among the remains of the temples was not only a journey into history, but an experience that touched deep chords.
We felt small in front of the immensity of the past, as if every stone, every engraving, carried with it the strength and greatness of an entire civilization.
The majesty of these ruins is not limited to their physical size: it is a silent power that echoes through time and space.
The imposing chedis, the mutilated but still proud Buddhas, the roots that embrace the statues: everything seems to want to tell a story of resilience, of beauty that resists despite the wounds inflicted by time and men.
Choosing a local guide proved to be fundamental: not only did he help us grasp the historical and religious details, but he also allowed us to experience Ayutthaya with authentic eyes, immersing ourselves in the Thai spirit made of respect for the past and a deep connection with the present.
We return to Bangkok with hearts full of emotions: Ayutthaya is not just a place of ancient ruins, but an open window onto a history that continues to live through what remains.
Our last evening in the capital ends with a reflection: Bangkok and its surroundings are not simply a destination, they are an experience to be lived with openness and slowness, accepting its contrasts and allowing yourself to be amazed by its extraordinary complexity.
Chiang Mai – A Small World Between History and Nature
After the intense days spent in Bangkok, our next destination takes us to the north of Thailand. With a short internal flight we reach Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of the north, with illuminated monasteries, bustling markets, quiet residential streets and a tangle of hills covered in forests: we move to a small, more rural center from which we will set off for two beautiful excursions.
A first evening to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere between temples, massages and bazaars
After yet another move, we give ourselves a few hours to settle in. We decide to explore the old city at sunset, walking through its alleys dotted with temples. Compared to Bangkok, here the religious architecture is different: the temples are smaller, but with details that amaze our eyes!
We stop at Wat Phra Singh, where the atmosphere is particularly evocative at sunset, and then we stop at Wat Chedi Luang, one of the most important in the city: its ancient brick chedi, partially collapsed, emerges imposingly in the historic centre, testifying to the glorious past of the Lanna kingdom.
Far from the chaotic traffic of Bangkok, Chiang Mai immediately appears to us as a city on a human scale, where it is possible to get lost on foot among quiet alleys and small hidden gardens.
After days of walking and moving, we finally decide to treat ourselves to a Thai massage. We opt for Lila Thai Massage, a center renowned for its professionalism and for the social project it supports: here the masseuses are ex-prisoners who, thanks to this initiative, have the opportunity to reintegrate into society through a profession.
An hour and a half of intense treatment, in which every muscle is stretched and massaged with energy: a true experience that alternates moments of relaxation with firm pressure. We come out regenerated, even if, as per Thai tradition, the massage is not always a caress... but our body thanks you!
The evening continues with a visit to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, one of the most famous night markets in the city. Here the atmosphere is lively but not chaotic, with stalls displaying local crafts, fabrics, and souvenirs of all kinds.
After a walk among the lights and colours of the market and a spicy dinner, we return to the room early: the next day a long and exciting excursion awaits us to discover the uncontaminated nature of the north.
Trekking in Doi Suthep: Effort, Wonder and Discovery
With the help of a local operator specialized in sports excursions, we venture into an immersive trek in the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. A full day in the jungle of the plateau, between challenging trails, dense vegetation and surprising landscapes.
The route is definitely challenging: about 7 hours of intense walking, 16 km long and over 1000 meters of altitude difference, but the effort is rewarded by the beauty of the landscape, which changes constantly before our eyes. Between the sweat and the mosquitos ready to attack us everywhere (I highly recommend a good repellent!), we immerse ourselves in an uncontaminated natural environment, made of lush forests, sounds of nature and intense scents of the jungle.
After the first part of the walk, we reach our first stop: a small temple surrounded by greenery, where the silence and harmony of the place give us a first break of regenerating serenity thanks to what our eyes begin to see here…
Just enough time to catch your breath because the trekking doesn't stop: now the route becomes steeper and more technical, requiring more attention and resistance.
After a short climb, we arrive at an iconic site, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden temple perched on the mountain, which offers incredible views of Chiang Mai from above.
This is one of the most touristic points of the excursion, perhaps also due to its location.
Leaving the temple behind us, we enter the deepest jungle. Here nature shows itself in all its power: very tall trees, with majestic shapes and imposing roots that seem to weave the ground, plants with bright colors and sounds that I had never heard before (probably from animals that I don't know, but better not to think about it!).
For me it is a continuous exploration, a fascinating discovery of a world that I had never seen so closely. After hours of walking, we arrive at a waterfall hidden in the forest. The water flows impetuously between the rocks, creating a corner of paradise that seems to have come out of a painting. We stop for a few moments, to savor the freshness of the air and the wild beauty of the place, but the excursion is not over yet.
We continue our journey along increasingly remote paths, until we reach a small village inhabited by a local community.
Here time seems to have stopped: a few wooden houses, terraced crops and people who live following ancient rhythms, far from the frenzy of the modern world.
We observe in silence, respecting the tranquility of the place, while we immerse ourselves in an atmosphere that transmits a feeling of rare authenticity.
After hours of walking, this unforgettable day finally comes to an end. The body is tired, but the mind is full of strong emotions: the sense of conquest for having faced such an intense trek, the wonder of the wild nature, the respect for the spirituality of the places visited and the surprise of having touched with your own hands a reality so far from ours.
It was a challenge, but every step was worth it.
Exploring Doi Inthanon: Waterfalls, Forests and Royal Pagodas
After the intense but extraordinary experience of trekking to Doi Suthep, we are ready for a new adventure.
This time, however, we opt for a more “relaxed and touristy” excursion, taking part in an organized tour in the Doi Inthanon National Park. A choice that allows us to enjoy the natural wonders without having to worry about transportation, letting ourselves be transported by our van through the mountainous landscapes of northern Thailand.
While on the one hand this day promises less physical effort, on the other hand Doi Inthanon Park is vast and full of attractions, so much so that the movements themselves become part of the adventure. The road winds through continuous ups and downs, crossing landscapes that change at every bend.
Our first stop is one of the most scenic: the Wachirathan waterfall. With its 80 meters of height, this thunderous column of water breaks on the rocks below creating a cloud of tiny drops that refract the sunlight, giving us a natural rainbow. We are enchanted to admire the power of nature: the roar of the water crashing downstream, the lush vegetation that frames the scene and the energy that this place releases.
After this immersion in nature, we make a short stop in a village inhabited by the Hmong community, a mountain ethnic group with deep roots in this region. Here we witness the traditional preparation of coffee, and discover some artisanal techniques passed down for generations. The atmosphere is quiet and time seems to pass more slowly, in contrast to the dynamism of the city.
After a short coffee break we continue our journey towards the highest peak in Thailand: the 2,565 meters of Doi Inthanon. Here, the air is cooler and the landscape changes once again. We enter the Ang Ka nature trail, a short but fascinating walk among mosses, ferns and trees shrouded in fog.
This forest, unlike any I have seen so far, is a unique microcosm, where vegetation grows in a perfect fusion of humidity and altitude.
The final stop on our tour takes us to one of the park’s most iconic landmarks: the Twin Pagodas, built in honor of the late King and Queen of Thailand. Surrounded by manicured gardens and overlooking a spectacular valley, the pagodas offer sweeping views of the park.
The sunset begins to paint the sky with shades of gold and pink, giving us one last moment of wonder on the journey back to Chiang Mai.
And so, this day also comes to an end and, with it, our adventure in the north of Thailand. Chiang Mai and its surroundings have given us unique experiences, between nature, culture and spirituality.
If I could go back, I would probably have dedicated a few more days to this region, to explore even more of its wonders. However, every trip leaves a door open for the future... and who knows, maybe we will return!
Now, however, it's time for a change of scenery: our journey continues southwards, destination Khao Lak, for new adventures between the sea and tropical nature!
The Journey to the South: Khao Lak and Khao Sok National Park
Awake in the night so as not to miss even a minute of this precious journey… At 4 in the morning we are already at the airport, ready for a new chapter of our adventure! This time, the flight takes us to more tropical scenarios: the South of Thailand awaits us! After a couple of hours we land in Phuket, but our journey does not stop there. We leave behind the chaos of the island and move again, this time by land, to a quieter destination immersed in nature: Khao Lak.
We decided to spend the last four days of our trip in this area, choosing a single base to enjoy the sea and nature without moving too much. Southern Thailand offers endless possibilities, from diving to boat trips, from snorkeling to lively cities, but our heart took us to what, without a doubt, turned out to be the most beautiful experience of the entire trip: the excursion to Khao Sok National Park.
Khao Lak: the tranquility and charm of wild beaches
Why did we choose Khao Lak instead of Phi Phi Islands or other famous islands in the South?
The answer is simple: we wanted to stay in touch with nature once again, away from mass tourism. Khao Lak is located about two hours north of Phuket and is a place that retains a more authentic soul, with long golden beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Hat Nang Thong Beach, famous for its shells, became our refuge. Walking on this stretch of golden sand, dotted with shells and logs smoothed by the sea, with the water of the Andaman Sea in front and the wild nature behind us, gave us a sense of profound freedom.
Here time seems to slow down, the sound of the waves mixes with the rustling of the breeze in the trees and the sky is tinged with warm shades at sunset. It is one of those places where you feel part of the landscape, where nature envelops you and fills you with energy.
After days of intense travel, this break was regenerating. We chose to savor simplicity: long walks on the beach, feet sinking into the sand, the wind caressing our faces, the horizon that gets lost between the sea and the sky.
It's our beach, natural and wild, and it's the perfect place to prepare for our last big adventure before returning: the excursion to Cheow Lan Lake, in the heart of Khao Sok National Park.
Cheow Lan Lake Excursion: A Day to Remember
Still sleepy but excited to experience a new adventure, we leave early in the morning with a local operator for an intense and fascinating excursion. After about two hours of travel, we arrive in the heart of Khao Sok National Park, one of the oldest and most pristine ecosystems on the planet.
Here the landscape changes dramatically: we leave the road behind us and board a typical Thai long-tail boat to cross the Cheow Lan Lake.
The lake is a real spectacle: its emerald green waters stretch as far as the eye can see, nestled between majestic limestone stacks that emerge imposingly like silent giants. The weather is not on our side: the sky is full of clouds and the rain is starting to fall, but then again we are in one of the oldest rainforests in the world... the rain here is a constant!
After a suggestive navigation, we reach the shore and prepare for a short trek in the forest. We put on our k-ways and protect our legs with high socks to avoid unpleasant encounters with leeches.
As soon as we enter the path, the feeling is surreal: it seems like we have ended up in Jurassic Park. Huge bamboo canes intertwine above us, creating a natural tunnel, while around us stand centuries-old trees with gigantic roots that sink into the damp ground.
The air is full of the scents of wet earth and vegetation, the sound of tropical birds and small streams accompanies us at every step.
After this first cinematic impact, we return to our boat to continue exploring the stacks. We slide silently between these rock formations until we reach a cave that we can explore from the inside.
Wow! We enter with our guide into a “cave” that seems to come from another world. Stalactites and stalagmites sculpted over the centuries create an almost alien landscape.
The passage is narrow and dark, but armed with torches we make our way until we discover an unexpected detail: above us, on the ceiling of the cave, dozens of bats rest hanging, motionless and silent.
The atmosphere is magical and a little surreal, as the maze of tunnels opens up before our eyes, revealing hidden scenarios shaped by nature over millennia. It is a breathtaking experience.
After visiting the cave, we get back on the boat to reach one of the most iconic panoramic points of the lake: the Three Brothers, three spectacular stacks that emerge from the water creating a breathtaking panorama.
This is the perfect place to take the famous iconic photo of Cheow Lan Lake, an image that will remain forever etched in our memories.
We finally return to the shore, wet, cold, tired… but immensely happy.
The emotion of this day, the contact with such a primordial and powerful nature, the adrenaline of discovery... all this will remain imprinted in our memory forever.
This adventure has also come to an end, but we already know that it will be one of those experiences that we will tell a thousand times with the same enthusiasm.
The Return Home: A Journey That Stays in Your Heart
And now, with my suitcase emptied but my mind still full of images, scents and emotions, I think back to everything this trip has left me.
Thailand is not just a place to visit, but an experience that enters you, that overwhelms you with its energy and envelops you with its spirituality. Every temple, every landscape, every encounter has added a piece to this journey that has been much more than a simple vacation: it has been a journey of discovery, of wonder and, in a certain sense, also of personal growth.
I will take with me the frenzy of Bangkok, the power of the ancient temples, the wild nature of the north, the calm and mysterious waters of Cheow Lan Lake, the infinite quiet of Khao Lak. I will take with me the genuine smile of the people with whom I shared even a few moments of the trip.
Coming back wasn't easy, but I know that every trip leaves something of itself inside us, and Thailand has left an important mark. I also know that this land will always have a special place in my heart, and who knows... maybe one day I'll go back. But in the meantime, I will continue to travel, to explore, to let myself be amazed by the world, because if there's one thing that this trip has taught me is that there is always something wonderful waiting for us, you just have to have the courage to leave and learn to explore.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is based solely on my personal travel experience from November 18, 2024 to November 30, 2024 and is provided for informational purposes only.
However, they do not constitute professional advice and may not be suitable for all needs or situations. Each traveler should do their own research and make decisions based on their own needs, verifying the information and consulting official sources for health, safety and travel documentation issues. I do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the contents, which may vary over time. Any organizational suggestions, itineraries or references to tourist services and facilities are the result of my subjective experience and do not constitute a guarantee of quality or availability. The brands, company names, accommodation facilities and services possibly mentioned belong to their respective owners. Their mention in this article is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply any type of affiliation, sponsorship or approval.
Anyone who chooses to follow directions, advice or itineraries reported in this article does so under their own responsibility. I always recommend checking information from official sources and taking the necessary travel precautions.
