Thailand

Weekend getaway to Phuket

by ozawapi · Jan 1, 2012

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and commonly associated with overcrowded pristine white sandy beaches, bright blue sea and… naughty nightlife!
I know, it may sound all stereotyped… but the reputation of Phuket has long refrained us from choosing it as a paradise escape.

However, since we now live in Singapore which is just a short 1.30 hours flight from Phuket, we thought we should give it a chance and challenged ourselves to find a cozy hideaway in touristy Phuket for a relaxing weekend getaway.

We stayed at the Andaman White Beach Resort located on the west coast of Phuket, about 15 km south of the airport.

Set against a backdrop of green hills with endless views on the Andaman Sea, the resort enjoys a private cove on Nai Thorn Noi Beach, one of the most deserted beaches of Phuket.

Most of our days did not include much more than sunbathing, strolling the soft sand, Thai massage, swimming and kayaking in the crystal clear waters, and admiring the waves twinkling in the sunlight.

Of course, we also went to Phuket town (about 1 hour away by taxi) to experience the city life. There wasn’t much to see there but it gave us a chance to capture interesting real-life scenes.

If someone would have asked us before why we never traveled to Phuket, no doubt we would have used clichés such as it’s very crowded, it’s a sex-tourism destination or a drinking hotspot. But now we can confirm that there is more to Phuket. If you pick your spot properly, you can still get that secluded island feeling. Peaceful, scenic and totally relaxing.

A perfect weekend getaway!

We were not meant for each other but…

by ozawapi · May 22, 2011

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, was not a “love at first sight” type of relationship. But as we got to know each other, Bangkok revealed itself beyond the clichés.
Bangkok is a city that you can visit over and over again and always find something new and interesting, whether you are there for work or on a convenient flight stop-over.
The first time we visited Bangkok was just after several months backpacking across Australia and New Zealand. And we have to admit that the first hours were quite overwhelming.
The sprawling city seemed impenetrable at first. Home to more than 6 millions inhabitants, Bangkok is a human jungle! But as we spent some time strolling around this exotic metropolis, we were simply amazed by the curious contrasts and wanders of Bangkok. From extravagant ladyboys to calm monks, from towering skyscrapers to traditional houses, from ancient architecture and culture to modern lifestyle.
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Sight: glittering temples, gigantic shopping centres and imposing skyscrapers
Bangkok counts some impressive temples like Wat Pho (largest and oldest temple in Bangkok and home to the impressive reclining Buddha) and The Grand Palace (Thailand’s most sacred place and home to the famous Emerald Buddha).
Also, a trip to Bangkok would not be complete without a few days browsing Bangkok malls where anything from clothes to gems and technology can be found.
Oh and for a stunning view over Bangkok, go for a drink at the open-air Vertigo bar on the roof of the 5 star Banyan Tree hotel.
Smell: pollution and delicious aromas
The smells of Bangkok are quite intense and can be awkward sometimes.
The savory smoke of street food, the choking diesel from millions of vehicles, the sweltering humidity, the garbage, the incense sticks burning from tiny Buddhist shrines, blend all together to reveal a truly unique scent.
Sound: a city that never sleeps
With its hyperactive traffic and buzzing Tuk Tuks, non-stop party and striking street vendors, Bangkok is literally alive 24/7.

Taste: gastronomic heaven

Everywhere you look there are restaurants, food stalls, curry shops, fast food, roadside barbecues and little carts selling everything from the local favourite Pad Thai to fried insects and other creepy stuff.
Touch: from violent Thai Boxing to invigorating Thai massage
Furious punches and kicks, crushing elbow strikes…Get knocked out watching a match of Thai Boxing! Seeing these powerful moves executed live is really impressive. Not suitable for sensitive souls though!
Enjoying a traditional Thai massage involving stretching and yoga-like poses is another must-do.

12 unexpected things we love about Thailand

by ozawapi · Mar 25, 2011

Renowned for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, rich culture and flavored cuisine, Thailand is a Southeast Asian paradise.
But today we won’t talk about its scenic beauty, fabulous temples, lovely population and other common things people like about Thailand. Instead, let’s talk about the little things of day-to-day live that will surprise you.

The 12 unexpected things that stood out when travelling in Thailand:

1. You can stop for a nap anywhere anytime