Day 11: Madinah - KL, Leaving the Holy Lands...

"May Allah accept our prayers, purify our hearts, and grant us the ability to perform Umrah again and again..."

(Having breakfast over the Indian Ocean)

Day 11: 31/01/26 (Saturday)
Route: Madinah - Kuala Lumpur
Flight: MH159 2130/1115+1 MED-KUL

Our bags were packed and arranged neatly outside the room, ready for the porter. As this was our final day in Madinah, we made every effort to perform our obligatory and sunnah prayers at the mosque. For the last time, we recited our salam to the Prophet, bade farewell, and offered heartfelt doa, carrying with us hopes and gratitude that words could hardly express.

After Asar prayers, we boarded the bus to Madinah International Airport. Leaving Madinah is an emotional experience, it feels as though a piece of my heart remains behind in this blessed City of the Prophet. I leave Madinah with tears in my eyes and peace in my heart, carrying its blessings quietly within me, until the day Allah allows me to return.

Baggage check-in and immigration clearance went smoothly. Our 9.30 pm MH159 flight departed on time. The seven-hour journey was uneventful, and I slept through most of it, allowing my tired body and soul to rest. 

We arrived at KLIA at 10.45 am.

Alhamdulillah...

Day 10: Madinah - A Day of Rest...

"You can't calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass..." - Timber Hawkeye

(I am not in the best of moods...)

Day 10: 30/01/26 (Friday)
Activity: Madinah - Rest in Bed
Hotel: Emaar Elite Hotel Madinah

It was a difficult night. My body felt feverish, my throat raw and sore. I took painkillers to keep the temperature down and sucked on lozenges, though even cool water was painful to swallow. Sleep came only in fragments, interrupted by frequent trips to the washroom.

I woke early for Subuh with a throbbing headache and managed only a small breakfast - one piece of bread with honey. The rest of the morning was spent in bed, wrapped in a thick blanket, hoping for strength to return. I felt heavy-hearted missing prayers at the mosque.

By noon, the fever finally broke. I had a light lunch, my appetite still poor, and spent the day resting, nursing a persistent cough and aching body. As evening fell on our last night in Madinah, hubby quietly began packing our bags, an unspoken reminder that this chapter of our journey was coming to an end.

Illness slowed my body, but it also taught me surrender. In this quiet room, wrapped in blankets and patience, I was reminded that rest, too, can be an act of faith and that healing comes in its own time.

Day 09: Madinah – Badr, the First Battle in Islamic History...

“And Allah had already given you victory at Badr when you were few in number...” - Surah Al-Imran 3:123

(Fourteen Martyrs of Badr)

Day 09: 29/01/26 (Thursday)
Activity: Madinah - Makrakah Badar Tour
Hotel: Emaar Elite Hotel Madinah

Today we travelled about 150 km southwest of Madinah to Badr, a journey of nearly two hours by bus. Now a place of pilgrimage, Badr holds immense historical and spiritual significance, marked by sites such as the battlefield, the Martyrs’ Cemetery, and the Badr Museum.

Standing on the Battleground of Badr, we were reminded of how a small Muslim force overcame a much larger Quraysh army, an event the Qur’an calls Yawm al-Furqan, the day that distinguished truth from falsehood.

We visited the Martyrs’ Cemetery, where the fourteen honoured martyrs of Badr rest, and nearby landmarks including the Muslim Command Centre at Areesh Mosque, Al-Adwa Al-Dunya, Al-Adwa Al-Aqsa, and Jabal al-Malaikah, believed to be where angels descended to aid the believers.

We also collected water from the historic healing wells Bir Rawha and Bir Syifa located on the outskirt of Badr.

After a hearty lunch of fried fish and prawns at Ayed Fish Restaurant, we performed our jamak prayers at Bilal bin Rabah Mosque before returning to Madinah.

We arrived after Maghrib, physically tired but spiritually full. I prayed in the room while hubby made his way to Masjid Nabawi's rooftop.

Before sleep took over, I reflect on the Battle of Badr. A quiet reminder that strength does not lie in numbers, but in faith, sincerity, and trust in Allah.

Day 08: Madinah – Major Battles and Quiet Remembrance...

“Some places teach not through words, but through the weight of history they leave on the heart...”

(Majid Al Zuhairi Farm)

Day 08: 28/01/26 (Wednesday)
Activity: Madinah City Tour
Hotel: Emaar Elite Hotel Madinah

This morning we set out by bus for an external visit around Madinah, tracing places that hold deep meaning in Islamic history. Our first stop was Masjid Quba, the first mosque built in Islam. We were advised to perform ablution at the hotel and pray two rakaat upon arrival. A simple act, yet one filled with immense reward, said to equal that of an Umrah. Amid the dense crowd, the calmness of Quba felt grounding, a reminder that faith often begins with quiet intention.

We then visited Majid Al Zuhairi, a popular date outlet where we stocked up on ajwa, amber and medjoul dates in preparation for the coming Ramadhan.

Along the way to Uhud, we passed Masjid Qiblatain and the Seven Mosques, each standing as silent witnesses to pivotal moments in early Islamic history.

Our journey concluded at Jabal Uhud, a place that carries both strength and sorrow. At its base lies the Martyrs’ Cemetery, where many companions of the Prophet are buried, including his beloved uncle, Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib. Standing there invited reflection on sacrifice, obedience, and the cost of faith.

The visit ended after noon. The rest of the day unfolded gently, free and unhurried, returning to Masjid Nabawi for prayers as the heart quietly absorbed the lessons of the day.

Day 07: Madinah - Moments of Humility in Raudhatul Jannah...

 “Take on only as much as you can do of good deeds, for the best of deeds is that which is done consistently, even if it is little...” – Sunan Ibn Majah

(Gate No. 1 - Babul Salam)

Day 07: 27/01/26 (Tuesday)
Activity: Madinah, moments of humility and submission in Raudhatul Jannah...
Hotel: Emaar Elite Hotel Madinah

The morning in Madinah was bitingly cold, yet our hearts were warm with the intention to pray as much as possible in Masjid Nabawi. A single prayer here carries a reward multiplied a thousand times over, especially when performed berjema’ah.

After a hearty breakfast, we spent the afternoon on a ziarah around the Prophet’s Mosque, visiting Saqifah Bani Saedah, Masjid al-Ghamamah, and the surrounding historic sites, each echoing stories of faith and sacrifice.

That night, I prepared myself for my Raudhah slot at 11.00 pm via Nusuk. Many ladies were still trying to secure a slot, which made the moment feel even more humbling.

Hubby accompanied me to Gate 37, where the process was calm and well-organised. Entering in small groups, we were given ample time to pray and make doa. I was blessed to pray in front of the mimbar, my heart full and unguarded. In the Garden of Paradise, words need no form, only sincerity.

I slept that night overwhelmed with gratitude, thankful to Allah for allowing me to stand in Raudhatul Jannah, a place where prayers are answered and hearts are gently restored.

Day 06: Makkah – Madinah, the Hijrah Route...

"Allah measures the journey not by comfort, but by sincerity in every step...”

(On the bus to Madinah)

Day 06: 26/01/26 (Monday)
Activity: Makkah - Madinah, the prophetic hijrah route...
Hotel: Emaar Elite Hotel Madinah

Feeling slightly better this morning, we went early for Subuh prayers. Today was our departure for Madinah. Our packed bags waited quietly outside the room, a silent reminder that our time in Makkah was drawing to an end.

My appetite was still weak, so breakfast was light, just some salad and potatoes. We rested until it was time for tawaf wida’. Not fully fit to walk the Mataf, hubby arranged a buggy ride for our farewell tawaf at 11.00 am, allowing me to complete it with calm and gratitude. Afterwards, we waited at the first-floor prayer area for Zohor and performed jamak prayers for Asar.

Checkout was at 1.30 pm, leaving no time for lunch, but we had packed simple food for the journey. By 2.30 pm, we boarded the bus and slowly left Makkah. Departing this sacred city is always emotional. With a heavy heart, I prayed that Allah grants me the opportunity to return again, to this most blessed place.

Some members of our group continued by the Haramain High-Speed Train, while we travelled by bus. The journey was uneventful, and still recovering from the flu, I slept through most of it.

We arrived in Madinah late at night. The Masjid Nabawi looked forlorn from afar. I whispered my salam to Rasulullah - "Peace be upon you, O Prophet of Allah, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings"...

We checked into Emaar Elite Hotel. A hot shower eased the fatigue, and soon after, rest came easily. My body weary, my heart full, and my soul quietly grateful.

Day 05: Makkah – Nursing a Lingering Flu...

“When the body weakens, the heart learns to lean more deeply in trusting in God's plan.”

(Subuh prayers at the rooftop)

Day 05: 25/01/26 (Sunday)
Activity: Makkah - Complete rest in bed
Hotel: Safwah Hotel Mekkah

The flu refused to loosen its grip today. The fever still lingered, though my throat felt slightly better after gargling warm salt water. At the first azan before Subuh, I willed myself out of bed. My joints ached, my muscles protested, but a hot shower helped steady my resolve.

The walk from Safwah Tower to Masjidil Haram, barely 50 meters on any other day, felt endless. Reaching Gate 92, the entrance to the escalator leading to the rooftop, my preferred prayer area, took every ounce of strength I had. Each step felt heavier than the last.

Breakfast was light, mashed potatoes and salad, just enough to carry me through to lunchtime. The rest of the morning was spent resting in bed, hydrating with Zamzam water, and taking painkillers to ease the body aches.

The group went on a day trip to Taif, but we chose to stay behind. We’ve been there several times before, and in my condition, it would have been more taxing than uplifting. Sometimes, knowing when to pause is also a form of gratitude.

I skipped lunch and managed only a few spoonfuls of instant noodles for dinner. While hubby went to pray at the mosque, I performed my prayers in the room, quietly following the Imam of Masjidil Haram. Even from a distance, the connection remained, gentle, comforting, and deeply reassuring.

Today was not about movement or milestones, but about patience, surrender, and trusting that healing, like worship, takes many forms.

Day 04: Makkah – Ja‘ranah, Our Third Umrah and Ziarah Sites...

 “Some days on this journey are not carried by strength, but by quiet perseverance and faith...”

(Riding on a buggy for Tawaf and Saie)

Day 04: 24/01/26 (Saturday)
Activity: Makkah - Ja'ranah and various ziarah sites
Hotel: Safwah Hotel Mekkah

I woke up this morning with a sore throat and a slight fever. I hoped a Panadol would help, but instead my body felt heavier and weaker. After Subuh prayers on the rooftop, I kept breakfast light so as not to upset my stomach. Hubby, on the other hand, was clearly enjoying himself, sampling pastries and cakes with delight. I couldn’t blame him; the breakfast spread was tempting.

Later in the morning, our group set out on a road trip to Ja‘ranah, another prominent miqat for Umrah. Along the way, we stopped at several significant sites on the outskirts of Makkah, Jabal Thur, the Hajj sites of Jamrat, Mina and Muzdalifah, and finally the historic Jabal Rahmah at Mount Arafat. The heat, the crowd, and the long walk to Jabal Rahmah drained me completely. Not even my favourite ice cream could soothe the sore throat and pounding headache.

At Masjid Ja‘ranah, we performed our sunnah ihram prayers and recited our niat for the third Umrah. Once the talbiah was recited, exhaustion took over and I slept most of the way back to Haram. Back at the hotel, we quickly booked a buggy online and made our way to the top floor of Masjidil Haram for tawaf and sa‘ie. Alhamdulillah, we completed our Umrah just in time for Asar prayers.

By then, my body had clearly reached its limit. I skipped dinner, focused on drinking plenty of water, and rested. The planned visit to Ka‘Kiah Wholesale Market and the famous Nasi Unta restaurant was eventually cancelled, perhaps everyone felt the same quiet fatigue.

By 9.00 pm, I was already in bed. The night was restless, interrupted by frequent trips to the bathroom, but beneath the discomfort was a sense of gratitude. Even in weakness, Allah allowed me to complete the Umrah. Some days are not about strength or comfort, but about preseverence, tired, unwell, and still trusting that every step is counted.

Day 03: Makkah - Sunset and Revelation Stories...

"In this blessed place, I leave behind my burdens and carry only trust in Allah’s mercy...”

(Sunset view at Jabal Khandamah)

Day 03: 23/01/26 (Friday)
Activity: Makkah - Hudaibiah - Jabal Khandamah - Hira Cultural Village
Hotel: Safwah Hotel Mekkah

A good night’s sleep gave us a fresh start. Early morning, we travelled to Hudaibiyah, the miqat for our second Umrah. We stayed only briefly, enough for sunnah prayers and to renew our intention, before returning to Masjidil Haram.

By then, the mataf area was already full to the brim. Pilgrims slowly filled every prayer space in preparation for Jumaat. Amid the dense crowd, we navigated our way to register for a buggy rental for tawaf and sa‘ie. After a few failed attempts, the online booking finally went through.

Our buggy ride began around 11.00 a.m., and by noon, the tawaf and sa‘ie were completed with ease and gratitude.

After Jumaat prayers, we joined the steady human tide back to the hotel. Lunch was simple, packed white rice with beef curry followed by a short rest before Asar prayers at the rooftop. Today being an auspicious Friday, we joined the group for infaq sabil for the needy.

Later in the late afternoon, we set off for Jabal Khandamah to catch the sunset over Makkah. The view was quietly breathtaking. We continued on to Hira Cultural Village, exploring the Museum Wahyu and waiting for members of our group who climbed Jabal Hira. Dinner was modest, bakso and gado-gado from one of the many food outlets, not particularly memorable, but filling enough.

We returned to the hotel late at night, bodies tired and eyes heavy. Yet beneath the fatigue was a quiet contentment, another day woven with worship, patience, and moments of reflection in this sacred city.

Day 02: Makkah — The First Umrah, my soul felt at home...

 “First day of Umrah - a heart full of tawakkul, a soul in need of His mercy...”

(Our first umrah)

Day 02: 22/01/26 (Thursday)
Activity: Makkah 1st Umrah
Hotel: Safwah Hotel Mekkah

Sleep was scarce, and we woke slightly groggy, but Subuh at the musolla in Safwah Tower steadied our hearts. After a hearty breakfast, we prepared ourselves for our first Umrah, guided calmly by our tour leader, Ustaz Mohd Amir Rashid.

Tawaf was performed at the Mataf area, followed by sa‘ie on the first level of Mas‘a. Each ritual was carried out with intention. Every step accompanied by quiet prayers. The crowd was dense, yet the cool morning air brought a refreshing clarity to both body and mind. By Allah’s grace, our first Umrah was completed smoothly and with unexpected ease.

Back at the hotel, a cool shower and much-needed rest revived our weary bodies. As evening fell, we performed Maghrib and Isya on the rooftop. With Friday approaching, Masjidil Haram was filled to the brim. Locals and pilgrims from every corner of the world, all drawn by the same call.

Tonight, we retired early, hoping that a deep sleep would restore our tired muscles. Our body and soul humbled, and quietly content.

Tired bodies rested easily, while our hearts felt calm and full. The first Umrah was completed with grace, each step a quiet reminder that ease comes from Him alone.

Day 01: Makkah – Arrival with Intention...

“Today, I place my heart before Allah, carrying hopes, sins, and silent prayers, trusting that every step in this sacred land is already a mercy...”

(In our ihram in Jeddah International Airport)

Day 01: 21/01/26 (Wednesday)
Route: KL - Jeddah - Makkah
Flight: MH156 1900/2340 KUL-JED
Hotel: Safwah Hotel, Makkah

We left Bidara House around noon, the traffic mercifully light. After prayers at Masjid Sultan Abdul Samad, KLIA, we parked our car at the Long Term Car Park, settled and ready to let go of worldly routines for the days ahead.

By mid-afternoon, the MKM Umrah group gathered for our briefing. Baggage checked in, boarding passes in hand, and for the first time, we smoothly passed through Immigration using MyBorderPass, a small ease that felt like reassurance.

Flight MH156 departed on time. We were already in ihram, the journey calm with only slight turbulence. As we crossed the miqat at Qarnul Manazil, we made our niat for Umrah, quiet words of Talbiah carrying deep hopes.

We landed in Jeddah at 11.30 pm. Immigration was swift, officers kind, and the bus ride to Makkah took about an hour. At Safwah Hotel, we checked in and rested briefly before Subuh called us awake.

The journey had begun. Not just across lands, but inward, towards surrender and remembrance.

17th Umrah Trip: A Journey That Begins Within...

"Labbaik Allahumma labbaik.." 

(Here I am, O Allah, here I am)...

(The holy Kaabah in Makkah)

This year, hubby and I chose to begin our travels early. Instead of chasing new cities or familiar comforts, we felt drawn to start with a spiritual journey of an Umrah trip, a return to the Holy Lands. It felt right to place our hearts first before anything else, to realign our intentions before the year unfolded further.

Though we have performed Umrah many times before, the preparations never seem to grow easier. There were documents to check, bags to pack, prayers to memorise, and quiet worries of faltering health that crept in between moments of excitement. I realised that experience does not always bring ease; sometimes it brings deeper awareness of responsibility and purpose.

(Masjid Nabawi in Madinah)

In those moments, I reminded myself to pause, to breathe and to soften my heart. This journey was not only about arriving in Makkah and Madinah, but about learning to let go of control, of haste, of unnecessary anxiety. I hoped that with a calmer heart and sincere spiritual readiness, the ritual of the pilgrimage itself would be fulfilled with ease.

Our Umrah Itinerary:
(21 - 31 January, 2026)
Day 01: KL - Makkah
Day 02: Makkah - 1st umrah
Day 03: Makkah - Hudaibiah 2nd Umrah
Day 04: Makkah - Jaaranah 3rd Umrah
Day 05: Makkah - Down with fever
Day 06: Makkah - Madinah, the Hijrah Route
Day 07: Madinah - Mosque Tour, Raudhah Visit
Day 08: Madinah - Historical City Tour
Day 09: Madinah - Makràkah Badar Tour
Day 10: Madinah - A Day of Rest
Day 11: Madinah - KL

Perhaps this Umrah, once again inviting me to begin not only with steps taken on sacred ground, but with peace nurtured quietly within.

The 2025 Travel Recap: Leaving More Footprints...

"I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world."

(Adding a few more dots to my world map)

Some years pass quietly, marked by routine and familiar paths. 2025 was not one of them.

This was a year measured in border crossings and boarding passes, in early mornings and long drives, in whispered prayers and wide-open horizons. From Southeast Asia to Latin America, from the Mediterranean to East Asia. Each journey added another layer to a year that felt both expansive and deeply personal.

Thailand was where the year felt grounded. The long drives, the roadside stops, the familiar green signboards, and the quiet rhythm of mosques and rest areas along the way reminded us that travel is not always about discovery, it is also about returning to familiar places.

(The legend of the Frog Prince in Yasothon)

Panama & Costa Rica in Central America surprised us with its rawness and balance. In Panama, the meeting of oceans and cultures reflected a country shaped by movement and trade. In Costa Rica, nature was unmistakably in charge.

(The opening of the gate at Panama Canal)

(San Jose Bites & Sights Tour with the fat lady)

Latin America carried weight, depth, and emotion. Mexico welcomed us with warmth, history, ancient civilizations coexisting with modern life. Cuba felt suspended in time, its streets echoing resilience, music, and quiet dignity despite hardship. Venezuela, perhaps the most moving of all, revealed strength behind tired facades. These were not easy destinations, but they were honest ones. 

(Visiting Chichen Itza in the heavy rain)

(Having a puff of the home-made Cuban cigar)

In Turkey, blended effortlessly, mosques, bazaars, call to prayer, and centuries of empire unfolded with elegance and gravity.

(A beautiful fountain at Hagia Sofia)

China was a lesson in contrasts. Ancient traditions standing firm beside relentless modernity. It was overwhelming at times, but unforgettable.

(The two of us on the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain) 

Java felt like a soft landing. There was something calming about the pace, the smiles, the shared faith, and the familiar warmth of Southeast Asia. It was a place that didn’t demand much, only presence.

(The tomb of Sunan Giri, one of the nine Wali Songo)

Looking back, 2025 was not about collecting destinations. It was about walking different streets, listening to different stories, and returning each time with a little more gratitude. We traveled far, but the journey always led inward and the quiet joy of sharing these experiences together.

In the end, the greatest distance traveled is often the one that deepens the heart...

Thailand 2025 – Journey Through the Northern Loop...

“Some journeys are not measured by distance, but by the quiet moments that stay with us long after we’ve returned home...”

(Immigration and Custom clearance at the ICQS)

It had been months since our last long road journey, and the idea of driving all the way from Kuala Lumpur into the heart of Thailand filled us with both excitement and quiet anticipation. We planned it carefully - a slow, deliberate loop through the country, taking our time to discover places both familiar and new.

Our route would take us north through Hat Yai, Chumphon, and Bangkok before venturing further into the highlands. We had trodden this path umpteen times. Each stop, we hoped, would bring a fresh glimpse of Thailand’s diverse landscape and the everyday warmth of its people.

Fourteen days, nearly 5,000 km - this northern loop through Thailand would be more than just a leisure drive. It is a reminder of how vast and varied the world can be, and how every road travelled with gratitude becomes part of who we are.

Our Northern Thailand Road Trip itinerary:
(19 November – 02 December 2025)

Part I – From Kuala Lumpur to Northern Thailand: (Kuala Lumpur→ Hat Yai→ Chumphon→ Bangkok)

Part II – Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the Northern Hills: (Bangkok → Phitsanulok → Chiang Mai → Pai → Tak)

Part III – The Return South from Tak to Kuala Lumpur:  (Tak → Cha-am→ Thung Song → Kuala Lumpur)

01 JJCM: Hat Yai - Soaked to the skin...

“The simplest pleasures - good food, a quiet ambiance, the friendly people - set the tone for the whole trip...”

(Spicy tomyam glass noodles in Hatyai)

Part I – From Kuala Lumpur to Northern Thailand

Day 01: 19 November 2025 (Wednesday)
Route: KL – Hat Yai
Hotel: Hat Yai Golden Crown Hotel

We began our journey on the morning of 19 November 2025, leaving our Bidara house just after sunrise. Our Toyota Hi-Lux pickup was packed neatly, and our GPS marked the first destination: Hat Yai. Although my sore throat is far from recovering, still there was excitement in the air - a sense of freedom that only an open road can offer.

(The beginning of a 2-week road trip)

(Roti canai breakfast at Restoran D'Maju)

(The early morning traffic on PLUS highway)

 
Before 10.00 am we stopped at Petronas Simpang Pulai for comfort break. It was raining on and off along the PLUS highway to Changlun where we had our lunch at Cendol Pulut Hj Johari Restoran - rice with tasty gulai itik, kerisi sambal and sweet cendol and ABC, generous with toppings.

(Early lunch in Changlun)

(Nasi lauk - simple and tasty)

After jamak prayers at the old Masjid Ihya Ulumuddin Changlun, refuelling at Petronas and changing some bahts at the CTC, we headed straight to the Bukit Kayu Hitam ICQS. Crossing the Malaysia/Thailand border was smooth with no hassle - a pleasant mixture of relief.

(The old Masjid Ihya Ulumuddin Changlun)

(We used to pray here often)

(Refuelling the Bigfoot full tank)

(Malaysian cars entering into Thailand at Sadao ICQS)

 
Once in Thailand, the landscape changed subtly - road signs shifted into Thai script. We topped up our sim cards at Dannok where small roadside stalls offered aroma of sweet tea and crispy fried chicken.

(A loving couple at the border)

(A welcoming signage to Songkhla)

(A brief stop in Dannok)

By late afternoon, we reached Hat Yai and checked into our favorite hotel in Hat Yai, the Golden Crown Hotel at THB 770 per night, conveniently located with ample on-site parking.

(A traditional Chinese archway in Hat Yai)

(Spacious and clean room at Golden Crown Hotel)

 
That evening, we walked through the rain toward the Lee Garden night market. The aromas of street food drifted in the air, and the vibrant colours of the souvenirs glowed softly under the dim, neon lights - inviting, even in the downpour. Yet the non-stop rain and the absence of the usual chatter of tourists seemed to dampen not only the market, but also the spirits of the vendors who waited patiently for customers who never quite came.

Escaping the heavy downpour, we slipped into Sawasdee, our favorite massage outlet and treated ourselves to an hour of gentle, relaxing body massage - a warm respite from the cold rain outside. Later, we went to a nearby halal Hamid Restaurant and enjoyed a hot, spicy dinner.

(A late dinner at Hamid Restaurant)

 
Soaking wet to the skin, we finally made our way back to the hotel, grateful for the comfort of dry clothes and a long, uninterrupted night’s sleep.

02 JJCM: Chumphon - Raining Cats and Dogs...

“Sometimes the beauty of a journey lies not in reaching faraway places, but in rediscovering stillness amid the hustle bustle...”

(Our 4x4 following from a safe distance)

Day 02: 20 November 2025 (Thursday)
Route: Hat Yai - Chumphon
Hotel: Chumphon Euro Boutique Hotel

The following morning, we set off early. After a hearty breakfast at Khaled’s, we continued our drive northward toward Chumphon, watching the landscape soften from city blocks to stretches of rubber trees and quiet small towns. Surprisingly, there were fewer cars on the road despite the rain that was pouring down in sheets.

(Nasi Dagang breakfast at Khaled's)

(Non stop heavy rain from last night)

(Driving with care in the rain)

(Traffic is starting to build up)

(Taking a break at 7-Eleven - prawn burger for brunch)

As we approached Thung Son, traffic began to build. Floodwater had pooled across several stretches of the road, forcing everyone to drive with extra caution. Emergency alerts of flash floods kept appearing on our phones, confirming what we were seeing - the low-lying areas were rapidly being inundated. A few houses were already submerged in several feet of water, and stalled cars sat abandoned by the roadside.

(Slow moving traffic)

(The water level has covered the tarmac)

(A screen shot of the flood alert)

(The start of the long crawl)

(The flood water is rising fast)

(Our Bigfoot braving the knee-deep water)

We inched through the crawl for nearly an hour, but thankfully our 4-wheel drive managed to push through the flooded section without trouble. After that tense stretch, we made a comfort stop and treated ourselves to steaming hot cups of coffee, each sip helping to calm our nerves. We pressed on, eager to outrun the rain and the rising water.

(A hot cup of coffee at PT Tha Chana)

(A cute prayer room at the PT station)

What a relief it was to arrive in Chumphon under unexpectedly clear skies, with no trace of the storm we had just escaped. For the night, we checked into the Euro Boutique Hotel - a comfortable and reasonably priced stay at THB 750 per night. Its central location was perfect, with the night market, shopping malls, and the Nurul Anah Mosque all within easy reach. 

(The Euro Boutique Hotel - A clean cosy room)

Just across the street was Farida Cha Roti Halal Restaurant, where we enjoyed a simple yet satisfying dinner - murtabak with beef curry and crispy krup krap roti, washed down with hot honey-lemon tea and milk coffee to warm our bodies after the long, wet day.

(Farida Cha Roti Halal - bright and lively)

(A simple dinner of beef murtabak and crispy roti)