2026 - Another road adventure...

"When goods do not cross borders, soldiers will..." - Frédéric Bastiat

(Our trusty Hi-Lux)

This year, we did not waste much time between journeys. Barely a week after returning from our wonderful trip to Labuan Bajo, we were already back on the road again - this time in our trusty Hi-Lux pickup.

Our plan is rather ambitious: crossing into Thailand and travelling along the borders of Cambodia, Laos and probabaly travelling into Vietnam, moving from place to place until sometime in early October 2026. Another long road adventure awaits, and as always, we are looking forward to discovering what lies beyond the next bend.

With Malaysia behind us now and Cambodia, Laos and maybe, Vietnam waiting ahead, we wondered what stories this journey would bring.

Our 4x4 Road Trip itinerary:

(13/09/26 - 07/10/26)

Day 01: Hat Yai - Ready for the road...

Day 02: Chumphon - Another route, a new plan...

Day 03: Samut Sakhon - Soaking wet on arrival...

Day 04: Nakhon Ratchasima - A night market visit...

Day 05: Nakhon Phanom - Moments of uncertainties 

Day 06: Udon Thani - A chapter ended, before it began...

Day 07: Phitsanulok - Landslides and flooding...

Day 08: Chiang Mai - Time to pause...

Day 09: Chiang Mai - Free and easy...

Day 10: Nakhon Sawan - A long monotonous drive...

Day 11: Bangkok - The hustle and bustle...

Day 12: Bangkok - Every street tells a story...

Day 13: Bangkok -  Nong is typing...

DAY 01: Hat Yai - Ready for the road...

“Every journey begins with a single turn of the wheel - and a heart ready for the road...”

(Sadao new Custom House)

Date: 13 September 2026, Sunday
Route: KL - Hat Yai
Hotel: Golden Crown Hotel, Hatyai

We left Bidara House at about 7.30 am, stopping for breakfast at D’Maju Restaurant before continuing north towards the Malaysia–Thailand border at Bukit Kayu Hitam. The journey was relaxed, with a few short breaks along the way.

By 1.30 pm, we stopped in Changlun for lunch at Cik Jah Nasi Ayam Bakar. It was a welcome break before the final stretch towards the border.

At around 2.00 pm Thai time, we crossed through Sadao CIQ. Thankfully, the border formalities were smooth and we were soon on Thai roads once again.

We reached Hat Yai and checked into Golden Crown Hotel around 4.00 pm. After a long day behind the wheel, there was little desire to venture far for dinner. We simply walked next door to Ayutthaya Halal Noodles and settled for a comforting plate of roti pisang.

And then came the perfect ending to our first day - a good one-hour foot massage. After nearly 550 kilometres on the road, our tired feet certainly deserved it!

By nightfall, we were ready for bed.

Day 02: Chumphon - Another route, a new plan...

"Sometimes the road changes our plans; sometimes our plans change because of the road...”

(Lunch break at Paju Pattani Restaurant)

Date: 14 September 2026, Monday
Route: Hat Yai - Chumphon
Hotel: Euro Boutique Hotel, Chumphon

We started our second day with breakfast at Khaled Restaurant, conveniently located next door to our hotel. By 7.30 am, we had checked out, loaded our bags into the Hi-Lux and were once again heading north.

At around 9.30 am, we stopped along Route 41 for a few photographs. A group of motorcyclists had also pulled over for a short break. They were heading towards Krabi, while we continued our journey north towards Chumphon.

By 11.00 am, hunger called for another stop. We had lunch at Paju Pattani Restaurant, a halal eatery at the Tung Song PTT station. It was another simple but convenient stop along our long drive.

The weather became rather unpredictable as we continued towards Chumphon. There were intermittent showers along the way, and with the roads becoming wet and slippery, we took things more slowly and drove with extra care.

By late afternoon, we arrived in Chumphon and checked into Euro Boutique Hotel, our home for the night.

For dinner, we did not have to venture far. Fareeda Restaurant, within easy walking distance from our hotel, served us chicken murtabak and roti Nutella, a simple dinner after another 500 kilometres on the road.

Tonight, however, our thoughts were not entirely about food or rest. We spent part of the evening reviewing our itinerary. The situation along the Thailand–Cambodia border had changed, with border crossings affected by renewed tensions and security concerns. Our original plan to travel through Cambodia was therefore no longer straightforward.

For us, this meant one thing: the route would have to be revised. We sat down and started looking at alternative possibilities. After all, one of the realities of travelling by road is that an itinerary is never written in stone. Borders, weather, road conditions and circumstances beyond our control can all change the journey.

For tonight, the revised itinerary was put on hold. There would be time to think about it tomorrow. With the maps, routes and possibilities temporarily set aside, we finally called it a night, and slept soundly.

Day 03: Samut Sakhon - Soaking wet on arrival...

"The journey is not always about the places we see; sometimes, it is simply about making it through the day together...”

(A wet night at Arunsakhon Luxury Condo)

Date: 15 September 2026, Tuesday
Route: Chumphon - Samut Sakhon
Hotel: Arunsakhon Luxury Condo, Samut Sakhon

We started the morning with breakfast on Level 6, where we enjoyed a pleasant view from above. There was quite a spread of local dishes at the buffet, but as usual, when travelling, we decided to play safe and kept to toast, fried eggs and some salad.

After breakfast, we checked out at around 8.30 am and continued our journey northbound. With no particular rush, we settled into a leisurely drive, keeping within the speed limit and enjoying the changing scenery along the way.

By lunchtime, we stopped at Kedai Makan Abang Mana in Cha-am. The restaurant was a hive of activity, preparing food for four busloads of guests who were expected to arrive. We considered ourselves rather lucky to have arrived just in time and managed to get our lunch before the crowd descended!

After lunch, we made a prayer stop at the Bang Chak Surau in Phetchaburi, taking a short break before continuing our journey.

Knowing that halal food might be difficult to find near our accommodation that evening, we made a detour to N&J Thai Muslim Restaurant in Samut Sakhon to pick up some food for dinner. It was a practical decision, and one that we would be grateful for later.

As we approached our destination, the weather suddenly took a turn for the worse. Heavy rain began pouring down, accompanied by strong winds. By the time we reached Arunsakhon Luxury Condo, situated some distance away in the suburbs, the rain was coming down so heavily that the parking area was already flooded to almost ankle depth, and the water was still rising.

We arrived looking rather like we had just completed a mini water adventure! Thankfully, the friendly hotel staff came out with umbrellas to help us unload our luggage. Despite the rain and the rather dramatic arrival, our room turned out to be a pleasant surprise. It was spacious, modern and well equipped, with a kitchenette and other amenities that made it more suitable for longer stays than just an overnight stop.

After the long drive and the wet arrival, nothing felt more luxurious than a lingering hot shower. It was just what we needed to soothe our tired muscles.

Dinner was simple that evening. We shared a packet of fried rice and an omelette, the food we had wisely bought earlier in Samut Sakhon.

And then, finally, it was time to surrender to the bed. After another 450 kilometres on the road, there was nothing more comforting than stretching out our backs, resting our weary legs and listening to the rain outside.

Some travel days are filled with spectacular sights and memorable experiences. Others are simply about getting from one place to another, finding food, staying dry - or trying to - and giving our tired bodies a little time to recover.

Day 04: Nakhon Ratchasima - The night market visit...

“Some days on the road are about the places we discover; others are simply about finding a little comfort along the way...”

(Korat Night Market)

Date: 16 September 2026, Wednesday
Route: Samut Sakhon - Nakhon Ratchasima
Hotel: B2 Korat Boutique & Budget Hotel, Nakhon Ratchasima

Arunsakhon Luxury Condo provides a simple, complimentary takeaway breakfast, usually consisting of coffee, tea and sandwiches. Weather permitting, guests can enjoy it in the little front garden. This morning, however, the tables and chairs were still soaked from last night’s heavy downpour. So, we brought our egg and tuna-mayo sandwiches back to our room and had a quiet breakfast there.

After collecting our deposit, we checked out at around 8.00 am and continued our journey north-east towards Nakhon Ratchasima. The drive was fairly easy, with a few comfort stops along the way.

Around lunchtime, we stopped at Ayah Muslim Restaurant, conveniently located along Mittraphap Road. It makes a good pit stop for Muslim travellers passing through the Pak Chong area. The restaurant has a cosy, simple setting, with non-air-conditioned indoor seating overlooking a pleasant view. We ordered salmon fish and chips, together with beef green curry and roti canai. The prices were a little on the high side, but the food was tasty and satisfying.

By the time we reached Nakhon Ratchasima, the skies opened up again. We were caught in another heavy downpour just as we arrived. We checked into B2 Korat Boutique & Budget Hotel, a modern and minimalist budget hotel located conveniently close to SaveOne Night Market. This is actually our second stay here, and its location remains one of the main reasons we like it. After several hours on the road, we were more than ready for a rest. We took a much-needed nap that lasted until almost dark.

Later in the evening, we walked over to Korat Night Market, one of the largest night and flea markets in Northeast Thailand. Being a weekday, the market was relatively quiet and not as crowded as we had expected. There were plenty of stalls selling clothes, shoes, food and all sorts of odds and ends.

For dinner, we found two halal stalls in the market and settled for a simple banana pancakes. Hubby managed to find himself a pair of shoes, while I had nothing particular in mind to buy. After all, not every night market visit has to end with a shopping bag!

By then, our legs were already complaining after the long drive and evening walk. Rather than walk all the way back, we decided to take a buggy ride to the hotel.

A simple dinner, a little shopping, a good nap and another wet evening on the road - another day completed on our long drive through Thailand.

DAY 05: Nakhon Phanom - Moments of uncertainties...

“Every long road has its unexpected stops, its little discoveries, and its moments of uncertainty. Sometimes, that is what makes the journey memorable...”

(Our Hi-Lux next to the Thai Airways Airbus)

Date: 17 September 2026, Thursday
Route: Nakhon Ratchasima - Nakhon Phanom
Hotel: R2 Hotel, Nakhon Phanom

We checked out early this morning, and by 7.00 am, we were already on the road, heading towards Nakhon Phanom along Route 2.

Breakfast was a simple grab-and-go affair from a 7-Eleven at Talat PTT, shrimp burgers and cappuccino hazelnut coffee. These 24-hour convenience stores, often attached to busy petrol stations, are almost like mini malls, making them convenient pit stops for road travellers and daily commuters alike. A quick, inexpensive and surprisingly satisfying way to start a long day on the road.

Along the way, we came across something quite unexpected in Sida District - a retired Thai Airways Airbus A330-300 parked by the roadside. The aircraft has been transformed into a roadside attraction and café known as Airways Land, also referred to as the Airplane Coffee Shop or Kafe Khrueng Bin. Apparently, visitors can even go inside the actual aircraft on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays for a small fee. We happened to be passing through on a Thursday, so we could only admire it from outside and, of course, take a few photographs.

Our next interesting stop was at the PTT station in Borabue, Maha Sarakham Province. This was no ordinary petrol station either. The food court is housed in a building designed like a British red double-decker bus, while the gardens around Café Amazon feature rather imaginative replicas of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and Singapore's Merlion. It was amusing how an ordinary comfort stop could suddenly turn into an unexpected sightseeing and photo opportunity.

We made a detour into Kalasin after finding a couple of supposedly halal restaurants through Google. Unfortunately, our search was unsuccessful. Rather than spend more time looking, we settled for tuna sandwiches at the Kalasin PTT for lunch. Sometimes, on a road trip, you simply have to make do with what is available.

Later, we stopped to refuel at PTT Pla Pak District before the final stretch towards Nakhon Phanom. We noticed that diesel was more expensive here. Fuel prices can vary between locations, so a little lesson for us today: fill up when the price is cheaper!

According to Google Maps, our route initially took us along the highway towards Mukdahan, but somewhere along the way, the navigation suddenly directed us onto smaller rural roads towards Nakhon Phanom. And so, after many hours on the road, we finally arrived at a place we had never visited before - Nakhon Phanom.

Tonight we are staying at the R2 Hotel Nakhon Phanom, a simple two-star budget hotel located slightly south of the town centre. Since the post-Covid period, the hotel has apparently operated on a room-only basis, with no breakfast, in-room coffee or bellboy service. For us, it was perfectly adequate for one night.

For dinner, we finally found Dapur Halal Nakhon Phanom through a Google search. We were told it was the only halal food establishment in the area, so we were more than happy to find it. By then, we were ravenous. We each had a plate of fried rice and shared a bowl of seafood tom yam. After a long day of driving, it was a simple meal, but it tasted especially good.

After dinner, we decided to drive towards the border to check on the crossing formalities for our Malaysian-registered Hi-Lux pickup. Unfortunately, the road leading towards the ICQS complex was too dark for us to see much, so we turned back.

Back at the hotel, we spread out our documents and began sorting through the paperwork needed for the possible crossing into Laos tomorrow.

Our Hi-Lux has crossed into Laos before, entering through Stung Treng in Cambodia and later exiting via Huay Xai, Laos. But this would be our first attempt to enter Laos directly from Thailand. There was still some uncertainty about tomorrow, but at least we were prepared with our documents.

By tonight, the tiredness had finally caught up with me. I went to bed early, feeling exhausted and a little groggy.

DAY 06: Udon Thani - A chapter ended before it began...

“Sometimes the journey changes direction, not because we planned it that way, but because the road has other plans for us...”

(Thai/Laos border at Nakhon Phanom)

Date: 18 September 2026, Friday
Route: Nakhon Phanom - Udon Thani
Hotel: B2 Udon Thani Boutique & Budget Hotel

We started the morning simply with bread, half-boiled eggs and coffee before checking out at around 8.30 am. Our next stop was the border. As we drove the thirty minutes towards the Nakhon Phanom ICQS, we mentally went through our checklist of documents once again. There was a mixture of anticipation and quiet anxiety. After all the preparation, we were finally about to find out whether our plan to drive our Hi-Lux into Laos would actually work.

The border, however, was surprisingly quiet. Traffic was light, with mostly commercial lorries moving through the checkpoint. What caught our attention was the absence of foreign-registered vehicles and even foreign motorbikes. It was almost too quiet for an international crossing.

Then came the unexpected news. At the Thailand Immigration counter, we were informed that we could not cross into Laos from Nakhon Phanom that day. We were told that we could try another crossing, such as Nong Khai. Apparently, the rules governing private vehicles can vary between Thailand–Laos border checkpoints, and restrictions may sometimes be imposed depending on the current arrangements and policies at the particular crossing. For independent travellers with their own vehicles, this can mean additional requirements or, in some cases, the need to travel as part of an organised arrangement.

For us, the news was disappointing, but not devastating. We have crossed land borders several times before with our motorbikes and our Hi-Lux, so we knew that border crossings could sometimes be unpredictable. With the current border situation and revised regulations, we decided not to force the issue. The alternative would have been to join a tour group and leave our beloved pick-up behind in Thailand. That was not what we had planned. So, just like that, our Laos chapter for this trip came to an end before it even began.

Rather than dwell on the disappointment, we decided to make the most of our remaining time in Nakhon Phanom before continuing towards Udon Thani. We walked over to Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat Plaza, the iconic naga landmark along the Mekong waterfront. Dominating the plaza is a magnificent seven-headed bronze Naga, standing proudly against the backdrop of the Mekong River, with Laos on the other side of the river bank. 

The place was unusually lively that morning. A local running event was scheduled to start from the plaza over the weekend, and people were busy preparing for it. There was an air of excitement all around - a reminder that even when our own plans had changed, life in the city carried happily on.

Before embarking on the long drive to Udon Thani, we stopped at a PTT station in Nakhon Phanom to pick up sandwiches and snacks for a simple lunch on the road.

Our journey towards Udon Thani took us through Sakon Nakhon, where we made a small detour to Nurul Islam Mosque, the only mosque in Sakon Nakhon. The mosque was designed with accessibility in mind, including wheelchair access, something we always appreciate seeing in places of worship. We happened to arrive just after Friday prayers, when the congregation was enjoying a communal feast. The gathering was warm and welcoming, and we were reminded once again that mosques are more than places of prayer, they are also places where communities come together, share food and strengthen bonds.

The journey became increasingly challenging as heavy rain came down along the way to Udon Thani. Still, we kept going, maintaining a steady speed and taking care along the wet roads. Thankfully, we reached Udon Thani before dark.

For tonight, we checked into B2 Udon Boutique & Budget Hotel, located in the heart of town. The three-star property has a minimalist design, comfortable rooms and reasonable rates. It also seemed particularly popular with younger travellers.

Dinner was at Mahboobi Restaurant, a halal eatery conveniently located next to Masjid Quwatil Islam Udon Thani. Interestingly, during our previous visit to Udon Thani in December 2025, there had been several halal eateries around the area. This time, however, Mahboobi appeared to be the only one still operating.

By the end of the day, the long travel hours had taken their toll. Sitting continuously for so many hours had placed considerable pressure on my already vulnerable lower back. After checking into the hotel, a long, lingering hot bath was exactly what I needed.

I went to bed early, hoping that rest would ease the stiffness and discomfort. Hubby, meanwhile, was still wide awake, trying to work out our revised itinerary. Our carefully planned route had changed again. Cambodia and Laos was no longer part of this journey.

But perhaps that is the nature of road travel. We plan the roads, the borders, the destinations and the hotels but ultimately, the journey has a way of deciding for us.

And tomorrow, we would simply follow where the road led next.

DAY 07: Phitsanulok - Landslides and flooding...

“Sometimes the road slows us down for a reason - reminding us that arriving safely matters more than arriving quickly...”

(A kilometer long twin Naga serpents at Nong Bua Lamphu)

Date: 19 September 2026, Saturday
Route: Udon Thani - Chum Phae - Phitsanulok
Hotel: Rattana Park Hotel, Phitsanulok

After several days on the road, our breakfast routine has become almost predictable - bread, half-boiled eggs and our familiar hazelnut coffee. Simple, but enough to get us going for another long day behind the wheel.

By 8.30 am, we checked out and set off towards Phitsanulok. We chose to travel via Chum Phae and Route 12, avoiding the Loei route. Route 12 offered a more direct and comfortable drive, whereas the Loei route would take us through more mountainous terrain, with winding roads, steeper sections and heavier truck traffic. There was also ongoing roadwork along some stretches.

As we passed through Nong Bua, we spotted a sign pointing towards Masjid An-Nur. We would have liked to stop, but the mosque was located some distance off the main road, so we decided to continue our journey.

At Chum Phae, we merged onto Route 12 and continued towards Phitsanulok. The scenery gradually changed as we entered the mountainous stretch around Nam Nao National Park, where the road became more winding and the surrounding landscape beautifully green after days of rain.

But the heavy rain had also taken its toll. Continuous torrential rain over the past few days had triggered several landslides along parts of the highway. At one stretch, a major landslide had completely blocked the road. Traffic came to a standstill as heavy machinery worked to clear the debris. Once part of the road was cleared, vehicles were allowed through one lane at a time. It was a reminder that road trips are not always about the kilometres covered or the places we plan to visit. Sometimes, the journey itself decides the pace.

As we approached Phitsanulok, we noticed flooding in some of the low-lying outskirts. River levels had risen significantly after days of heavy rain. Thankfully, the road into town remained clear and traffic was able to move normally.

By 3.00 pm, we arrived safely in Phitsanulok and headed straight to Masjid Pakistan to perform our prayers. Afterwards, we had a late lunch at Restoran Jamilah, conveniently located next to the mosque.

We then checked into Rattana Park Hotel, where a refreshing nap was very much welcomed after the long drive. By evening, neither of us felt particularly hungry after our late lunch. So dinner was kept wonderfully simple when we shared a bowl of instant mee.

Outside, the rain continued to pour throughout the night. The persistent croaking of frogs became the unexpected soundtrack to our evening. Strangely enough, it was rather comforting.

Despite the rain and the chorus of frogs outside our window, we slept soundly like logs — tired, content and grateful to have arrived safely at the end of another long day on the road.

DAY 08: Chiang Mai - Time to pause...

“After a week on the road, sometimes the journey itself tells us when it is time to pause...”

(Chilling out at Anusarn Market)

Date: 20 September 2026, Sunday
Route: Phitsanulok – Chiang Mai
Hotel: Star Hotel, Chiang Mai

Breakfast was simple again this morning - eggs and bread, finishing off the last of our breakfast supplies.

By 8.00 am, we were already on the road towards Chiang Mai, taking Highway 11. We stopped to refuel at Pa Sao PTT, our third of the seven planned refuelling stops for this road trip. Each refuelling so far has exceeded our allocated budget. However, our mileage has also increased by about 300 kilometres per full tank. Hopefully, by the end of the journey, the overall fuel expenditure and distance covered will balance each other out.

We took a comfort break at Lampang PTT after the climb along Highway 11 from the Uttaradit direction. Traffic was quite heavy, with stretches where the line of vehicles seemed to be almost twenty cars long. With the sharp curves along the route, overtaking required extra caution. We often had to slow down and let the faster vehicles pass us safely.

We performed our jamak prayers at Masjid Al-Falahu in Lampang, a mosque we have visited several times before. The mosque is a reminder of Lampang's long-standing multicultural Muslim community, with its mosaic of ethnic backgrounds including Malay Muslims, Chinese Muslims and migrants from the Indian subcontinent.

Whenever we are in Lampang, we also look forward to having lunch at Gor Lae Bang Nara Halal Restaurant, located right next to the mosque. It is one of our preferred halal stops here, especially for its fresh, southern-influenced Muslim-style dishes and traditional Thai cuisine. This time, we had their khao mok chicken rice for lunch - fragrant, comforting and just what we needed before continuing our journey.

There is another halal restaurant in Lampang that we have yet to try: Khao Soi Islam Restaurant, about three kilometres from Masjid Al-Falahu. Parking is limited to the roadside, but perhaps we will give it a try the next time we are here.

By 4.00 pm, we checked in at Star Hotel Chiang Mai, our first stay here. It is an understated and affordable three-star hotel right in the heart of the city, just a couple of minutes' walk from the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. The only drawback is the very limited parking, something we always have to consider carefully when travelling with our Hi-Lux.

We also sent some laundry to Miss Laundry by KPD Rental, located in the Night Bazaar area. KPD Rental provides various rental options, including cars, pickup trucks, scooters and larger motorbikes, together with services such as local tour assistance and laundry. Once the laundry was sent off, we returned to the hotel for a short nap.

After a full week of driving, I could really feel hubby's accumulated fatigue. Long-distance driving demands constant mental focus, continuous visual scanning and maintaining more or less the same physical position for hours at a time. The muscles gradually become strained, while the mind becomes tired from having to remain alert throughout the journey.

Hopefully, our two-night stay in Chiang Mai will give both body and mind the opportunity to rest, recharge and regain some energy before we continue.

Tonight, we treated ourselves to sweet Thai pancakes at Safiyah Roti, while listening to live Simon & Garfunkel music at the central open-air dining area of Anusarn Market. Hubby had a double helping of banana-and-egg pancakes with peanut butter and honey. I had a banana pancake with caramel, accompanied by freshly prepared pineapple juice. Simple pleasures after a long day on the road.

After dinner, we indulged in an hour of deep, relaxing foot massage. The gentle treatment helped ease the stiffness and tension that had built up over the past several days. I even found myself dozing off several times during the session - perhaps the best indication that my body really needed the rest.

By the time we walked back to the hotel, the rain was getting heavier. We were lucky to reach the hotel just before the rain came down in earnest. Another few minutes and we might have been thoroughly drenched.

Before going to sleep tonight, we reflected on the chain of events that had unfolded over the past week. As with most long road trips, not everything has gone according to our original itinerary. Some dates have shifted, some destinations have changed, and the journey has taken on a rhythm of its own.

Soon, we will also need to seriously start planning our one-week holiday in Da Lat, Vietnam - a much-desired break from the road and, perhaps just as importantly, a chance for our faithful Hi-Lux to have a proper rest before we embark on the final leg of this long road adventure.

For tonight, though, Chiang Mai is giving us exactly what we need: a pause, a little pampering, and time to breathe.

Day 09: Chiang Mai - Free and Easy...

“Sometimes, the best part of a long journey is not another destination, but a quiet day to pause, recharge and simply enjoy where we are...”

(Tha Phae Gate, old city Chiang Mai)

Date: 21 September 2026, Monday
Route: Chiang Mai – Free & Easy
Hotel: Star Hotel Chiang Mai

After eight days of driving and moving from one destination to another, today felt like a little gift in the middle of our journey. There was nowhere we needed to rush to, no border to cross and no long stretch of highway waiting ahead of us. Just one easy day in Chiang Mai - to walk, eat, wander, catch up on practical things and, most importantly, rest.

The morning was bright and sunny, so we set off on foot towards Halal Street for breakfast at Alee’s Rotee, a popular and highly rated halal stall well known for its crisp, delicious Thai-style roti. Whenever we are in Chiang Mai, breakfast here is almost a must. Even our Malaysian biker buddies seem to share our fondness for this little favourite.

After breakfast, we continued walking towards Tha Phae Gate, Chiang Mai’s most famous historical gateway and the eastern entrance to the Old City. The walk itself was enjoyable. Along the way, we admired Chiang Mai’s architectural landscape, where centuries of Lanna heritage blend naturally with remnants of the old timber-trading era and more contemporary tropical designs. From traditional teakwood structures and multi-tiered temple roofs to modern brick and bamboo creations, the city’s architecture reflects the distinctive cultural character of northern Thailand.

Tha Phae Gate was originally built during the reign of King Mangrai, as part of the defensive walls and moat system surrounding the newly established capital of the Lanna Kingdom. The gateway we see today, however, is a reconstruction of the original structure.

By the time we returned to the hotel, our four-kilometre walk had left us hot and sweaty. Chiang Mai’s rainy season generally runs from June to October. Mornings can often be bright and warm, with heavier showers arriving later in the afternoon or evening. These wetter months also tend to bring lower hotel rates, making the city attractive to budget-conscious travellers.

Back in the cool comfort of our room, we took the opportunity to complete our online booking for the next leg of our travels - a return flight from Bangkok to Da Lat, Vietnam. We are planning a five-night escape there to explore the city and its surrounding attractions. We also booked Hotel Du Lys, conveniently located near the lively Da Lat Market and within easy reach of many of the city’s central attractions.

It is always exciting to have the next journey quietly taking shape while we are still in the middle of the present one.

By lunchtime, hunger called again, and we made another walk to Halal Street, this time for Khao Soi Islam. Located just a short walk from the Night Bazaar and beside Hidayatul Islam Banhaw Mosque, this long-established halal restaurant has been serving Thai-Muslim food for more than 40 years.

We ordered their signature Beef Khao Soi. Unlike some versions that are rich and heavily laden with santan, the broth here was clearer, fragrant and savoury, with a wonderfully aromatic spice profile and less sweetness. It was comforting, flavourful and just right for lunch.

Back at the hotel, we noticed that more guests were checking into the Star Hotel today. Its convenient location near the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar makes it a popular choice, particularly for travellers arriving by public or commercial transport.

Our laundry was ready for collection too. During these long road trips, a full-service wash-and-fold is definitely our preferred option. It saves us time and, more importantly, keeps the travelling wardrobe under control!

For dinner, we picked up takeaway doner kebabs and falafel rolls from Little Istanbul, a halal Turkish restaurant in the lively Night Bazaar area, known for its Turkish and Mediterranean street food. We took our takeaway dinner to Anusarn Market, where we enjoyed our kebabs and falafel rolls while soaking in the evening atmosphere. The market comes alive at night, with visitors able to enjoy traditional Thai music and Lanna cultural dance performances, alongside its many food stalls and entertainment options.

And just like that, our last evening in Chiang Mai came to a close. After eight days of being constantly on the move, this quiet day gave us the chance to rest and recharge before the journey continues.

Tomorrow, the wheels will turn again. We will drive for about seven hours along Highway 1 towards Nakhon Sawan - a city we have passed many times but never stayed overnight.

Day 10: Nakhon Sawan - A long monotonous drive....

“Monotony on the road is like a blank canvas for the mind - sometimes it creates art, and sometimes it just puts you to sleep...”

(Wutthikun Bridge crossing the Ping River)

Date: 22 September 2026, Tuesday
Route: Chiang Mai – Nakhon Sawan
Hotel: Ezy Inn, Nakhon Sawan

We checked out early this morning. Today’s journey to Nakhon Sawan would be another long drive — around seven hours on the road, excluding the breaks in between.

At Ko Kha PTT, we stopped for our usual 7-Eleven breakfast. There were also several stalls selling traditional sticky rice, a daily staple in this part of Thailand. I was fascinated by the different varieties on display, including riceberry and dark purple-black whole-grain rice, known for their high antioxidant content. There were also brown sticky rice varieties, including red jasmine and the fragrant Pathum Thani variety. Sticky rice is also used to make crispy rice crackers, a popular local snack. I was tempted to buy some varieties to take home, but with our road trip still having quite a long way to go, I decided it was better not to add to our luggage just yet.

The long and rather monotonous drive eventually made me sleepy, so I took a short nap while hubby continued driving. He kept himself alert by munching on snacks along the way. There were quite a number of roadworks and temporary roadblocks, which added to the length of the journey.

In Kamphaeng Phet, we made another stop at Nakhon Chum PTT. This particular PTT station caught our attention with its creative decorations and clever integration of local elements. The combination of community culture and playful sculptures gave the station a distinctive character — turning an ordinary fuel stop into an interesting little roadside attraction.

By the time we reached Nakhon Sawan it was already late afternoon. We were ready for our usual halal lunch stop at Aminyan Halal Food Restaurant. The restaurant is known for comforting favourites such as Khao Mok Kai, or Thai-style chicken biryani. It has a clean, air-conditioned dining area, which was especially welcome after hours on the road. Conveniently located on Chakkrawan Road, it made an easy stop for us before continuing to our hotel.

Tonight, we are staying at Ezy Inn Nakhon Sawan, a three-star hotel known for being modern, clean and good value. Most importantly for us, it has ample parking — always an important consideration when travelling with our Hi-Lux.

Dinner tonight was simple and convenient. We had takeaway tomyam fried rice from Aminyan that we had bought earlier. I was still quite full from our late lunch, so I managed only a few spoonfuls. Even hubby, who usually has a stronger tolerance for spicy food, complained about the overwhelming amount of coarsely chopped lemongrass in the fried rice. It was definitely more lemongrass than we expected!

Before turning in for the night, we spent some time searching for a suitable hotel in Bangkok for our planned three-day stay before flying to Da Lat.

We eventually settled on Nasa Bangkok Hotel, mainly because of its convenient location next to Ramkhamhaeng Airport Rail Link Station. From there, it would be an easy 18-minute train ride directly to Suvarnabhumi Airport - a very practical option for us. The hotel also offers secure long-term parking facility.

One chapter of the journey completed - Chiang Mai behind us, Bangkok on the horizon, and Da Lat awaiting...

Day 11: Bangkok - The hustle and bustle...

"I love the hustle and bustle. Everything is sort of mad right before a take, and then it just settles..." - Saoirse Ronan

(The view from our room at Nasa Hotel)

Date: 23 September 2026 (Wednesday)

Route: Nakhon Sawan – Bangkok

Hotel: Nasa Bangkok Hotel

This morning, we checked out a little later than usual. Today’s drive to Bangkok would take only about three hours, so there was no need for our usual early start. We were also grateful to the hotel staff who kindly helped us make copies of our flight tickets, free of charge.

Before leaving Nakhon Sawan, we stopped at a PTT station to refuel and have breakfast. We started with Ovaltine and cappuccino hazelnut coffee, followed by a more substantial halal meal of rice with spicy basil squid and soupy shrimp wontons. The hazelnut cappuccino, with its double shot of bold espresso and sweet hazelnut syrup, made for a warm and nutty start to the morning.

Our next stop was in Hantra Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, an area with deep historical roots dating back to before the main Ayutthaya Kingdom. Known for its ancient temple sites and its connection to King Taksin the Great’s historic military escape, the area offered an interesting glimpse into Thailand’s long and layered history.

We stopped at a PTT station here for a comfort break and bought bottled coconut drinks and some fresh pineapple before continuing our journey towards Bangkok.

As we approached Bangkok, navigating the city became quite a challenge. Bangkok has an extensive network of national highways, elevated toll expressways and intercity motorways, and choosing the right route can make a significant difference. The elevated expressways and motorways generally allow motorists to bypass the chaotic surface streets and countless traffic lights. However, they are not immune to congestion either, particularly around toll plazas and during busy periods.

We were staying once again at Nasa Bangkok Hotel, formerly known as Nasa Vegas. It remains our budget hotel of choice in Bangkok, mainly because of its strategic location directly opposite the Ramkhamhaeng Airport Rail Link station. From here, it is an inexpensive and convenient train ride to Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is particularly useful for our Vietnam Airlines flight to Da Lat later this week.

The hotel also offers 24-hour check-in, free parking and simple, clean rooms - just what we need for a short stopover. Most importantly, they allow us to leave our Hi-Lux securely parked here while we spend a week in Da Lat. It is also very convenient for our early morning journey to the airport.

After checking in, we walked a short distance to the Al-Mubarak/NASA Food Court at the Ramkhamhaeng ARL station for lunch. We had nasi lemak and nasi beriani from Roti John and Friends, which serves Malay-inspired favourites such as roti John, murtabak Johor and various egg- and meat-filled flatbreads prepared with their own blend of spices. It was comforting to find familiar flavours so easily in the middle of Bangkok.

The rest of the afternoon was spent catching up on some much-needed sleep. By the time we woke up, it was already late and the food court was closing. Unfortunately, we missed the chance to get our usual roti from Roti John and Friends.

Instead, we headed to the 7-Eleven at the Ramkhamhaeng ARL station to stock up on some provisions. The outlet was bustling with teenagers and office workers. Thailand’s 7-Eleven stores are immensely popular and often function as convenient neighbourhood hubs, offering everything from ready-to-eat meals and drinks to groceries, personal-care items and everyday essentials.

Tonight, we turned in early. However, I am still not used to the sound of the trains passing nearby. I woke several times during the night, reminded that our convenient location comes with a little background soundtrack of its own!

And so ended another day of our road journey - from Nakhon Sawan to Bangkok, our transit city. We will be staying for three nights in Bangkok before leaving the Hi-Lux behind for a week and flying on to our next adventure in Vietnam.

Day 12: Bangkok – Every street tells a story...

"Tourists don’t know where they’ve been, travelers don’t know where they’re going...” - Paul Theroux

Date: 24 September 2026, Thursday
Route: Bangkok Free & Easy
Hotel: Nasa Bangkok Hotel

It was our usual breakfast of bread and half-boiled eggs this morning - simple, familiar and enough to get us ready for another day of exploring Bangkok.

Today, we planned to visit a mosque and a couple of popular tourist spots. We boarded the Airport Rail Link (ARL) at Ramkhamhaeng Station, just a few minutes’ walk from Nasa Bangkok Hotel. The hotel is conveniently connected to the station by an elevated pedestrian walkway.

The fifteen-minute train ride brought us to Ratchaprarop Station. From there, our first destination was Masjid Niamatul Islam, located about 1.5 kilometres away. What looked like a short walk on the map turned into a sweaty thirty-minute walk through smaller commercial alleys, with narrow and uneven pavements. The lanes were crowded with street vendors, parked motorbikes and the constant bustle of local life, surrounded by a mixture of shop-houses, budget hotels and small eateries.

With its prominent minaret, the mosque is tucked away inside a densely packed neighbourhood, behind local parking structures and the Bangkok Palace Hotel. Like many community mosques in central Bangkok, reaching it means navigating narrow side streets and tightly packed buildings.

At first, the street-facing entrance looked rather small and hidden. But once inside, the mosque opened up into a surprisingly spacious and well-maintained multi-level building. Unfortunately, we could not photograph the main prayer hall as it was outside prayer time and the hall was locked. Nevertheless, the caretaker warmly invited us to return and join the Juma'at prayer here tomorrow.

After leaving the mosque, we stopped at a roadside café for a tall glass of pineapple and mango smoothies each. In Bangkok, smoothies seem to be more popular than plain fruit juice. Blended directly with ice, they make a thick, refreshing drink - just what we needed after our hot walk.

From there, we crossed over to Indra Square, a well-known air-conditioned indoor wholesale and retail shopping centre, particularly popular with South Asian, Chinese and Indian visitors. The complex has numerous shops selling Indian-style textiles, fabrics, clothing and jewellery.

After cooling down at Indra Square, we headed next door to Pratunam Market, one of Bangkok's best-known shopping areas, with hundreds of stalls offering clothing, textiles and accessories at budget-friendly prices. The market is especially popular with those looking for wholesale and inexpensive fashion items.

By the time we were ready to return, the ARL train from Ratchaprarop back to Ramkhamhaeng was already packed. Still, travelling by train was much more convenient than taking a taxi, especially with Bangkok's notorious traffic congestion. The fifteen-minute train journey completely bypassed the traffic that could easily turn a short trip by road into an hour-long journey. No wonder the trains are almost always full!

For lunch, we enjoyed a delicious combination of savoury tom yam beef noodles, chewy Thai-style murtabak and orange coffee. Finding all three on a single restaurant menu would be unusual, but here they were readily available from the various halal stalls at the Al-Mubarak NASA Food Court.

The orange coffee, also known as an Iced Orange Americano, was particularly interesting — a shot of robust espresso layered over chilled, sweet orange juice. The citrusy freshness balanced the bitter coffee beautifully and made a refreshing finish to our flavourful lunch.

Back at the hotel, we retrieved our travel documents and travel bags. There was still some repacking to do before our flight to Dalat, Vietnam, later this weekend.

Another easy day in Bangkok came to an end - a day of mosques, markets, trains, halal food and the simple pleasures of exploring the city on foot.

Labuan Bajo – My Heart Is in Turmoil…

"Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strengths..." - C.H. Spurgeon

(Phinisi boat, Labuan Bajo)

For the past few months, we have been caught up in a whirlwind of festivities, doctors’ visits and, sadly, the passing of loved ones. All these left us with little time to even think about planning another trip.

Once the havoc began to settle, we started browsing travel brochures and websites, looking for somewhere interesting - preferably a destination we had never ventured to before. Then, quite unexpectedly, a friend called and invited me to join a few other ladies for a holiday in Labuan Bajo, Flores Island, Indonesia. And, as always, hubby was more than happy to accompany me, even though this was supposed to be an all-ladies group!

Green Land Travel and Tours, a local travel agent helped arrange our flights and took care of all the ground arrangements. Everything was booked and paid for in full a month before our departure. The itinerary sounded exciting. We would explore some beautiful places, spend a few days sailing on a phinisi, go snorkelling, trekking and caving, and, of course, visit Komodo Island to see the famous Komodo dragons - another item on our travel bucket list.

(The endangered Komodo Dragon - google pic)

We were filled with excitement and had already started making preparations for the trip. Then, just two weeks before our departure, came the shocking news. On 15 August 2026, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the Flores region, followed by thousands of aftershocks expected to trigger a tsunami. The disaster caused considerable damage in parts of Flores and, tragically, many lives were lost.

Suddenly, our excitement was replaced by worry.

The news seemed to be filled with earthquakes and natural disasters from all over the world. And here we were, with our departure date just around the corner, heading towards a place that had only recently experienced such a major disaster.

According to our travel agent, Labuan Bajo was recovering and tourism activities were continuing, while the authorities remained vigilant about the situation. I am excited about the journey, yet at the same time, my heart is filled with anxiety. Perhaps this is one of those moments when we simply have to place our trust in Allah, take all reasonable precautions, and leave the rest to Him.

In a few days' time, we will leave for Labuan Bajo. The bags were packed, the passports ready, and the excitement will hopefully overcome the anxiety. We can plan our journeys, but ultimately, our safety is in Allah's hands.

Bismillah… Labuan Bajo, here we come.

(Sailing on a Liveaboard Phinisi)

Labuan Bajo Adventure Itinerary:

01 - The Journey Begins...

02 - First Night at Sea...

03 - Into the Heart of Komodo...

04 - From the Sea to Golo Mori...

05 - A Taste of Flores Cultures...

06 - Leaving with unforgettable Memory...

01 - The Journey Begins...

“Every journey begins with a single step, but the best ones begin with a little anticipation...”

(My first glimpse of Labuan Bajo harbour)

Date: 31/08/2026 (Monday)
Flight AK310: KUL - LBJ
Hotel: Meruorah Komodo Hotel, Labuan Bajo

Today was Malaysian Independence Day.

At 4.30 am, we quietly loaded all our bags into our Hilux pickup and drove to KLIA Airport in the stillness of the early morning. We parked at the Long-Term Car Park, which we had booked online earlier.

At KLIA2, our group of nine gathered for an early check-in. During the introductions, I could sense a certain tension in the group. There were worried faces and a little uncertainty about what lay ahead, especially in the aftermath of the recent major earthquakes. None of us really knew what to expect from the trip.

 

(Waiting for another member from Singapore)

(Ready to board the plane)

Our AirAsia flight, AK310, departed on time. After a four-hour flight, we landed safely at Komodo International Airport in Labuan Bajo, the modern gateway to this beautiful corner of Indonesia and the famous Komodo National Park. Conveniently located just about 2 km from the town centre and main harbour, the airport makes the transition from flight to hotel or speedboat remarkably easy.

(Komodo International Airport)

(Arrived safely in Labuan Bajo)

Airport clearance was smooth, and we were met by Rafi, our cameraman-cum-tour guide, who would be accompanying us throughout the trip. From the airport, we headed towards our hotel in Labuan Bajo.

Before checking in, we made our first stop at Puncak Waringin Viewpoint, one of the most accessible elevated viewpoints in the heart of Labuan Bajo. From here, we had a spectacular panoramic view of the harbour, the traditional Phinisi boats and the surrounding tropical islands of Komodo National Park. The calm blue waters of the bay, dotted with boats and islands, were a beautiful welcome to Labuan Bajo. For a while, at least, the worries in our hearts seemed to drift away with the gentle sea breeze.

 

(Panoramic view from Puncak Waringin Viewpoint)

We checked in at Meruorah Komodo Hotel. The hotel has been thoughtfully designed with clean, understated aesthetics that complement rather than compete with the natural beauty outside. Our Horizon Sea View room was comfortable and welcoming, and we enjoyed a tastefully prepared Indonesian packed lunch there.

(The Labuan Bajo Marina in the background)

(Our spacious room in Meruorah Hotel)

The lunch arrived in a traditional woven bamboo basket - a simple yet charming touch that gave the meal an eco-friendly and distinctly Indonesian character. It felt like a warm welcome to our first day in Labuan Bajo.

(Having packed lunch at the balcony, overlooking the harbour)

Our First Sunset in Labuan Bajo

Our original itinerary was to watch the sunset from the hotel rooftop. Instead, plans changed and we headed out for a sunset dinner at Taman Laut Handayani Seafood Restaurant, just a short drive from the hotel.

 

(The sun is setting over the horizon)

Perched near Puncak Waringin, the restaurant offered a lovely uninterrupted view of Labuan Bajo harbour, the Phinisi boats and the surrounding sea. As the sun slowly descended, we settled down to dinner and enjoyed a spread of Indonesian dishes. Among them, the signature grilled fish served with Indonesian sambal was a particular favourite of ours.

(Absorbing the view from the restaurant's upper floor)

(Sunset dinner at Taman Laut Handayani)

After dinner, we walked back towards the hotel, passing through Wisata Kuliner Kampung Ujung, the lively open-air waterfront food market of Labuan Bajo.

Located right beside the harbour, the market comes alive in the evening as local vendors set up rows of stalls displaying the day's fresh catch. The colourful seafood, bustling atmosphere and variety of fresh juices made it an interesting glimpse into the local evening scene.

(Vibrant coloured fish at the market)

Back at Meruorah Komodo Hotel, we spent some quiet time looking out at the marina. The lights reflected beautifully on the water, illuminating the traditional Phinisi boats and smaller local vessels. Their reflections shimmered like a mirror beneath the night sky. 

Lingering worries aside, it was a beautiful and memorable ending to our first day in Labuan Bajo.

(A fleet of phinisis anchoring for the night)

 
And there was something particularly special about this trip. We were here to celebrate our 47th wedding anniversary, in a place neither of us had visited before, surrounded by new friends, beautiful islands and the promise of adventures yet to come. For now, we were simply grateful to have arrived safely.

02 - First Night at Sea...

“The sea has a way of reminding us how wonderfully small we are in this vast world...”

(Watching giant fruit bats during sunset)

Date: 01/09/2026 (Tuesday)
Activity: Rangko Cave & Sailing Day 01
Destination: Rangko Cave, Kelor Island and Kalong Island

Today began on a particularly special note - it was our 47th wedding anniversary.

We celebrated with breakfast at the rooftop Bay Restaurant, where we enjoyed a panoramic view of the bay. The breakfast spread was excellent, offering a generous selection of international favourites. We had omelettes, waffles, pancakes, assorted pastries and freshly baked breads. The coffee was particularly good - we kept asking for refills!

(The early birds, celebrating their 47th Anniversary)

(The view of Labuan Bajo Marina from the rooftop)

It was a hearty and satisfying breakfast, just what we needed to keep us going until lunch later, when we would be dining aboard our phinisi.

(Girls just wanna have fun...)

(Celebrating Independence Day in Labuan Bajo)

Turquoise pool of Rangko Cave

After breakfast, we headed to Tanjung Boleng, a coastal landmark tucked beneath lush, steep hills along the shoreline. It is one of the departure points for travellers heading to the famous Rangko Caves.

(Mural on the wall - a man riding a Komodo Dragon)

As it was low tide, reaching our boat was an adventure in itself. We had to be pulled across the shallow water on a rather makeshift raft to get to the boat. It was certainly an unusual, and memorable way to begin our excursion!

(The sea at low tide)

(Wading in the low tide to the speedboat)

(Boarding a makeshift raft for a fee)

(A villager pulling the raft to the speedboat)

(Safely on board, to Rangko Island)

From Tanjung Boleng, it was about a 15-minute boat ride by speedboat across the sparkling waters of the Flores Sea to Rangko Island. From the landing point, we trekked for several minutes under the hot sun before finally reaching Rangko Cave. The cave is a beautiful limestone ocean cavern, famous for its hidden, crystal-clear turquoise saltwater pool. Unlike conventional inland caves, Rangko is connected to the sea through fissures in the limestone. The mineral-rich seawater gives the pool an extraordinary clarity and buoyancy, making it a wonderful place for a refreshing swim.

(Crystal clear waters of Rangko Island)

(The jetty of the uninhabited Rangko Island)

(A secluded beach of Rangko Island)

(The start of a short climb to Rangko Cave)

And yes, we had come prepared to swim! After enjoying our time at the cave, we made our way back to Tanjung Boleng on the NTT mainland. We were more than ready for the fresh coconut juice waiting for us there. After the heat and exertion of our excursion, that cold, refreshing coconut water tasted absolutely wonderful.

(Sharp rugged stone steps into the pool)

(Natural light reflection of Rangko blue pool)

(The best lighting was from 2.30 pm - 3.00 pm)

(A refreshing coconut drink after the steep climb)

Our First Liveaboard Phinisi Experience

Back in Labuan Bajo, we headed to the Marina waterfront to board our traditional phinisi. These magnificent handcrafted wooden vessels are an important part of Indonesia's maritime heritage. Because of their considerable draft, they cannot always come right up to the shallow piers. Instead, they anchor in deeper water, and passengers are ferried out to them by tender boat. It was roughly ten-minute ride to our waiting phinisi. And there she was - our home for the next three days.

(On board of the phinisi - the beginning of our sailing adventure)

Modern phinisi liveaboards beautifully combine traditional Indonesian wooden craftsmanship with the comforts of a modern vessel. Our boat had comfortable cabins, a cosy dining area and all the facilities needed for our adventure, including a tender boat and equipment for snorkelling and diving.

(A spacious room with attached bathroom)

(Each room has a cozy balcony)

Soon after boarding, we sat down to our first lunch on board. Dining aboard a traditional Indonesian phinisi is part of the experience itself. The meals are generally centred around fresh local ingredients, particularly fish and seafood sourced from local markets and fishermen. Our first lunch was hearty and filling, and we certainly enjoyed it.

(A spread of delicious dishes awaited us)

(Our first meal on board of the phinisi)

Swimming With Baby Sharks at Kelor Island

After a short rest, it was time for our first island stop.

We sailed towards Kelor Island, a small, uninhabited island within the Komodo National Park. With its white sandy beach, clear turquoise waters and beautiful panoramic viewpoints, Kelor is often the perfect introduction to the islands before venturing deeper into Komodo territory.

(Off to Kelor Island)

(Joining the girls for a dip)

I joined the ladies for a swim in the shallow waters while hubby decided to tackle the climb to the summit. It was only about a 15-minute climb, but it was extremely steep, with an incline of roughly 45 degrees over loose soil and dry grass. Not exactly an easy climb!

(A few steps more to the viewpoint)

(The view from the summit)

But the effort was rewarded with a spectacular 360° panoramic view - the brilliant turquoise waters surrounding the island, stretching towards the silhouette of Flores in the distance. The descent was another matter altogether. With the steep slope and loose ground, hubby had to make his way down very carefully. It could have been quite dangerous if one wasn't cautious.

(Good humored cheerful baby sharks)

(Caught one in the shallow waters)

Back on the beach, we took a leisurely stroll along the white sand. Then came an unexpected little treat - we spotted baby sharks swimming remarkably close to the shoreline, darting playfully through the shallow water. What a sight!

Back aboard our phinisi, we enjoyed afternoon tea with fried bananas generously topped with grated cheese, accompanied by refreshing dragon fruit juice. Cookies, coffee and tea were also available throughout the day.

Bats Watching During Sunset at Kalong Island

As the afternoon faded, the phinisi sailed on towards Kalong Island, where we would anchor for the night. Kalong is famous for its spectacular sunset and for the thousands of giant fruit bats that take flight around dusk. As the sun slipped towards the horizon, the sky turned a beautiful shade of orange. Then, almost as if on cue, thousands of fruit bats began emerging from the island.

(Sailing towards Kalong Island during dusk)

(Anchoring for the night at Kalong Island)

(Thousands of fruit bats emerging from Kalong Island)

Watching them take flight against the glowing evening sky was magical. What struck me most was the almost awe-inspiring silence of the spectacle. The bats simply glided overhead, one after another, passing directly over our phinisi as they began their nightly journey.

It was one of those moments that photographs can never quite capture.

Our First Night at Sea

Our Muslim chef, Pak Ramdan, prepared a delicious seafood-based dinner for us that evening. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to enjoy much of it. My stomach was beginning to feel a little queasy. While everyone else was enjoying themselves listening to music and stargazing from the top deck, I stayed in bed, nursing a slight nausea.

(Everyday can end beautifully)

The choppy sea conditions had aggravated my existing vestibular issues, and the gentle rocking of the traditional wooden phinisi was no longer feeling quite so gentle to me! So, while the others enjoyed the evening under the stars, I decided that the best thing I could do was rest. After all, tomorrow promised another full day of exciting discoveries.

Hopefully, I would wake up feeling much better in the morning.