13 JJCM: Thung Song - Cleaning off Traces of Mud and Grimes...

"Not every journey needs to be rushed - sometimes, the best memories are made in stillness...”

(Our 4x4 having a good scrub)

Day 13: 01 December 2025 (Monday)
Route: Cha-am - Thung Song
Hotel: Smile Resort Thung Song

The following morning, we began our long southward journey. For this final stretch, we decided to split the drive: Cha-am to Thung Song for one last restful night in Thailand, then onward to Sadao ICQS the next day.

(PTT rest area in Cha-am)

(Restoran Abang Mana Cha-am)

(Heavy breakfast before the long drive south)

 
The road to Thung Song was nearly 600 kilometres of back-breaking distance, yet surprisingly pleasant. Wide highways unfurled ahead of us, lined with tall palm trees, with occasional glimpses of the Gulf coast shimmering in the distance. 

(Some major roadworks on Route 41)

Somewhere near Ban Saphan, we spotted a car wash across the highway and made a quick U-turn. An hour of meticulous washing and detailing later, our weary, mud-streaked 4x4 emerged with a brand-new sparkle - our reliable companion, ready to carry us home for at least another 1,500 kilometres.

(A car wash in Ban Saphan)

(The bigfoot is cleared of grimes)

In Khun Sarai, we stopped for lunch: simple omelette rice, mixed soup, and a complementary tray of salads with prawn chili paste. The cluster of food stalls there made it a popular stop for travellers, all drawn by the comfort of a good, familiar meal.

(Lunch stop at Khun Sarai rest area)

(A water-wheel water feature)

(Our favorite soup and omelette rice)

(A tasty sumptuous lunch)

All along the way, rescue vehicles passed us - some returning, others being deployed farther south. Though the situation has improved in certain areas of Southern Thailand, it is clear that relief efforts remain ongoing elsewhere.

It was already late at night when we finally reached Thung Song and checked into Smile Resort, a modest THB 695 a night. Eager to rest my tired body, I took a quick hot shower, nibbled on a couple of sweet buns and crackers for dinner, and slipped into bed early - grateful for a quiet night after a long, unhurried journey.

(Smile Resort Thung Song)

(A spacious cozy room)