Day 01 — Crossing into Thailand...

"Live your life by a compass not a clock..." - Stephen Covey

(The new Sadao ICQ)

Day-01: 09 Aug 26 (Sunday)
Route: Kuala Lumpur - Hat Yai
Hotel: Golden Crown Hotel Hat Yai

Our travel bags were neatly packed and ready to be loaded into the pick-up. Today, we were heading north to cross into Thailand and spend two nights in Hat Yai. It had been a while since our last visit - the most recent one was in December 2025 during the big flood in southern Thailand. On our return journey, we planned to spend a few nights in Penang before continuing the drive home.

By 7.30 am, we were already in Bandar Baru Selayang, stopping for breakfast at Restoran Nasi Lemak Ujang. The restaurant had been closed for several weeks and reportedly compounded by the local council over some issues, most probably related to local authority regulations. I was glad to see it back in business, as it is one of my favourite breakfast spots. Their nasi lemak is delicious, while the lontong is very much to my taste.

(The start of the journey)

(A brief stop at Petronas Simpang Pulai)

With breakfast done, we continued our leisurely drive north, making a few brief stops along the way. We stopped at Petronas Simpang Pulai for a comfort break and later at the Bukit Gantang rest area to pick up some fresh fruits. After refuelling in Changlun, we made a slight detour to Restaurant Cik Jah Nasi Ayam Bakaq for a hearty lunch. It was a welcome opportunity to rest our tired bodies after the long drive.

(Restoran Cik Jah Nasi Ayam Bakaq)

(Tasty Nasi Ayam Bakar)

By 2.00 pm, we had crossed into Thailand. Border clearance at the new Sadao International Customs Quarantine (ICQ) was remarkably smooth. The new road has also made the crossing more convenient, bypassing the busy border town of Danok.

(The Golden Crown Hotel)

(Boat noodles and Banana pancake for dinner)

 
We checked in at the Golden Crown Hotel, and I took a much-needed power nap while hubby went out to top up his local SIM card. For dinner, we simply walked next door to Ayutthaya Noodle Restaurant, which, as usual, was filled with Malaysian tourists. After dinner, we indulged in an hour of strong foot massage - a perfect way to soothe our tired legs after the long drive.

 
And with that, the day came to a relaxing end.