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Tag: things to do in thailand

  • Boat Noodle Alley; The best authentic Thai Noodles?

    Boat Noodle Alley; The best authentic Thai Noodles?

    Bangkok is famous for its vibrant street food culture, and few dishes capture this spirit like boat noodles. These tiny bowls of flavor are not just budget-friendly but also offer a taste of Thai culinary traditions. With prices that won’t break the bank, you can enjoy a satisfying meal while exploring the city’s lively food scene. So, we bring you Boat Noodle Alley.

    The late 1700’s saw Bangkok canals being a big place for trade, and vendors in wooden boats would paddle up to potential customers with shallow bowls of noodle soups (to avoid spillages), however, as the 1970’s came vendors were forced to come to land. Now, you find an alley of noodle spots north of the Victory Monument, where you can have your own taste of these authentic Thai foods!

    In this adventure, we visited two popular noodle shops: Pa Yak Boat Noodles and Baan Kuay Tiew Ruathong Noodles. Each offers a unique experience, showcasing their take on this beloved dish. One is all about quality over quantity (both are v good though), while the other cranks up the heat for spice lovers.

    Cost-effectiveness and spice levels stand out as key features in our noodle exploration. Whether you’re looking for a tasty meal on a budget or a fiery culinary challenge, Bangkok’s boat noodle stalls have something for everyone.

    This blog post is based on our newest vlog which you can check out here!

    *This post contains affiliate links, which we may earn from. This does not come at an additional cost, but helps us to pursue this dream 🙂

    Pa Yak Noodles

    Noodle Variety and Prices

    At Pa Yak Boat Noodles, the menu is limited to just four variety options. Each bowl costs a mere 18 baht, roughly 40-45p. This price is hard to beat, especially in a city noted for its street food. When you think about dining out in Europe or North America, you could pay four times that amount for just a snack, making this a fantastic deal for travelers.

    Flavour Profile and Texture

    The dishes here feature an interesting range of noodles. Options include slippery glass noodles and wide, flat noodles. The rich broths are packed with flavor, accompanied by various toppings like tender meat and veggies. We also got the best bowl of crispy pork crackling. The overall experience is marked by complex flavor profiles, making each bowl stand out, despite the limited variety.

    Ambiance and Service

    Situated by the river, Pa Yak Boat Noodles offers a unique dining atmosphere. Though the view may not be picturesque, the lively vibe adds to the experience. However, the service was a bit direct, which can be common in tourist-heavy areas. A bit of patience goes a long way when navigating a language barrier.

    Baan Kuay Tiew Ruathong Noodles : A Spice Lover’s Dream.

    Expanded Menu and Options

    In contrast, Ruathong Noodles boasts a more extensive menu with nine options. Diners can choose from a variety of noodle types and proteins, including pork and beef. This breadth makes it appealing to those looking to explore different flavors in one visit.

    Spice Levels and Flavor Intensity

    Ruathong Noodles is a haven for those who enjoy spicy food. The heat levels vary dramatically from one dish to the next. For example, the glass noodles come with a mild broth, while other options fire up your taste buds with intense heat. The lingering spiciness makes for an exciting meal, but be warned: not all dishes are suitable for the timid (like us).

    Ambiance and Service at Ruathong Noodles

    Ruathong Noodles offers an energetic atmosphere. You can see chefs crafting noodle dishes right before your eyes. This behind-the-scenes look can be quite entertaining and adds to the overall dining experience. The service was friendly, making it a more welcoming spot compared to Pa Yak Boat Noodles.

    Comparing the Two Boat Noodle Experiences

    Price and Value

    When it comes to overall cost, both restaurants offer amazing value. At Pa Yak Boat Noodles, four small bowls and a large bowl can leave you full for about 150 baht (around £4). Meanwhile, Ruathong Noodles, with its more extensive menu, still maintains a comparable price point for the quality and variety offered.

    Flavour and Spice Comparison

    Both of these establishments on Boat Noodle Alley deliver impressive flavours, but they cater to different taste preferences. Pa Yak Boat Noodles provides a delightful experience with its well-balanced flavors. In contrast, Ruathong Noodles is perfect for those who crave spicy dishes. In essence, both places deliver satisfying meals but appeal to different preferences.

    Recommendations Based on Spice Tolerance

    If you enjoy a mild meal and are exploring local fare, Pa Yak Boat Noodles is the place to go. On the other hand, for the spice aficionado, Ruathong Noodles is a must-visit. Understanding your spice tolerance can help you choose the right spot for an unforgettable meal.

    Beyond the Noodles: Tips for Exploring Boat Noodle Alley

    Communicating in a non-English speaking environment can be daunting. Learn a few basic Thai phrases or use translation apps to help order your food smoothly. Keep it simple; locals often appreciate the effort, even if you stumble over the words.

    Exploring Other Food Options

    Boat Noodle Alley is bustling with street food vendors offering various delicacies. Take your time to explore beyond noodles. You might discover hidden gems, like fresh fruits or savory snacks that complement your meal.

    Budgeting for Your Trip

    When planning your food budget, consider that meals at these noodle spots range from 18 baht to about 50 baht per bowl. With such low prices, you can try multiple dishes without worrying about costs.

    Conclusion: A Delicious and Affordable Bangkok Adventure

    Visiting Pa Yak Boat Noodles and Ruathong Noodles on Boat Noodle Alley reveals the rich diversity of Bangkok’s food scene. Each place brings its unique flavor and experience to the table. While Pa Yak Boat Noodles stakes its claim on affordability and classic flavors, Ruathong Noodles fires up the palate with spicy selections.

    Boat noodles in Bangkok offer a tantalizing and budget-friendly culinary adventure. Whether you’re wary of spice or eager for a challenge, these establishments have something for every palate. Dive into the delicious world of boat noodles, and don’t forget to share your experiences with fellow travelers!

    Looking for more Thailand inspiration? Find out how to see elephants in Thailand, or maybe our Khao Sok National Park guide!

    Find our Travel Essentials!

    We have a full list of recommendations for any travels! Check out our:

    We also recommend using these when planning your next trip!

    • Trip.com – Find amazing flight deals, with over 2 million flight routes, and being one of the world’s leading online travel agencies.
    • Airalo – With over one million people using Airalo, it is our go to eSIM provider for our worldwide trips! Having data packs from over 200 countries, find combined area packages and deals to suit your travel style and data needs!
    • Booking.com – Offering over 28 million accommodations to book, we will always use booking.com! Having a rewards system built in, the more you book, the more perks you get!
    • HostelWorld – You cannot budget travel without hostel world! Having over 17,000 hostels, boasting over 13 million reviews, hostel world is one our of top websites for budget travel! They are now offering more ways to meet people abroad, with meet ups, group chats and more available!
    • Get Your Guide – Book unique (and common!) experiences and activities worldwide, including skip the line tickets to big attractions worldwide!
    • Eat With – Experience authentic travel experiences with locals worldwide! Use eat with to book unique and intimate dining experiences, such as dinner parties in big restaurants, big feasts with a local family, cooking classes with a local and more!
    • ETKA – Every age from 3 to 85 can buy ETKA’s travel insurance, offering multilingual 24/7 chat support, and your insurance policy within 2-3 minutes!

    If you would like to support our own travel Journey, please check out all our other blogs, and subscribe to the newsletter where we are currently uploading daily blogs!

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  • Khao Sok National Park Travel Guide

    Khao Sok National Park Travel Guide

    Khao Sok National Park

    Nestled in the heart of southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is an oasis that offers lush rainforests, towering rock formations, and tranquil waters. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply a lover of natural beauty, Khao Sok has something extraordinary to offer. Here’s a travel guide will make your visit unforgettable.

    To visit the beautiful park we would first recommend staying just outside the park in Khao Sok Morning Mist Resort which is a popular stay close to the national park with easy access. It’s best to reach by taking the bus from Surat Thani which takes roughly 2/3 hours. The bus will drop you off at the tourism information centre which requires a 20 minute walk down the road to your hostel Khao Sok Morning Mist Resort. Here, the resort sort out your booking for the park and will provide transport to the entrance of the park.

    *There are affiliate links in this post – they do not come at any extra cost to you, but just means we can earn commission to help us pursue this further 🙂

    Floating bungalows in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
    Khao Sok National Park
    1. Khao Sok National Park
    2. Visiting Khao Sok National Park
    3. Encountering wild Elephants
    4. Kayaking and exploring
    5. Hiking Trails
    6. Exploring the Caves of Khao Sok
    7. Night Tours in Khao Sok
    8. Swimming in the lakes of Khao Sok National Park
    9. Is Khao Sok Worth visiting?
    10. Our favourite must-needed travel resources
      1. Where to Fly
      2. Where to Stay
      3. Where to Explore
      4. Where to get Connected
      5. Where to be Protected
    11. Our Top Traveller’s Essentials
    12. Thank you for reading our Khao Sok Guide!

    Visiting Khao Sok National Park

    Khao Sok National Park is a beautiful treasure of Thailand! With the best time to visit being between December – April (this is not necessary at all, however, these periods are recommended for the best visit), explore the perfect bliss of this national park.

    Multiple trip variations exist, including different activities such as hikes boat tours etc! We have listed this one, which includes a morning jungle hike, two wildlife safaris by longboat, two lunches, dinner and breakfast!

    Find the link to an amazing 2 day experience in Khao Sok National Park here.

    Encountering wild Elephants

    One of the most awe-inspiring activities in Khao Sok is the chance to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. As you venture deep into the park, guided tours can lead you to areas where these magnificent creatures are known to roam. Imagine the thrill of spotting a herd of elephants bathing in a river or feeding on lush vegetation. Be sure to maintain a respectful distance, allowing these gentle giants to go about their day undisturbed.

    When we venturing through the national park, we spotted a mother elephant meander down to the waterfront with her young calf for hydration. This was a truly surreal experience which left us in wonder. It’s amazing to see parts of this beautiful country protected to allow these beautiful creatures freedom to roam and be wild.

    Wild elephants seen in Khao Sok national Park
    Wild Elephants spotted in the National Park.

    Kayaking and exploring

    When arriving at your chosen stay for your time in the national park, you are free to explore the local surroundings which include free access to a kayak! This gives you freedom to explore the waters and and limestone cliffs. There is so much to see you cannot miss out on this! While exploring you can see gibbons calling and swinging through tall trees, storks/hawks & eagles gliding through the skies, or if you are lucky… elephant or a shy Tapir meandering near the waters edge! The waters are crystal clear with many fish visible to spot.

    A kayak trip would be perfect to take photos, just relax and be one with nature for a short while. The park is beautiful everywhere you look so be sure to soak up all the surrounding views and all the natural beauty.

    Kayaking in the national park lake, Thailand
    Kayaking in Khao Sok

    Hiking Trails

    Khao Sok is crisscrossed with an array of nature trails, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s biodiversity. The park’s guided hikes range from leisurely walks to challenging treks, catering to all levels of fitness and adventure. As you traverse these paths, you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna. Listen to the symphony birds and spot exotic flowers in bloom. Popular trails include the scenic route to Sip-et Chan Waterfall, where you can cool off with a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters.

    While wandering the trails, you will encounter broken trees from wild elephants not so elegantly weaving through the forests. You may even be lucky enough to find elephants footprints but these are rather hard to come by. Be sure to watch out for any leaches which are common in Khao Sok and hard to notice. We were shown a demonstration by our guide on how to spot and remove them so hopefully you will too!

    Exploring the Caves of Khao Sok

    Khao Sok is dotted with intriguing caves waiting to be explored. One of the most famous is the Coral Cave, named for its stunning coral-like formations. A guided tour will take you through narrow passages and vast chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. The cool, dim interiors offer a fascinating contrast to the bright, humid jungle outside. Some caves involve wading through water and emerging in secluded forest areas, adding an element of adventure to your exploration.

    The reach caves, you may require to embark on long hikes or bamboo rafting across rivers to your chosen cave. Some may even require the physical activity of climbing steps or rocks to the entrance of the cave. It is so worth it!

    Night Tours in Khao Sok

    Although this sounds daunting, this can be one of the best ways to see a lot of the wildlife in the national park. A lot of the wildlife are nocturnal which will open up a whole new experience with different encounters than in the day. Bats can be seen darting through the blackened skies and you may even spot a leopard out on the hunt. You will have a expert guide navigating you through the jungle with a flashlight your only visibility. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! As you are hidden deep in the national park, the stars will be shining at their brightest giving you a beautiful natural show when you look up.

    Swimming in the lakes of Khao Sok National Park

    At your accommodation, you will have free time to entertain yourself and what better way to do this than going for a swim in the lake. The waters are so clear and pure, inviting you in! As you are staying on bungalows, this offers a great opportunity to jump in and enjoy your time with picturesque beauty in the background. There’s something truly peaceful about going for a gentle swim in the lakes in the clear water to unwind. Alternatively, it’s also a perfect spot to sit on the side of the bungalows and read a book and watch the world go by. There’s barely a pin drop in national park so just kick back, relax and soak it all in! There’s not many better views in South East Asia than this national park so be sure to make the most of it!

    Is Khao Sok Worth visiting?

    Khao Sok National Park was definitely one of the many highlights that stood out during our time in Thailand and South East Asia! There’s so much to do and see and if we went back we would definitely spend longer there, just being in the wild. It’s a place everyone should visit and one we couldn’t recommend enough!

    To see more on our trips across Thailand check out our South Thailand 2-week itinerary, and our North Thailand itinerary! Make sure to subscribe to see more blog content!

    Views across the lake.
    Floating bungalows in Khao Sok National Park.

    Our favourite must-needed travel resources

    Where to Fly

    Trip.com – Find amazing flight deals, with over 2 million flight routes, and being one of the world’s leading online travel agencies.

    Kiwi – Use Kiwi’s amazing service that is pioneering in the flight space! They use virtual interlining, which means they can provide seamless connecting flights into one single itinerary!

    CheapOair – Being one of the fastest growing online travel companies in the US, CheapOair offers great flight deals, hotel rooms, rental cars and more!

    Where to Stay

    Booking.com – Offering over 28 million accommodations to book, we will always use booking.com! Having a rewards system built in, the more you book, the more perks you get!

    HostelWorld – You cannot budget travel without hostel world! Having over 17,000 hostels, boasting over 13 million reviews, hostel world is one our of top websites for budget travel! They are now offering more ways to meet people abroad, with meet ups, group chats and more available!

    Vrbo – Find stunning vacation rentals with Vrbo! Offering over 2 million paid listings in 190 countries, find memorable experiences with this accommodation service!

    Where to Explore

    Viator – A trip advisor company, viator offers over 300,000 experiences over 200 countries, including water sports, walking tours, boat trips, food tastes tours and more! Including activities for many budgets, check out Viator!

    Eat With – Experience authentic travel experiences with locals worldwide! Use eat with to book unique and intimate dining experiences, such as dinner parties in big restaurants, big feasts with a local family, cooking classes with a local and more!

    Get Your Guide – Book unique (and common too!) experiences and activities worldwide, including skip the line tickets to big attractions worldwide!

    Where to get Connected

    Airalo – With over one million people using Airalo, it is our go to eSIM provider for our worldwide trips! Having data packs from over 200 countries, find combined area packages and deals to suit your travel style and data needs!

    Where to be Protected

    ETKA – Every age from 3 to 85 can buy ETKA’s travel insurance, offering multilingual 24/7 chat support, and your insurance policy within 2-3 minutes!

    Our Top Traveller’s Essentials

    Backpack – Osprey Farpoint 40 – This backpack is a staple amongst many travellers! Being a lot cheaper than the luxury brands, this is a quality backpack from a well known brand. It boasts quality durability, is lightweight with a great framework and is a great option for most people! This backpack has a hip strap to help carry the bag, a breathable harness strap, and comes in multiple colours!

    Compression Packing Cubes – Compression cubes are our favourite packing accessory! These cubes are similar to the normal packing cubes, but feature a compression zip, meaning you can compress your clothes down… this makes packing easier, limits the space you are using, and means more room for souvenirs etc!

    Powerbank – Don’t lose power when travelling! It isn’t always guaranteed to find charging ports, so we would always suggest carrying a spare power bank, just incase you do run low on power when you need it!

    Universal Travel Plug Adapter – Most backpackers/travellers visit multiple countries during one trip. And that means it isn’t guaranteed you will be using the same plug head during each place. A universal plug is great as it lets you switch between each plug head style all in one item! We love ours, it has USB slots meaning multiple items can be charged at once.

    Find our full packing list guide here.

    Thank you for reading our Khao Sok Guide!

    Thank you for reading our blog and we hope it helped with planning your trip to Khao Sok National Park!

    If you would like to support our own travel Journey, please check out all our other blogs, and subscribe to the newsletter where we are currently uploading daily blogs!

    Check out our Social Media’s below!!!

    Finally, share this post with your friends! Let’s build those travel plans!

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