"Kuuaalaa Besuuuttt"

*it’s almost normal to get the bus driver singing out every stop along the journey*

Great, we are here! My legs were asleep from the 8-hour bus journey and my bottom was appreciative of the stretch too.

“You have ferry ticket?”

“Ahh…no?”

“Follow me. 70 Ringgit one person, include return”

That was all he said and he was the only one there that early in the morning.

*The little town of Kuala Besut was still sound asleep. Not so much as a squeak was heard*

Kuala Besut is a little fishing town is the state of Terengganu, on the east coast of Malaysia. It’s the main gate way to the Perhentian Islands. Although it’s main income is from fishing, the popular lure of the islands has made tourism its second main income. Most of the holiday makers that flock these islands, believe it or not, are locals. 

Being local and being able to speak the native language made things a little easier but these guys do understand and speak average to good English. Having being fussed over does feel kind of good I have to admit!    

What can I say other than I love Bangkok? As hectic as it may seem, on my first trip, I didn’t like it as much. I suppose when you have 3 days in the capital you are rushed to see as much as you can, and you don’t really know the ins and outs of the place. Plus the idea of getting off to an island somewhere in the south of Thailand makes staying in the city even all that less exciting.

My second time around, I got to know Bangkok better and honestly, if I have to move here to work, I would definitely do it! Bangkok has so many beautiful places that are not too popular with the tourist.

Bangkok has some of the best street foods in South East Asia. Unlike Malaysia or Singapore where street food is really little Hawker outlets, Thailand's street food is literally on the street side. You're lucky if they provide a seat for you to sit on.

Yes, yes... Many I know will say it's dirty, unhealthy and so on, but really, it's good food! Touch wood I have never been sick due to eating street food but then again, I do have a 'strong' tummy. Having said that, the only thing that has sent me to the toilet countless times is the damn chilli they seem to love in abundance, which is in almost everything they cook. 

Ask anyone heading into Bangkok where their first stop is, and it’s a sure answer of Khao San Road. It’s become so popular that it’s mostly filled with only tourist. It’s definitely a must on your list if you haven’t been to Khao San Road; it’s a ride of passage when you are in Bangkok. Bars blaring out music, to little street vendors selling insects and touts promoting Ping-Pong shows, it’s almost a fool-proof-good cheap night out. 

*the last bit (Ping-Pong show) might be a bit traumatising for some.

In short, Khao San Road is a party street. Flashing lights, bright neons and loud music. It seriously is a party street and one with lots of the backpacking sort. I remember my first time on Khao San Road… its almost overwhelming yet exciting at the same time. Almost everything a backpacker needs can be found here. From clothes to travel agencies, it’s mostly centred here, as it’s a high tourist traffic area. 

Do bear in mind that Khao San Road is situated in the old part of the city. You can get here by either a taxi, motor taxi or bus. The trains such as the BTS and MRT don’t connect to this part of the city. I highly recommend the taxi as its metered and its fairly cheap, if you are not in a hurry that is. Traffic can be a bit of a nightmare during peak hours. And NO, the tuk tuk's are over priced and they are a rip off!