Chanthaburi (8-10 Sep 14)

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After almost two weeks in the capital, I hit the road again towards what could be the last area of Thailand that I haven't quite yet covered -- the Eastern Gulf. My main objective is to check out the much talked about island of Koh Chang, to do a quick visa run to neighbouring Cambodia, and also to check out Koh Kong on the Cambodian side which I'd missed during my first foray back in late 2012.

But first, a stop en route in Chanthaburi - a relatively quiet riverside town in a province better known for its fruit orchards and gem markets. It also happens to be the birthplace of my grandmother, though having left eons ago, I doubt she would recognise it today (she once told me there was no need to visit -- only trees and lotsa snakes!). Having said that, Chanthaburi is a world apart from Bangkok. We're back in sleepy, laidback Thai territory here, with its accompanying laidback prices (THB30 for a pork collar on rice!). I counted a grand total of just two 7-11s here around town. On just a single corner of some Sukhumvit sois in Bangkok, you might find more than that within metres of each other! So it's a world apart, and a pleasant welcome to the last remaining region of the country that I've yet to explore.

Stayed at Muang Chan Hotel.

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Photos

Catholic Cathedral
Night shot. Apparently the oldest in Thailand (which is of course historically and predominantly Buddhist), built in the 19th century. Made me feel for a brief moment I was back in the Philippines.

Yindee Riverside Restaurant
Nice Moo Manaaw (Lime Pork)!

Sweet@Heart Cafe
Consecutive nights spent here chilling along the river with Chaa Yen (Thai Iced Tea) and wifi.

Gun Shop
Now, I must REALLY be in the Philippines!

What wat?
Can't remember...