My Travel Writing Scholarship 2011 entry - My Big Adventure
THAILAND | Wednesday, 23 March 2011 | Views [213] | Scholarship Entry
I carried my partially empty bags, had my passport in my hands and my iPod on shuffle , standing there on the tarmac, there I was, in a new place, not too far from where I’m from, but a place that changed my life. I took steps forward, ready for my awesome 3 day 2 night adventure at Bangkok.
Greeted with smiles all the way as I passed through the immigration counter, I stumbled across taxi drivers who offered me the best prices to get to Petchburi Road, located in Pratunam. The hotel was named My Hotel, definitely made me feel very at home. Back in Malaysia, I’ve got my home to live in, and in Bangkok, whenever I get down the taxi, I’ll just say “To My Hotel” felt pretty good saying that.
As I travelled along the streets, there wasn’t a single problem finding good food, thinking about it now still makes my mouth water. From chicken wings as cheap as 50sens, hot dogs and burgers, you can never go hungry while you’re walking on the streets of Bangkok. Maybe it’s their way of life, to eat, and shop.
It’s a known fact that everyone goes to Bangkok for a shopping adventure. Not a person who’s a shopping fan, but the moment I stepped into the Platinum mall, I went back to the hotel with bags of clothes and shoes. On my second day, I visited Chatuchak market, where I got more stuff there; it’s a huge place, with everything under the sun. Can’t walk for too long? There are also food stalls and dessert stalls that will tickle your fancy.
Nightlife at Bangkok is also something to shout about. Stalls are still open by the streets, so shoppers will not die of boredom, food stalls are open for quick snacks as you walk and enjoy the sights and sounds. The infamous Ping Pong show is well talked about back there and is considered one of Bangkok’s tourist attractions not to be missed. Clubs are open for those who are interested to know more people there, and with such friendly people there, it wouldn’t be a surprise if you went home with new friends for your facebook account.
I treated myself for a full body massage on the first night, a foot massage on the second night, and my first pedicure on the day before I left the place. All in, I’ve only spent RM55. Bangkok is definitely the place for the thrifty.
At the end of my adventure, I knew I would miss the busy streets, and the simple life. The people there touched my heart, the place nurtured an interest for shopping in me, and I’ve never felt so fresh ever since I came back. I’m glad I made that trip down to this place, and would look forward to the many other adventures in the future if I’m ever given the chance to do so again.
Tags: #2011writing, travel writing scholarship 2011