A Nostalgic Journey: Our 5-Day Thailand Adventure (August 2019)

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A Nostalgic Journey: Our 5-Day Thailand Adventure (August 2019)

Bangkok, Pattaya, Coral Island – A Tale of Love, Discovery, and Practical Tips

In August 2019, my wife and I embarked on our first international adventure together—a 5-day escape to Thailand, spanning Bangkok, Pattaya, and Coral Island (August 16–20). What began as a simple getaway turned into a tapestry of cherished memories, woven with excitement, natural beauty, and moments of pure connection. As I reflect on this journey, I’m eager to share our experience—not just as a nostalgic recount but as a guide for you, dear reader, to craft your own unforgettable Thai adventure. Here’s what we learned, loved, and recommend.

The Journey Begins: A Pre-Arranged Package

We opted for a pre-arranged travel package through a local Nepalese agency, costing NPR 45,000 (approximately USD 420) per person. It covered return flights via Thai Lion Air (a budget carrier), four nights’ accommodation (two in Pattaya, two in Bangkok), daily breakfast, a Bangkok-to-Pattaya taxi (a comfy Toyota Corolla), a speedboat to Coral Island, and a Bangkok city tour. While convenient for first-time travelers like us, I’d suggest a tweak: choose your national flag carrier (e.g., Nepal Airlines) over budget airlines. The extra comfort and reliability are worth it—Thai Lion felt cramped, and we missed that sense of care.

Pattaya & Coral Island: A Highlight of Joy

Pattaya stole our hearts. The speedboat ride to Coral Island was a thrill—my wife’s eyes sparkled as we skimmed across turquoise waters, the wind weaving through her hair. The island’s natural beauty—pristine beaches and serene vibes—felt like a postcard come to life. For me, the adrenaline of the boat ride was the peak; for her, it was the tranquility of the shore. If you go, don’t skip this—it’s a perfect blend of excitement and peace.

Bangkok City Tour: A Mixed Bag

The Bangkok city tour, however, left us wanting more. The itinerary included only the Reclining Buddha and Golden Buddha temples—familiar sights for us Nepalese, accustomed to Buddhist heritage. While impressive, they didn’t ignite the wonder we craved. My tip? Research beyond the agent’s plan. Bangkok brims with gems like the Grand Palace or floating markets—use the internet or airport tourist info centers to curate your must-sees. Relying solely on travel agents risks a cookie-cutter experience.

The Crown Jewel: Chao Phraya Princess Cruise Dinner

If there’s one memory that lingers, it’s the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise Dinner. Picture this: a balmy evening, the river shimmering under city lights, a delicious spread, and my wife and I sharing quiet laughter over the hum of the boat. It was romance distilled into a single night—nostalgia hits me even now. To every couple, especially newlyweds, I say: book this. It’s an investment in joy you won’t regret.

Shopping at Indra Market: A Bargain Hunter’s Dream

Shopping in Bangkok was a delight, especially at Indra Market. Affordable, quality clothes abound—think vibrant tees and stylish dresses at prices that won’t sting. We snagged deals by bargaining (aim for 50% off; buy three items for even steeper discounts). The area buzzes with Nepali- and Indian-speaking shopkeepers and food stalls—perfect for homesick travelers. Book a hotel nearby (we wish we had); shops stay open till 11 PM or midnight, giving you ample time to explore.

Safety and Serenity: Thailand’s Warm Embrace

Thailand’s people left an imprint on us—calm, polite, and genuine. We felt safe wandering late into the night, a rarity for first-time travelers. For women, couples, or solo adventurers, this is a haven—no theft, no hassle. With over 45 million tourists annually (pre-2020 figures), Thailand knows how to welcome you. It’s like roaming your own home, just with a fresher, spicier flavor.

Getting Around: Easy and Affordable

The public transport system—think BTS Skytrain or MRT—is a marvel: efficient, affordable, and intuitive. If you’ve navigated Delhi’s Metro or India’s IGI Airport, you’ll feel at ease here. Skip the pre-arranged package if you’re travel-savvy; craft your own itinerary instead. For groups, rent a Toyota HiAce (Bangkok to Pattaya from Don Mueang Airport costs just 1,000 THB one way). Hotels? Bargain for a double room (1,500–2,000 THB/night) in a 3-star spot—AC, fridge, TV, and tea/coffee included. Breakfast is often free; lunch or dinner at Indian restaurants runs 50–150 THB with a little haggling.

Food: A Cultural Dive (With Caveats)

Thai cuisine is a seafood lover’s paradise—pungent, flavorful, and fresh. If you relish it, you’re in heaven. But for vegetarians or Hindus avoiding beef (common in menus), it’s trickier. We leaned on Indian restaurants—plentiful in Bangkok and Pattaya—or carried dry snacks. Plan ahead if your palate prefers familiarity.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

  • Research Online: Google top spots in Bangkok and Pattaya—don’t trust agents blindly. Offline Google Maps saved us; download it for navigation without internet.
  • Tourist Info Centers: Grab a free map at the airport or key sites—better than agency handouts.
  • Bargain Smartly: From hotels to meals to markets, negotiate politely—it’s expected and effective.
  • Solo Travel Option: With decent experience, ditch the package. Thailand’s infrastructure supports DIY adventures.

A Love Letter to Our First Trip

This journey was more than a vacation—it was a milestone. My wife’s glee on the speedboat, my thrill at the pace, our shared awe on the cruise—it stitched us closer. As first-time travelers, we stumbled, learned, and laughed. Thailand gifted us nostalgia we’ll carry forever—love, passion, joy, and happiness intertwined.

So, reader, what’s your Thailand story waiting to be? Dive in with eyes open, a little prep, and a lot of heart. It’ll be worth every moment.

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