Category: Travel Tips

I recently had my second experience of visiting Thailand, but this time I must admit that I was slightly disappointed. Previously I visited Bangkok & Pattaya. However, this time I had different plans; I wanted to cover Koh Samui on this trip.

However, it seems that the rates for various services have drastically changed, and the overall quality has taken a hit. Nevertheless, I decided to embark on my journey once again, and my first stop was Bangkok, as it offered the cheapest flight option.

Upon arrival, I obtained a visa on arrival and made my way to the basement of the airport to catch a metro train to the city center. From there, I took another metro line to a station close to my hostel. The metro fares, starting from 35 baht, seemed a bit on the higher side. As I made my way through the bustling city of Bangkok, I couldn’t help but notice the vibrant atmosphere, filled with both locals and tourists. One area that particularly stood out was Khao San Road, known for its lively ambiance. It is the second most popular destination in Bangkok after the Sukhumvit area, and its name is quite fitting, as it offers a pleasurable experience for visitors.

After a tiring day of exploring, I reached my hostel feeling the effects of the scorching heat. To my disappointment, I discovered that the air conditioning in the hostel only operated from 5 PM to 12 noon. With no other option at hand, I quickly changed into my swimming trunks and took a refreshing dip in the pool to cool off. After a relaxing shower, I decided to venture out and experience the city’s nightlife.

Khao San Road is a must-visit for many travelers in Thailand, and I understood why as soon as I stepped foot on the vibrant street. It was packed with people, making it a challenge to navigate through the crowds at times. Spanning 300 meters, this bustling road is lined with shops, bars, and pubs on both sides. The music blaring from these establishments added to the energetic atmosphere, which continued well into the night. There were also plenty of dining options available, catering to various tastes. If you enjoy a lively crowd and vibrant parties, Khao San Road is worth a visit.

Bangkok’s food scene is diverse and offers a wide range of culinary delights. Being a metropolitan city, it can only provide limited opportunities to connect with nature. However, the public transportation system is generally efficient and reliable. Unfortunately, there is a dark side to the city’s transportation, with scams involving tuk-tuks and taxis tarnishing its reputation. It’s disheartening to witness the rise in greed, as it hurts the city’s image. Nevertheless, with a high influx of tourists visiting the city, it’s not surprising that some bad elements find their way into the mix.

Despite my slight disappointment, Bangkok still has its charm and unique experiences to offer. It’s a city that balances both vibrant city life and cultural heritage, making it an intriguing destination for travelers.

Handy Resources:

Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.

Amazon: I am a member of Amazon affiliate programme. Amazon is probably the biggest market place there is. Buy your trip essential from this link

Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.

Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.

Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.

Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.

Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.

Koh Samui was my second destination after Bangkok in Thailand. I chose Koh Samui for its magnificent beaches and beauty. This tropical island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, along with other famous islands like Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. On the one hand, Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its full moon parties, and on the other hand, Koh Tao is known for its tranquil waters, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. Unlike some travelers who prefer to hop between places, I had planned to solely focus on exploring and enjoying Koh Samui.

To reach Koh Samui, I had two options: flying directly to Koh Samui Airport or taking a bus and speed boat from Bangkok. Since I had made my Thailand trip plans quite late due to the full moon party, I didn’t have enough time to book a flight. Therefore, I decided to book a bus and speed boat journey from Bangkok to Koh Samui. I booked a ticket with Lomprayah, which cost me around 1400 Baht. Another service provider, 12Go, offers great discounts on buses, ferries, and trains. One can save some extra money by booking through this platform. I chose a normal bus from Lomprayah Tours on Khao San Road. There were options for both normal and VIP buses, each with its advantages. As the name suggests, the VIP bus offers more convenience and comfort.

I traveled on the normal bus, which had decent air conditioning and okay seats. The bus toilets were below average, so it was advisable to avoid using them if possible. The most tiring part of the journey was the bus ride itself, which took around 7-8 hours to reach Thug Makham Noi Beach. We arrived at approximately 4-4:30 am after departing from Bangkok at 10 pm. The first speed boat departed at 7 am. At the pier, there was a seating area, but only a part of it was covered, and due to the rainy weather, it was a bit wet. Nonetheless, I managed to pass the time by sitting on a bench.

At 7 am, people started boarding the ferry. The boat had three compartments: bottom, middle, and top. The top compartment was open to the sky, so I chose my seat wisely. I sat on the third tier and enjoyed the wind and ocean views until the sun came out. Once the sun became intense, I moved to the second tier. The boat ride was smooth, although the humid temperature made it a bit uncomfortable. The boat also offered an air-conditioned seating room for an additional 100 baht.

After approximately 4 hours, the boat reached Koh Tao, and I could easily see the tranquil waters, tempting me to dive in for some snorkeling or scuba diving. The next stop was Koh Pha Ngan, which was about 1 hour away from Koh Tao, and then another 1 hour further to Koh Samui.

After an overnight journey, I finally arrived at the shores of Koh Samui. There was a bus service (minivan) available at the shore, which took passengers to their respective hotels, hostels, or resorts for a fixed price of 150 Baht.

When I decided to visit Koh Samui, I opted for the cheapest hostel available, despite its reputation as a popular destination for travelers and honeymooners, known for its luxurious resorts and breathtaking views. Unfortunately, the hostel I stayed in was very basic and didn’t meet the usual standards. However, it was conveniently located near Choengmon Beach. To explore Koh Samui, the best mode of transportation is a scooter, which can be easily rented from local shops for around 200 Baht per day. It is not only the most convenient way to get around but also the most affordable. The island is home to numerous beautiful beaches, some of which are truly pristine. Among them, Chaweng Beach stands out as the go-to place for shopping and clubs, especially popular among solo travelers. Ark Beach Club and Lub D clubs are among the top choices on the island. Despite the challenges of navigating the heat, humidity, and occasional showers, I thoroughly enjoyed riding my scooter to different parts of the island. The Gulf of Thailand offers calm waters, making it perfect for swimming. Just remember to bring your swimwear and take a dip in the ocean. Although the water is clear, it doesn’t have the vibrant turquoise color found in some other parts of Thailand. On the culinary front, finding street vendors selling vegetarian food can be a bit challenging, as street food is not as prominent on the island. I often chose a beach to relax in the afternoon, taking in the views. However, the cloudy weather hindered the enjoyment of sunsets, which are usually a highlight.

Koh Samui town has several pubs that offer pool tables, attracting many retired individuals who enjoy their leisurely life in this beautiful place. While I did enjoy my time on the island, I have visited better places in the past. I chose Koh Samui primarily because it is located near Koh Pha Ngan, famous for its full moon parties—a party I had always wanted to experience at least once.

If you are staying away from the main market of Koh Samui, there are chances you will find a calm surroundings far from the crowds & noises. I hope this blog on Koh Samui about my experience will help you to make your decision to visit Koh Samui or not.

Handy Resources:

Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.

Amazon: I am a member of Amazon affiliate programme. Amazon is probably the biggest market place there is. Buy your trip essential from this link

Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.

Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.

Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.

Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.

Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.

Deciding on the perfect destination for your next vacation can be a daunting task, especially when there are countless options to choose from. If you’re an Indian traveler seeking a tropical paradise & Thailand comes up as first choice for many travellers. Koh Samui is one such island in Thailand which is slowly gaining momentum among the travelers. However, before packing your bags and jetting off, it’s important to evaluate, is Koh Samui worth it. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of visiting Koh Samui as a first-time Indian traveler, helping you make an informed decision for your upcoming adventure & decide; is Koh Samui is worth it.

1. Stunning Beaches

Koh Samui is renowned for its exquisite beaches that are straight out of a postcard. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Chaweng Beach, the tranquility of Bophut Beach, or the secluded beauty of Lipa Noi Beach, there’s a stretch of sand for every traveler’s taste. The crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and breathtaking sunsets make for unforgettable beach experiences.

2.Natural Beauty:

Beyond its captivating beaches, Koh Samui is blessed with natural beauty that will leave you in awe. Explore the island’s lush rainforests, hike to mesmerizing waterfalls like Namuang Falls, and discover hidden gems such as the Secret Buddha Garden. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring the picturesque Ang Thong Marine Park.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Koh Samui by visiting its magnificent temples. Wat Plai Laem and Big Buddha Temple are among the must-visit sites that offer insight into the island’s religious traditions. Explore the local night markets to sample authentic Thai cuisine, witness traditional rituals, and get a glimpse of the warm and welcoming Thai way of life.

4. Affordable Luxury:

One of the advantages of visiting Koh Samui as an Indian traveler is the excellent value for money. The island offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. You can savor delectable Thai dishes at affordable prices, enjoy spa treatments, and partake in various activities without straining your wallet

1. Crowded Tourist Areas:

Koh Samui’s popularity has led to some areas becoming crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Chaweng Beach, known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere, may not be ideal for those seeking tranquility. To escape the crowds, consider exploring quieter beaches or opting for off-peak travel periods.

2. Weather Considerations:

Like many tropical destinations, Koh Samui experiences a distinct monsoon season and occasional heavy rainfall. It’s important to be aware of the weather patterns and plan your trip accordingly. Some activities, particularly water-based ones, may be limited or disrupted during the rainy season. During summers the temperature can get alot hotter & humid.

3. Distance and Travel Expenses:

For Indian travelers, reaching Koh Samui typically involves multiple flight connections and can be time-consuming. Additionally, flight tickets and travel expenses may be higher compared to domestic destinations. It’s essential to factor in these costs when planning your trip to ensure it aligns with your budget and time constraints. Also, traveling inside the island is also not cheap, the public transport is not upto the par. Self driving peeps can survive with ease.

4. Food:

The local street food scene predominantly revolves around Thai cuisine, which traditionally incorporates meat, fish, and seafood in many of its dishes. As a result, vegetarians may find it more difficult to locate street food options that cater specifically to their dietary preferences.

Deciding is Koh Samui is worth it?;Ultimately depends on your travel preferences and priorities. The island’s stunning beaches, natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and affordable luxury make it an appealing destination for first-time Indian travelers. However, it’s crucial to consider potential downsides such as crowded tourist areas, weather considerations, limited cultural authenticity, and travel expenses. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision and tailor your Koh Samui experience to match your expectations, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling journey. This article is an effort to help you decide is koh Samui worth it or not.I will showcase my experience of Koh Samui in coming post & my take on is Koh Samui worth it?

Handy Resources:

Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.

Amazon: I am a member of Amazon affiliate programme. Amazon is probably the biggest market place there is. Buy your trip essential from this link

Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.

Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.

Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.

Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.

Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.

Throughout our lives, we are taught the importance of hard work, dedication, and persistence in achieving our goals. However, many of us become fixated on the idea that our efforts must always yield tangible results, leading us to become overly focused on outcomes rather than the process itself. On the one hand, the idea that results determine our efforts can serve as a powerful motivator. Knowing that our hard work will lead to a desirable outcome can inspire us to push ourselves to new heights and achieve success in our endeavors. However, this is not the only factor that plays an important role in success. Throughout time, there are several examples, that showcase that hard work is not the only factor that determines, but only increases the chances of success but doesn’t guarantee it.

Astrologers believe that our fate is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including the position of the planets and stars at the time of our birth, as well as our actions and choices throughout our lives. According to astrology, our natal chart, or birth chart, is a map of the heavens at the time of our birth, and it provides insights into our strengths, weaknesses, and potential for success. This chart is said to reveal our destiny or the path that we are meant to follow in this lifetime. However, astrologers also acknowledge the importance of free will and personal effort in shaping our destiny. While our birth chart may provide a general outline of our fate, it is ultimately up to us to make choices and take action that will help us fulfill our potential.

For example, an individual with a natal chart that indicates a strong potential for career success may still struggle to achieve that success if they do not work hard, network, and seize opportunities as they arise. Similarly, someone with a natal chart that suggests obstacles or challenges may still overcome those obstacles through hard work, determination, and a positive attitude.

How often someone has wondered why life is tough on some & easy on others? Most people put efforts to the best of their abilities, yet only a few people can live a happy & prosperous life; where the efforts are rewarded. But, for some efforts are in vain, no matter how hard they try; things are not in their favor. Experiencing such differences in results; forces one to think if there is something hidden power that plays a pivotal role in determining the results. Of course, astrology is not a science, and its claims are often disputed by skeptics.

However, for those who do believe in astrology, it offers a rich and complex system for understanding the interplay between fate and hard work. Maybe this is a reason why India is so religious. People here believe in past karma & believe this past karma has an impact on the present life & thus the struggle is real. To overcome people, perform certain rituals, such as traveling barefoot to famous temples or donating gold, hair, milk, and alcohol to various temples to help their cause. Despite these efforts, only a few people can achieve what they desire.

Many people try giving way to only a few who succeeds & like every generation, we worship those who are successful. Praising successful people is fair, but overseeing people who are working as hard as unsuccessful ones is a hard thing. People try things but are not able to achieve them, which doesn’t make them less competent. Perhaps, one needs to be at the right time, place, and with the right person to succeed. Success is not just about doing the best, but it is about being at the right place at the right time. But little do they know that the outcome is not only about effort or intent but also depends on various other factors where everything is just perfect for them.

The debate about fate & hard work is been around since the days of the Mahabharata, where Karna was born to Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, but was abandoned as a baby and raised by a charioteer. Despite being a skilled warrior, Karna faced many obstacles throughout his life due to his low caste status. Karna worked hard to overcome these obstacles and became a formidable warrior, but his fate was ultimately sealed due to a curse that he received earlier in his life. The curse ensured that Karna would forget his mantras at a critical moment during a battle with his arch-rival, Arjuna, and would be killed as a result. Despite Karna’s hard work and skill as a warrior, his fate was predetermined by the curse, and he was unable to change the outcome of his final battle. This story serves as a reminder that even the most determined and skilled individuals may still be subject to the whims of fate. If fate plays such an important role, is it necessary to see results as the ultimate measure of the efforts?

Additionally, we must recognize that success is not always within our control. While hard work and dedication are important factors in achieving our goals, external factors such as luck, timing, and circumstance can also play a significant role. By acknowledging the role of luck and other external factors, we can avoid taking failures or setbacks personally and instead focus on the factors within our control, such as our effort and attitude. The book, “Fooled by Randomness” by Nassim Taleb captures this topic effectively. Taleb also explores the idea that people who experience success early in life may be more likely to attribute their success to their abilities, rather than to luck or chance. For example, a trader who experiences a series of lucky trades may believe that they are a skilled investor, even though their success may be largely due to chance. This can lead to overconfidence and a failure to recognize the role of randomness in their success. Finally, Taleb suggests that people who can recognize the role of randomness in their lives are more likely to be successful in the long term. By acknowledging the role of chance, these individuals can prepare for unexpected events and take advantage of opportunities when they arise.

This requires a combination of hard work, flexibility, and a willingness to take calculated risks. In conclusion, while it is natural to desire positive outcomes, our fixation on results can be both a source of motivation and a hindrance to growth. By cultivating a balanced perspective and valuing the journey as much as the destination, we can avoid sacrificing our well-being in pursuit of success and enjoy the benefits of hard work and dedication, regardless of the outcomes.

The Banana Hostel in Ninh Binh is a fantastic option for budget travelers looking for comfortable accommodation in a prime location in Ninh Binh. While there are many other accommodation options available in Ninh Binh, The Banana Hostel stands out for its affordable rates, clean facilities, and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the main reasons why; “The Banana Hostel” is considered one of the best places to stay in Ninh Binh is its location. The hostel is situated in the heart of the city, within easy reach of popular attractions such as Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside and experiencing all that Ninh Binh has to offer.

In addition to its convenient location, The Banana Hostel offers a range of comfortable room options to suit different travel needs. From dorm rooms to private rooms, all of the accommodations are spacious, clean, and well-appointed, with air conditioning, hot showers, and free Wi-Fi. The hostel’s dorm rooms, in particular, offer excellent value for money, making them a popular choice among backpackers.

The staff at The Banana Hostel are known for their friendly and helpful nature, and they go out of their way to ensure that guests have a memorable stay. Whether you need advice on what to see and do in the area or help with travel arrangements, the staff are always on hand to assist.

The hostel has a swimming pool & a cool sitting area with a pool table. One can indulge in many activities in the hostel only to enjoy the time after a long day. Further, do read the instructions in the dorm room & one of such instance is switching off the AC for particular time period during the day. I personally liked the experience of staying at the hostel & will recommend the same to fellow travelers. One of the coolest places to visit in Vietnam.

Hideout Hostel is a popular accommodation option located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. This cozy hostel is known for its friendly staff, clean facilities, and affordable prices, making it a favorite among travelers on a budget.

The hostel features a variety of room options, including private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room is equipped with comfortable beds, clean linens, and modern amenities such as air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The dormitories are spacious and feature personal lockers, so you can keep your belongings safe and secure during your stay.

One of the standout features of Hideout Hostel is its communal areas. The hostel has a cozy lounge area where guests can relax, read a book, or chat with fellow travelers. There’s also a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a stunning view of the city while sipping on a cold drink & happy hours. The hostel’s bar is a popular spot for guests to socialize and enjoy a drink or two in the evening.

The staff at Hideout Hostel is known for their warm hospitality and helpfulness. They are always ready to assist with any questions or concerns you may have, and are happy to provide recommendations on local attractions, restaurants, and activities.

The location of Hideout Hostel is another major draw for travelers. It’s situated in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is known for its bustling streets, colorful markets, and delicious street food. The hostel is within walking distance of many of Hanoi’s top attractions, including Old Quarters, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature.

Overall, Hideout Hostel is a great choice for budget travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in Hanoi. With its friendly staff, clean facilities, and convenient location, it’s no wonder why so many travelers choose to stay here.