Thailand - In pursuit of the perfect beach

Backpacking through Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Similan islands, Khao Lak, Phi Phi islands, Patong, Suratthani, Phun Phin and other strange places.

  • Dawn

    Early morning arrival at the train station. I have always loved train stations with the constant buzz of people on the move.

    Hualamphong train station, Bangkok

  • Entering roach territory

    The crowded street where every single backpacker in Asia seems to end up.

    Khao San road, Bangkok

  • The beach

    The place where the movie The Beach was shot can be quite crowded, but the water provides fine snorkeling and the surrounding limestone cliffs are spectacular.

    Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands

  • Down the river

    The Chao Phraya river divides Bangkok and provides excellent transportation.

    Going down the Chao Phraya river in Bangkok

  • Longtail boat at Phi Phi Islands

  • Raft draft

    A moment of peace, before the bamboo raft got stuck on evil rocks and we had to wade through the eel-infested brown water to lift it off.

    Mae Wang

  • Kiss my feet

    This statue of Buddha is 46 metres long and surrounded by large pillars, making it impossible to get a good look at it.

    Wat Pho, Bangkok

  • Rise and shine

    As soon as I woke up, I started looking for the rooster that started in 4 AM and just wouldn't shut up.

    Staying with the Karon tribe

  • The local spa

    Refreshing showers along the way are very appreciated, especially after several hours of rough up-hill terrain.

    Mae Wang

  • Fancy a roadkill?

    Impeccable street market in Suratthani

  • How fragile we are

    The vendors take pride in having something in store for everybody. Shurikens, butterflies and katanas - the perfect Christmas gift.

    Streetmarket stand in Khao San road, Bangkok

  • Reaching for the stars

    This is a well-known temple in Bangkok with its spectacular Khmer-style tower, surrounded by four smaller ones. The temple once served as a host to the Emerald Buddha.

    Wat Arun, Bangkok

  • The drop

    Phi Phi Don is the largest of the Phi Phi islands and features impressive limestone cliffs. Notice the boat for scale.

    Phi Phi Don