From South Africa to Southeast Asia:

Sawasdee krap from Thailand! Can you believe it’s been over six years since I traded the South African sunshine for the excitement of Southeast Asia? Thailand’s my home base, but I’ve explored so many incredible places in this region. Grab your favorite drink and let me share some of my adventures!

(Photo by Thomas Oxford on Unsplash)

My first year was a whirlwind. New job, new culture — it was a lot to take in! Prachuap Khiri Khan, with its stunning coastline and chilled-out atmosphere, was my introduction to Thai travel. I have such fond memories of those early morning walks along the beach, the sound of the waves washing away any stress. But things really took off when I met some awesome colleagues who were just as keen on exploring as I was. We quickly became friends and started planning trips together.

(Photo by aung swam nyi on Unsplash)

One of our first adventures was to Rayong, a coastal province that’s full of surprises. Imagine pristine beaches like Mae Ram Phueng Beach, stretching for miles with soft white sand and clear turquoise water. We spent hours swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles (yes, even as adults!). We also ventured inland to discover hidden waterfalls cascading through lush jungles. The Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park was a highlight, with its refreshing pools and diverse wildlife. In the evenings, we’d head to the bustling night markets, where the air was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of grilled seafood and sizzling street food. We feasted on fresh prawns, spicy papaya salad, and mango sticky rice. We even took a boat trip to Koh Samet, a nearby island paradise, where we snorkeled amongst colorful coral reefs and schools of fish. Rayong really captured the essence of Thailand’s natural beauty, delicious food, and warm hospitality.

(Photo by Tianxiang Ji on Unsplash)

Next, we headed to Koh Lipe, a hidden gem in the Andaman Sea. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, this is the place for you. Picture powdery white sand beaches like Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach, fringed by swaying palm trees. We spent our days swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, trying our hand at stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking to nearby islands to discover secluded coves. In the evenings, we’d relax in beachfront bars with fire shows and live music, sipping on cocktails and watching the sunset. Getting to Koh Lipe is an adventure in itself, involving a ferry from Pak Bara and then a longtail boat ride to the island. This journey, along with the limited development on the island, explains why it remains relatively untouched by mass tourism and retains its authentic charm.

(Photo by allPhoto Bangkok on Unsplash)

Hua Hin holds a special place in my heart. This charming seaside town has a similar vibe to the coastal towns back in South Africa. I love the laid-back atmosphere, the friendly locals, and the wide, sandy beaches perfect for long walks and sunset strolls. I never miss a chance to visit (even if my fiancée playfully rolls her eyes at my enthusiasm!). Hua Hin has a great mix of things to do. We explored the bustling night market, where we bartered for souvenirs and sampled delicious street food like Pad See Ew (thick noodles with soy sauce and Chinese broccoli — so good!) and Khao Pad Sapparot (pineapple fried rice). We also visited the magnificent Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, a beautiful teakwood summer palace built by King Rama VI, and learned about its fascinating history.

(Video taken by me at the restaurant.)

My fiancée and her family joined me on a memorable trip to Koh Chang. The scenic drive from Bangkok to Trat was a treat in itself, with winding roads through lush green landscapes and glimpses of the coastline. We stayed at the Marina Sands Resort, where the highlight was definitely the beachfront restaurant. Waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore and enjoying a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit, pancakes, and strong Thai coffee was pure bliss! We spent our days exploring the island’s many waterfalls, like Klong Plu Waterfall, where we swam in the cool, clear pools. We also rented scooters and zipped around the island, discovering hidden beaches and viewpoints. In the evenings, we relaxed by the pool, played cards, and enjoyed quality time together.

(Photo by Rob King on Unsplash)

Our trip to Chiang Mai, known for its stunning temples and vibrant cultural scene, had an unexpected twist. We were jolted awake in the middle of the night by a magnitude 5.3 earthquake! I was so disoriented that I actually asked my fiancée if she had moved the bed (she didn’t find it as amusing as I did!). Despite the shaky start, we had an amazing time exploring the ancient temples nestled in the forested hills. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, with its golden chedi and panoramic views, was a highlight. We also wandered through the lively night markets, where we bartered for handicrafts, sampled delicious street food, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere. We even took a cooking class and learned how to make some of our favorite Thai dishes, like green curry and Pad Thai.

While I’ve enjoyed visiting popular tourist spots like Pattaya and Koh Larn, I’ve discovered that my heart belongs to the quieter corners of Thailand. I’ve also had the chance to travel beyond Thailand’s borders to Laos, the Myanmar border, and most memorably, Seoul in South Korea. Seoul in winter is truly magical, with festive decorations, snow-covered streets, and a vibrant energy. On my second trip to this captivating city, I took my fiancée on a private yacht ride on the Han River. As we glided along the river, surrounded by the glittering cityscape, I got down on one knee and proposed. It was the perfect moment, and seeing her smile as she said “yes” was unforgettable.

My Southeast Asian adventures have been full of amazing moments, beautiful places, and friendly people. And this is just the beginning! I can’t wait to see what else this incredible region has to offer.