Since I’m on a budget, I decided to visit Ayutthaya via train; the Thai railway system interconnects various regions efficiently and affordably. In fact, the (third class) ticket from Bangkok to Ayutthaya costs a mere 20 Baht (around 2 MYR) – of course, excluding air conditioning and allocated seats. After arriving in Ayutthaya, my friends…
Author: raisagabrielli
A fellow foodie that appreciates concise reviews in order to get to the restaurant or travel destination faster!
Photo Diary: Living The Kampot/ Kep Stereotype
Whilst in between Kampot and Kep, I felt rather like a living, breathing stereotype – here’s why: wedged between two cities and (literally) off the side of a main road is Man’Groove Guesthouse, where I stayed. For 4.20$, I had access to a room with a double bed, but a (simple) shared toilet, and the…
Travel Review: Exploring with Elephants (Ethically) in Mondulkiri
Located five hours from Phnom Phen and eight hours from Siem Reap, you need to visit Mondulkiri if you enjoy nature and the company of animals. The Sen Monorom region colours the landscape varied strokes of green and is perfect for trekking – but more so for visiting elephants in their natural habitat. With eco-tourism…
Photo Diary: Chasing Waterfalls in Don Khon
Located near the Cambodian border, Si Phan Don (also referred to as 4000 Islands in English) is the ideal stop-over before entering the Khmer Kingdom. With three main islands to choose from, I decided on Don Khon, as it’s known for its scenic landscapes and impressive waterfalls – plus, just a bridge away from Don…
Photo Diary: The Plain of Jars in Phonsavan
Mainly known for The Plain of Jars, I recently visited Phonsavan, Laos, with the intention of satiating my ancient artefacts curiosity. Folklore believes the jars were used by Giants to ferment rice-wine whereas archeologist believe the jars were used for burial purposes. I’m still undecided… Fortunately, at Site 2 I managed to see an ancient…
Photo Diary: Falling In Love With Luang Prabang All Over Again
I last visited Luang Prabang in 2016 and if you haven’t read about my 24 hour adventure to the city via bus from Vientiane, you can do so here. Luckily, I was wiser this time around and chose to arrive from Nong Khiaw, a mere four to five hour bus journey – still as bumpy,…
Photo Diary: A Riverside Bungalow for 6$ (under 25MYR) p/n in Nong Khiaw
Nong Khiaw, Laos, is a sleepy village set amidst mountainous terrain and the perfect place to put your feet up – in a hammock on your balcony, that is! Connected to nearby villages by the Nam Ou river, there are numerous riverside bungalows to choose from but I recommend Bamboo Paradise; for 50,000 Laotian Kip…
Tips and Tricks: Cruising Hà Long Bay for 12$ (45MYR)
A slowly spreading secret amongst backpackers, Cat Ba Island is the smarter choice if you want to experience Hà Long Bay cheaply – not to mention, not be surrounded by hoards of tourists. Although Cat Ba Island has its own national park, I mainly visited for the tours. Along the main street facing the pier,…
Travel Review: Trekking Sa Pa With A Red Dao Guide
Sa Pa is known for its diverse ethnic groups, primarily the H’mong and the Red Dao, but it’s infamous for the luscious valleys dotted with rice paddies surrounding the city. While you can trek to nearby villages by yourself (with an entrance fee, of course), a traditional homestay in a tribal village is highly recommended….
Photo Diary: Exploring The Imperial City in Hue
The Imperial City in Hue was magnificently grand – so much so that I was inspired to write a poem, which I shall be sharing below: Everything’s moving Everything’s breathing Everything’s being And with each change of season These courts have witnessed scenes beyond reason From emperors whispering to concubines to the Queen Mother telling…
Raisa Reviews 