Vietnam

Mixed feelings about Hanoi

A less intrusive Asian capital At first sight, Hanoi seems like just another busy Asian capital. But the city is smaller than Bangkok for instance and has a less intrusive atmosphere than I imagined. I do have mixed feelings about Hanoi though: they range from `I want to get out of here as quickly as possible`, `And yet I love hanging around here`, versus `I want to share this with someone`.… Continue Reading
Cambodia

Confronting dark history of Cambodia

Poverty in Cambodia Our second day in Phnom Penh. Today I want to find out more about the dark history of Cambodia. So I decided to combine a visit to the Royal Palace and the S21 prison. As there is a swimming pool on the 3rd floor of the hotel, my travel companion would instead go swimming than visit the palace.… Continue Reading
Thailand

Sleeper train to Chiang Mai

Counting down for the sleeper train to Chiang Mai Last day in Bangkok before taking the sleeper train to Chiang Mai tonight. I slept poorly, so I have little energy to wander all day in this busy capital. Anyway, after breakfast, I head to Chinatown.… Continue Reading
Thailand

Exploration of Bangkok as Newbie

Exploration of Bangkok around the Chao Phraya river After a nap of an hour, I refresh myself and want to start my first exploration of Bangkok. First and foremost, I want to find the river – the Chao Phraya – a distinctive landmark and the way to move relatively quickly in Krung Thep, the local name of the city which is best described as City of Angels.… Continue Reading