I stayed at The Peaberry Boutique Hotel during my time in Chiang Mai, and I can't say enough good things about it! It was one of the best hotel experiences I've had — especially for the price. While it's not a 5-star resort, the service absolutely is. The staff go above and beyond to make you feel cared for and welcome.

From my personal experience, the manager Sunisa and her assistant Nicha were incredibly helpful. Even before we arrived, Sunisa arranged our airport transfer. When my luggage was delayed, they immediately stepped in and had it delivered to the hotel without me needing to make a single call.

Sunisa also organized a day trip for me when I had no plans, and even gave me a thoughtful parting gift before arranging a taxi to the airport. Their hospitality was truly next level.

The hotel itself is cozy and charming, with comfortable beds, spotless rooms, and a lovely cafe on the ground floor run by the same team (Open 7AM to 3PM daily). The location is excellent — within the old city walls, close to a 7-Eleven, and walking distance to temples and the must-see Sunday Night Market.

Extras include complimentary bottled water, free Wi-Fi, a laundry room, a free drink voucher (per guest) for the cafe, and even a friendly hotel cat!

If you're visiting Chiang Mai, stay here. You won't regret it!

Right in the heart of Bangkok, I stayed at the Sabai Sathorn Service Apartment. While it's called an apartment, I mostly saw tourists during my stay, so I'm not sure if locals actually live there. That said, my experience was pleasant overall, with no major issues. I was placed in a ground-floor room, so unfortunately, I didn't have a view—but there's a rooftop common area with a pool that's quite nice. You use a keycard for entry and elevators which makes it convenient and safe.

The location is excellent—very central, making it easy to get around Bangkok. Within a 30-minute drive, you can reach temples, the Grand Palace, major shopping centers, and more (though I didn't have time to explore it all).

The front desk is staffed 24/7, which is great for security, late check-ins, or early check-outs. I had to leave at 10PM and had no issues. Do note that check-out is by 11AM, so I had to pay for an extra day. There's also a ฿500 cash deposit required at check-in, refunded at check-out. Even though I lost my receipt, the kind staff still returned my deposit.

Facilities at Sabai Sathorn include:

• Air conditioning (a must—Bangkok gets hot fast!)
• Free Wi-Fi (though I had some trouble connecting)
• Complimentary bottled water
• Swimming pool (8AM - 10PM) and massage service (9:30AM - 9PM)
• Laundry room (coin-operated: ฿70 wash, ฿60 dry, open 8AM - 8PM)
• A cute coffee shop on the ground floor (Mon-Fri 7AM - 5PM, Sat-Sun 8AM - 6PM)

If you're getting a massage, book at the front desk but pay at the massage room. Make sure you're in your room 30-60 minutes before your appointment—they'll call your room to confirm you're coming to the booking.

The room was cozy and had all the essentials, including a TV. It was a bit cramped, but since I was out most of the day, it wasn't a big deal. Keep in mind that rooms are only cleaned every other day, and the trash bin is quite small—avoid tossing large or smelly items inside.

Overall, while it didn't match the hospitality of The Peaberry Hotel, Sabai Sathorn was still a comfortable and convenient place to stay in a fantastic location.

Much like Uber, Grab is the go-to app for rides and food delivery in Thailand. I recommend setting it up before you arrive to make your airport exit smooth and hassle-free.

Once you're set up, it's super easy to use—just choose your pickup and destination, and a driver will usually arrive within minutes. In busy areas like Bangkok, waits can be a bit longer, but it's generally reliable.

Grab rides are very affordable. I paid around ฿400 (~$20 AUD) for 40-minute trips. Just note that many drivers speak little English, so keep communication simple.

For tourists, Grab is the easiest, cheapest, and safest way to get around—just like Uber, but tailored for Thailand.

Tuk-tuks are small three-wheeled taxis, also known as “auto-rickshaws” in some countries. They're a cheap and fun way to get around the city, especially in busy areas where they're easy to find. Most can only fit 2-3 people with limited space for bags, so they're not ideal if you're planning to shop a lot.

They're great for short trips—especially in Thailand's heat, where even a quick ride can save you from a sweaty walk.

However, be cautious. Tuk-tuk drivers may try to take you on a detour—literally and figuratively. Always agree on the price and destination before hopping in.

During my tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok, what was meant to be a quick trip to the Reclining Buddha turned into a full “tour” of unrelated stops. The driver offered a five-stop ride for the same price (฿100), which sounded great at first. But instead of just sightseeing, we ended up at a suit shop and gift store—clearly places giving him commission. I lost valuable time and never made it to my intended destination due to time constraints. He even dropped me off at a restaurant he recommended—again, likely another commission spot. Although, for ฿100 (~$5AUD) I can't be too mad as it was still a fun ride for about 1 hour around the city.

So, while tuk-tuks can be a quirky and memorable part of your trip, use them with care. If you're short on time or want to avoid detours, Grab is a safer bet. But if you're up for a little unexpected adventure, a tuk-tuk ride can be a fun way to explore the city.

I already mentioned Peaberry in the accomodation section, but their café deserves a shoutout too! The breakfast menu is small but tasty, and the cozy, quiet atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax or get some work done.

There's free Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and space to set up with your laptop while enjoying a coffee or snack. Bonus—if you're staying at the Peaberry Hotel, you get one complimentary drink at the café!

Honestly, I chose to eat at Quickie mostly because the name made me laugh. But if you're craving a solid American-style smash burger, it's worth checking out. I had the Texas BBQ Burger, sweet potato fries, spicy fried chicken, and a chocolate milkshake—all tasty and filling.

The place has a fun, modern vibe and was clean and well-kept. The food came out quickly and was nicely presented.

Overall, it's not a must-visit, especially given the higher price, but the food was good and there's nothing major to complain about.

7-Eleven in Thailand is a lot like its Japanese counterpart—truly convenient. Most locations are open 24/7 and stock a solid range of snacks, microwave meals, drinks, toiletries, and other essentials. Perfect for quick bites or small emergencies like grabbing band-aids or electrolytes.

It's also the easiest spot to grab cheap bottled water—around $10 AUD for a 12-pack. With many open around the clock, it's a reliable option for early breakfasts or late-night cravings.

The food won't blow your mind, but for microwave meals, it's pretty decent. No microwave? No worries—the friendly staff will heat it up for you at no extra cost!

Durian is a beloved and iconic fruit in Thailand, known just as much for its intense smell as its unique taste. It has a rich, sweet, custard-like flavor that many people either love or can't stand. I didn't try raw durian, but I did have durian ice cream—and it was surprisingly delicious, with a smooth, custardy sweetness unlike any other fruit I've tried.

If you're curious but unsure, I'd suggest starting with durian ice cream. It's a gentler way to experience the flavor without the strong smell that comes with the raw fruit, which can be a bit overwhelming for first-timers.

I visited the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary as part of a tour booked through the Viator app. However, after checking their website, it looks like you can book the same day trip (Elephant Sanctuary & Inthanon Hiking Program) directly with them.

It can be tough to know how ethical these places are, but from my experience, the elephants seemed well cared for. Our group only interacted with them by feeding, taking photos, and bathing them—nothing that felt stressful or harmful.

The experience was fun and memorable. Our guides shared interesting facts about elephants, how to interact with them respectfully, and how the sanctuary supports their well-being. I do wish we had more time with the elephants, but overall, it was a great experience—and you'll leave with plenty of cool photos!

If you go, wear thongs and clothes you don't mind getting wet or dirty, especially if you plan to bathe the elephants.

The King and Queen Pagodas were built to honor the late King and Queen of Thailand. Each pagoda features a distinct design, symbolizing the King and Queen respectively, and they are surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens filled with native flowers.

I visited the pagodas as part of the elephant sanctuary tour, and it was a great place to stroll around and take in the views. As it was a part of a package tour, I can't say if there are any costs if you were to visit by yourself, parking or entry fees could apply.

Perched on one of the highest mountains in the region, the pagodas offer stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities, making them a must-visit spot for tourists.

Note: Respectful attire is required to enter the area. Be sure to wear modest clothing, such as long pants or skirts. At the base of the pagodas, there's a lovely gift and snack shop where you can enjoy fresh coconut water or pick up unique Thai souvenirs.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of Chiang Mai's most iconic and significant Buddhist temples. Though not very large, it features beautiful architecture and rich Buddhist imagery.

The temple is situated on a hilltop overlooking Chiang Mai city. You can either climb the roughly 300 steps leading up to it or take a short cable car ride if you're not up for the hike. Entry tickets are required and can be purchased at the same reception area as the cable car.

From the top, the temple offers lovely views of Chiang Mai and a peaceful atmosphere steeped in history. While I didn't spend a lot of time there, I still felt I got a good sense of what it has to offer.

At the base of the hill, you'll find plenty of small shops and food stalls that could easily take over an hour to explore. Sadly, I didn't have time to browse them.

Overall, while it may not be an absolute must-see, it's a meaningful and popular site where you can witness real monks and Buddhists in prayer and ritual. If you've got some time to spare, it's definitely worth a visit.

Wat Pha Lat is a peaceful Buddhist temple and monastery nestled in the forested mountains above Chiang Mai. The area features a scattering of temple-like structures and monuments along tranquil pathways.

Unfortunately, I didn't have time to explore it thoroughly, but it's clear there's much more to see—especially with what appears to be a long hiking trail that winds through the forest.

If you enjoy serene, nature-filled spots where you can relax by water streams and soak in the quiet atmosphere, this place is ideal. Personally, I didn't find it particularly captivating, and there weren't many photo spots that stood out to me. While it's not a bad place—especially with free entry—it just wasn't quite my vibe.

Chaloem Phra Kiat Pavilion Viewpoint offers a beautiful, wide-angle view over Chiang Mai city. It's a simple rest stop featuring a small pavilion and restrooms located just down a short staircase.

When I visited, there was a man setting up a small sketch station, offering quick 3-minute portraits. He doesn't list a fixed price and seems to accept whatever you feel is fair. I didn't try it myself, so I'm not sure what most people typically pay.

If you're driving up the winding mountain road to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, this is a great spot to pause, stretch your legs, and enjoy the view.

If you're looking for a massive local market filled with food, entertainment, and unique finds, the Sunday Night Market is the place to be in Chiang Mai.

As the name suggests, it's only open on Sundays, but it's a must-visit if you're in town. The market stretches for over a kilometer, transforming the main street of Chiang Mai's Old City into a vibrant, bustling sea of stalls and people. It does get very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings and stick close to your group.

If you can navigate through the crowd, you'll find an endless variety of items—from fruit-shaped soaps and anime figurines to pop-art cat paintings and traditional Thai crafts. Prices are generally affordable, and bartering is common. The more you buy at one shop, the better your bargaining power.

It's not just about shopping—there's tons of delicious food too. You can try everything from savory kebabs to sweet treats and Thai-style ice cream, all in one place.

There's so much to see and do, you could easily spend the whole evening there—and probably leave a few thousand baht lighter!

The Maeklong Railway Market is one of those must-see experiences in Thailand. It's a fully functioning local market where a real train passes directly through several times a day. Don't worry—the train moves slowly and safely through the market, so unless you're doing something reckless, there's no danger.

Located over 80 km from Bangkok, getting there is a bit of a journey. I recommend going as part of a tour that includes other stops — on its own, the market might not justify the trip. That said, the atmosphere is fascinating. Deeper into the market, away from the train tracks, you'll find fresh produce and classic Thai street foods like coconut water, durian, and dried spices.

The star of the show is, of course, the train. Be sure to arrive ahead of the scheduled times, as it gets crowded. If you're lucky to get a front-row spot, you'll be just inches from the train as it rolls by and vendors quickly pull back their awnings in a perfectly timed routine.

I wish I'd had more time to explore—it's a surprisingly big market with a lot to see. Still, it was a truly unique experience and definitely something worth adding to your Thailand itinerary.

The floating market was one of the highlights of my trip. I visited the Damnoen Saduak market as part of a tour, and it was such a peaceful experience gliding through the canals in a wooden speedboat, watching other boats drift by. If you aren't visiting as a part of a tour, you will need to pay for your boat ride.

You can grab snacks from vendors floating alongside you or set up along the banks. There are also plenty of stalls selling Thai gifts and souvenirs. Keep in mind, prices are touristy—bartering helps, but expect to pay more than usual.

Though the market can get crowded, I was lucky to visit during a quieter time. It felt calm and serene, gently floating past fellow tourists. It's not a thrill ride, but it's definitely unique and a must-see experience.

After the boat ride, you can explore shops and food stalls along the canal. I didn't have much time due to the tour schedule, but the area is lively and full of charm if you have time to wander.

ICONSIAM is Thailand's most stylish and luxurious shopping mall—a true shopper's paradise with multiple floors, countless stores, and stunning views of the city. Nestled along the Chao Phraya River and open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, it features everything from a bustling food market on the ground floor to high-end fashion, tech boutiques, and even a Porsche showroom higher up.

While budget travelers might find the prices steep, it's still worth a visit—especially for the panoramic river and city views from the upper floors.

If you're into shopping or food, you could easily spend hours here exploring the latest in fashion, tech, and cuisine. There's also a cinema and entertainment hall on the top floor, where local events are often hosted.

SeaLife Bangkok is a fantastic aquarium featuring a wide variety of marine life—fish, jellyfish, sharks, and more! If you've visited other SeaLife locations, the experience will feel familiar. Still, it's a fun and engaging activity, especially for kids. You can easily spend an hour exploring, or longer if you take your time to relax and enjoy the serene underwater scenes.

Conveniently located inside Siam Paragon shopping centre, you'll have plenty of dining and shopping options to explore after your visit.

Most animals appear well cared for, though the penguin enclosure seemed below standard. Hopefully, improvements will be made there—it was the only downside of the visit.

Note that some extra attractions, like the glass-bottom boat ride, shark dive, and jellyfish lab, require an additional ticket beyond the standard admission.

The Ayutthaya historical sites are best experienced with a tour guide, as I did. Without one, it may feel a bit underwhelming unless you're really into ancient architecture. It's also over an hour drive from Bangkok, so I wouldn't call it a must-see unless it's already part of your tour.

With a guide, though, it becomes an enlightening journey through Thai history, offering insights into how cities like Bangkok came to be. There are some great photo spots, and seeing these centuries-old structures in person is genuinely impressive.

Since Ayutthaya's main appeal is its historical sites, if that's not your thing, you can easily skip it and enjoy other attractions in and around Bangkok.

The Reclining Buddha in Ayutthaya, in my opinion, is not worth the visit. While it's quite large, it's not particularly visually striking, and there's little else to do in the immediate area. I only stopped by because it was part of my tour.

Our guide didn't share much information either, though I did learn it was recently rebuilt—so it does look bright and well-maintained.

The Standing Buddha in Bangkok wasn't on my itinerary, but a tuk-tuk detour brought me there. It's a small temple with the Standing Buddha as its centerpiece. You can climb a narrow staircase to the top of the Buddha's head, which offers a nice city view.

Aside from that, there's not much to see or do. I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to visit it.

The Grand Palace is one of Thailand's most iconic landmarks, once serving as the official residence of the King and Queen. While the current royals no longer live there, the palace is still used for ceremonial events. The grounds are expansive, featuring intricate temples and shrines. If you've visited Ayutthaya, you'll notice some architectural similarities.

It's best to arrive early, as it gets crowded quickly. Modest clothing is required—shoulders and knees must be covered. You'll also see royal guards stationed around the grounds; they're similar to UK guards in that they don't interact with visitors, though I had no issue standing near one for a photo.

A guided tour would've helped me better appreciate the history, but even without one, the palace is a spectacular sight and very easy to access from central Bangkok.

Manohra Cruises offers a luxurious dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, complete with a multi-course fine dining experience and views of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks. While it's on the pricier side, it's well worth it if you're looking to treat yourself to something special.

Finding the departure point can be a little tricky—it's located within a high-end hotel complex. You'll need to enter the hotel, which can feel a bit intimidating at first, but the staff are very welcoming. Just let them know you're there for the cruise, and they'll guide you to the correct spot.

Before boarding, you're greeted by friendly staff and invited to relax in a private riverside lounge with complimentary tea and snacks. A traditional Thai dance performance sets the mood perfectly before you set sail.

Once on board, the experience feels truly exclusive, with a small group of guests and attentive staff. All bookings include unlimited soft drinks, and for a little more, you can upgrade to unlimited wine and beer—adding even more value to the evening.

The menu may vary, but here's what mine included:

• Amuse-Bouche: Crab meat with homemade coconut cream
• Appetizer: Grilled prawn and prawn salad
• Soup: Coconut broth with chicken roulade and shimeji mushrooms
• Main Surf: Cod fish with khao soi curry, egg noodles, and crispy rice sheets
• Main Turf: Charcoal-grilled Thai wagyu beef striploin with Surin jasmine rice and cucumber relish
• Dessert: Mango with sticky rice and coconut icecream
• Petit Four: Traditional Thai desserts

Although the portions are small, the courses are surprisingly filling—I barely finished my dessert!

Beyond the food, the views are a highlight. You'll pass by landmarks like Taksin Bridge, IconSiam, and Wat Arun, with brief commentary from an onboard guide. It's a calm, elegant contrast to the larger party-style buffet cruises you'll see along the river. Manohar Cruise felt a lot more personal and tranquil, I don't feel the party cruises could capture that same feeling.

All in all, while it's a splurge, Manohra Cruises delivers a truly memorable and upscale experience that feels well worth the price.