From my road trip round Phatthalung province in Feb 2025
Sampao Thai: A Creative Landmark in the Heart of Patthalung
“Sampao” is an ancient Thai word meaning “cargo vessel.” Traditionally, Sampaothai referred to Thailand’s large, beautifully designed cargo ships that transported goods from one place to another.
One of the most striking features of this place is the giant King Kong, a character beloved by many—especially children, who are sure to be thrilled by its towering presence. The creativity behind this attraction is truly impressive. The owner has built both a massive wooden Sampao and an enormous King Kong made entirely of straw, depicting the giant ape in the act of pulling the vessel across the lush green rice fields.
Visitors can climb onto the Sampao and the King Kong structure, offering a fantastic opportunity for up-close photos while enjoying a breathtaking panoramic view of the endless green fields and majestic mountains in the background.
It’s a one-of-a-kind experience—fun, artistic, and full of imagination.
Thailand South
From our road trip to Phatthalung district in December 2024
Pa Phai Sang Suk Market (ตลาดป่าไผ่สร้างสุข) is a unique cultural and recreational market in Khuan Khanun District, Phatthalung Province, Thailand. Located within the Kwanjai Bamboo Garden, this area was once used for bamboo cultivation, breeding, and charcoal production, with an attached learning center.
Opened in January 2017 through the collaboration of the Kwanjai Bamboo Garden and the Kin Di Mi Suk Network, the market was designed around the concept of “enjoying food and simple happiness in a modest way.”
The market is divided into five zones:
Pa Phai Sang Suk Market – A vibrant marketplace offering local food, rare desserts, fresh vegetables, fruits, and handmade products at reasonable prices.
Relaxation Area – A peaceful space for visitors to unwind.
Children’s Activities Zone – A family-friendly area with interactive activities for kids.
Learning Zone – A section dedicated to the educational aspects of bamboo cultivation and traditional practices.
Pleasant Bamboo Forest – A green space that enhances the natural beauty of the market.
With its emphasis on local culture, sustainability, and community engagement, Pa Phai Sang Suk Market is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the authentic charm of Phatthalung.
Discover the Untouched Serenity of Hula Beach
Nestled in the tranquil Ko Kho Khao region of Thailand, Hula Beach is a breathtaking sanctuary for travelers yearning for pristine beauty and unspoiled tranquility. Stretching for several kilometers, this serene beach boasts fine, golden sand that feels luxuriously soft underfoot, while its crystal-clear waters invite visitors to take a refreshing dip.
Hula Beach offers a range of simple pleasures. Whether you’re basking under the tropical sun, strolling along its peaceful shoreline, or sharing a quiet picnic with loved ones while gazing at awe-inspiring ocean views, every moment here feels like a step into paradise.
However, Hula Beach’s charm lies not just in what it offers but also in what it intentionally does not. Visitors will find few modern conveniences here: no lifeguard services, no bathroom facilities, and a strict no-dogs policy. This minimalistic approach preserves the raw, untouched beauty of the landscape, making it the perfect escape for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
One of Hula Beach’s most fascinating aspects is its status as a hidden gem within Thailand’s extensive collection of beaches. Unlike the more commercialized destinations that often draw crowds, Hula Beach has retained its charm and tranquility thanks to its secluded location. This isolation has allowed the beach to become a haven for wildlife, attracting ecologists and nature enthusiasts alike. The pristine environment also offers a unique opportunity to experience Thailand’s coastal beauty in its most natural state.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat where the only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the occasional rustle of palm fronds, Hula Beach is your ideal destination. Just be sure to plan ahead and pack accordingly—this slice of paradise invites you to embrace its simplicity and leave the modern world behind.
Beach Walk Experience on Ko Kho Khao 🌅
Stunning Scenery – The island’s beaches stretch for miles, offering soft golden sand, gentle waves, and breathtaking sunsets.
🐚 Seashell Hunting – The quiet shores are perfect for collecting beautiful shells, as the beaches are relatively untouched by mass tourism.
🦀 Wildlife Encounters – You might spot crabs scurrying along the sand, migratory birds, and even dolphins offshore if you’re lucky.
🌴 Peaceful Atmosphere – Unlike the crowded beaches of Phuket, Ko Kho Khao offers solitude, making it perfect for meditation, photography, or a romantic stroll. 🏝 Local Charm – Along the walk, you may encounter small fishing boats, beachside cafés, and traditional wooden houses nestled among the palms. These are some of the things I saw on my walk!
Southern Thailand
During my road trip to Ranong district in December 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Wat Ban Ngao, a truly stunning temple adorned with intricate decorations and numerous buildings. I was captivated by the intricate details and the pictorial carvings that beautifully told stories around the temple and its surroundings. The artistry and craftsmanship left me in awe. Exploring Wat Ban Ngao was a remarkable experience, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my visit to this amazing temple.
This temple, situated at in Petchkasem Road Ranong, features a spacious area with a distinctive Ubosot (ordination hall) surrounded by a wide courtyard. The Ubosot has two levels and is adorned with stone carvings depicting the story of Ranong. It enshrines the principal Buddha image, Luangpho Dibuk, a tin-crafted Buddha in the subduing Mara posture, reflecting Ranong’s historical connection to tin mining.
Behind the Ubosot is a 300-step cement staircase on a hill, built for the Tak Bat Devo tradition. This staircase also offers a vantage point for panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.
Ranong -Southern Thailand
The Kra Isthmus Canal, Thailand
The Kra Isthmus, also known as Kho Khot Kra in Thai, has recently become a hot topic in discussions across Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. This is due to revived talks about the potential construction of the Kra Isthmus Canal, a project akin to the iconic Suez Canal or Panama Canal.
What Makes the Kra Isthmus Unique?
The Kra Isthmus marks the narrowest point of the Malay Peninsula, spanning just 53 kilometers from the Gulf of Thailand (to the east) to the Andaman Sea (to the west). This natural feature makes the region a prime candidate for a man-made canal that could transform global shipping routes.
The Kra Isthmus Canal Project
The idea of constructing a canal here isn’t new—it dates as far back as 1677 and has resurfaced repeatedly over the centuries. The Kra Isthmus Canal is envisioned as a “land bridge” for ships, allowing them to bypass the heavily congested Straits of Malacca, which runs between Malaysia and Indonesia.
If realized, this canal could save shipping vessels two to three days of travel time, providing a direct shortcut between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. However, the project also raises economic and geopolitical concerns, particularly for countries like Malaysia and Singapore, whose economies rely heavily on traffic through the Straits of Malacca.
Our Visit to the Kra Isthmus
On one of our driving trips, we had the opportunity to visit this fascinating part of Southern Thailand, located in Ranong Province. If you’re driving from Chumphon to Ranong, you’ll pass right by the Kra Isthmus.
Despite its historical and geographical significance, the area itself is quiet and understated, with only a few signs and informational displays marking the spot. The simplicity of the setting is striking—if you look across the river, the land on the opposite bank is Myanmar, and it’s said that you could easily swim across to reach it!
The Future of the Kra Isthmus Canal
While there’s little more than signage at the Kra Isthmus today, the ongoing debates about the canal’s construction keep it in the spotlight. Should the project come to fruition, it could significantly alter global trade dynamics, making this serene stretch of land one of the most strategic corridors in the world.
Ranong -Thailand
A war-themed museum is located just a few minutes’ walk from Baan KhaoFaa Chi. This unique museum showcases old locomotives from World War II, as the area was once home to the Faa Chi train station. Originally part of a railway line branching out from Chumphon station, the route spanned over 90 kilometers. Construction began in June 1925 and concluded in early 1945, but the railway suffered extensive destruction from bombings during the unsettled political climate of the war.
After World War II, the railway was preserved as a memorial. However, the British dismantled the tracks, repurposing the railway sleepers in Malaya. Today, the sole remaining artifact from that era is an old locomotive, standing as a silent witness to history.
You know that feeling when you’re exploring somewhere new, and you’re searching for a place to eat? You’re not sure where to go, and you just drive, hoping something catches your eye. And then, out of nowhere, you find it—a little gem that looks like it’s worth stopping for, even though you have no clue whether the food will be amazing or if you’ll regret your decision.
Well, that’s exactly how we ended up at Narakorn Restaurant on Ko Kho Khao Island, during one of our road trips this Christmas holiday. And let me tell you, this place was everything.
A Hidden Paradise with More Than Just Great Food
Narakorn Restaurant is tucked away on this stunning island, surrounded by coconut plantations and wildlife. It’s not just a restaurant, it’s an experience. Picture this: lush greenery, the gentle breeze from the trees, and the distant sounds of nature, all setting the scene for an unforgettable meal. We stumbled upon it, unsure of what we’d find, but the peaceful setting immediately told us we were in for something special.
Why I Won’t Forget Narakorn Restaurant
This wasn’t just a stop to grab a bite. It was a moment of serendipity—an unexpected delight that left a lasting impression. From the cozy, rustic interior to the amazing food and the heartwarming hospitality, Narakorn Restaurant is a hidden treasure that I won’t forget anytime soon. If you ever find yourself on Ko Kho Khao Island, do yourself a favor and stop by this wonderful spot. You’ll be glad you did.
Bang Niang Beach is indeed a unique and captivating destination in Thailand. Located in Phang Nga province, it’s known for its distinct landscape and scenic beauty. The beach’s southern area features a wide stretch of golden sand, perfect for relaxing or enjoying a beach stroll, while the northern section becomes narrower, adding to its character and charm. The clear, turquoise waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, providing a serene and idyllic environment. Its relatively untouched atmosphere, compared to some of Thailand’s more famous beaches, adds to its appeal as a tranquil and beautiful getaway.
Hat Chao Mai National Park-Sun Beach 2023 Chao Mai National Park is home to several picturesque beaches, with white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters.
As you will see from this slideshow video. I can only say it is the closest place to heaven on Earth I have ever visited! No people, no traffic, no dogs, no buildings, no anything except beautiful nature untouched.
I visited here on my road trip to the southern part of Thailand in December 2023, I will after this visit be going again, if not just for the peace, the beauty of this amazing place.
This is the most beautiful part of Thailand you will ever see! Please enjoy!
The busiest part of Samila Beach is the eastern end nearest Songkhla Town centre. In front of the famous mermaid statue is a long promenade ending in front of roundabout bearing the name ‘Samila Beach’. Lining the promenade are restaurants, shops and market stalls. At the beach end of the promenade is a large concrete pavilion.
Samila Beach is not a swimming or sunbathing beach. There are a lot of large ships in the bay. The beach is somewhere people walk along or sit around. People also come to exercise, ride bicycles, and even horses, up and down the beach side path. They also come at sunset to enjoy an ice cream, a sausage on a stick, draw pictures of the bay, or a drink.
Looking westwards along Samila Beach from the mermaid statue the bay curves gently northwards for just under 3 km. For the entire length of the bay there is wide border of pine trees all the way to far tip of the peninsular marking the end of the beach and opening of large river mouth linking the sea to the vast Songkhla Lake.
The famous statue on Samila Beach is the cat and mouse statue at the eastern end of the beach. This large statue was installed in 2000 to commemorate the local legend of the cat, the mouse, the dog and the magic crystal.
According to the legend a Chinese merchant ship carrying a magic crystal was passing by Simila Beach when the ships’ dog, cat and mouse, working together as a team, stole the magic crystal and made a bid for freedom by attempting to swim to the shore. Neither dog, cat, mouse or magic crystal ever made it to the beach. The dog turned into Tang Kuan hill, the cat and mouse turned into the two islands in the bay, named Cat Island (Koh Maeow) and Mouse Island (Koh Nu).
This is a little Waterfall by the side of a main road. Very easy to access. We visited it on our December 2023 Road trip around the southern end of Thailand.
The waterfall rock is dark greenish yellow color. The water in this waterfall looks like a pale gold color. This 10-meter-High waterfall are flowing all year around and the most significant to this fall is the color, the color of this waterfall is gold.
There are many picnic tables and Trees around the basin of the waterfall where people can relax and enjoy its surroundings. There is also a path for people to walk up to the top of the waterfall, but we did not as we were on our way to Pak Meng, which was still quite a drive onwards.
Journeys From A Small Room 