Thailand Calling: Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits!
Thailand Calling: Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits! - A Truthful Review (Prepare for Rambles!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to unleash a brutally honest, slightly unhinged, and hopefully helpful review of Thailand Calling… clears throat dramatically. This isn't your average, sterile hotel blurb. This is real life, warts and all. Let's dive in, shall we?
First impressions, which can be absolutely everything, and sometimes nothing:
The website, honestly, looked gorgeous. Sun-drenched photos, turquoise water, smiling people. My immediate thought? "Yeah, right. Probably a filter-fest." But, plot twist! When I actually arrived, well, parts of it lived up to the hype. And parts…not so much. But hey, who wants perfect, right? Let's get messy with it.
Accessibility & Getting Around (Because, Life!)
Alright, I'm going to be brutally honest. Accessibility is a mixed bag. The website claims to have facilities for disabled guests, and I saw an elevator (hallelujah!). But, honestly, I didn't get a thorough assessment. I am not in a wheelchair, so I can't deeply and thoroughly evaluate it. I suggest you call and clarify your specific needs! I did notice smooth pathways, good lighting, and the reception staff spoke good English. Getting around within the hotel's main areas - restaurant, lobby, some of the common areas - was fairly easy but ask detailed questions if you have specific needs.
Getting Around - the REALLY Important Bits:
- Car Park: Yes, free on-site parking. Score! But it was a bit of a free-for-all at times. Be prepared for some parking Tetris, especially during peak hours.
- Airport Transfer: Available! Thank the heavens. After a long flight, it's essential. A little overpriced though - shop around before you commit.
- Taxi Service: Abundant. And pretty cheap, relatively speaking.
Rooms: The Good, the Bad, and the Moldy (Kidding! Mostly.)
Okay, let's talk rooms. I stayed in a standard room (they all seem to be non-smoking!). My advice - upgrade if you can.
- Good stuff: Air conditioning (DUH! You'll need it!), a comfy bed (thank god!), a decent-sized bathroom - with a shower and separate bathtub (score!!). Free Wi-Fi, of course (thank the gods of connectivity…and the need to upload Instagram stories).
- The "Meh": The decor was…a tiny bit dated. But, honestly, who cares? You're in Thailand!
- The "OMG": The view from my window…wasn't exactly a postcard. It was, um, the side of another building. But, hey, at least there was a window that opens, so I could get some fresh air.
- The "Essential-ness": Plenty of sockets near the bed!! - A must for us modern people, what with our phones/tablets/kindles, laptops, and other devices.
The Amenities - Oh Boy!
This is where things get interesting.
- Pool with a View: Yes! The pièce de résistance! The pictures don’t begin to do it justice. Seriously. Picture this: shimmering turquoise water, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and a view that stretches out forever! This alone makes the whole stay worthwhile. I spent a serious amount of time here. Days.
- Spa/Sauna/Steam Room: Yes, yes, and yes! Massages were divine! I opted for a traditional Thai massage. The therapist? A wizard with her hands. I have a whole body scrub and a body wrap done. This is the best place to relax after a long day.
- Fitness Center: It's there. I may have peeked inside. It looked…functional. (I may also have opted for another cocktail by the pool.)
- Shops, shops and more shops: You could probably find anything you need. I bought some delicious souvenirs.
- Food and drinks The variety is astounding!
Food, Glorious Food! (And My Digestive System)
Okay, let’s face it. Food is a major part of the Thailand Calling experience. And honestly, it was a bit hit-and-miss, but often, spectacular.
- Breakfast: The buffet was a beast. Eggs made-to-order, fresh fruit overflowing, pastries that called to me from across the room. (I think I ate a week's worth of calories in one sitting.) They also will get breakfast in the room. Sometimes the bread was a little stale. But hey, it's a buffet! Get your food right away.
- Restaurants: The food here was tasty, not bad at all!
- Drinks: The poolside bar was essential. The cocktails? Strong and delicious. The happy hour? Dangerous. My liver is still recovering.
- Other food options: Snacks, a mini-bar, coffee in restaurants, alternative meal arrangements (important for those with dietary requirements).
Cleanliness & Safety - Because No One Wants Traveler's Tummy
- Daily Disinfection: They actually did look like they were putting in effort. Seeing the staff scrub down tables and surfaces every day made me feel secure and safe.
- Hand Sanitizer & Hand Sanitizer Everywhere!: This meant a lot to me, I hate the feeling of being unclean. Good job, Thailand Calling!
- Rooms Sanitized Between Stays: Yes! A reassuring touch.
- Staff Trained in Safety Protocol: Yes!
Things to Do - Beyond the Pool (If You Can Drag Yourself Away)
- Things to Do: There are plenty of things to do. This is perfect!
- Shrine: A lovely touch, a little pocket of peace.
- Meeting/Banquet Facilities: Yes! For you serious folks.
Service and Staff: The Heart of the Matter
The staff were mostly fantastic. Friendly, helpful, and always with a smile.
Now, For Some Honest Gripes
- The Wi-Fi: It's free, but it can be a little patchy in certain areas. Be patient! And don't expect to stream HD movies in the lobby during peak hours.
- Noise: The walls weren't exactly soundproof. Be prepared to hear your neighbor's snoring, or their TV, or whatever.
The Call to Action (AKA, Why You Should Book This Hotel)
Alright, here's the deal: Thailand Calling isn't perfect. But, damn, it's got a lot going for it. Especially if you are into relaxing and having fun by the pool! It’s a decent base for exploring and experiencing Thailand. Plus, you'll get to experience the magic of a Thai Massage and the best pool in the place!
Here's the Pitch (and I'm sticking to it!)
- Feeling Stressy? That Thai Massage by the pool will melt your worries away.
- Need to Recharge? The pool and sunshine is the perfect place to do it.
- Want an Adventure? Thailand is a fantastic place to explore.
- Need a break from reality: The hotel is the perfect location for all the above.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your adventure at Thailand Calling. Expect some imperfections, embrace the happy surprises, and prepare to be amazed. Yes, it's a bit of a gamble, but it's a gamble worth taking. You might just find a slice of paradise. And who knows, you might even find me by the pool, sipping a cocktail. Don't forget to say hi!
Escape to Paradise: Pohutukawa Coast B&B Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercup! Because this ain't your grandma's sanitized travel itinerary. This is See You Soon Thailand: The Unedited, Probably Slightly Disastrous, But Hopefully Spectacular Version. Prepare for some sun, some sweat, some street food that might haunt your dreams (in a good way, maybe?), and a whole lotta "WTF just happened?" moments.
Days 1-3: Bangkok - Concrete Jungle & Culinary Chaos
Day 1: Arrival & "OMG, It's Hot!"
- Morning (ish): Touch down in Bangkok. Airport chaos. Seriously, why are there ALWAYS a million people trying to grab a taxi at once? (Rant, rant, rant). Finally wrestle myself into a taxi. Air con is a lifesaver.
- Afternoon: Check into a hostel that looked amazing online, less so in person. (Let's just say the "breezy balcony" description conveniently omitted the construction site directly across the street.) Dump my bag, question every life choice that led me here.
- Evening: Hit the street food scene. Pad Thai. Mango sticky rice (duh!). That weird green thing that explodes in your mouth with flavor… whatever it is, I'm in. Almost got flattened by a motorbike while trying to take the perfect Instagram shot. Worth it. Probably.
- Quirky Observation: The sheer volume of tuk-tuks is mind-boggling. It's like a swarm of angry, brightly colored wasps, only less likely to sting you (probably).
Day 2: Temples, Tourist Traps, & Tears of Joy (Maybe)
Morning: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Stunning. Jaw-droppingly beautiful. Took a million photos. Got scammed by a woman who said she was a temple guide and ended up giving me a lecture on why I should invest into a "special offer" (never again).
Afternoon: The Grand Palace. O. M. G. So much gold! So many tourists! Battled crowds, sweated buckets, felt slightly overwhelmed. Briefly considered becoming a monk just to get away from the noise.
Evening: River cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Magical. The city lights reflecting on the water, the gentle breeze… almost cried. But hold up - the water quality seems to be getting questionable at some point, I'd opt for not falling in.
Imperfection: Got separated from my friend for two hours in a crowded marketplace. Thought for sure I'd lost her forever. Found her stuffing her face with deep-fried insects. (She loved them, I was still traumatized.)
Emotional Reaction: The overwhelming beauty of the temples made me cry. The sheer number of people made me want to scream. Exhaustion is definitely a factor here.
Day 3: Chatuchak Weekend Market & Regret…and maybe a tattoo?
- Morning: Decided to embrace the chaos and go to Chatuchak Weekend Market. So. Much. Stuff. Wandered aimlessly. Bought things I didn't need. Haggled like a pro (well, maybe semi-pro).
- Afternoon: Found a dodgy tattoo parlor. Debated getting a tiny elephant on my ankle. Backed out at the last minute. (Smartest decision of the trip? Possibly.)
- Evening: After some questionable decision-making by the other backpackers (maybe that was also the cause of my regret), it's time for a celebratory dinner party and a final look into what the Bangkok Nightlife has to offer.
- Stream of Consciousness: Did I mention it's hot? Like, so hot. I think I'm mostly made of sweat and mosquito repellant at this point. Is that a good thing? Probably not. But, food is top tier, and I now know how to navigate this crazy city.
Days 4-7: Chiang Mai - Elephants, Temples, & Mountain Vibes
Day 4: Flight to the North & A Bit of Culture Shock
- Morning: Early flight! Bangkok traffic is like a bad joke, so I get the airport a little early. The sheer relief of leaving the big city and starting anew.
- Afternoon: Land in Chiang Mai. Immediately charmed by the cooler air and friendly locals. The pace of life feels slower. This is where the adventure really begins.
- Evening: Check into a guesthouse with a bamboo balcony. Bliss. Walk around the old city. So. Many. Temples. Wat Chedi Luang is particularly impressive. Eat some Khao Soi (Northern Thai Curry Noodles). My taste buds are doing backflips.
- Opinionated Language: Chiang Mai is a breath of fresh air after Bangkok. It immediately made me feel calm. It's the kind of place you could get lost in for weeks and not care.
Day 5: Elephant Encounter (and Ethical Dilemmas)
- Morning: Elephant sanctuary day! Did my research (unlike some people on this trip). Chose an ethical place where the elephants are treated well. Bathed an elephant. Fed an elephant. Cried because I was so happy.
- Afternoon: Hiked through lush green hills. Met some other travelers. Started to feel like I could possibly survive traveling on my own.
- Evening: Massively regretted the fact that I already booked all the activities.
- Messy Structure: The elephant experience was AMAZING. Seriously, one of the best things I've EVER done. But… the whole ethical tourism thing is a minefield. You have to really, REALLY do your research. Some places claim to be ethical, but they're not. It's a complex issue, and I still have a lot to learn.
Day 6: Cooking Class & Mountain Views
- Morning: Thai cooking class! Learned to make green curry, pad thai, and mango sticky rice (again!). It's easier than you think! My cooking skills are still questionable, but the food was delicious.
- Afternoon: Hired a scooter and drove up to Doi Suthep temple. The views from the top are incredible. The air is clean and crisp. Felt like I was on top of the world.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Tried some new and exciting dishes.
- Rambling: Scootering was a bit scary at first. The roads are a bit crazy. But the freedom of exploring on two wheels is unparalleled. You can just stop whenever you want, take in the scenery, and eat some street food.
Day 7: Waterfalls & Farewell to the North
- Morning: Hike to a waterfall. So refreshing! Swam in the cool water. Felt like a mermaid.
- Afternoon: Relaxed and soaked up the last bit of the northern Thailand vibes. Bought some souvenirs.
- Evening: Farewell dinner with new friends. The end of the northern Thailand chapter brought tears of joy and sadness.
- Doubling Down: After doing so much in this beautiful town, I'm realizing I'm not ready to move on yet. I want to experience even more of this paradise!
Days 8-10: Islands Hopping - Beaches, Boats, & Booze
Day 8: Flying to the Beach & Island Life
- Morning: Flights to the islands. This will be all new and refreshing after the bustling of the city.
- Afternoon: Arrived on the island and checked into your hotel. Time to get to know this beautiful place.
- Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner with all the other tourists. It's the perfect opportunity to get to know new people and create new memories while enjoying a view.
Day 9: Diving & Exploring
- Morning: Go diving or snorkeling. Embrace the beautiful underwater life and experience something new.
- Afternoon: Explore the island and check out the beaches.
- Evening: Enjoy the lovely atmosphere and nightlife on the island.
Day 10: Relaxing & Leaving
- Morning: Enjoy your last moments on the islands. Relax, and get ready for your long journey.
- Afternoon: Relax and get ready to leave.
- Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Thailand.
Days 11-14: The Final Stretch - Contemplation & Departure
Day 11: Last Bites & Souvenir Scramble
- Morning: One last Pad Thai. One last mango smoothie. One last everything!
- Afternoon: Souvenir shopping. Realized I'd spent all my money on questionable street snacks. Panicked. Ended up buying a keychain.
- Evening: Packing (or, more accurately, shoving everything into my backpack). Reflecting on the incredible experiences.
- Emotional Reaction: Sadness, joy, exhaustion, and a deep-seated feeling of "what now?"
Day 12: Beach Bum & The One Where I Almost Missed My Flight
- Morning: Beach time. Spent
Thailand Calling: Your (Potentially) Unforgettable Adventure - FAQs (and My Chaotic Thoughts)
I'm a Nervous Wreck. How Do I Even *Start* Planning This Trip?
Okay, deep breaths. I get it. Thailand. The country of a thousand smiles... and a thousand potential panics, right? Seriously, the planning phase almost broke me. I swear, I spent weeks just staring at flight comparison websites, paralyzed by options. My advice? Embrace the mess. Don't try to have every single detail nailed down. Start with the big stuff: flights and maybe the first night's accommodation. Things WILL go wrong. Like, the first hotel I booked? Turns out it was right next to a karaoke bar. "Authentic Thai experience!" they called it. More like "Screaming until 3 AM authentic." Don't stress about perfection. It's a guarantee that you'll learn some things.
Do I Need a Visa? (And Is It a Nightmare?)
Depends on where you're from! Find the specifics on your country's requirements. Actually, let me vent for a sec... Filling out those forms made me feel like I was auditioning for MI6. Seriously, they ask so many questions. But, usually, if you're from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or another major Western country, you get a visa-free entry for 30 days (or longer; check the current rules!). It's usually pretty painless. But read the fine print. Absolutely crucial!
What Should I Pack? (And How Not to Overpack Like I Did?)
Okay, so, confession: I took so much stuff on my first trip to Thailand, I looked like I was fleeing the apocalypse. Seriously, I had more clothes than I do at home! Don't be me. Thailand is hot and humid. Light, breathable clothing is your friend. Think linen, cotton, things that dry quickly. A good pair of walking shoes (essential—I learned that the hard way! Blisters, oh the blisters!), a hat, sunscreen (high SPF!), insect repellent (trust me), your phone, your charger, and your travel adapter (for charging!) – and, the most important thing, your passport and some basic medication. Don't bring everything. You can buy stuff there! Honestly, I bought a new suitcase *just* to bring back my souvenirs. (My wallet is still weeping.)
I'm Clueless About Thai Food. Should I Pack Antibiotics?
Okay, so, Thai food. Heaven on a plate… and sometimes, a potential stomach disaster. Look, you *probably* won't need antibiotics, but consult your doctor before you leave. I did, and he gave me the usual advice (and it's a good idea to travel with some basic medicine for upset stomachs and headaches). But also… be adventurous! Try street food. It's where you'll find the *best* food. Just… maybe ease in. Don't immediately eat the spiciest thing you see. Trust me on this one. My first Pad Thai was, ahem, *memorable* for reasons beyond the flavor. And pack some Tums! You'll thank me.
How Do You Actually *Get* Around in Thailand?
Oh, the glorious chaos of Thai transportation! You've got options, my friend. Tuk-tuks are fun (and sometimes terrifying). Motorbike taxis are fast (and even more terrifying). Buses are cheap (and often crowded). Trains are a good choice for longer distances and if you want to enjoy beautiful scenery (and avoid the traffic). And then there are taxis (mostly metered, but always clarify the price). I found the Grab app to be a lifesaver. Think Uber, but for everything. Tuk-tuk? Grab. Taxi? Grab. Motorbike? Yep, Grab. It's efficient and you won't get ripped off. But, if you're on a motorcycle taxi, hold on tight. That's my advice.
Should I Rent a Scooter? (And Should I Actually Live Through It?)
...Here's a confession: on my first trip, I thought I was a scooter god. I wasn't. I very nearly became a pedestrian. It's tempting, I know. Freedom! Exploring at your own pace! But traffic in Thailand is... intense. Plus, you need an international driver's license, and insurance. If you're not an experienced scooter rider (and even if you are!), maybe think twice. Seriously. Roads are busy, and I saw more than a few tourists with bandages. I'm just saying. Consider the risks.
Okay, How Much Money Do I Need? (And Will I Run out by Day 2?)
Thailand is generally quite affordable, which is a huge bonus! But, again, depends on your travel style. Are you going to stay in hostels, eat street food, and take the slow train? You can probably get by on $40-$70 a day, depending on your spending habits, and the cost of living will be higher in big cities. If you're craving luxury hotels, fine dining, and private transfers, you'll need to budget more. Expect to still have a great time, but just be prepared to spend more. Before I went, I looked up the rate of exchange for the Thai Baht, then I added a bit extra. Just in case. It's better to have too much money than not enough.
Are Credit Cards Widely Accepted? (And Will I be Scammed?)
Credit cards are accepted in a lot of places, especially bigger hotels, shops, and restaurants. But cash is still king, particularly in markets and smaller establishments. Be prepared to pay with cash. And yes, there are scams. Common scams are taxi drivers overcharging, or places adding extra fees. Always be aware. Check the bills. Bargain politely, especially with local markets.
What Are Some Basic Etiquette Rules I Need to Know? (So I Don't Offend Anyone!)
Okay, here's the crash course in not being *that* tourist. Respect the Thai culture. Dress modestly when visiting temples: cover your shoulders and knees. Take off your shoes before entering temples and some homes. Be mindful of what you say. The Thai people are generally very friendly and kind, so it will likely be a good experience if you are respectful of their home! Don't pointHotel Hop Now
