Wednesday 12 February

Unblocked…….. It’s midday and the thought process required to even consider planning a major tour has stagnated somewhat. The only idea seems to be that I should continue where I left off last year deep in the Isaan region of Thailand. There is obviously some sort of blockage somewhere. However, into the afternoon I get a message from daughter Ellie and Leo who have just landed in Suvarnabhumi Airport from the UK. By late afternoon the unblocking process is underway. Not only have we arranged to meet up tomorrow but the illusive major tour will immediately follow.

Day 1, Tuesday 12 February

Reunion…….. This morning there is no urgency but we need to start packing for one of the longest journeys by car we’ve undertaken out of Bangkok. By 11.00am we’re ready to head down town to Ploenchit to meet up with Ellie and Leo. Following some business and lunch at Siam Paragon, we finish up taking group selfies then go our separate ways. Ellie is heading to the airport but we head west out of the metropolis on a journey that will cover some 840 kilometres to the popular tourist destination of Phuket. However, as we make better progress than expected leaving the city my expectation is to now cover around 200 kilometres before making an overnight stop.
Hua Hin…….. The logical aiming point is Hua Hin and by 6pm we’re on the outskirts of this tourist resort locating a modern hotel selected from Google Map search.
Hataara Hotel (750)…….. Arriving at Hataara Hotel, we waste no time in checking in after a quick inspection. This hotel is just 3 years old and offers spacious accommodation more than adequate for our needs. There is plenty of work space in addition to what we normally expect from accommodation. While the location is relatively quiet, it is within easy access of Hua Hin but a short distance away is a Korean BBQ restaurant which will do nicely indeed. Back at the hotel we settle in quickly and I get on with some notes such as are. Tomorrow will be a long day travelling. Next Page.