Those Who Wander #3 - April 2016

ACCOMMODATIONISAFFORDABLE, AND
NOTJUSTTHEHOSTELS
Thailand offers a variety of accommodation
options, many of which can be of great
value. Hostels tend to be the most budget
friendly option. A bed in a dorm can be
found for as little $6CDN/ night but can also
go up to nearly $20CDN/ night for boutique
hostels in trendier/ busier locations. Hostels
are the best places to find fellow
backpackers and solo travellers, making it
easy to meet people and make friends.
There are plenty of guest houses offering
affordable rooms as well. Or rustic, private
beach bungalows. These usually start at
about $20CDN/ night and go up depending
on season and amenities. A great option
when you need a little space to yourself.
Of course there are plenty of classy and
beautiful hotels and resorts as well for those
wanting to splurge. Some of these options
are relatively cheap by North American and
European standards and it may be worth
booking a night or two to get a break.
However not everything is a deal and there
are some pretty swanky and costly options
as well so make sure to do your research.
YOUDON?THAVETOBEPARTOFAGROUP
TOSEETHESIGHTSANDGOON
EXCURSIONS
Have you ever wanted to go on a day trip or
take an excursion to see something, but not
been able to because you?re one person
army isn?t enough to run the trip? It?s a
common problem for solo travellers, but not
so much in Thailand.
From scuba diving to temple exploring, most
activities in Thailand can be both group and
solo-traveller friendly. Some things would
definitely be cheaper as a group, but when
you convert the total rate into your own
currency, it?s not that bad if you have to go
alone. For example, a return trip from Chiang
Mai to Doi Suthep (30km) costs about 600
baht including the driver waiting for about
an hour. That?s $15CDN. Expensive for
Thailand? Yes. But consider how much the
same would cost you elsewhere and you
quickly realize that, if this is something you
really want to do, you can afford it on your
own.
One of the main methods of travel in
Thailand is by motorbike, which travellers
can easily rent for a day, week, or even
month. This way you can easily explore
further to reach places without having to
rely on anyone else. Just make sure you are
comfortable driving a motorbike; accidents
are one of the leading causes of death in the
country. You also better make sure you have
insurance, and nerves of steel.
EATINGOUT
One of the most awkward things for solo
travellers is meal times. Sure, cooking your
own meal in a hostel is an option but
sometimes you want to eat out. And
sometimes eating out alone can be
uncomfortable. Not a problem in Thailand
where street food is both authentic, and
cheap. No reservations required.
Tip: Head to the night markets and join the
locals for a fun night out and some good
street eats!
THINGSEVERYTRAVELLERSHOULDBE
AWAREOF
- While Bangkok?s Ping Pong shows
might be a ?once in a lifetime
opportunity?to many travellers, the
fact is not a single person I know that
has been has enjoyed it. The state of
the women ?performers?can only be
described as sad and depressing, and
they are a scam. If you want fun night
out, check out a ladyboy show instead.
- Elephant tourism is a huge draw in
Thailand, however they aren?t all
necessarily for the good of the
animals. While there are plenty of
sketchy organizations there are also
plenty of good ones including BLES,