HALONG BAY, VIETNAM

Vietnam almost broke us. Disastrous overnight journeys, lost possessions and bouts of serious illnesses robbed us of not only a lot of money, but also a lot of our optimism. So when it came to booking the last part of our journey, a cruise around Halong Bay, we were looking for a bargain and praying for the best – especially as the sunsets here are supposed to rival the best across the world.

Our hotel offered a two day, one night trip including food for $45, which seemed great and despite the saleswoman looking dubious and describing it as ‘not the worst, not the best’ cruise, we were feeling excited!

Needless to say, it rained. A lot.

But the boat was clean and modern, there was a wide range of food choices, the drinks were reasonably priced and we made some hilarious friends.

AMOROSA BAR: FOR THE BEST VIEW OF WAT ARUN

At some point in Bangkok when you’re all ‘templed out’, try a change of tactics and enjoy the utter beauty of Wat Arun from across the river, iced beverage in hand as the sun goes down.

Situated within the Arun Residence Hotel, at the end of what initially looks like a dead-end, it’s quite hidden but well worth seeking out:

36-38 Soi Pratoo Nok Yoong
Maharat Road
Rattanakosin
Bangkok
+66 2 221 9158

Get there at 5pm when it opens for the best seats in the house,

Charlotte & Sarah x

A ROCKIN’ VALENTINE’S DAY

Not feeling particularly romantic and acting as each other’s dates, we decided to mark the occasion with a visit to the Grandmother and Grandfather rocks in Lamai, Koh Samui. These naturally-formed genetaila-shaped rocks provide endless amusement to the tourists and Thais alike. The occasion was however made slightly more romantic by us visiting at sunset…

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Charlotte & Sarah x

A BIRTHDAY ON THE BEACH

Charlotte’s birthday fell whilst we were staying on the beautiful island of Koh Lanta. We’d made friends with a fun-loving American in our previous hostel and he arranged a surprise party that evening, bringing over some friends from Koh Phi Phi for the celebrations. In spite of the fact that we got lost in the Thai wilderness in our party finery, we eventually made it and had a spectacular night. Cocktails and chilled out music whilst lying in the sand was a great way to mark the occasion!

There are definitely worse places in the world to turn 24…

The Birthday Girl on Klong Dao beach, Koh Lanta

Happy Birthday, Charlotte!

Sarah x