Padang Besar, Malaysia has been a mystery to me for nearly 10 years. Yet, seeing so many recent social media posts about fun train rides from Hat Yai to Padang Besar and beyond kept gnawing at me, because they look fun and adventurous. To be totally honest, my own experience of traveling through Padang Besar […]
Sri Pakpra Boutique Resort Phatthalung, Coolest Resort in Phatthalung, Thailand
Despite the vastness of the Thai province, finding a hotel in Phatthalung is not difficult; there are many great options. But the Phatthalung accommodation that ticks all the boxes for me is Sri Pakpra Boutique Resort. The family-owned Sri Pakpra Boutique Resort is a charmingly tucked away on the marshy banks of Thale Luang (Upper […]
Kedah State Museum, Must Visit Museum in Northern Malaysia
The history and heritage of Kedah, Malaysia is unique, vast and complicated. Knowing any part (or version) of it will give visitors a greater appreciation for what this region of Northern Malaysia has to offer. And the place to go for information about Kedah? Hands down the Kedah State Museum, in Alor Setar, is the […]
7 Local Markets in Malaysia Worth Exploring
Malaysia has taught me many things about culture, language, food, agriculture, and even history (which isn’t something I’ve ever had much interest in). And I’ve picked up many pearls of wisdom is some very unlikely places. One such place being local markets. Shopping at local markets in Malaysia can be an experience one doesn’t soon […]
First Time Visitor’s Guide to Alor Setar, Malaysia
I’ve passed through Alor Setar many times over the years, but I was usually en route to somewhere else. It took a pandemic (and travel limitations) for me to discover what a true gem this Malaysian city is. Beyond, of course, the ferry terminal, bus and train stations. With their home state of Kedah’s tagline […]
Should You Visit Hat Yai, Thailand? Yes!
Should You Visit Hat Yai, Thailand? Yes! Well at least I think so. I’m always surprised to see so few western faces when I’m there. Hat Yai is a transient city that I’ve grown rather fond of over the years. I’ll admit it took me a few visits to get into the Hat Yai groove, […]
Maha Tower Langkawi, Is it Worth the Hype?
So, my friends, Langkawi’s Maha Tower has finally opened its doors after nearly 10 years of construction delays and phases. Ground breaking and initial construction began back in 2014, much to more than a few onlookers’ amusement and bewilderment, but that’s all changed now. Despite building delays and minimal grounds landscaping efforts, Maha Tower Langkawi […]







