#Long post with only pictures. This is the third part, featuring the stunning island's heroine.

The journey began with me. Feeling bored with work and life, I decided to embark on a solo backpacking trip. As they say, traveling is a way to recharge and restart oneself.

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And then one day...

I messaged a friend about the sea and he (the main person of the trip) happened to be going to the sea as well. We talked about this and that, and then boom! He was going to the sea at the end of the month, but I had planned to go at the beginning of the month. No problem!! I'm willing to cancel my trip for this.

Decided to go with it, even though I didn't know where we were going. 5555555

The group expanded from two to four members, three men and one woman (don't worry, we've been together for almost 10 years and know each other inside out). Let's go!!!! The first time with friends, let's see...

After agreeing on the location and date (the location was chosen by the trip organizer), we gathered information and planned accordingly. We researched and compiled information about the location from various reviews. Once everything was in order, we met in Khon Kaen (we were all from Nong Khai). At that time, the most important information to remember was that the train would depart from platform four at ten o'clock at night.

May 28, 2015

@Khon Kaen

The journey was about to begin. We were excited and planned to meet in Khon Kaen around 7 pm. We thought that the free train tickets would still be available since we were starting from Khon Kaen. We were relaxed and hungry, so we went to eat. After we finished eating, we realized that we had forgotten to check the time. It was already 9:30 pm! We had to hurry because Khon Kaen has heavy traffic at night. When we arrived at the train station, we rushed to book tickets. After booking, we got VIP tickets, which were standing tickets to promote good health. Everyone smiled happily.

As the train journey began, the four of us boarded, only to find that there were no available seats for all of us.

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This resulted in the two of us sitting separately, each asking to sit with someone else. As soon as we sat down, everyone entered their own personal world, pulling out their favorite devices: phones, headphones, pillows. We thought to ourselves, "Relax, it's the Thai train. Just sit back and we'll be there soon."

The train starts to move. The sound of the wind blowing, the sound of the iron wheels moving, starts to sound. Sit and go slowly, slow life, chic, cool.

My deskmate is listening to music, while I am playing with my phone.

The couple were talking loudly, as if they hadn't seen each other in 10 or 20 years. Looking up at the scenery, I thought we had come a long way, but I realized that the train had stopped at three stations and we were still in Khon Kaen province.

Okay, no worries. I'm chill. Hahaha. But after sitting for a while, around Chaiyaphum province at a station I can't remember the name of, something felt strange. Why was the train stopped for an unusually long time? Was it stopping at a gas station? It shouldn't be, this is a train, not a bus. There are no gas stations here. With curiosity, my gossip glands started working. Who are we waiting for to cut the ribbon? Let's jump down and see what's going on.

The scene before them was a crowd of station officials huddled together, and then came the good news that...

The last carriage of the train broke down. Luckily, we were sitting in the last carriage.

Oh my god!

The last carriage should be detached, and passengers on the last carriage should find empty seats in other carriages.

Deeply moved by the Thai train, truly. You can't find this feeling anywhere else. T___T

Tears welled up in my eyes as the song "Life Must Follow Dreams" by Bodyslam played. "No matter how many times you fall, get up and keep going!" I thought to myself. I walked through three carriages, searching for an empty seat, but there were none. I resigned myself to fate and found a spot near the sink. I gave up my seat to a woman and the three of us sat on the floor nearby.

After about 5 minutes, a man selling water (drinks, snacks, etc.) came up and offered to sell his goods in exchange for a good seat. He said that if we bought a bottle of water each, he would take us to the pantry room. Wow, his marketing was amazing! Haha, I didn't even have to think twice. Even if I didn't want water, I would buy it in exchange for a better seat than the floor right now. Haha, when we got to the pantry room…

Wow! We thought it was a private room. The seats were so comfortable that we didn't hesitate to grab a spot and sit there all the way to Kaeng Khoi, Saraburi.

The first rays of sunlight brought smiles to my friends' faces, making them feel as if they had reached Bangkok, even though we were only in Saraburi.

They continued sitting, occasionally trying out their cameras and chatting amongst themselves. Their voices were as lively as birds searching for prey in the morning.

As we continued our journey, the number of passengers in our carriage steadily increased. This is because many people use the train as a means of transportation to get to work. As a result, we realized that the carriage can accommodate a large number of passengers.

May 29, 1958

@ Bangkok

Finally, I have arrived in Bangkok!

Around 9 am, the Nong Khai-Bangkok train pulled into the platform. We got off the train and our first priority was to find a bathroom and a place to shower. We searched everywhere but couldn't find anything suitable. The best we could find was the station's bathroom. Well, at least it was something. We washed our faces, brushed our teeth, and even managed to wash our hair. It's convenient to be a man, haha!

After completing all personal errands, I immediately booked a train ticket (again) to Chumphon. The train departs at 13:00.

The idea of a time-wasting program popped into my head, but after some thought, a coffee shop seemed like the best option (I'm a sucker for the atmosphere of coffee shops).

After finishing lunch, we used GPS to find a nearby coffee shop. The closest one was "H. Nighthawk." We spent about four hours there, charging our devices, playing games, and napping. It felt like home.

The restaurant has a nice ambiance with various seating areas. However, I didn't capture much of the atmosphere. I wonder why I didn't take any photos. Perhaps I was too hungry.

When it was time, I rushed to catch the bus to Chumphon. I almost missed it because it took me a while to find the right carriage.

To pass the time during the day (as it was more boring than at night), they played games.

The train journey took approximately 20 minutes to reach Bang Sue Station, where it experienced an unusually long stop.

As expected, if you park for a long time, you don't have to go down and get involved like the last round. The train is broken.

The locomotive needs to be replaced. (We're starting to think we're cursed with trains.) While waiting for the new locomotive, the staff asked us to wait downstairs. Thankfully, we had only traveled 5 kilometers...

This is the taste of a backpacker. 55555555555555555555

This Coke in a bag really fits the atmosphere of the train.

After the repair, we continued our journey. Along the way, there were food vendors selling their wares. Initially, we planned not to buy anything, but once we started, we bought something at almost every station. The recommended menu item is "Ratchaburi Dry Noodles." Almost every review recommends trying it. It's delicious, affordable, and almost enough to fill you up for only 10 baht. Haha!

Topped with quail eggs, this dish is a must-try for all four of us.

It was almost 10 pm, and the train had not yet arrived at Chumphon station. The backup plan was activated. I started looking for the phone number of the boat company that departs at midnight, but I couldn't find it. At that moment, I prayed and chanted, begging (exaggerated) for the train to reach Chumphon before 11 pm. When I reached the last station before Chumphon, I tried calling the sleeping boat company that departs at 11 pm. Haha! As usual, bad luck came to say hello again.

The song that best captured our mood at that moment was probably "Khon Mai Than" by Songkran The Voice. The boat was about to leave, and we were stressed, but there was nothing we could do about it. Haha! T____T Our dream of lying down and watching the stars in the middle of the sea on a boat was shattered! It was completely destroyed along with the bogie and the engine of the train.

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Despite the misfortune, there was still a stroke of luck. When we arrived in Chumphon around 11 pm, a group of backpackers from Bangkok invited us to join them in finding a boat. We immediately agreed and negotiated a price with a songthaew to take us to the pier, hoping that there might be a boat available. (I must say, the backpackers were incredibly friendly and kind.)

He went to two piers looking for a boat, but there were none left. The earliest one was at six in the morning. It was already midnight then, so he decided to wait the six hours. He sat by the pier and talked with the other passengers, who had been on many trips before. They were very cheerful and fun to talk to. He thanked them again for the review.

Translation:

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This is an activity to pass the time while waiting for the boat to depart.

We rented a room to take a shower, a room for 500 baht, called something like "Saisawan" (can't remember exactly), but it was near the pier. They allowed two people to sleep there. At first, we didn't intend to sleep all four of us, but somehow we all ended up sleeping there. Haha! We originally just wanted to eat and then go find you guys at the pier, but we fell asleep after we arrived, so that was the end of that.

I'll be back later. I'm going to work for a while.

Translation:

May 30, 1958

@ Chumphon

At 5:30 AM, we arrived at the pier and prepared to board the boat. The crew was very well-prepared, while we were just winging it.

The boat departs at 6:30 AM and takes approximately four hours to reach the island.

This is the boat we will take to cross the island.

Translation:

Upon reaching the island, it was time to part ways with our group leaders, as they were staying at a homestay. Our goal was to find a hostel, but our leaders kindly offered us a place to stay with them. We decided to keep our options open and said we would contact them later.

We set off on foot to find a hostel, but unfortunately, everything was fully booked. We couldn't help but laugh at our own misfortune, realizing we had taken a chance without a backup plan. This was a classic example of "going in blind."

After a long walk, I was drenched in sweat. I found a place called "Baan Suan" (which sounds like a cake) for 1400 baht for four people. I'll stay here for the night and decide what to do tomorrow.

After packing, I spread out the map and planned my trip. I forgot to mention that I was traveling on my own, without a tour guide. Then, I rented a motorbike from a shop that didn't require a deposit, located opposite the "Dolce Vita" shop.

With the car in hand, we set off according to the map. Our first destination was Ao Luek.

Upon arrival, I initially intended to simply take photos. However, the captivating beauty of the sea enticed me beyond reason, as if my subconscious was urging me to succumb to its allure.

Translation:

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Let's jump right in! It was around noon, and the sun was scorching hot! "Sunshine".......oh, not funny? =,.= Okay, then let's continue....From the shore, the rock didn't look that high. We thought we'd swim over and climb it. When we got there, haha, we thought it was the peak of Phu Kradueng Mountain. It was so high! When asked if we dared to climb it, the answer was, "Heck yeah!"

This style was seen in a review, so I thought I'd try to imitate it. Haha, it didn't turn out as I expected. The instant noodles don't look like the picture on the packaging. After taking the photo, the photographer looked really cool, but as for me, let's just say it's best left unsaid.

After playing in the water, we took a break. We were tired and hot. Haha! Of course, I went to a coffee shop and just noticed that my friends and I had wounds from being overly excited when we saw the sea, so we jumped in and played without thinking.

Ouch! I got cut by some coral and shells. Haha. Now I'm back in my room, checking the map to plan my next move.

The path meandered around three mountains before finally reaching the Mango View Point. I must say, the climb was incredibly steep and tiring. What am I doing here?! Am I climbing Mount Everest? But I have nothing to lose (since the train engine broke down at the beginning of the trip). So, I continued climbing.

Before reaching the destination, there is a beautiful rest stop with affordable beer at only 80 baht per bottle.

Translation:

The breathtaking view from the top was exhilarating! All the fatigue vanished instantly, leaving me energized like a construction worker after a 150 baht energy drink. My eyes sparkled with joy, and I felt overwhelmed with emotion, almost to the point of tears. I wanted to call my mother to share this moment, but I couldn't because I snuck out without telling her. Haha! The scenery was truly magnificent, and I highly recommend everyone to witness it firsthand.

After finishing, we went down to watch the sunset at the beach near the 7-Eleven. It was quite beautiful.

Then I felt hungry. Since I wanted to save money, I went to eat at the market.

We visited a night market and bought a lot of food. We ended up spending much more than we would have if we had eaten at a restaurant. After eating, we were all so full that we fell asleep like we had been drugged. In short, the first night on the island was spent sleeping. I'll continue the story later, as I have a lot of patients to see.

Translation:

Translation:

May 31, 1958

@ Koh Tao

Around 9 am, we prepared to go to the highlight of Koh Tao, which is "Koh Nang Yuan".

The sea parts... the heart (Hmm, I wonder what it will break apart, hmm?)

We began by haggling over the price of the ferry to the island. We chartered a round-trip boat for 1600 baht for four people.

"Negotiated down to 1200 (still think it's expensive, though). My friend bargained aggressively and got it down to 1000 haha, but it didn't work out."

Translation:

After almost 20 minutes, we arrived at heaven on the sea. The water is incredibly beautiful, and there are many people here.

The crystal-clear water of the island surpasses any description. The sky is breathtakingly beautiful. In this picture, there is no need to censor our faces as our friends have given us the green light.

Translation:

The image shows that snorkeling is possible even in shallow water. The deeper you go, the more beautiful it gets, with an abundance of fish.

This island is quite peculiar. It has a sandbar that separates the sea, but the shores are different. One side is full of coral, while the other is covered in shells (or maybe I'm just making things up, but from what I can see, they are truly different, haha).

Translation:

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The text you provided is in Thai and I can translate it to English for you. Here is the translation:

"The coral was placed on the sand of the boat. I picked it up to take a picture and then put it back in its original place. Haha!"

While waiting to ascend to the mountaintop vista, the true star of the island awaited. I strolled along the beach with my companions, taking in the sights. Let me tell you, skipping this walk would be a huge mistake. It's hot, but the breathtaking views are well worth the heat.

Most of the photos are candid shots, so please ask the owner's permission before using them. If you see any photos of yourself, feel free to message me. I think this is a beautiful photo.

I waded into the sea to take a picture, even if it meant getting soaked (I went all out!). It took a while for someone to walk by, as I didn't want to force my friends to walk past. So, I decided to stay in the water, thinking to myself, "For the concept of the picture I want, I'll do it!"

This photo is of my friend. He happened to walk by, so I snapped a quick shot.

The perspective of the picture changes as you walk around the island, but every angle is truly beautiful. From this image, we can see the peak of the mountain. That large rock is the viewpoint.

Translation:

Continuing to walk, I estimate the total distance covered to be around 20 kilometers. Haha!

When the time was right, we headed to the viewpoint of the Talay Waek. We had to climb a flight of stairs, which was quite high, but not as high as Mount Everest, which we climbed yesterday. Haha!

The scenery along the walk was breathtaking, with photo opportunities every 10 meters.

The viewpoint will have three levels.

The first floor is always crowded because it's easy to get to, with lines longer than a 70% off sale.

Two of my friends also continued. They didn't dare to go up to the other floors lol. But it was beautiful.

My friend and I climbed to another level. It was very scary, 10 out of 10 for the fear factor.

Translation:

Translation:

The highest point is rarely climbed. When asked if I would dare to climb it, I can only say "Heck, no!" Haha! However, there are some foreigners who climb it, which I think is super cool. Only 2 out of 100 people climb it because it's so incredibly high.

After taking in the breathtaking views, we took a boat to Koh Tao, where we freshened up and got ready for a night of exploration.

Time flies, it's almost two o'clock. Let's go home. Everyone's eyes are as sweet as honey in May.

Time flies when you're having fun. After the trip, hunger strikes. Find a place to eat and go to bed. Another day has passed, but it's not over yet. I'll continue on 1/06/58.

@Koh Tao

The joy of the journey is coming to an end. We must hurry to book our return boat tickets.

The earliest ferry departs at 10:00 AM, but we were able to book a 2:00 PM slot. This pier also offers train bookings, which is incredibly convenient. They even printed our tickets for us.

After checking out, I said goodbye to Baan Suan Resort. As usual, my friends brought me bad luck again. -,.-

Translation:

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I often find myself in a frustrating situation where I forget to withdraw cash before going out to eat. This leads to a moment of panic as I count every banknote and coin I have on me, including those in my pockets, shirt pockets, and even (just kidding!) in my mouth. Thankfully, I usually manage to scrape together just enough to cover the bill without any change left over.

Auntie Maew's rice with curry, please.

After returning the rented motorbike, I waited for the boat to depart. As usual, I found a coffee shop to sit in. Caffeine is in my bloodstream (as is alcohol).

Initially, we planned to visit a restaurant that had been highly recommended online. However, we were unable to locate it. GPS and SIRI proved unreliable, leading us astray and eventually displaying an error message. We decided to improvise and opted for a nearby establishment. We arrived when there was only one occupied table, but soon the restaurant was packed. We didn't mind, as we had nowhere else to go.

Coffee House

Located near 7-Eleven.

Translation:

The shop next door sells postcards. It was from this shop that I sent a postcard to my mother confessing that I was on a trip, haha.

The boat is about to leave, so I went to wait at the pier. It's the same pier as when I arrived.

Translation:

Take a ferry across the island to the other side. Upon arrival, there will be a shuttle service available. The shuttle service will be divided into two lines: one for the train station and one for the tour group. Both lines will take you directly to your destination.

Upon arrival, I realized that the free tickets for this round were already gone. Haha, I had to pay 232 baht for the 9 pm round.

Translation:

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While waiting, I followed the steps and walked around the nearby market to find something to eat.

As the time approached, I waited to board the bus. I arrived in Bangkok around 8:00 AM as usual. I washed my face, brushed my teeth, and took a shower.

After finishing my lunch, I had to go back to the coffee shop I had just visited because I had forgotten the lens cap there. I sat in front of the shop from 9:30 to 11:00 am. I'm sure the locals thought I was crazy, sitting there for two hours.

As the employees arrived to open the shop, we had to disperse at the subway station. The walking tour has come to an end. Everyone in the trip returned to reality to fulfill their duties, whether it be studying or working.

Upon returning, I resumed my daily routine and way of life. The environment remained unchanged, with no noticeable alterations or unfamiliar sights.

However, what has changed is my mindset. I feel like my world has expanded, and every time I travel, I feel like I'm receiving a new kind of energy.

It's like coming back with a different perspective and attitude. For me, stepping out to new places is like giving myself a gift. Some people might think it's pointless and wasteful, but I believe that in one life, we should make the most of our 20,000 days on Earth. Do what makes you happy, as long as it doesn't harm others.

This concludes my review for this trip.

Thank you very much if you have read every line of mine.

Thank you to my three travel companions.

Thank you for your feedback for someone who is trying to do a review for the first time.

Thank you for looking at my picture.

This passport, I remember asking a group of seniors for it because I couldn't find it. But it turns out they were giving them out everywhere.

Thank you, Kanlaya, for scanning the content for me.

Translation:

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Thank you. Thank you very much.

See you on the next trip.

The sea here is truly stunning. If you visit around noon, the water will be crystal clear.

..

The main expenses are summarized below, as food costs vary from person to person.

The fare for a songthaew to the pier is 80 baht.

The first night's hotel rental fee after falling overboard was 500 baht, which was divided equally among four people, resulting in 125 baht per person.

The boat fare is 500 baht per person, round trip 1,000 baht.

Motorcycle rental fee: 150 baht

Each person pays 50 baht for gas.

Accommodation costs 350 baht per night, 700 baht for two nights.

Roundtrip ferry to Koh Nang Yuan costs 300 baht.

The entrance fee to Koh Nang Yuan is 30 baht.

The train fare from Chumphon to Bangkok is 232 baht.

The total cost is 2,667 baht.