RTW solo backpacking trip

Just me, my Osprey farpoint 40L bag and a vague idea of where I want to go Read more

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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - Las Vegas - Nevada
January 16, 2019 in the United States ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C
Had a laugh today! Spent all day with trudi and Kelly and they where both hammered hahahahaha. I didn’t drink as I knew if I did then the following day would be a write off.

I met them in aria as they where in the buffet and they had bottomless drinks for 2 hours... so they where already drunk when I got there. We ended up going down to the Las Vegas sign and then working our way through the Luxor casino, Excalibur and New York New York before they got too drunk and we went back the hotel. I end up leaving to go get some food and meet up with David as he’d been in a tournament all day. We decide to go out for a few drinks and see what’s out and about, have a bit of a gamble, and just soak in Vegas!

Good day.

Brilliant dayRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - Las Vegas - Nevada
January 17, 2019 in the United States ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C
Super Busy day today! Starts out with a quick early morning gym session to try and work off the night before’s bad decisions. I’ll be honest it wasn’t much of a session hahahah.

After getting back the room for a quick shower, David and I went over to Chipotle for something to eat... unreal, I’ll be eating these when I’m in California.

So our plan today was to walk down the strip and go into some iconic casinos/hotels. We walked around caesars palace, flamingo, the Linq, the Venetian. We also went ‘off the strip’ which was full of bars and restaurants.

We then took an Uber Up to the stratosphere hotel as I had bought us tickets to go to the top of the tower and go on the rides at the top of it. The views at the top where incredible, unfortunately it was a bit cloudy but you can really see the fact you’re in the middle of a desert when you’re up there!

We had a choice of 2 of the 3 rides up there so we watched all 3 first before deciding... I picked big shot and David picked x-scream. Big shot is just like the old PlayStation ride in Blackpool... but it’s already 921 feet in the air. At the top of the ride it’s something like 1081 feet. It’s so high! The x-scream is a ride that shoots you off over the edge of the building so you’re just hanging there. I was shitting myself on it but it was awesome. Would highly recommend it. The casino it’s self is also not bad up there, not as good as aria and PH but it’s cool. We then headed to Fremont Street to experience the old Vegas and it is completely different. It’s dirty, cheap but it’s awesome. It’s friendly but you also need to watch your wallet.

We go back to the Bellagio, get changed and head off to bubba gump for some tea then we head off to PH to play some craps and poker. We end up being around 50 up each which is cool and we also get a few free drinks so we can’t complain. We then head off to tilted kilt for a beer and tried a few more bars but everywhere was really quiet, so we head back to the Bellagio gamble a bit more lose $100 and go to bed as we both leave in the morning.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - Las Vegas/Los Angeles
January 18, 2019 in the United States ⋅ 🌙 13 °C
So this morning I left Vegas and there’s a small part of me that’s quite glad. I spent so much money here it’s certainly going to have a profound impact on the length of my journey going forward. However, I LOVED VEGAS.

What a place. Anything you want you can have it. Anything you want to do, you can do it. You want to drink a frozen margarita at 5am, sure no problem. You want a steak dinner at 9am? Sound.

Incredible place.

There’s more to Vegas than just the gambling. However the gambling is awesome, really addictive which is dangerous. But so exciting....

I left the Bellagio and said goodbye to David, I’m hoping he comes to meet me in Asia somewhere. I’ve no idea what happened to Kelly and trudi. All I know is they spent the last day and night in their room recovering 😂😂😂

I got a Uber up towards Fremont street, had a little walk around there and then made my way to the bus station, saw some weirdos and then got on my coach heading to LA.

The trip was super uneventful, you’re driving through desert for hours and there’s literally nothing to see at all, except some alien signs.

Arrived in downtown LA and got an Uber to my hostel... first impressions is not great. I am writing this in hiding away in my little private bed.... which you would think would be nice. But it isn’t. I came to check in and it stinks of weed and shit... well not shit but... no, yeah it stinks of old shit. The guy who checks me in is quite cool though and shows me around. My room is ‘nice’ but it’s ruined by the smell and atmosphere. It’s still early days but I may end up leaving here...Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - Los Angeles - California
January 20, 2019 in the United States ⋅ 🌙 13 °C
I was up and out early today as I made it my challenge to walk up and around the Hollywood sign. Doesn’t sound too bad right? Well I am staying 6 miles away from the park it’s on. Its a further 3.5. Mile uphill hike (if you know where you’re going)

Anyways the weather is glorious so I get my pasty white legs out and start walking. I decided to abandon using a map and basically just work off landmarks. I knew the sign was north of me so I just headed in that direction which turned out to be the best thing I could do as I accidentally stumbled upon the Scientology Church. Really weird place, people in suits all around and they seemed to be watching me as I had my phone out taking photos... I quickly put my phone away. Was going to ask if Tom Cruise was home but I thought best of it.

I keep walking north and I end up walking on sunset boulevard AND Hollywood Boulevard, purely by accident which was kinda cool, although I wasn’t on the ‘famous parts of the road, I do however end up in some pretty impressive housing estate. Seriously impressive.

I eventually reach the south east entrance to Griffith park, the sign is kinda north west from me, and there’s no signs for the sign on any of the trails, so if you don’t know where you’re going you’ll be walking around forever. I pick a trail at random and just go for it.

I’m seriously unfit. Although I didn’t expect it to be so steep or as difficult as it’s a pretty famous sign. There is a road you can take but where’s the fun in that?

I got some pretty amazing views of Burbank, Hollywood, Pasadena and the surrounding areas. I’ve no idea how many wrong turns I took but they where all worth it. At one point I was considering asking for directions but my pride would be too hurt.

Lomb story short - I finally made it. I probably picked the most difficult route possible but I got there eventually and the views are stunning. No words. Just do this if you’re ever in LA.

After the debacle of getting to the top I decided to follow the crowd on the way down, which is basically a road which leads into the hills where it’s basically just mansions. I imagine a few celebrities and such live there. After following the road for what seemed like an age I finally made it out of the hills and I was basically on Hollywood Boulevard. I knew my way back from here, just walk through little Armenia and Thai town, turn right past the Scientology church and that’s it.

I get back to my dorm and get into bed and drift off into a sleep, I was knackered. I walked around 20 miles today up hills and rough terrain. I wake up have a quick shower and go for a beer.

Today has been a good day as far as days goRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - Los Angeles - California
January 20, 2019 in the United States ⋅ 🌙 15 °C
But quieter today, I decided I wanted to walk up and down Hollywood Boulevard and sunset strip. Some people would come to LA to see bel air/rodeo drive or even Venice beach. I’m not too interested in that, they’ll still be there in a few years time if I come back.

However the Los Angeles rams are playing today against the New Orleans saints - the final match to get into the Super Bowl, so I just had to watch it even though I’m much of a NFL fan and I’m a cowboys fan by anything but it was a big deal here so I found a bar to watch it.

It was such a close and intense game I even found myself getting into it. Rams win in overtime with a field goal attempt from like 57 yards.... a long way away. The bar erupts.... kind of. For such a big game I expected more reaction but again that’s the difference between Europeans and Americans... Europeans are more passionate. Hands down.

After the game I walk up the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see the Chinese theatre, capitol records and a few weirdos, the plan was to go see whisky a go go but it’s closed at the moment so there was literally no point going to see it which was a shame. Maybe another time.

I went into the hard rock.... I had to in Hollywood! Watched the patriots v the chiefs in the other nfl playoff game. Pats win in OT, first time ever both playoff games have gone into OT, so I kinda witnessed history.

Off to San Francisco tomorrow, I was going to drive it but the weather Isn’t looking too great, it would be a waste of money. Plus I’d like to spend more time doing it I think. I’d be rushing it otherwise.

Also a sad day too - my cap which has been everywhere with me has ended its life by falling apart

RIP capRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - Los Angeles/San Francisco
January 21, 2019 in the United States ⋅ ☀️ 11 °C
Travelled from LA to SAN Francisco today via FlixBus. Got to say it wasn’t a bad 7 hour coach journey and I’m quite glad I didn’t get the car. Arrived in downtown SAN Francisco around 6pm and I was about 40 minute walk from the hotel, so I got an Uber... I’m now a gold member hahahahah.

I booked a hotel instead of a hostel as I got the hotel for 3 nights for only an extra $30 in total, so I thought I’d treat myself before enduring a 21 hour journey to Thailand.

The Uber driver picked me up and checked where we were going and warned me to stay inside of a night as the tenderloin area in which my hotel is situated is really rough.

He wasn’t lying. I could see what he meant instantly when I got out the cab, so I quickly ran in got checked in and retreated to my room for an early night.

The only photo I have is when we stopped on the coach and the guy next to us had a bbq in his bed of his truckRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - San Francisco - California
January 22, 2019 in the United States ⋅ 🌙 9 °C
Boss day today. I walked from my hotel through the tenderloin district all the way up to the famous Lombard street and then into fisherman’s wharf. It’s a cool area with lots of bars and restaurants and a boss view of the bay.

I walked up and down the Bay Area before deciding to go on a little ferry boat out onto the bay.

It was awesome, clear blue skies, nice hot sun. Couldn’t ask for better conditions. The boat took us out from the pier to the bridge, back to Alcatraz then back into the bay. Lasted about an hour in total but for $15 it was worth it.

After the boat trip I needed a pint and something to eat, so I found a bar called players got some nachos and a pint of corona... or two. I had a little explore around the district then moved onto pier 39 before calling a Uber back to the Hotel.

Great day, SAN Francisco is a cool cityRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA Tour - San Francsico - California
January 23, 2019 in the United States ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C
Last full day in USA today. I’m going to miss it but I’ll be honest, I preferred Europe. There’s just not much here in terms of cultural or historical interest. I do forget how young of a country it is but bragging about a church that’s 150 years old isn’t amazing.

But, I’ve had a great time here, the food is awesome, the people are polite and it is kinda like visiting different countries visiting state to state.

I’d still say Boston is my favourite city, the place is awesome. Hands down my favourite. I would say second would have to be Vegas then NOLA. So if I was to rank them I would say:

1) Boston
2) Las Vegas
3) NOLA
4) Portland, Maine
5) Austin
6) Nashville
7) New York City
8) San Francisco
9) Houston
10) Washington DC
11) Philadelphia
12) Los Angeles
13) Dallas
14) Atlantic City
15) Memphis

Although I had some amazing experiences in places such as Dallas and LA, overall they just didn’t inspire me like the others did. I don’t think I could rank my experiences in order, how could I chose between watching the cowboys win against doing the freedom trial in Boston. They’re too different and left different emotions on me.

I’ll look back fondly on my time in the US. I have many memories, stories and experiences to share and talk about. My waist line is a little larger, my skin a little browner, my brain a little more educated and my crazy decision to sell everything and leave everything I loved and knew behind to set off on my own even more justified.

I’ve managed to narrow down my top moments in 6 photos. Hopefully I’ll look back on this one day with fondness and pride. I met some cool new people, I met up with old friends. I’ve done things I only dreamed about, I’ve seen things I’ve always wanted to see and experienced things I’ve always wanted.

This isn’t a goodbye USA, just a see you later.

I’m sure I will.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
USA/China/Thailand
January 24, 2019 in China ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C
I left California today to fly to shanghai before moving onto Bangkok. The flight to shanghai wasn’t too bad, lasted about 14 hours, I got talking to a girl called dennisse who’s from 🇨🇱 turns out she’s off to Bangkok to. I watched the entire first season of the ranch, plus a few films to help pass the time. The plane was the biggest I’ve ever been on. Huge. Quite comfy too.

We landed in Shanghai after a fairly uneventful trip but I did get some cool views of Siberia!!!

We had a wait of 4 hours in Shanghai before the flight to Bangkok which isn’t too bad in an airport as big as shanghai.

Sitting next to me on the way to Bangkok was a called called Aaron from Oakland who’s a Muay Thai fighter. He’s over for a month to train.

Land in Bangkok, fly through customs. Taxi to hostel. Pass out after travelling for 20 odd hoursRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Bangkok - Thailand
January 26, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C
So after a quick sleep I got up early due to jet lag, and I was WIIIIIIDE awake! So I decided to make the most of the day and go exploring. The hostel I’m staying in is about an hours walk into the backpacker bit (booked this hostel by accident but it’s actually really nice) I had no idea where I was going really, I just walked west as that’s where Khao SAN road was from me. After getting temporarily lost in what I would assume is the Thai version of a favella which was quite sobering. They didn’t even have front doors and outside their homes was a stagnant water river. Smelled awful. Walking through there I thought I could give these people a couple of thousand baht and it would change their week certainly, maybe even longer. I didn’t mind you, didn’t fancy being swarmed in a favella.

I somehow made it back to the main road and followed that towards the grand palace. The roads here are insane, really counter intuitive to cross a road. You basically just walk out into the road and pray a car doesn’t hit you. The key is just to commit to it, if you slow down or stop then that’s what will cause an accident.

I get about 2/3 way in and the weather is roasting hot and I’m in all black, not my best idea to be fair. I saw some lovely temples and monuments on my way in and lots of homage to their king. They love that guy here.

I eventually make it to Khao SAN road. It’s mental. Busiest road I’ve ever seen in my life. So vibrant.

I find a bar, can’t remember the name but it was a cool bar, got my self 2 pints of Chang and a whole load of pad thai. Tastes better here. After enjoying my ice cold beers and food, I walk up and down Khao San road for a bit, looking at all the shops and bars. I walk around the area with no particular end goal. Came across a few cool places. I couldn’t enter any of the temples as I had shorts on, you must cover your ankles so pants it will have to be so I put that on my shopping list.

After pretty walking around the whole day I made my way back my hostel with the sun setting. Wow. I came across a temple and it looked amazing at night.

I also stumbled upon a night market by pure chance. It was awesome. I don’t think it’s a popular one with tourists as I think I was the only non Thai person there. It was cool though, ended up paying 4 times as much for a pair of flip flops. When I asked how much they where the woman told me 100 baht. I pulled out my money and I only had 1000 baht notes.... 24 of them. She hadn’t seen that type of money before and called her friend over so they could both see me count it. I felt so guilty I just gave her 400 baht and walked away.

First impressions of Bangkok

8/10Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Bangkok - Thailand
January 27, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
I knew what I was doing today. I had been looking forward to today for a while. On the weekend in Bangkok they have this huge outdoor market called ‘Jatujak Weekend Market’ the place is huge. Luckily for me where I am staying is right on the BTS line, so it was just a quick 6 stops costing 40baht to get there.

It was manic, so busy it was like a swarm. It was so lively, tuk tucks, scooters, Taxi’s flying by and beeping. Locals shouting about their restaurant or stall. Tourists looking all lost and bewildered and backpackers like me just trying to absorb it all in.

I should of got a map, the place is gigantic but I decided to just walk around and see what I stumbled upon.

I was not disappointed. Everything you can think of is here in this market. They have the usual souvenir crap aimed at tourists, but they had huge homeware sections, a gigantic pet section where you could literally buy anything. They had so many puppies, even bulldog puppies. Snakes, birds, dogs, cats, insects and even mini pigs.

They had a large fabric section where you could buy Thai silk for pence. Crazy cheap. There was also a huge clothing section ranging from cheap to the expensive. 100’s of different food stalls, all smelling better than the last.

I walked 10km around this market all day, I managed to eat some good grub, drink some weird drinks and just enjoy the day. Thai people love to barter however they’re not as pushy as other countries which is nice. They do however have a limit, I saw a couple of times where tourists where negotiating over 20baht.. around 50p. Which was rather annoying as tourists can afford it, what’s 50p to an European, Australian, American? It’s nothing, these Thai people need it more than we do. If you ever do come here, haggle, they love it but be mindful. You have more money in your wallet/purse than these people earn.

After exhausting myself walking around in the intense heat, I got the train to Siam Square as it’s only 1 extra stop on the SkyTrain from my hostel. It’s nice but it’s very western, I didn’t see the point in sticking around so I went to bed.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Bangkok - Thailand
January 28, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C
I woke up today at 3pm! I was exhausted after having such a long day the day before. I needed it as I think I was still a bit jet lagged. It worked out quite well for me though as I was planning on having a quiet day anyway.

I got up got a shower, and decided I would head down to Khao SAN road for a quick beer, and something to eat before I went to the Rajadamnern Stadium to go watch the Thai boxing. I had read up before hand all about it, and all the scams that go along with it. If you get a tuk tuk there, they may tell you it’s closed or it’s been moved to another stadium or they will offer you tickets. Politely decline and just tell them to take you there, or just get another tuk tuk. You can buy tickets directly outside the stadium and you can barter on the price. I got a club class ticket which is just behind ringside for 1300, which is 500 less than advertised. However if you’re Thai, the price is only 400.... sneaky.

Anyway, it’s brilliant, ringside seats for 9 fights, seat service for beer and snacks - it’s expensive by Thai standards but still cheap. A beer at home in a stadium is probably close to £10, I paid 3 so it’s not too bad. Saw some good fights, the smaller weight classes where by far the best, they’re so quick it’s scary.

The atmosphere in there is awesome, they have a ringed off section up at the top which is the cheap zone but that’s where all the action happens, you can bet on the fights and there’s a guy who comes round and sorts it all out and depending on what corner you’re for is what noise you make. So if you’re supporting the red corner you make like a oooooo noise and if you’re supporting blue its more of a kneeeee noise. It’s awesome. Even managed to see a knock out which was cool.

After the fights I went back to Khao san Road. It was the busiest I’d seen it since being here. Bit tacky but I loved it. Got a few beers, ate some more street food, had a little chat with some fellow backpackers then called it a night.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Bangkok - Thailand
January 29, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C
Cool day today. I finally made it to the Grand Palace. It’s breathtaking. It’s about an hour walk from my hostel and I was going to just take a tuk tuk but it was a nice day, so I decided to walk it, plus I’m hoping to lose some weight in Asia, I think with the combination of healthier food, sweating and lots of walking should help.

Ran into the standard scam as I approached the palace, locals telling you it’s closed or a higher price, instead of going there they will take you elsewhere, normally a jewellery shop or a tailors as they get a kick back.

Anyway, I arrive at the palace. It’s huge. Proper awe inspiring.

I pay the entrance fee of about 100baht I think it was, and made my way in. You walk in through quite narrow gates considering the size of the place, but as soon as you walk in it opens up massively, and there it is. The Main Palace building right in front of you. But there’s also 76352516 Chinese and Korean tourists who are just the worst hahahha. They will block an entire path for their photos, highly annoying.

I can’t really describe the palace, I don’t think I have the vocabulary for it. I was there for hours and I could spend hours longer. You need to come see it. It’ll give you goosebumps.

I also went to visit the giant leaning Buddha, which was quite cool, I didn’t think it was as big as it was but it’s massive and I spent about 30 minutes there.

After visiting the palace and the Buddha, I was thirsty and hungry. Just off the palace is a local market which has been there for hundreds of years, so i had a walk through there and came across a lovely little restaurant sitting on the banks of the chao phraya river right opposite wat Arun (not visited yet but it looks awesome)

I sat by the riverside, watching the sun set, fresh Thai food and a ice cold beer or two for hours. Perfect way to end the day.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Bangkok/Chiang Mai -
January 30, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C
Off to Chiang Mai today, I was hoping to get the overnight train there but it had all sold out and I didn’t fancy taking a coach even though it would be half the price of a plane but 8 hours longer. I settled on flying, cost me about 25quid for a ticket from Bangkok to Chiang maineith VietJet.

Before heading off to the airport though I had a little walk around my hostel for one last time and found a cool little cafe so I grabbed a drink and something to eat then headed off to the airport. My taxi driver was a huge Liverpool fan, his English wasn’t great but it was always ‘Liverpool TOP TOP Champions’ then a thumbs up. He asked for a photo with me so he could show his kids so i obliged and he seemed happy.

The plane to Chiang Mai was delayed by an hour but it wasn’t too bad, the airport is big enough to entertain yourself although getting WiFi is near impossible in some places. The flight in was uneventful, I watched the new episode of the grand tour which was OK at best, it seems a bit wooden at the minute, kinda forced.

I go collect my bag, hop a taxi into Chiang Mai, the driver had. I idea where to go as my hostel is brand new so I had to give her my phone for the GPS. My hostel is sound, my type, modern, industrial looking and most importantly it’s quiet. The beds aren’t the comfiest but it’ll do. I head out to get something to eat and came across a place called goodkitchen. The food is so good I ate 2 main meals and 2 starters, had 2 smoothies and spent about 300 baht. Winner

I retire to bed as tomorrow I am going to try and visit every temple in Chiang Mai - it’s a challenge I can’t wait for!Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Chiang Mai - Thailand
January 31, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Up out and early today, tried to get out before the sun got too hot. Failed. It was already 30 degrees at 9am!

I had no particular route for today but before I got started I headed off to 7/11 got myself a drink and this little capsule you use to replace the lid and it’s full of extracts to make you feel better and they taste good too. FYI if you’re on a real strict budget 7/11 is a god send, so cheap 500ml bottle of water for 7baht which is like 17p!

Chiang Mai old city is built inside walls so I headed towards the South Gate and worked around clockwise.

I saw probably 30 temples in total, most where kind of the Same but some where really cool looking and I saved the best till last ‘Wat Chedi’ unreal place, monks everywhere and I even managed to catch them in prayer which was quite humbling.

After grabbing something to eat I headed east out of the city towards the night life bit, I was only going for the markets which where cool, came across a few live bands playing. The best was in a rock pub - a Thai band playing Metallica, UFO and motley crue. It was boss!

I made the fatal mistake of walking back through the nightlife centre as it’s also the RLD area of the city. Young, white westerner walking through on his own.... think I was approached by every girl on the street, I even had one chase me down the street so she could ‘see my tattoo’ to be fair to her When I made it clear I wasn’t interested she took it in good grace and just asked for a photo which I agreed too. I also was approached by a few ladyboys which was quite funny, although I will say some of them you’d have no idea. It’s scaryRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Chiang Mai - Thailand
February 1, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C
So today is the day I get to go to the Elephant Park and feed, bathe and play with some rescued elephants.

My day started off with being Picked up from my hostel and there was around an hours drive into the jungle before we got to a market where I could buy some breakfast. After that it was a further 30 mins into the hills before we arrived at the camp. My first impression was ‘this is quiet’ as I got out of the car a older guy greeted me and told me his name is tiger and he would be my guide today and that I would be his only volunteer for the morning so it was a special day. He lead me inside and told me all about the camp, the elephants and what they do there. He handed me some clothes to wear which are designed to look like the clothing the Mahout people wear. The Mahout are mountain people and they can communicate with the elephants as they have lived side by side for thousands of years.

Tiger then took me outside to meet the elephants, there was ‘Mr Joe’ who was the only male of the herd, he was 50 years old and he had 4 wives and 2 kids. The baby elephants are very cute.

We then went to cut some sugar cane for the elephants to feed them, they love sugar cane as it’s very sweet. Cutting the sugar cane was fairly easy, however they where swarming with ants that bit you!

Feeding the elephants was awesome, they are quite delicate around you however they will steal food off each other, especially Mr Joe he’s a greedy one! After feeding them we took them for a walk into the jungle, they make it look so easy with their 4 knees. Tiger and I where knackered after about 10mins

The hills, mountains and jungle in this area is spectacular. Tiger also taught me about local wildlife and he even made me eat a flour. Tastes like pure sugar.

After our jungle trek we had some lunch which was nice then I got to make vitamin balls for the elephants, they help with digestion and providing nutrients they need. We then took them down to the river to bathe them, they loved it. I loved it. On the way back to the camp the baby elephant ran off to steal some food, his mum chasing after him before bringing him back.

The day was brilliant 15/10Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Chiang Mai - Thailand
February 7, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
First update for almost a week! I haven’t done much, I’ve just been chilling and just enjoying Chiang Mai. There was a huge flower festival here so I visited that plus the famous Sunday market (nearly killed everyone) visited a few more temples and today I hired my bike ready to do the Mae Song loop. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous about it as the bike is pretty powerful and I need some more practice but I’m also confident I can get by, I’ve driven 44t trucks so if I’m sensible and remember that I’m a novice I should be ok.

I might go for a ride up to Doi Suthep tomorrow when the traffic is low to get some practice as it’s a narrow windy road which should give me some confidence going forward. It’s also supposed to be a brilliant place to watch the sunrise! So I may give that a go, see how I feel in the morning.

Just some photos from the last few daysRead more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Chiang Mai - Thailand
February 9, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
So today I went on my first proper bike journey, I headed off to a cafe I heard about called cafe 31 I think. It was about 6 miles west of Chiang Mai and I was kinda nervous for the journey...

Don’t know what all the fuss was about, simple journey, completely uneventful.... hopefully they’re all this way.

The cafe is awesome, it’s built in sections around a pool. There’s a tree house complete with a slide, big deck areas over the pond and different seating areas all around. It was a real cool place, I wish I could of stayed there longer but I didn’t get there till early afternoon and the sun started to set around 5pm and I didn’t want to be on a highway at night time.

I’d definitely go back there, the peach soda and burger was incredible and it was quite cheap considering the environment. I also won the UEFA Cup on footy manager too so it was a good day

I got back the hostel, had a quick nap and went into the night bazaar, I keep seeing these tailor suit places and I am tempted.....Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Mae Hong Son Loop
February 11, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 34 °C
This is it. This is the day. As a total novice at riding bikes I’m about to undertake a 900km journey through forests, national parks and mountain passes. I woke up super excited, but the second I sat on the bike I think the realisation of the journey I was about to take hit me. Nerves set in big time. I had to take a few minutes to calm myself down before I set off.

The first part of the journey was fine, I made my way to Doi Inthanon park to see the Pagodas built in honour of the king and queen of Thailand which are built on the highest mountain in northern Thailand. My shitty GPS took me an awful way however, it took me through these horrible pitted dirt tracks and then eventually onto the main Road. How i didn’t fall off the bike Ive no idea. The drive up to the mountain was cool, some awesome views and I stopped off at a waterfall on my way up which was cool.

The Pagodas where brilliant, there no other way to describe it. The architecture, the gardens, the views. Unbelievable, I haven’t seen anything like it anywhere in my travels. I spent a good 40 minutes just looking over into the mountains. I got some great photos.

On my way back down the mountain I stopped off at another waterfall which was much better than the first, took a few photos and made my way out of the park. The ridee from the top to the bottom is about 40 minutes so it’s quite a journey. I fuelled up and headed towards to Mae Sariang. The road was brilliant, however my phone bounced out of its cradle on this badly pitted pot holed road, lucky it didn’t break and lucky it was quiet as I slammed on my breaks to go get my phone.

I made it to Mae Sariang about 18:30, I left Chiang Mai at 9:30 so it was a long day of travelling. I checked into my hotel for the night, had a quick shower, some food and the passed out like a baby.

Who knew being stressed and concentrating for 9 hours would make you tired?

.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Mae Hong Son Loop -
February 12, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Checked out of my hotel early doors this morning to get cracking on the road. My hotel wasn’t bad to be fair, had a lovely view of the river but it was a bit old and could do with an update.

I filled up with fuel, it’s so cheap here and was on my way. The road today was much easier than yesterday, it was north for 140km and the road wasn’t too bad. It’s crazy how quiet the roads get when you get out of the towns even though it’s the only road that connects them.

As the roads where quiet I made some good time up as I was riding faster than the day before and the roads where much straighter. I stopped off for a quick top up of fuel again (the tank is only 4.5L and it was all uphill)

The views where amazing on this ride, I should of stopped off more to take photos but I was really enjoying the ride and I wanted to get into Mae Hong Son before night time.

I stopped off at a Cafe around 18km outside of Mae Hong Son which offered amazing views of the valley below. Seems like a popular place with bikers as that’s all was there.

Made it into Mae Hong Son and checked into my hotel, it’s brand new so it was lovely and my room over looked a rice paddy. I had a quick nap and made my way to find some food. I can’t remember the name of the restaurant but it was one of the best I’d been to. I get back the hotel, get my stuff ready for the morning and pass out on my bed still fully dressed.

Good day today. Very good day.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Mae Hong Son Loop
February 13, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C
Overslept today. Didn’t leave my hotel till 11am, I was shattered. I was a bit worried at this point if I would make it to Pai before nightfall as I was 3 hours late leaving the hotel. So I go fill up with fuel and water for myself and hit the road... fast!

I was getting more confident on the bike however I was still having trouble on really slow tight hairpin bends, I just didn’t have the confidence to really lean into the corners, especially left hand downhill corners, I was basically crawling on them. Lucky the roads where quiet or I’d of pissed a few locals off.

I saw a lot of other ‘farangs’ on this road but going the other way and this was a nice bit of road, probably my favourite ride of the journey. It had everything, brilliant views, wonderful roads, and as I was more confident I was really enjoying myself on the bike, I even was doing over 100kmh in some places.

As I was caning it I actually ended up in Pai much earlier than expected which was cool as I got a bit of time to explore it as I was only here for 2 nights and I’d heard boss things about to Pai so I wanted to see as much as I could. I was staying in a place called Pai Smilehouse which was awesome, I loved it.Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Mae Hong Son Loop - Pai
February 14, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C
Loved my first night in Pai it’s so chill. But today I went and bought some beers and sat by the river for a few hours and just relaxed, it was cool. After that I went to find some food and more beers!!!

Of a night Pai becomes very lively with the whole walking street becoming one big market.

However, unfortunately on my last night in Pai I was visited by the wildies. Big Time. I bought myself a curry wrap whilst at the market on my last night and it was lovely to be fair but a couple of hours later I got such an intense Pain in my stomach whilst in bed I knew I was in for a bad night.

It was horrific. To be honest I’m surprised I’ve not had many issues such as this more often as my stomach is a massive faggot and kicks off over anything. But this was bad, all night it was. I was dreading the morning as I had to check out by 11 and then ride 7 hours to Chiang Mai.....Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Chiang Mai
February 15, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C
Back to Chiang Mai for a few days in my favourite Hotsel - Kampor. I have a flight to Kuala Lumpur on the 23d of Feb. I debated extending my visa to stay in Thailand for another month however I think a change of scenery will be good. So I’ve got a few days here in Chiang Mai, then a 10 hour coach trip back to Bangkok for a few days before flying out to Kuala Lumpur!Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Bangkok
February 22, 2019 in Thailand ⋅ 🌙 29 °C
Came back to Bangkok for a few nights before flying out to Malaysia. Found a cool apartment on Air BnB for 3 nights to treat myself before leaving Thailand.

Absolutely loved my time in Thailand and I’ve only explored a small amount of it, there’s still so much for me to do and see that I am definitely coming back.

My apartment has a cool view and there’s a 7-11 on the ground floor which is awesome. Although the building has signs everywhere saying short term stay is illegal.....Read more
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RTW solo backpacking trip Sheppo89
Asia Tour - Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia
February 23, 2019 in Malaysia ⋅ ⛅ 35 °C
Literally just this second arrived at my hostel. First impressions are it’s brilliant. Very modern, very clean and the pods are excellent.

My first impressions of Kuala Lumpur are also positive, weather is good, the language is similar (compared to Thailand) it’s super easy to get around too!

I’m going to have a power nap and go out and explore shortly, I had no sleep at all last night and I only managed to get a sneaky hour and a half in on the plane but it was only a 2 hour flight so I think I deserve it!

Also nearly had a meltdown with the cash machines here earlier, each one I tried kept declining and I couldn’t understand why.... then I checked the exchange rate and I was trying to withdraw over my limit.... bad melt! Anyway treated myself to an ice cream, got two trains and a short walk to the hostel, all checked in and ready for a quick nap!Read more
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