"There’s a sunrise and a sunset every single day, and they’re absolutely free. Don’t miss so many of them."
- Jo Walton
Snacks provided by the bus company.
Phitsanulok (now I know why it’s not suggested on most Travel Itineraries)
After 6ish hours on a ludicrously air-conditioned bus, bundled up in a big jumper and a fleece blanket courtesy of the bus company, I had arrived in Phitsanulok at 4am. The bus-ride in and off itself was okay and would have actually been quite comfortable if it hadn’t been for the Monk sat in the row in front of me who considered it a great idea to put his seat back all the way, which resulted in his head basically lying on my lap. Given that I do have quite long legs anyway it made the whole experience uncomfortably crammed. But oh well, such is the travelling life, I guess.
Once I managed to get off the bus I strapped my bags to my person and went to look for a taxi. I was successful after only a few minutes and attempted to communicate to my driver where it was I was going. Many enthusiastic nods and multiple affirmative sounds later we were on our way. It quickly transpired that it had been a good idea to get a sim card with internet as I was watching the blue dot move confidently into the opposite direction of my desired goal.
“Uhm, sorry! My hostel is in the other direction!” “No, No! Bed here!” He said while vigorously gesturing.
I finally managed to stop him and we were heading the right way but it still turned out to be quite difficult to find. When I got into the hostel there was no one at reception so I sat around waiting till about 6am before someone came and showed me to my bed.
Little oasis – Baan Chuen in Phitsanulok
When I woke up I decided to find some coffee, which turned out to be easier said than done. Phitsanulok is not a touristy town and for good reason. It’s grey and drab and misses all the charm of other Thai cities I visited so far. After wandering about a bit however I stumbled over an oasis with hammocks, fans and lots of books in a little arts and crafts cafe called Baan Chuen. Later I braved a foot massage, which surprisingly included my entire legs, plus head and shoulders, and got laughed at for my pasty white complexion.
The next day it was time to head on to Sukhothai.
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