PEN Day 3 │ ICT Mall • Lighthouse Cafe • Skin Nation Tattoo!

Final Tattoo in George Town

We woke up at eight and began working on our videos. Cat enjoyed her beauty sleep for a little longer before getting ready. By fifteen past eleven, we were out the door and ready to head out.

Quick Errands First

We took a Grab car to ICT Mall to look for earphones. After checking a few shops, we finally found a Type C pair for RM29.00 (≈ USD7/EUR6) that worked for us. We needed them badly for the long tattoo session later that day.

Next, we tried the food court at 1st Avenue Mall, but nothing caught our eye. So we called another Grab and headed to The Lighthouse Cafe instead.

Lunch Before the Session

We arrived just after noon and ordered Hainan pork chop, Hokkien char, cold plum juice, and a Coca Cola. Lunch was simple, satisfying, and very affordable for only RM37.60 (≈ USD9/EUR8). It was the perfect meal before a long afternoon.

At Skin Nation Tattoo

After lunch, we walked over to Skin Nation Tattoo for a one o’clock appointment with MC. We waited a short while before being called up to the studio. At that point, we split up, as Cat headed off to explore Chowrasta Market on her own.

This tattoo felt special. We decided it would be our last one for a long time, and a crucifix felt like the right choice. MC’s stencil design was striking, and he began work at two in the afternoon.

A Meaningful Piece

The tattoo was completed a little over two hours later. The crucifix marked the end of a long personal journey in body art. Each tattoo before it had its own story, and this one felt like a quiet closing chapter.

This piece held deep personal meaning. It symbolised faith, reflection, and commitment, and I felt ready to stop here for a while.

Market Finds and Rest

After settling payment, we walked over to Chowrasta Market to meet Cat. At a familiar stall, we bought several packets of pickled fruits to bring back with us for a total of RM41.00 (≈ USD/EUR9). We then returned to the hotel. The long session had left us tired, so we decided to rest and likely order dinner in for the night.

Stay tuned as we woke up before dawn the next day to catch another Aeroline bus back to Kuala Lumpur.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Hutton Central Hotel - https://maps.app.goo.gl/uUGAtyMMvLa79Afj9

ICT Digital Mall @ Komtar - https://maps.app.goo.gl/dKGi7BgHnbzsUcmL7

1st Avenue Mall - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Qdznrkbmxv99Z81ZA

The Lighthouse Cafe - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wyehChb38x7GWs197

Skin Nation Tattoo - https://maps.app.goo.gl/9hjtwhHpNuhJsWZo6

Chowrasta Market - https://maps.app.goo.gl/36DPY9phjbV7Mc7t9

PEN Day 2 │ Pengkalan Weld and Back!

To the Jetty and Back

We met you again in the early evening as we called a Grab car to head out for dinner. The ride to The Jetty Food Court at Pengkalan Weld was short and cost RM8.00 (≈ USD/EUR2). We arrived just before 6:40pm.

Dinner by the Water

We walked around the food court for a while before deciding what to eat. In the end, we ordered two plates of char kueh teow, some fried spring rolls, an ambara juice, and a small bottle of Tiger beer. Dinner came to RM50.80 (≈USD11/EUR10) and was both filling and satisfying.

An Unexpected Find

After dinner, Cat suggested we take a walk toward Kota Lama. As we walked, we noticed a row of floats being prepared for a procession. We were not sure what the event was or where it was heading, but it was interesting to watch the preparations.

Walking Through George Town

We continued walking along Pengkalan Weld, then turned onto Gat Lebuh China. From there, we walked on until we reached the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower. Near Padang Kota, we saw the procession gathering and getting ready to begin.

Heading Back by Bus

We waited nearby for the free CAT bus and soon hopped on. Just five minutes later, we got off near Hotel Cititel. From there, we walked through familiar streets and soon arrived back at our hotel.

It was a relaxed evening with a mix of food, walking, and small surprises.

Stay tuned as we headed out the next day for a tattoo appointment in George Town!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Hutton Central Hotel - https://maps.app.goo.gl/uUGAtyMMvLa79Afj9

The Jetty Food Court - https://maps.app.goo.gl/B779ANpR52xFVgvSA

Bank Negara Malaysia - https://maps.app.goo.gl/WhDm1bqDe7eexUe98

Hotel Cititel - https://maps.app.goo.gl/oanaNLsnskBWftH3A

PEN Day 2 │ KOMTAR • 1st Avenue • Chang Leong!

On the Prowl in George Town

We woke up at eight and began working on our videos before getting ready for the day. By nine, we were showered and feeling fresh. Cat was in a great mood thanks to a good night’s sleep, and by ten we were ready to head out.

Free Bus and Mall Errands

We walked to the bus stop near the 7 Eleven along Jalan Penang and caught the free CAT bus to KOMTAR. Once there, we renewed our Mutiara bus passes, then headed up to the second floor and crossed over to 1st Avenue Mall.

Inside the mall, we stopped by Watsons to buy a Cetaphil cleanser and lotion set to care for our tattoo. After that, we went down to Village Grocer on the ground floor to pick up a few supplies.

Early Lunch Stop

With our errands done, we walked out and crossed Jalan Magazine to Lebuh McNair for an early lunch at Chang Leong Nanyang Coffee. After looking through the menu, we chose Hokkien mee and curry chicken with rice, both served with iced chrysanthemum tea. We also shared a plate of loh bak, and later added their signature coffee. Everything came to RM49.70 (≈USD11/EUR10), which felt like good value.

Heading Back to Rest

After lunch, we walked back toward 1st Avenue Mall and continued on to the KOMTAR Utara bus stop. From there, we caught Rapid Penang bus 202 back to the hotel to rest and recharge.

Stay tuned as we headed out later for dinner at Pengkalan Weld.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Hutton Central Hotel - https://maps.app.goo.gl/uUGAtyMMvLa79Afj9

Komtar Bus Terminal - https://maps.app.goo.gl/c281gfpjKJ31CvUt6

1st Avenue Mall - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Qdznrkbmxv99Z81ZA

Chang Leong Nanyang Coffee - https://maps.app.goo.gl/9m7cXnvF9qgZTN1Q9

KUL to PEN │ Aeroline • Hutton Central • Red Garden!

George Town Getaway

One week after returning from Bangkok, we were back on the road again. This time, we headed north to the island state often called the “Pearl of the Orient.” With a four day weekend for Id Fitr, we booked Aeroline bus tickets online for RM72.00 (≈ USD16/EUR15) each, departing from Corus Hotel at 9:30am.

Breakfast Before Departure

Brendan had other plans and did not join us, but he dropped us off at Corus Hotel at eight in the morning. Since we had time to spare, we enjoyed breakfast at the hotel’s Dondang Sayang Coffee House. Breakfast cost RM34.80 (≈ USD8/EUR7) per person and helped us start the day calmly.

On the Road to Penang

The bus arrived at 9:15am and finally left at 9:35am after waiting for a few late passengers. Our bus, VDM8816, was scheduled to reach Queensbay Mall in about five hours.

Traffic was light as we passed the Jalan Duta Toll Plaza at 9:50am, which made us hopeful. However, with a government discount on tolls, traffic soon slowed on the North–South Expressway.

Five hours later, we stopped at the Simpang Pulai rest area. After a short break, we continued the journey, realising it might be another long ride. We crossed the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge at 5:35pm and arrived at Queensbay Mall at 6:05pm. The trip took eight and a half hours in total.

From Mall to Hotel

We got off the bus, thanked the crew, collected our bags, and took a quick break inside the mall. We then booked a six seater Grab car. The first two drivers cancelled, but the third picked us up at 6:33pm. The ride to Hutton Central Hotel cost RM22.00 (≈ USD/EUR5) and took about forty five minutes.

By the time we arrived, it was already dusk. We checked in, dropped our bags in our one bedroom apartment, and headed out again.

Dinner in George Town

We walked through nearby streets and made our way to our usual dinner spot, Red Garden Food Paradise. We ordered Thai fried rice and pad khra pow from a Thai stall. Cat also added Vietnamese spring rolls. With drinks included, dinner came to RM79.00 (≈ USD18/ EUR16).

After eating, we stopped at Happy Mart for some snacks before returning to Hutton Central to rest.

With no fixed plans for the next day, we decided to take things as they came. Stay tuned for more from George Town.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Havironia Music - https://goo.gl/maps/swtNfVmjFK4FgRsf8

Corus KLCC - https://maps.app.goo.gl/fX88AZfLFZE4czpU8

Dondang Sayang Coffee House - https://maps.app.goo.gl/1Wh21pMc6Ugyu6qq8

Aeroline (KL) - https://maps.app.goo.gl/vvQno2NEqV5ncmQh8

R&R Simpang Pulai Northbound - https://maps.app.goo.gl/BUBgWMiBR1BqWnii6

Aeroline Queensbay Mall - https://maps.app.goo.gl/qAzcm4qNVEBNXqzn7

Hutton Central Hotel - https://maps.app.goo.gl/uUGAtyMMvLa79Afj9

Red Garden Food Paradise - https://maps.app.goo.gl/tStcckDivai7zaDBA

Happy Mart - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Tdn4KhF9ev2BS5dx5

BKK to KUL │ Suvarnabhumi to KLIA!

Leaving on a Jet Plane

Where did seven days go? The idiom “time flies when you’re having fun” doesn’t even begin to describe how we felt.

I woke up at 7:00am and continued working on our videos. We got ready at 10:00am and, together with our yellow submarines, headed down to the lobby an hour later. We dropped our unit key into the designated mailbox and left our luggage with the front desk, as we had booked an airport transfer.

The fare was THB600 (≈ USD18/EUR16/MYR79), and we scheduled our pick up for 2:00pm.

Lunch at The Gourmet House

We walked over to the in house café, The Gourmet House, for lunch and ordered:

• American Fried Rice
• Radna with Meat
• Iced Orange Americano
• Coca Cola

Total: THB620 (≈ USD18/EUR17/MYR81). Later, I added a hot mocha for THB120 (≈ USD4/EUR3/MYR16).

After lunch, we relaxed in the common area until our airport transfer arrived at 1:55pm. Traffic was heavy, so the ride to Suvarnabhumi took about an hour. We were dropped off at Gate 7.

Check In & Waiting Game

We quickly located the Malaysia Airlines counters. Thanks to our pre purchased extra luggage allowance, our bags — including the two new yellow submarines — came to exactly 45kg, which was a huge relief.

Boarding passes in hand, we sat on a bench to decide our next move. With almost four hours to departure, we headed straight for security. Ten minutes later, we emerged unscathed and walked into Immigration, where the auto gates made the process a breeze.

A glance at the FIDS confirmed that MH775 was on time to depart at 6:40pm from Gate F2.

We walked the length of the promenade and settled at Dean & Deluca, where I got a Caramel Macchiato for THB198 while Cat went window shopping. I spent the next hour working on our videos until Cat returned with several souvenirs.

Boarding MH775

At 5:30pm, we realised Gate F2 was already open for boarding — Malaysia Airlines had emailed us at 5:16pm. We took the escalator down and waited until boarding began at 5:50pm.

The flight wasn’t full, and the final passengers boarded at 6:10pm. The plane pushed back at 6:40pm and took off ten minutes later.

The two hour flight was smooth and uneventful. We began descending at 9:20pm, and MH775 touched down at 9:50pm local time.

Kudos to Captain Nigel and Chief Steward Jamal for an excellent flight.

Back in Kuala Lumpur

We disembarked ten minutes later and headed to Carousel J to collect our luggage before making our way to the KLIA Express Transit station. The train to KL Sentral departed at 11:00pm, arriving half an hour later.

Traffic outside was still heavy due to the upcoming Eid Fitr celebrations, so Brendan only managed to pick us up about an hour later. We finally reached home at 1:00am.

Thank You

Thank you for joining us on our adventures in Thailand — and we’ll see all of you again real soon!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Suvarnabhumi Airport - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VMLGTBz5fJ4TKraD6

Dean & Deluca BKK - https://maps.app.goo.gl/srox8aqaDKivnXD19

Kuala Lumpur International Airport - https://maps.app.goo.gl/pDCevJLK4PNEfeq39

KLIA Ekspres - https://maps.app.goo.gl/aMxKXzeH29zWT1799

KLIA Express Transit Station @ KLIA

- https://maps.app.goo.gl/1AG4CR3HqePKrE3p7

Havironia Music - https://goo.gl/maps/swtNfVmjFK4FgRsf8

BKK Day 7 │ ICON Siam and Beyond Pt2!

Epic Excursion Continues

We picked you up again as we left ICONSIAM and boarded the same orange flag boat back to Bangkok Sathorn Pier — THB8 each, still the best bargain in the city.

We disembarked and headed up to Saphan Taksin BTS, only to realise we had boarded the wrong train toward Bang Wa. We quickly got off at Wutthakat, then hailed a Grab to Platinum Fashion Mall for THB173 (≈ USD5/EUR5/MYR23). The ride took almost an hour, and we arrived close to 3:00pm.

Platinum Fashion Mall, Round Two

Cat went hunting for three quarter pants and emerged victorious with:

• 5 pairs of pants
• 2 blouses

Total: THB1,600 (≈ USD47/EUR44/MYR209).

She then popped into Eve and Boy and picked up a bottle of Dr. Pong’s Recovery Serum for THB399 (≈ USD12/EUR11/MYR52).

Outside, we tried to hail a tuk tuk to Rachathewi BTS, just a kilometre away. The first driver quoted THB200 (≈ USD6/EUR5/MYR26), which was too steep. A second tuk tuk rolled up and offered THB100 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR13), which we gladly accepted. It had been a while since our last tuk tuk ride, and the breeze felt great.

The Long Way Home

At Rachathewi, we accidentally boarded the Silom Line again — wrong direction, wrong train. Eventually, we corrected course and boarded the Sukhumvit Line toward Kheha.

Seven stops and twenty minutes later, we were finally back at Ekkamai BTS. After what felt like an eternity, we reached Gateway Ekkamai and waited for the free shuttle back to Tierra Residences.

Much Needed TLC

Back at the Airbnb, we began packing before heading out again — this time to Arokah Massage near the Rama IV PTT station. After averaging 10k+ steps a day, our feet were begging for mercy.

• Cat chose a foot + shoulder massage
• I opted for a foot massage

Total: THB750 (≈ USD22/EUR20/MYR98). The relief was instant.

Last Dinner in Bangkok

We walked over to our favourite stall, Pad Thai Kitchen, and ordered:

• Pad Kra Pow with Minced Meat
• Pad Kra Pow with Pork Slices
• Coca Cola
• Apple Soda

Total: THB219 (≈ USD7/EUR6/MYR29).

Since our first night in Bangkok, this stall had been our go to dinner spot — so it felt right to end our final night here.

As always, we crossed over to 7 Eleven for provisions that came to THB270 (≈ USD8/EUR7/MYR35), then made one last stop at Amazon Coffee for a hot mocha and an iced milk green tea for THB110 (≈ MYR3/USD3/EUR14).

We walked back to Tierra Residences, tired but content — a perfect end to our Bangkok chapter.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we leave Bangkok on a jet plane bound for Kuala Lumpur.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

ICON Siam 1 Pier - https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZEoqvLAV9AUesZ5c9

Bangkok Sathorn Pier - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yCQvCXziKad5Swrj9

Saphan Taksin BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/4FaMS3ViZYEKWnGF6

Wutthakat BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/sUQJGHtojrY1F4zm8

Platinum Fashion Mall - https://maps.app.goo.gl/kuPgXLxNoRmjWcxS6

Ratchathewi BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/QV35RMGLPPCjHxaa7

Saint Louis BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/sKwjqx5BDqzCm7f99

National Stadium BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wNvXGgmqvvuhq1NR7

Siam BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VHX5ktL7YMZeh9PL6

Ekkamai BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljr1Y6spiGyRk2TG7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/DD1uUGrv9rGYCS979

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Arokah Massage - https://maps.app.goo.gl/9sWQMkywMUn6EEgM6

Pad Thai Kitchen - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wra87uC8noPmLMAb9

7-Eleven PTT Rama IV - https://maps.app.goo.gl/2aEyvjrn1Do5sTjJ8

Café Amazon - https://maps.app.goo.gl/6xtYaVuZSjgSGptt5

BKK Day 7 │ ICON Siam and Beyond Pt1!

Epic Excursion

We woke up at 7:15am and got ready for the day. About an hour later, we headed down to the lobby and managed to catch the 8:30am shuttle to Gateway Ekkamai.

Five minutes later, we arrived. Since the mall wasn’t open yet, we walked around the building and took an elevator up to the BTS level. We checked our Rabbit Card balances at the kiosk and topped up THB200 (≈ USD6/EUR5/MYR26) each.

BTS → Boat → ICONSIAM

We boarded the train toward Khu Khot and got off at Siam after seven stops. From there, we switched to the Silom Line toward National Stadium — just one stop away. We then crossed to the opposite platform and boarded the train toward Bang Wa.

Six stops later, we arrived at Saphan Taksin and exited the station. A short walk brought us to Bangkok Sathorn Pier, where we caught the orange flag Chao Phraya boat to ICONSIAM.

The fare was only THB8 (≈ USD0.20/EUR0.20/MYR1) each, and the ride took barely five minutes. Since we had fifteen minutes before opening time, we explored ICONSIAM Park, strolling along the riverbank before looping around to the street side entrance.

Brunch at ICONSIAM

We were famished, so we browsed the food options and settled on a local spread:

Ginger Fried Meat with Rice & Egg

Roasted Duck with Rice

Mixed Meat Soup

Hot Thai Coffee

Iced Thai Milk Tea

Total: THB330 (≈ USD10/EUR9/MYR43).

Shopping Begins

Once refueled, we began exploring ICONSIAM properly. Our first stop was NaRaYa, where we spent quite some time browsing before buying:

• 2 bucket hats (for me)
• 2 summer hats (for Cat)
• 2 small bags (for a friend)
• 1 toiletries bag
• 7 coin pouches (souvenirs)
• 1 handbag (for Cat)

Total: THB4,020 (≈ USD119/EUR110/MYR525).

We continued strolling through the ground floor food fest and picked up two fridge magnets for THB100 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR13) each.

More Shopping

Upstairs, we stopped by Uniqlo, where I got three pairs of stretchable short pants for THB1,772 (≈ USD52/EUR48/MYR231). Then we crossed over to H&M and bought a pair of pants and two T shirts for Brendan for THB2,398 (≈ USD71/EUR65/MYR313).

After that, we continued browsing and eventually made our way down to the riverside entrance at ICONSIAM Park — a perfect spot to take in the view and rest our feet.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — our shopping spree continues halfway across town.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/DD1uUGrv9rGYCS979

Ekkamai BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljr1Y6spiGyRk2TG7

Siam BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VHX5ktL7YMZeh9PL6

National Stadium BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wNvXGgmqvvuhq1NR7

Saphan Taksin BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/4FaMS3ViZYEKWnGF6

Bangkok Sathorn Pier - https://maps.app.goo.gl/yCQvCXziKad5Swrj9

ICON Siam 1 Pier - https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZEoqvLAV9AUesZ5c9

ICONSIAM PARK - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ey8t1CRkah8ZgjNZ8

ICONSIAM - https://maps.app.goo.gl/HisNfQhHLan2V1mf6

BKK Day 6 │ Late Lunch @ Aunty Cat!

Aunt Maew’s Kitchen

We picked you up again after returning from our adventures across the various “Siam” malls and MBK Center. As soon as we got back to Tierra Residences, we headed out again in search of a late lunch.

Before leaving, we handed the shuttle driver and the security guard a bottle of chilled water each — with a promise to return later with iced Thai tea for both of them.

The Hunt for Lunch

Once again, we walked to the food court at the intersection of Soi Saeng Chan and Soi Sukhumvit 42. And once again, it was closing for the day. We continued strolling south along Sukhumvit 42, checking out the options, but we had unfortunately hit the “witching hour” between lunch and dinner. Most eateries were closed.

Eventually, we came upon a tiny restaurant called Aunt Maew’s (Cat) Kitchen and decided to give it a try.

We ordered:

• Fried Rice Noodle with Meat
• Rice Noodle Soup with Meat
• Iced Water

Total: THB110 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR14).

While waiting, Cat walked a few doors down and returned with two sets of spring rolls for THB30 (≈ USD1/EUR1/MYR4) each.

Simple, warm, comforting — exactly what we needed.

A Promise Kept

After lunch, we went in search of iced Thai tea. We bought two cups for THB50, then added skewered chicken with sticky rice for another THB50 (≈ USD2/EUR1/MYR7).

We walked back to Tierra Residences and handed the goodies to the security guard, since the shuttle driver wasn’t around. A small gesture, but it felt right after a long day of walking and mall hopping.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we visit a truly iconic riverside mall.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Aunt Maew's Kitchen - https://maps.app.goo.gl/64xkqaPvvuTzB4rx5

BKK Day 6 │ Siam BTS and Beyond!

Mall Hopping

I woke up at 7:00am and spent the next few hours working on our video edits before hitting the shower at 8:30am. About an hour later, we headed down to the lobby to catch the 10:00am shuttle to Gateway Ekkamai. Five minutes later, we were already on the BTS platform.

We caught a train toward Khu Khot at 10:15am and got off twenty minutes later at Siam BTS Station. From there, we walked straight into Siam Paragon.

Brunch at Siam Paragon

We headed down to the food court and, as always, bought a THB500 (approximately USD15/EUR14/MYR66) cash card. After browsing the stalls, we settled on:

• Crab Fried Rice
• Crispy Pork Rice
• Thai Milk Tea
• Latte
• Khanom Bueang (Thai Crepes)
• Eight Chinese Herbs in Longan Juice

Total: THB415 (approximately USD12/EUR11/MYR55). We encashed the remaining balance and began exploring the mall.

Siam Paragon turned out to be similar to any high end mall in Kuala Lumpur, but we did pick up two bottles of local Thai perfume from Suvarn — a 100ml Tiara for Cat and a 100ml Oud Enigma for me. Thanks to a buy one free one offer, both cost THB2,190 (approximately USD65/EUR60/MYR288).

Siam Center → Siam Square

We exited Paragon and crossed into Siam Center, browsed a few clothing stores, but nothing caught Cat’s eye. We then exited, rode the escalator up to the BTS level, and crossed the footbridge into Siam Square.

At Yves Rocher, Cat picked up a travel sized shower gel, body scrub, and a body & hair mist for THB528 (approximately USD16/EUR14/MYR69). We then asked for directions to MBK Center.

Lido Connect → Siamscape → MBK

We walked along a wide, scenic walkway and ducked into Lido Connect to browse some trendy clothing — very much Brendan’s style. We continued along what we jokingly called “Plastic Surgery Alley,” then entered Siamscape and found the footbridge that led us across Soi Phaya Thai into MBK Center.

We spent some time browsing all three floors before exiting onto the National Stadium BTS Station. We gave the Bangkok Art and Culture Center a quick whirl, then caught a train back to Siam BTS, and from there another train toward Kheha.

Seven stops later, we were back at Ekkamai.

Stocking Up

On the ground floor, we stopped by Health Up Pharmacy to buy four more boxes of Nexcare Tegaderm for THB90 (approximately USD3/EUR3/MYR12) each. We’re stocking up for future projects.

Just as we finished, the 2:00pm shuttle arrived, and we hopped on back to Tierra Residences.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we head out for a late lunch.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/DD1uUGrv9rGYCS979

Ekkamai BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ljr1Y6spiGyRk2TG7

Siam BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VHX5ktL7YMZeh9PL6

Siam Paragon - https://maps.app.goo.gl/FnVa9i2941Uq8tgW6

Siam Center - https://maps.app.goo.gl/CBWsJh5AuDbRzFpc6

Centerpoint Siam Square - https://maps.app.goo.gl/biQv1tyEGXwhWNBE7

Lido Connect - https://maps.app.goo.gl/TXgdjr8sQxgjozzg6

Siamscape - https://maps.app.goo.gl/C5gTXZaS2fAcg9wHA

MBK Center - https://maps.app.goo.gl/1gCqAMfKamurGAYV8

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre - https://maps.app.goo.gl/sdtiRYDDcVNdo3MK9

National Stadium BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wNvXGgmqvvuhq1NR7

BKK Day 5 │Gateway Ekkamai and Back!

Ekkamai Stroll

We picked you up again after returning from my tattoo session with Nan at Reminisce Tattoo. We stored our newly acquired yellow submarines safely in the Airbnb, then immediately headed back out.

We walked east along Soi Saeng Chan, then turned left at Soi Sukhumvit 42, now heading north. The half kilometre walk took about ten minutes, and soon we were standing at the entrance of Gateway Ekkamai.

Errand No. 1: Sterile Dressing

First mission of the evening was to look for a thin, clear sterile dressing for my dreamcatcher tattoo. The first two pharmacies didn’t have any, so Cat drifted toward the clothing stalls at the foyer.

She found a blouse and two dresses she liked — THB200 (≈ USD6/EUR5/MYR26) each — and with that, we headed up to the fourth floor for dinner at the newly opened Food Lounge.

Dinner at the Food Lounge

We browsed the stalls for a bit, then bought a cash card with THB500 (≈ USD15/EUR14/MYR66) credit. From the various stalls, we ordered:

• Stir Fried Rice Noodle with Meat
• Stir Fried Instant Noodle with Meat
• Coca Cola
• Iced Thai Claypot Coffee

Total: THB245 (≈ USD7/EUR 7/MYR32).

After dinner, we encashed the unused balance — THB255 (≈ USD8/EUR7/MYR34) — before heading back down to the ground floor.

Gelato & Final Errand

We treated ourselves to a gelato each for THB200, then resumed our search for the elusive sterile dressing. Watson’s didn’t have it, but Health Up Pharmacy finally came through. We bought a box of Nexcare Tegaderm (three sheets) for THB90 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR12).

We stepped outside, sat on a bench, and finished our gelato before making the familiar walk back to Tierra Residences.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we hit Bangkok’s famed malls, including one truly iconic site!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/2jSodV4v198okwcE7

BKK Day 5 │T-Partner Warehouse • NAN is Late!

Yellow Submarines & Dreamcatcher

Ever since we bought our yellow submarines at a Nautica clearance sale in Sogo Kuala Lumpur, we’ve never been able to find luggage with the same design — the extra top handle, the extra wheel, the unmistakable colour. They’ve become part of our travel identity.

Last night, while scrolling through Instagram, Cat stumbled upon a warehouse sale in Bangkok… and spotted our yellow submarines. This morning, after getting ready, we went down to the front desk to confirm the location.

The staff traced it to Ladprao, and with their help we booked a Grab to the T Partner Warehouse for THB183 (≈ USD5/EUR5/MYR24).

The Warehouse Hunt

The Grab picked us up at 10:45am, and forty minutes later we arrived at Ladprao Chok Chai 4. The warehouse was massive — rows and rows of luggage in every colour and size imaginable.

After browsing for a while, we found them: a 24" and 29" pair that looked uncannily like our beloved yellow submarines. Without hesitation, we bought both for THB3,480 (≈ USD103/EUR95/MYR458).

Off to Reminisce Tattoo

Next on the agenda: my tattoo appointment. We hailed another Grab for THB232 (≈ USD7/EUR6/MYR31) to Reminisce Tattoo. The ride took about fifteen minutes through Bangkok’s snarling midday traffic — moments like these make us miss the BTS and MRT.

I was introduced to Nan, the tattoo artist, by MC from Skin Nation Tattoo in Penang. After weeks of discussing design ideas, we finally settled on a colourful dreamcatcher for my right wrist.

Nan is a freelance artist, so we arranged to meet at Reminisce Tattoo. We arrived at 12:50pm, but the Grab app pinned the wrong spot, so we had to walk a short distance.

Nan wasn’t there yet, so we crossed the lane for a quick lunch.

Lunch at Pe Aor Tom Yum Goong

Pe Aor Tom Yum Goong is apparently quite famous — and our spur of the moment choice turned out to be perfect. We ordered:

• Mixed Tom Yum
• Squid with Glass Noodle
• Omelette with Mushroom
• 2 Plain Rice
• Iced Thai Tea with Grass Jelly
• Iced Honey Lemon

Total: THB520 (≈ USD15/EUR14/MYR69).

Tattoo Time

When we returned, Nan was already waiting. She checked the size and placement, printed the stencil, and prepped her tools.

Work began at 2:00pm, and three hours later the dreamcatcher was complete — vibrant, detailed, and full of meaning. We took photos with Nan before hailing a Grab for THB176 (≈ USD5/EUR5/MYR23).

This time, the Grab arrived as a bright yellow taxi — perfectly matching our yellow submarines.

We reached Tierra Residences at 6:15pm, exhausted but happy.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we walk to Gateway Ekkamai to run an errand and have dinner.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

TPARTNER Chokchai 4 - https://maps.app.goo.gl/vyRJNohGAQaDou8z5

Pe Aor Tom Yum Kung Noodle - https://maps.app.goo.gl/SWBNPEKmdjMbpBWD9

Reminisce Tattoo - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q4MjT4YbnUAkJ5NH9

AYU Day Trip│Ayutthaya to Bangkok • Fortune Town!

3rd Class Train Adventure

We picked you up again after hailing a Grab from Pa Lek Boat Noodle. Since all second class train tickets back to Bangkok were mysteriously “sold out for the foreseeable future,” we decided to return by bus instead.

The Grab driver arrived quickly, but the moment he heard we were heading to the bus station, he practically staged an intervention. He insisted the bus would take three times longer and drop us off in a very inconvenient part of Bangkok. Before we knew it, he had commandeered my phone and changed our destination to Ayutthaya Train Station.

Honestly, we were grateful.

We arrived at 12:25pm for a fare of THB92 (approximately USD3/EUR3/MYR12), and we tipped him a little extra for his honesty and guidance.

Third Class, Here We Come

At the ticket counter, we bought two third class non air conditioned tickets back to Bangkok — only THB15 (approximately USD0.50/EUR0.40/MYR2) each. A bargain if there ever was one.

The train from Surin was scheduled to arrive at 12:40pm, giving us just enough time for a quick potty break. True to schedule, it rolled in, and we hopped aboard.

The ride was windswept, warm, and wonderfully old school. Windows down, breeze in our faces, the rhythmic clatter of the tracks — a very different experience from the morning’s second class ride, but just as memorable. The journey took about an hour, and we arrived at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal at 1:50pm.

Back to Bangkok

From the terminal, we walked to Bang Sue MRT Station and bought tokens for THB37 (approximately USD1/EUR1/MYR5) each to Phra Ram 9, nine stops away. We disembarked and entered Fortune Town in search of a pancake lens for our Sony ZV E10 II.

But first — lunch.

Chester’s, It’s Been a While

We hadn’t eaten at Chester’s in ages, so we got two sets of their two piece fried chicken with fries and Coca Cola for THB270 (approximately USD8/EUR7/MYR35). Simple, nostalgic, satisfying.

Then it was time to resume the lens hunt. World Camera didn’t carry the brand I wanted, but Capa Digi Foto did. Instead of the TTArtisan 25mm f/2, I opted for the Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 for THB2,590 (approximately USD77/EUR70/MYR342) — compact, lightweight, and perfect for travel.

We also picked up a laptop sleeve on the third floor for THB590 (approximately USD18/EUR16/MYR78).

Getting Home

When we tried to book a Grab, we discovered all pickup points were across the road at Central Mall. A kind security guard advised us to head down to the MRT station and walk across. We followed his instructions and eventually secured a Grab for THB240 (approximately USD7/EUR7/MYR32).

We reached Tierra Residences at 5:00pm, completely knackered from the day’s adventures. Off camera, we ended up taking a short stroll to our favourite Pad Thai stall near the PTT station for dinner.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, I get another tattoo!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Ayutthaya Train Station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/7HazkUFd1aSZ5ePZ9

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

- https://maps.app.goo.gl/KLJYrtT1vtvSfPLt6

Fortune Town - https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCpJmQ1qHQZUVqca6

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

AYU Day Trip│Exploring Ayutthaya!

Ayutthaya

We picked you up again after disembarking from the train at Ayutthaya Station, exactly one hour after leaving Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal.

First order of business: securing our return tickets. The very helpful young man at the counter informed us that, miraculously, all second class tickets back to Bangkok were sold out — not just for the day, but apparently for the foreseeable future. Quite the welcome.

No matter. We were determined to make the most of our day.

Wat Mahathat

We took a tuk tuk to our first destination, Wat Mahathat, for what felt like a merciless fare of THB150. Still, spirits remained high.

Wat Mahathat sits in front of the old Grand Palace area, next to Pa Than Bridge. Believed to be one of Ayutthaya’s oldest temples, it was likely built during the reign of King Boromaraja I (1370–1388). As a royal temple, it once housed the Buddha’s holy relic and played a major role in the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Seeing the ruins in person — especially the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots — was surreal. We took plenty of photos before walking along Naresuan Road toward our next stop.

Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana is one of Ayutthaya’s most popular temples. The first striking sight is the prang framed perfectly by the entrance of the royal vihara.

The central tower is among the best preserved in the city. Archaeologists discovered a crypt inside containing treasures across three levels — one of the most significant finds in Ayutthaya’s history.

Though smaller than Wat Mahathat, the temple had a charm of its own. Naturally, more photos were taken.

Boat Noodles at Pa Lek

With both temples explored, we strolled back along Naresuan Road in search of lunch. Pa Lek Boat Noodles came highly recommended, so we gave it a try.

From their tiny menu, we ordered:

• 2 bowls Glass Noodle Soup with Beef
• 2 bowls Thin Rice Noodle Soup with Pork
• 1 bowl Dried Pork Noodles
• 1 bowl Egg Noodle Soup with Beef
• Coca Cola
• Strawberry Fanta
• Chrysanthemum Tea

Total: THB174 (≈ USD5/EUR5/MYR23) — an absolute steal.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we take a “normal” train back to Bangkok.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Ayutthaya Train Station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/7HazkUFd1aSZ5ePZ9

Wat Mahathat - https://maps.app.goo.gl/dLi4eLgbYcjEq7Ud6

Wat Ratchaburana - https://maps.app.goo.gl/w33xqdYJNw6jQUYS9

Pa Lek Boat Noodle - https://maps.app.goo.gl/XGrF9Yxbzaothuct5

AYU Day Trip│Bangkok to Ayutthaya!

State Railway of Thailand

Today was the day we made our long awaited day trip to the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam.

We woke up at 6:00am and got ready within the hour before heading down to the lobby, where a Grab car we booked earlier was already on the way. Our destination: Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong).

We left the Airbnb at 6:45am and arrived half an hour later. The fare came to THB258 (≈ USD8/EUR7/MYR34). We headed straight to the ticketing counter, hoping to catch the 8:30am express train to Ayutthaya — only to learn that it actually departed at 9:30am, not 8:30am.

A Change of Plans

We walked over to the information counter and were advised to head instead to the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (formerly Bang Sue Grand Station) for the 8:45am train. So we hailed another Grab for THB146 (≈ USD4/EUR4/MYR19) that included a THB50 toll to avoid Bangkok’s notorious morning traffic.

Fifteen minutes later, we arrived at the massive new terminal and made our way to the ticketing counter. We managed to get two second class tickets for THB241 (≈ USD8/EUR7/MYR34) each, departing at 8:45am from Departure Gate B.

Breakfast at the Station

With time to spare, we wandered into the nearby food court. From Baked By Bees, we got a sandwich and a bun for THB55 (≈ USD2/EUR2/MYR7). Right beside it, Bangsue Coffee provided our morning drinks — an Iced Thai Tea and a hot Caramel Macchiato for THB105 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR14).

After breakfast, we headed to Gate B and were allowed to board at 8:25am. We passed the turnstile, took the escalator up to the platform, and were greeted by a charmingly old school train — the kind that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Onboard to Ayutthaya

We boarded Car No. 2 and found our seats, 35 and 36. The train departed right on schedule at 8:45am. It made brief stops at Don Mueang Airport fifteen minutes later, and Rangsit ten minutes after that, before continuing north.

The ride was slow, breezy, and wonderfully rustic — windows down, warm air rushing in, the rhythmic clatter of the tracks beneath us.

We arrived at Ayutthaya Station at 9:45am.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we explore several ancient temples and enjoy boat noodles for lunch.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Bangkok Train Station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/1zvXhsczP7NgwbNo6

Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station

- https://maps.app.goo.gl/KLJYrtT1vtvSfPLt6

Ayutthaya Train Station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/7HazkUFd1aSZ5ePZ9

BKK Day 3 │ Platinum Fashion Mall • Pratunam Market!

Prathunam Power Stroll

I woke up at 6:30am and spent the next few hours working on our video edits before hitting the shower at 9:30am. An hour later, we headed down to the lobby to catch the 10:00am shuttle to Gateway Ekkamai. Five minutes later, we were already at the BTS station.

We caught a train headed toward Khu Khot and got off eight stops later at Rachathewi. From there, we walked about a kilometre to Platinum Fashion Mall.

Nails & Self Care

We crossed the footbridge over Phetchaburi Road and entered the beauty mall. After asking around, we made our way up to the third floor — and found exactly what we were looking for: a nail salon.

We spent about an hour there — I had a pedicure while Cat did her nails.

Total damage: THB1,480 (≈ USD44/EUR40/MYR196).

Lunch at Platinum Food Floor

By the time we were done, it was lunchtime. We walked back to Platinum Fashion Mall and headed up to the fifth floor, home of the Platinum Food Floor. The place was packed, but we managed to snag a table.

I purchased a prepaid THB500 (≈ USD15/EUR14/MYR66) cash card, and our Siamese lunch of:

• Tom Yam Kung with Rice & Omelette
• Crispy Meat with Rice & Soup
• a round of drinks
• Cat’s Mango Sticky Rice

came to THB429 (≈ USD12/EUR12/MYR57).

Shopping Continues

After lunch, Cat picked up three pairs of 3 quarter pants for THB200 (≈ USD6/EUR6/MYR26) each.

Next, we wandered back into the beauty mall and were immediately drawn to the lemongrass scent wafting from Herb Care. We went a little nuts and bought various lemongrass products for THB2,150 (≈ USD64/EUR59/MYR284).

Cat then stopped by Eve And Boy for toiletries that came to THB285 (≈ USD8/EUR8/MYR38) and Roaa Beauty for two bottles of medicated balm costing THB95 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR13).

Into the Heart of Prathunam

We asked for directions to Prathunam Market, crossed back to the fashion mall, then walked down Soi Petchaburi into the sprawling maze of stalls.

Cat picked up two blouses for THB300 (≈ USD9/EUR8/MYR40) before we finally wrapped up our Prathunam shopping adventure.

We walked the kilometre back to Rachathewi BTS Station, and eight stops later we were back at Ekkamai.

On the first floor, we bought several packets of cut fruit for THB125 (≈ USD4/EUR3/MYR17) from the same stall as yesterday.

Heading Home

We caught the shuttle back and reached Tierra Residences at 4:20pm — tired, happy, and fully stocked.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we take a train north to visit the capital of the Kingdom of Siam.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/CtawQGUvEjm78DDm7

Ekkamai BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/F2pdwXkm8wWZiHFo6

Ratchathewi BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ux4WfkFPWqXRUBGZA

Platinum Fashion Mall - https://maps.app.goo.gl/szsnkH2qPPdbQCPU7

Pratunam Market - https://maps.app.goo.gl/jaRB3i19yuR7bTHm6

Red Corner Plaza - https://maps.app.goo.gl/pGo3KK8gs1Cf5gWM7

BKK Day 2 │ Chatuchak Weekend Market!

Night Market Adventure

We picked you up again as we headed down to the lobby of Tierra Residences, hoping to catch the shuttle to Gateway Ekkamai.

The shuttle left promptly at 4:00pm, and five minutes later we were at Gateway Ekkamai. We rode the escalator up to the first floor and entered the Ekkamai BTS Station.

We caught a train toward Mo Chit at 4:15pm. Fifteen stops and thirty minutes later, we arrived, disembarked, and paused to get our bearings. A quick check on Google Maps pointed us toward the entrance of the night market.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

“The Chatuchak Weekend Market, on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, is the largest market in Thailand. Also known as JJ Market, it has more than 15,000 stalls and 11,505 vendors, divided into 27 sections.”

And yes — it felt every bit that massive.

Cat picked up:

• a hat for THB199
• two casual dresses for THB200 each 
• a tote bag for Brendan for THB150

for a total of THB549 (≈ USD17/EUR15/MYR68).

After an hour of weaving through the crowds, we decided to have an early dinner. It was only 6:00pm, but we had skipped lunch, so the timing felt right.

Dinner… and a Reality Check

After checking out several lively stalls, we settled on the bright orange clad group. We ordered:

• Tom Yam Goong
• Roasted Meat
• Large Omelette
• 2 bottled water

Total: THB800 (≈ USD24/EUR21/MYR106).

To be honest, the food was just so so. The stall felt like a hyped up tourist trap — loud, flashy, and overpriced. Our brunch at Fortune Town and our dinner at Thai Pad Kitchen were far more satisfying.

More Shopping & Sweet Treats

After dinner, we went looking for fruit juice and got a large watermelon drink for THB60.

Cat then picked up:

• another tote bag for Brendan — THB100
• a Slipknot tank top — THB200
• a Nirvana tank top — THB200

for a total of THB500 (≈ USD16/EUR13/MYR62).

With our hands full and our feet tired, we made our way back to Mo Chit BTS Station. Fifteen stops later, we were back at Ekkamai.

On the ground floor, we bought several packets of cut fruits for THB150 before deciding we were officially knackered.

Heading Home

We hailed a Grab back to Tierra Residences. The first driver bailed, but the second picked us up at 8:00pm for THB77.

A long day, a lot of walking, and plenty of shopping — but what an experience.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — our shopping continues at Thailand’s largest clothing market.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/CtawQGUvEjm78DDm7

Ekkamai BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/F2pdwXkm8wWZiHFo6

Mo Chit BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/8mJDe7BirGLY9FFN6

Chatuchak Weekend Market - https://maps.app.goo.gl/ek8sSEx8PgEFEALe9

BKK Day 2 │ Rabbit Card • Fortune Town!

Let’s Gallivant

I woke up at 7:00am and spent the next hour working on our videos before hitting the shower. By the time we were ready, we headed down to the lobby of Tierra Residences to enquire about their shuttle service to Gateway Ekkamai. The shuttle runs every half hour from 8:00am to 5:30pm daily, except Tuesdays — and the 9:00am ride was already waiting.

Five minutes later, we arrived at Gateway Ekkamai and made our way up to the Ekkamai BTS Station to enquire about the Rabbit Card. After presenting a copy of my passport, we purchased two cards for THB100 (≈ USD3/EUR3/MYR13) each, then topped up THB500 (≈ USD15/EUR/14/MYR66) per card.

With our Rabbit Cards activated, we tapped through the turnstiles and headed up to the platforms.

BTS + MRT Adventure

Seven stops later, we got off at Asok Station, exited, and walked underground to the MRT. We bought one way tokens for THB20 (≈ USD0.60/EUR0.50/MYR3) each to Phra Ram 9, three stops away.

We disembarked and walked into Fortune Town for brunch.

Brunch at Fortune Town

We wandered around the lower ground floor and settled on a Thai restaurant called Yum Na Or Klad. We ordered:

• Fried Rice with Crispy Chili Paste & Chinese Sausage

• Rice with Basil Chicken & Fried Egg

• Iced Water (round)

Total: THB285 (≈ USD9/EUR8/MYR38).

The Camera Bag Quest Continues

Our main mission at Fortune Town was to find a messenger style camera bag — a continuation of a hunt that began in Jakarta after our near pickpocket incident.

I’ve been searching for a specific model from Matin, a brand I’ve trusted since buying the Matin Clever 120 in Hat Yai years ago. So imagine our delight when we found the exact model — Matin Zest 135 — at World Camera.

Price: THB2,990 (≈ USD89/EUR82/MYR397).

A bargain, considering similar branded bags easily cost three times more.

Back to Sukhumvit

After exploring Fortune Town, we returned to the MRT station and bought two tokens for the same THB20 (≈ USD0.60/EUR0.50/MYR3) each back to Sukhumvit. From there, we exited, climbed up to the surface, and walked to Asok BTS Station.

We caught the train bound for Kheha and got off at Ekkamai, then entered Gateway Ekkamai again. On the ground floor, we shared a large bowl of Mango Bingsu from Sriyan Tearoom for THB250 (≈ USD8/EUR7/MYR33) — refreshing and perfect for the Bangkok heat.

Heading Home

We walked out and caught the shuttle back to the Airbnb. At the front desk, we requested two extra pillows, and they promised to send them up.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we experience a famous Bangkok night market!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

Gateway Ekkamai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/CtawQGUvEjm78DDm7

Ekkamai BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/F2pdwXkm8wWZiHFo6

Asok BTS station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/y7FXW8N4ftTgVSE97

Sukhumvit MRT station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/hkUGYsheCjV49Eei7

Phra Ram 9 MRT station - https://maps.app.goo.gl/K2J33xVueMoBrKvK8

Fortune Town - https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCpJmQ1qHQZUVqca6

BKK Stroll │ Ekkamai Walkabout!

First Meal in Bangkok

We picked you up again as we left the Airbnb in search of dinner. We asked the front desk for recommendations on nearby Siamese dishes, and she pointed us toward a row of shop lots clustered around the PTT Station, just 50 metres away. The area had a handful of eateries, plus a massage parlour and a nail salon — something Cat definitely plans to explore in the coming days.

Sure enough, we found the place she mentioned. After a short stroll along the walkway, we settled on a small Pad Thai stall called ครัวไทผัด (roughly “Thai Kitchen Pad”).

We checked out their modest menu and ordered:

• Pad Khra Pow
• Pad Thai Rice
• Apple Soda
• Orange Soda

Total: THB194 (≈ USD6/EUR5/MYR26).

The meal was excellent — fiery, flavourful, unmistakably local. A perfect way to kick off our Bangkok adventures.

After dinner, we crossed over to 7 Eleven, an experience you simply cannot skip in Thailand. We walked out with a bagful of groceries and a carton of drinking water for THB370 (≈ USD11/EUR10/MYR49).

We made the short walk back to the Airbnb and began settling in for the night.

Epilogue: Two Days Later

After our excursion to Pratunam earlier in the day, we initially planned to dine at the café in the lobby. But when evening came, we decided to take a walk around the neighbourhood instead.

We left Tierra Residences at 6:30pm and continued east along Soi Saeng Chan until the intersection with Soi Sukhumvit 42. Earlier during our shuttle ride to Gateway Ekkamai, we noticed a food court at this junction — but it wasn’t open in the evenings. Since we weren’t feeling particularly adventurous, we doubled back along Soi Saeng Chan.

We walked past Tierra Residences and soon found ourselves at the Rama 4 PTT Station. Naturally, we headed straight to our new favourite stall — the Pad Thai Kitchen — and ordered:

Fried Meat in Garlic Pepper with Rice

Pad Thai Rice

2 Iced Water

Total: THB160 (≈ USD5/EUR4/MYR21).

After dinner, we crossed over to 7 Eleven again and picked up mostly titbits for THB259 before walking back to Tierra Residences.

What’s Next

Be sure to catch the next video — we finally begin exploring Bangkok properly, starting with our hunt for a Rabbit Card!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

ครัวไทผัด padthai - https://maps.app.goo.gl/pUberRMLGBpZwYJN7

7-Eleven - https://maps.app.goo.gl/97cvcQ3jnKwLYD2t8

BKK to AIRBNB │ Suvarnabhumi to Tierra Residences!

Home Away From Home

We picked you up again as we disembarked from MH774. After a quick potty break, we headed straight to Immigration. Ten minutes later, we were stamped in and made our way to Carousel 19. Another ten minutes passed before our yellow submarines finally appeared, and with that, we exited the airport.

A week earlier, we had arranged an airport transfer with our Airbnb hosts. We were instructed to wait at Gate 7, where our driver, Sammei, would pick us up for a fixed fare of THB700 (≈ MYR93/USD21/EUR19).

We reached Gate 7 at 6:40pm, and Sammei arrived ten minutes later. The drive took about forty minutes, and we reached our Airbnb — Tierra Residences — at 7:30pm. We paid the agreed fare, plus a little extra.

Tierra Residences, Phra Kanong

Conveniently located between Soi Sukhumvit 40 and 42, Tierra Residences sits in a quiet, peaceful neighbourhood — exactly what we wanted for this trip.

The property offers a saltwater swimming pool, fitness centre, sun terrace, open air bath, restaurant, bar, and free Wi Fi throughout. There’s also a family friendly restaurant serving Chinese, American, Thai, and international cuisines for brunch, lunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktails.

Check in was straightforward. We collected our key card and headed up to the fifth floor. The unit was well appointed — bed linen, towels, two flat screen TVs, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony. The proper desk and work chair were a huge plus, especially for editing our videos.

Exploring Our New Base

The next day, we continued our review of the property and visited the swimming pool, courtyard, and gym on the ground floor. Everything was clean, quiet, and well maintained — exactly the kind of environment we needed.

For RM221 per night (≈ USD50/EUR46), we felt it was excellent value. Comfortable, cosy, peaceful — and with hosts like Jay and his team who were incredibly helpful and welcoming — Tierra Residences truly felt like a home away from home for our seven night stay.

What’s Next

Stay tuned — next, we take our first stroll in Bangkok.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Suvarnabhumi Airport - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VMLGTBz5fJ4TKraD6

Tierra Residences - https://maps.app.goo.gl/JebgPKkRd2FaFaSy7

KUL to BKK │ KLIA to Suvarnabhumi!

Bangkok, Here We Come

Indonesia was the first ASEAN country on our list, and now Thailand becomes our second — starting with its vibrant capital, Bangkok.

We bought our flight tickets during a recent MATTA Fair and got a pretty good deal: RM800 (≈ USD180/EUR166) each for return tickets. Brendan had just begun the second semester of his postgraduate studies, so he was totally bummed he couldn’t join us this time.

KL City Air Terminal Routine

Brendan drove us to KL Sentral’s KL City Air Terminal at noon. As always, we bought our KLIA Express tickets online and enjoyed RM10 off each — only RM40 (≈ USD9/EUR8) per person.

Access to the KL City Air Terminal is strictly via KLIA Express tickets, so we scanned ours at the turnstile and entered. For now, the terminal caters only to Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, and KLM.

We submitted our yellow submarines for security screening before checking them in. Total weight: 29 kg, well within our 40 kg allowance. After a costly lesson from a previous overseas trip, we made sure to pre purchase extra luggage for the return.

We exited the terminal and crossed over to the KLIA Express platform using the same tickets. The train arrived fifteen minutes later.

Lunch Before Departure

The train departed KL Sentral at 12:40pm and arrived at KLIA half an hour later. We took the elevator up to the Food Garden level, but the enclosed environment didn’t appeal to us. So we continued up to the Departure floor and eventually settled on Nooodles for lunch.

We ordered:

• Dim Sum
• Loh Mai Kai
• Spring Rolls
• Iced Tea
• Sour Plum Juice

Total: RM76.50 (≈ USD17/EUR16), plus a 10% service charge and 5% SST — and we still don’t know the difference between the two.

Waiting for MH774

MH774 was scheduled to depart at 4:20pm from Gate G4. With two hours to spare, we headed to the Departure Hall.

We breezed through Immigration using the new MyBorderPass auto gates, and by the time we emerged, it was 2:30pm. We spent some time at Dunkin Donuts near Gate G6 before being allowed into the holding area at 3:20pm. Five minutes later, we cleared the final security checkpoint.

Boarding began at 3:40pm. The flight wasn’t full, and the last group of passengers boarded at 5:00pm.

A delay occurred when a passenger failed to show up despite having checked in her luggage. Ground staff had to locate and remove her bag from the cargo hold before MH774 was cleared for departure.

Off to Bangkok

The plane pushed back at 4:38pm and took off at 4:55pm. The two hour flight was smooth and uneventful. We began descending at 6:25pm, and MH774 touched down at 5:55pm local time.

Kudos to Captain Lim and Chief Steward Shahrul for an excellent flight.

We disembarked ten minutes later and headed to Carousel 19 to collect our luggage.

Welcome to Bangkok!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

Havironia Music - https://goo.gl/maps/swtNfVmjFK4FgRsf8

KLIA Ekspres - https://maps.app.goo.gl/aMxKXzeH29zWT1799

KLIA Express Transit Station @ KLIA

- https://maps.app.goo.gl/1AG4CR3HqePKrE3p7

Kuala Lumpur International Airport - https://maps.app.goo.gl/pDCevJLK4PNEfeq39

Suvarnabhumi Airport - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VMLGTBz5fJ4TKraD6

MKZ Sojourn Ends │ Baba Low's • Baba Charlie

Going Home

We woke up at 7:30am and checked out of the homestay an hour later. I dropped the unit’s access card into the mailbox, and we began our drive out through Lorong Haji Bachee, then onto Jalan Bendahara, before turning right onto Jalan Munshi Abdullah.

A short distance later, we turned left onto Jalan Ong Kim Wee. To our relief, there were no signs of the severe flooding that had hit the area just a day before we arrived.

We continued onto Jalan Tengkera, then turned right into Jalan Siantan Seksyen 2 for breakfast.

Breakfast at Baba Low’s

Our breakfast destination was, of course, Baba Low’s. We both ordered Nasi Lemak, and with drinks the total came to RM18 (≈ USD EUR). Cat added five Kuih Pengeram at RM2.50 (≈ USD/EUR0.50) each.

Truth be told, the taste has slipped over the years — but the nostalgia remains.

Kuih Hunt at Baba Charlie

We drove a short distance to Baba Charlie, hoping to pick up some sweet cakes. As always, we found plenty to tempt us and left with a bagful for RM53.50 (≈ USD12/EUR11).

We then crossed over to Lao Gan Bang coffee shop in search of their famous packets of nasi lemak — but we were too late. So we doubled back to Baba Charlie and bought several packets of Nasi Lemak and Fried Mihun for RM9 (≈ USD/EUR2).

The Drive Home

We got back into BiBi and continued along Jalan Siantan Seksyen 2, then onto Jalan Kananga 2, heading north before turning right onto Jalan Kampung Lapan.

A kilometre later, we turned left onto Jalan Tun Perak and stopped at the Petronas station to refuel.

From there, we drove to the Ayer Keroh Toll Plaza, entered the North–South Expressway, and headed north toward Kuala Lumpur. At Senawang, we exited and continued onto the Kajang–Seremban Highway (LEKAS).

We finally arrived home at 12:00 noon — tired, content, and grateful for another soul soothing Melaka getaway.

What’s Next

Stay tuned for our next series of videos — we spend an entire week in Bangkok!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

The Apple Melaka - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wTp3yQufMboCBuUT6

Baba Low’s @ Tranquerah - https://maps.app.goo.gl/nUNx6rRNeaytmiTn8

Baba Charlie Cafe - https://maps.app.goo.gl/HxwDU3MT99VXUqeZ8

Havironia Music - https://goo.gl/maps/swtNfVmjFK4FgRsf8

MKZ Stroll │ Melaka River • Kocik!

Peranakan Cuisine

We spent the entire day indoors — I managed to complete a video while Cat finished a load of laundry. We shared our packet of roasted pork rice for lunch, then took a much needed afternoon siesta.

Fully recharged, we left the homestay at 6:00pm and walked out to Lorong Haji Bachee, our usual starting point.

Evening Walk to the River

We crossed Jalan Bendahara and continued along Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai until we reached the Melaka River. From there, we followed the familiar riverside path, passing landmarks like The Shore and several old bridges before emerging at Dutch Square.

We crossed the Tan Kim Seng Bridge and found ourselves at the entrance of the Jonker Street Night Market. The crowd was massive, so we decided to avoid the chaos and instead walked along Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock.

Dinner at Kocik Heritage

A short stroll later, we arrived at Kocik Heritage, our dinner destination. We had celebrated Sa Chap Meh here once, and the proprietress remembered us.

After browsing the menu, we ordered:

• Ikan Cili Garam (Deep Fried Fish with Chili Paste)
• Terung Tempra (Brinjals in Thick Soy Sauce)
• Telur Cincaluk (Omelette with Shrimp Paste)
• Blue Pea Rice
• 2 Iced Barley Lime

Total: RM132.75 (≈ USD28/EUR30).

To our surprise, we were served complimentary Cendol and Sago Gula Melaka. A lovely gesture — and a perfect finish to a truly authentic Peranakan meal.

Night Walk Through Old Melaka

After dinner, we continued northwest along Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, then turned left onto Jalan Kubu. Another left onto Jalan Tokong placed us right in the middle of the bustling night market again. Wanting to avoid the crowd, we slipped into a side alley and eventually emerged onto Jalan Portugis.

We turned right onto Jalan Masjid, crossed Jalan Kampung Hulu, and soon found ourselves back along the Melaka River. We crossed the Old Bus Station Bridge and continued our walk on the opposite bank, looping back toward where we started.

Drinks & Fireworks

We took a leisurely stroll north along the river before stopping at Seri Sahabat for a round of drinks.

From there, we walked along Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai, crossed Jalan Bendahara, and returned to Lorong Haji Bachee — just in time to catch a five minute fireworks display lighting up the night sky.

We continued our stroll back to The Apple Residence, ending the night on a beautiful note.

What’s Next

Stay tuned for our final Melaka video — breakfast at an iconic coffee shop before we drive back to Kuala Lumpur.

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

📍 Location:

The Apple Melaka - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wTp3yQufMboCBuUT6

Melaka River Walk - https://maps.app.goo.gl/VYxDfVtDyh9UeQyB9

Kocik Heritage Nyonya Restaurant

- https://maps.app.goo.gl/YHD6Z4pDgGzmPh1D7

Seri Sahabat - https://maps.app.goo.gl/9iqNpHhReArKu7ET7

MKZ Breakfast │ Mei Sin Cafe • Teck Ann

Breakfast

Back in the days when I used to be posted to the Melaka branch office for relief duties, I was always put up at the old Ramada Plaza Hotel. Cat would often accompany me, and every morning we would walk over to the little coffee shop at the corner of Lorong Bendahara and Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai for breakfast.

Many years have passed since then, but Mei Sin Café remains close to our hearts. So today, we made it a point to return.

We slept in after last night’s long walk and woke up at 8:30am. We left the homestay an hour later and arrived at Mei Sin Café shortly after.

For breakfast, we had:

• Toast Bread
• Nasi Lemak
• Loh Shi Fun
• Iced Milk Tea
• Hot Coffee

Total: RM16.40 (≈ USD4/EUR3).

Outside, we bought a bagful of sweet cakes for RM13.90 (≈ USD/EUR3).

Errands at Teck Ann

We crossed Jalan Munshi Abdullah and walked along Jalan Bunga Raya to run an errand at our favourite medicine shop, Teck Ann.

Here, we bought:

• 10 boxes of Piyan Ping ointment
• Medication for my phlegmy cough

Total: RM140 (≈ USD32/EUR29).

I also had a glass of their famous bitter tea for RM3 (≈ USD0.70/EUR0.60), which soothed my itchy throat instantly.

Lunch to Go

We doubled back along Jalan Bunga Raya, heading north, and stopped at Boon Leong Food Corner to take away a packet of Roasted Pork Rice to share for lunch — RM9 (≈ USD/EUR2).

We crossed back to Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai, then turned right at Mei Sin Café onto Lorong Bendahara. We took a short detour to visit the old Ramada Plaza Hotel — now renamed Dusit Princess. Apart from the signage, everything looked exactly the same, as though frozen in time.

Back to the Homestay

We continued our stroll along Lorong Bendahara, turned left onto Jalan Bendahara, crossed the road, and made our way back to Lorong Haji Bachee.

We returned to the homestay and spent the rest of the day indoors, resting and recharging.

What’s Next

Be sure to catch our next video — an evening stroll along the Melaka River Walk, followed by a feast of Peranakan cuisine!

Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)

 

📍 Location:

The Apple Melaka - https://maps.app.goo.gl/wTp3yQufMboCBuUT6

Mei Sin Cafe 新美星茶餐室 - https://maps.app.goo.gl/vnq7PofZ8tQ8o2J66

Teck Ann Chinese Medicine - https://maps.app.goo.gl/dwj1MvQwfabyUQfQ7

Boon Leong Food Corner - https://maps.app.goo.gl/zSLTdBPci4onW2R28

Dusit Princess Melaka - https://maps.app.goo.gl/BYiaDuu9wPDe9qbu9