Thailand!
Our Adventures in ThailandThailand: Eight Visits and a Heart That Still Beats Faster
For Steve and Alison Kruger, the creators behind this space, Thailand isn’t just a destination—it’s a love story that began in February 2017 and has blossomed with every return. Eight visits later, what started as curiosity has transformed into an unshakable bond with a country that feels less like a place and more like a part of their DNA. The map pictured here, traced with roads they’ve driven and paths they’ve wandered, tells a story of devotion: zigzagging from misty northern highlands to palm-fringed southern islands, through bustling cities and villages where life hums to the rhythm of tradition.
Thailand’s magic is no secret—the golden temples, the spice-laden air, the smiles that feel like sunshine—but for Steve and Alison, its true allure lies in the details uncovered over years of return. They’ve followed backroads to hidden waterfalls, explored markets where few tourists tread, and shared time with locals who’ve become friends. Each market on the map pins not just a location, but a memory: a sunset over the Mekong, a monk’s blessing in Ayutthaya, a roadside stall in Pai that serves the best khao soi they’ve ever tasted.
This year’s journey, their eighth, feels like flipping through a well-loved scrapbook—nostalgic, yet brimming with new chapters. The accompanying map, ink still fresh from their latest adventures, reveals fresh routes and rediscovered favorites. For them, Thailand is a living tapestry, endlessly rewoven with every visit.
To scroll through these pages—and trace the map’s winding lines—is to join a journey that’s as much about the heart as it is about the horizon. Because after eight years, the Land of Smiles isn’t just a place they explore. It’s a place that rewards them right back.
Thailand Adventures
Chiang Mai 48th Flower Festival 2025
Experience the 48th Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2025, where vibrant floral displays, decorated floats, traditional dancers, and bustling night markets light up the city, celebrating Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.
Kick Back in Chiang Mai
27 January 2025 - 6 February 2025 By 3pm we we seated on our Thai Airways flight to Chiang Mai arriving at our hotel at 5pm and settling into our...
Spoilt in Bangkok
20 January 2025 After a quick pit stop at a shiny new 7-11 on our way to Bangkok, we braved the infamous peak hour traffic and finally arrived at...
Ramkhamhaeng the Great Day 2025
15 January 2025: Motorcycles, Mountains, and Sunsets in Sukhothai The day kicked off with a breakfast chat with Oat, a Thai Harley rider with a...
Ramkhamhaeng the Great Day 2025
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Ramkhamhaeng the Great Day 2025. This stunning photo gallery captures the excitement of Sukhothai’s celebration—with lively night markets, spectacular performances, and unforgettable displays of traditional grandeur.
One more Border Run
10 January 2025 - Thailand 2nd Biggest Buddha We set off early this morning, leaving the hotel and taking the back roads towards Kamphaeng Phet. The...
Time to Head North
6 January 2025 – Bye Bye Hat Yai Today, we said our heartfelt goodbyes to Hat Yai. We started the day by thanking the wonderful staff at Centara Hat...
New Year New Territory Continued
3 January 2025 – A Day Full of Journeys, Surprises, and Colourful Corners Today’s adventure kicked off on a high note with a hearty sit-down...
New Year New Territory
1 January 2025: A New Year and New Territory Happy New Year adventures in Thailand's south! We ditched the familiar for new territory, heading from...
South to Trang
28 December 2024: A Day of Hectic Highways, Unusual Trucks, and Festival Lights At 10am, we said our goodbyes to the wonderful folks at our hotel...
South to the Beach
20 December 2024 Goodbye Mon Bridge Sangkhla Buri On the morning of December 20, we bid farewell to Mon Bridge, reflecting on the incredible...
Sangkhla Buri
Discover the cultural tapestry and breathtaking beauty of Sangkhla Buri. This hidden gem on the Thai border invites you to explore its iconic landmarks—from the mystical submerged Wat Wang Wiwekaram to the striking Saphan Mon Bridge—set against the lush backdrop of the Khao Laem Reservoir, and steeped in the rich Mon and Karen heritage.
Into the Mountains
15 December 2024 After the sheer adrenaline rush of Underup 2024, today was dedicated to embracing the art of taking it easy—a skill we’ve...
Michelin X Connection UNDERUP 2024
Dive into the action of Michelin X Connection UNDERUP 2024—a high-octane gathering at Pathum-Thani Speedway in Thailand. From adrenaline-fueled drifting and intense drag races to live music and a dazzling fireworks show, this event unites car enthusiasts and party lovers in an unforgettable celebration of speed and style.
Michelin X Connection UNDERUP 2024
14 December 2024 We we both very excited to attend the Underup 2024. Finding a date was a 6 month wait and came down to make a flexible plan. It is...
WGP#1 Waterjet World Cup 2024
Dive into an electrifying splash of excitement at the WGP#1 Waterjet World Cup 2024. Follow Alison and Steve as they capture the high-octane thrill of waterjet racing in Pattaya, showcasing the world’s elite athletes and an event that redefines competitive water sports.
Along the Coast
10 December 2024: Coastal Wandering and Hidden Local Gems Today marked our last full day exploring the Trat area, so we decided to soak in as much...
East Coast Beach
6 December 2024: Roosters, Clifftop Temples, and a Warm Welcome in Buri Ram Our final morning in Ubon Ratchathani began with one last delicious...
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam
Step into the magic of Wat Sirindhorn Wararam. This gallery captures the temple’s spellbinding glow at twilight, showcasing exquisite details, dramatic contrasts, and sweeping views that celebrate a fusion of tradition and innovation.
Along the Mekong
30 November 2024 A Journey Along the Mekong From Sakon Nakhon to Mukdahan With the Mekong River as our destination, today's journey promised a blend...
Sakhon Nakhon School Sports Day
Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Sakhon Nakhon School Sports Day. This gallery showcases colorful parades, energetic performances, and the heartwarming moments of school pride captured on 28 November 2567.
Onwards into Isan Thailand
25 November 2024 A Day of Feathered Divas, Stone Elephants, and a Bridge’s Midlife Crisis We kicked off the morning with a breezy farewell to the NP...
Chang Classic Car Revival 5th Annual
23–24 November 2024: Revving Up at the 5th Annual Chang Classic Car Festival Access our Gallery here - Chang Classic Car Revival 2024 Gear up,...
Chang Classic Car Revival 2024
Embark on a visual journey through the Chang Classic Car Revival 2023. Follow Steve and Alison as they capture heart-stopping moments—from a scenic drive out of Surin to an unforgettable day celebrating meticulously restored classics and timeless automotive stories.
Our Road Trip Begins
18 November 2024: Hit the Road, Jack! (Or Should We Say, Hit the Road, Toyota Fortuner!) Today marked the official start of the road trip section of...
Celebrating Loy Krathong Festival in Chiang Mai
13 November 2024: Celebrating Loy Krathong Festival 2024 in Chiang Mai Today was a magical day as we experienced the first day of the Loy Krathong...
3-Month Adventure in Thailand
From Jurien Bay to Perth: The Start of a Three-Month Adventure in Thailand November 9, 2024, was the day our big adventure began. At 9 a.m., we left...
Bangkok International Motor Show 2024
4WD Enthusiasts Hit the Motor Show We just wrapped up an epic adventure at the Bangkok International Motor Show 2024! It was wall to wall gear-heads...
Happy 60th Birthday Alison!
Happy 60th Birthday Alison Alison's milestone 60th birthday this year called for something truly special. We fondly remembered how Steve had been...
Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2024
28 January 2024 Chiang Mai Calling: Flower Festival Here We Come! After soaking up the beauty of Chiang Rai, it was time to head back to Chiang Mai...
Rest Up Chiang Rai
22 January 2024 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: Rest, Relaxation, and Local Gems Our adventure in Northern Thailand begins with a relaxing drive from...
Borsang Umbrella Festival 2024
19 January 2024 Sukhothai Goodbye: Farewell, Smoky Skies, and Festival Fun! The bittersweet taste of departure lingered in the air as we checked out...
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great Memorial Festival
16 January 2024 Sukhothai Shenanigans: Trains, Tuk Tuks, and Time Travel? Our day began with the rooster's alarm clock (aka sunrise), and we hit the...
More Exploring Upper Northeast Thailand
10 January 2024 Bueng Kan Blunders (and Breathtaking Beauty): A Mekong Mishap with a Mosquito-Filled Merry Ending Well, as our Thailand adventure...
Exploring Upper Northeast Thailand
3 January 2024 Another Good Breakfast (and Other Adventures in Navigation) Another great breakfast this morning had us ready for the day's driving...
New Year in Korat
30 December 2023 Korat Kickoff: Luxury Stay & Local Eats Today, we're taking you on a whirlwind Korat adventure – from luxurious beginnings to...
North towards Korat
26 December 2023 Sunsets, Steam Trains, Dragon, and Skewers! The first rays of a beautiful sunrise streamed through our window as we began this day,...
Christmas By the Beach
19 December 2023 Coasts, Caves, and Close Calls! The next leg of our trip took us towards southern Thailand adventure, further down the coast. As we...
Drag Racing and Floating Markets
16 December 2023 Southern Thailand Adventure: From Friendly Farewells to Drag Racing Thrills! Our day began with a warm goodbye to the friendly...
River Kwai Bridge Week Festival 2023
13 December 2023 Chasing Sunsets, Hot Springs, and a Spectacular Re-enactment We set off from our Suphan Buri hotel just after 9am, eager to begin...
Chiang Mai to Suphan Buri
8 December 2023 Hitting the Road in Northern Thailand: Chiang Mai to Tak The next stage of our Thailand adventure continued today as we left Chiang...
A Pause in Chiang Mai
30 November 2023 Bidding farewell to Sukhothai, we were showered, packed, and ready to hit the road towards Chiang Mai by 8:36 am. Fueled by morning...
Loy Krathong Festival 2023
23 November 2023 Our Thai adventure began bright and early at 8:30 am in Nakhon Sawan. Despite the smoky conditions, we set out to explore the...
Surin to Sukhothai
20 November 2023 The day began bright and early, with a slightly different breakfast routine. The main dining room was closed, so we grabbed a bite...
Chang Classic Car Revival 2023
Embark on a visual journey through the Chang Classic Car Revival 2023. Follow Steve and Alison as they capture heart-stopping moments—from a scenic drive out of Surin to an unforgettable day celebrating meticulously restored classics and timeless automotive stories.
Chang Classic Car Revival
18 November 2023 Our adventure began with a 50km drive to the Chang International Circuit, the designated venue for the much-anticipated Classic Car...
Surin Elephant Festival
16 November 2023 A crisp morning breeze greeted us in Buriram. We started the day with breakfast in the dining room a little after 6:30 AM. The...
Buriram Opera Festival 2023
14 November 2023 The day began early with a delicious Thai breakfast of fried rice, curries, fruits, and juices. By 8:30 am, we were packed up and...
Happy 70th Birthday Steve: Celebrations Kick Off in Bangkok!
10 November 2023 The party's officially started a little early for Steve's big 7-0! We woke up to a stunning sunrise over the Bangkok skyline, a...
Bidding Farewell to Australia: Our Journey Begins
7 November 2023 Today marks a significant chapter in our lives as Steve and I embark on a 3.5-month adventure to Thailand! We laughing refer to our...
Wonderful 3 Months Ends
21 February 2023 Steve and I woke up early this morning to pick up our rental car from Budget. They were there promptly at 8am, and as always, they...
Onwards to Bangkok
15 February 2023 - NC Day 9 Steve and I set out on an adventure today, exploring territory we had never been to before. We drove to the most eastern...
Old and New Experiences
10 February 2023 - NC Day 4 Steve and I woke up early today, excited to explore the some temples south of our hotel. We all decided to stay an extra...
Back After Too Long
7 February 2023 - NC Day 1 It was time to say goodbye to Mikey and Robbie. We had been traveling together for the four weeks, and we had all gotten...
Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2023
3 February 2023 Steve and I were so excited for the 2023 Chiang Mai Flower Festival. This was our 4th. We woke up early on Saturday morning and...
Back to Chiang Mai
1 February 2023 - RM Day 20 Steve and I woke up early on a Wednesday morning in Chiang Rai, Thailand. We were excited to be in the final part of...
Thailand’s North Wow
28 January 2023 - RM Day 16 Steve and I said goodbye to Nan and set off up into the mountains to visit the tourist attraction named Curve 3. We...
So Much Golden Bright and Big
24 January 2023 - RM Day 12 We all arrived at Wat Pahuaylad Temple at 10am. It was another enormous meeting hall that could cater to huge crowds....
So Much to See
20 January 2023 - RM Day 8 We skipped breakfast this morning, eager to get on the road and make the most of our day. We left our hotel in...
Sukhothai and Beyond
16 January 2023 - RM Day 4 Budget were wonderful enough to deliver our hire car to our hotel at 8:30am. They arrived exactly on time and were very...
Exciting Time With Friends
12 January 2023 Steve and I were excited to be back in Chiang Mai after a few days in Bangkok. We had been looking forward to seeing our friends...
Time for a Break in Bangkok
4 January 2023 This was the day we flew to Bangkok for our 10 day visit. We ordered an Uber and arrived at the Chiang Mai Airport at 7.30am for our...
Christmas and New Year 2022
24 December 2022 Steve and I woke up early today, excited to explore a couple of Chiang Mai's shopping centres. We had decided to keep the hire car...
Chumphon North to Chiang Mai
17 December 2022 Steve and I woke up early on our second day in Chumphon, excited to explore more of the province. We had a delicious breakfast at...
The Journey North
12 December 2022 Steve and I left Chompu Nakarin Serviced apartments around 8:30am for a reasonably early start. Our first stop was Wat Khok Yang, a...
Exploring Surat Thani and Beyond
8 December 2022 Steve and I woke up mid morning and packed our bags. We were excited to be flying to Surat Thani, a city in southern Thailand. We...
Feels Like We Are Home Again – Thailand 2022
3 December 2022 Steve and I were delighted to be back in Chiang Mai after such a long absence. As we rode from the airport to our favorite hotel, it...
3 Weeks in Chiang Mai – Covid-19 Concerns
23-02-2020 - Week 1 Around Chiang Mai With Neil and Connie headed for Australia, we now planned 3 weeks to recover from 6 weeks of driving around...
Back to Chiang Mai
18-02-2020 - Nong Khai to Loei Today the plan was to travel along the Mekong River to Chiang Khan before heading south to Loei. There is plenty to...
Tripping Around Nong Khai
16-02-2020 - Visit to Wat Pa Phu Kon Today we wanted to revisit some of the sites that we visited 27 Jan...
Into Northeast Thailand
13-02-2020 - Around Nong Han Lake The course for today was to move from the claustrophobic @Sakon Hotel that had no windows in any of the rooms to...
West to Phitsanulok and Beyond
09-02-2020 - West to Phitsanulok Alison behind the wheel today, so watch out thailand. Last nights accomodation included breakfast which was a...
Back with Friends
06-02-2020 - Back With Neil and Connie Today we headed off to see the start of the Chiang Mai flower festival setup and then on to Siri Wattana...
Nan and back to Chiang Mai
02-02-2020 - Nan and back to Chiang Mai Although we were staying in Nan today, we had to move hotels due to availability. So we started exploring...
Pua to Nan
29-01-2020 10am start today as we headed off into the mountains to Pua. What we estimated to be a few hours drive ended up as 5 hours. Some of the...
On To Chiang Rai
24-01-2020 - On to Chiang Rai Today we left Chang Rai to spend some time at Doi Mae Salong district. The roads are very steep and winding. Here is...
North From Chiang Mai
2020-01-21 - North From Chiang Mai Today we started our trip north. Thai budget rent a car are just wonderful, they delivered our car a little...
Thailand 2020 – Lets Go!
2020-01-17 - Leaving Australia Arrived at Brisbane airport early 9am for our flight to Chiang Mai. A perfect time to do the 10,000 steps for the...
Bye Thailand
Out and About Chiang Mai! 1 - 2 March 2019 The lasy couple of days we have just wanted around and enjoyed ourselves. There is always something new...
Rest Up in Chiang Mai
Now some time for Rest! 22 Feb 2019 Today we headed back to Bangkok. Alison was designated driver for the trip. Of course we still had some time for...
Thungsong to Kaeng Krachan
West then North! 15 February 2019 Alison was elected to drive today! First stop this morning was to help Neil's tummy with an injection of cafe...
Ratchaburi to Thungsong
The Expedition Heads South! 8 Feb 2019 Today we did many stopped and only travelled a relatively short distance. The highlight was a fish farm where...
Bangkok to Kanchanaburi
Back with our Travel Friends 1 Feb 2019 Back to the 3Seasons hotel for a total reorganization and repack of our gear for the trip to Bangkok. Of...
Exploring East of Chiang Mai
East from Chiang Mai 23 Jan 2019 The lady who runs our accomodation for the night (the Sunnery Ville..she manages it for her son who lives in...
Thailand 2019
Next Stop Thailand 16 Jan 2019 After a great stay with Christine, Mark and Tanika it is is off to the airport. At last we are starting to get a...
Chiang Rai, Phraya, Chiang Mai
7 March 2018 Today we headed off from Pia on our way to Chiang Rai. One of our most favourite things we came across was working elephant camps....
On to the Hong Son Loop
1 March 2018 OK We have both had enough of being sick and need to get out of these hotel walls even if for a short drive. We managed to drive to Mae...
Steve and Alison Fly Solo Chiang Mia
23 February 2018 First job today is to drop in with Budget and do the paperwork for our hire car. Central Plaza was next on the visit list as it is...
Udon Ratchathani to Bangkok
18 February 2018 After a good nights sleep in Ubon Ratchathani we headed off to Luang Pu Cha Pagoda, or as well nicknamed it, the flying saucer...
Surin to Udon Ratchathani
14 February 2018 First stop today was the service station to pick up some fuel before continuing our adventure. You have to love Thailand, full...
Si Thep to Surin
East towards the Surin 11 February 2018 Today, Steve and I headed further east from Lop Buri. Our first stop was Wat Khao Tambon. We had to climb a...
Time to Turn East!
A Day to Explore Ayutthaya 7 February 2018 After a having breakfast in the garden at the hotel we set off to explore Ayutthaya for the day. Most of...
A Huge Day Sightseeing Bangkok
The Professionals Take the Lead! 4 February 2018 After such a gastronomical delightful evening, there was still no room left in our tummies for...
Thailand 2018!
Thailand On Our Way Again! 2 February 2018 It does not feel like its been 12 months since our last visit to Thailand, but it is very exciting to be...
Lampang to Bangkok
Return to Bangkok 18 February 2017 First stop today was the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre and visiting a place like this is something I have...
Chiang Rai – North Again
Chiang Rai To Lampang 15 February 2017 First stop of today was breakfast, followed by fuel for the 4WD. Diesel was 27.50 Baht / litre or about A$1....
Chiang Mai and into the Mountains
North to Chiang Mai 11 Feb 2017 Steve and I awoke early this morning and set off on our walk to the local stores for breakfast. The variety of food...
Thailand!
Off to Thailand So much for a quiet year. Its only February and we are off on the second trip of the year, to no less than Thailand. This trip was...