Although we’d been in Bangkok many times before I planned a stopover here in case we run into delays on the way up, potentially jeopardising our onward air travel. And because it’s going to be our last time in a familiar big city before we venture into new territory.
Travel
Surat Thani, Thailand
We chose Surat Thani for a quick stopover because I’d always seen it on the map and liked the name, and because it’s a popular gateway city for onward travel to several popular Thai islands. Ironically we didn’t venture into the city centre, staying instead in Phunphin – a westerly suburb where the railway station is located.
Travel
Penang, Malaysia
I’ve always wanted to visit Penang, and after a couple of days in smoggy KL we were both ready for a breath of fresh air. This time we did manage to travel by train, and enjoyed a pleasant journey on Malaysia’s rapidly improving railway network.
Travel
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
After a few days in Singapore we intended to take the train north, but in the end it was much easier to jump on a coach for the journey to Kuala Lumpur. One thing we hadn’t bargained with when making this decision was the traffic, so perhaps the train would have been better after all.
Travel
Singapore
Singapore is our entry- and exit-point to SE Asia, and we’re taking a couple of days to get over the jet-lag and explore this wonderful city some more before making our way slowly north.
Travel
London, UK
The first instalment of our 2026 amble around South East Asia, starting with a short hop across the Irish Sea to London in preparation for the longer hop down to Singapore.
Travel
Roadster Trip – South of France
Postscript sometime 2026: turns out I didn’t have much to write about this trip, probably enjoying the roads too much. Maybe next time …
Travel
Roadster Trip – Outward Journey
Postscript sometime 2026: turns out I didn’t have much to write about this trip, probably enjoying the roads too much. Maybe next time …
Travel
We’re Off Again
We head to Europe via the UK on our first proper road trip in five years, and perhaps it’s not just the number of wheels that’s changed. Will we enjoy familiar routes as much in the car as we did by bike? Can I still take the occasional photo of a set of bends or a balcony road? Is the wine still good in France? Read on …
Hiking
Hiking Greeba Plantation from Glen Vine
An easy 3 hour ramble with sweeping vistas and ancient shaded woodland, starting and finishing on the Steam Heritage Trail which links Peel with the Isle of Man’s capital, Douglas. Don’t be fooled by the short distance and minimal elevation gain – this route includes a river crossing and several squelchy bogs.