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IN THE PICTURE #69: CAT
In this feature called ‘In the Picture‘ we ask great photographers from all over the world to share their 10 most favorite Thailand photos with our readers. See Thailand through the lens of the photographer, read the background stories and learn more about the land of smiles.
The main photo is of our favorite beach in all of Thailand! Every time we come here we feel at home and that’s why we are also grateful that Cat sent us this photo! Thanks Cat, nice to be able to showcase some of your favorite and beautiful photos!
Hello Cat, could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello Sawasdee Kha!
My name is Cat. I am half British/Thai. I was born in Thailand but grew up around the world, predominantly Saudi Arabia and the UK. I am a qualified dentist but am on sabbatical and currently reside in Curaçao. I enjoy travelling, keeping active and taking photos.
Wishing you a beautiful 2022 and keep on smiling despite life’s setbacks!
Cat
#1
Koh Lipe
Increasingly popular and known for it’s turquoise shallow water. This island has some of the best snorkel spots along the beach in Thailand.
#2
Chiang Rai
Monks taking in the view at the ornately constructed White Temple in Chiang Rai.
What is your favorite destination in Thailand?
My favourite destination in Thailand is Koh Tao. The island has abundant marine life for keen scuba divers but also has cool hiking and snorkeling spots. The locals are friendly and very welcoming.
Which place / destination in Thailand is still on your wish list to visit?
Ang Thong National Park. The vibe on the islands in the Gulf of Thailand vary so much but I haven’t made it to this group of islands yet. There are trips of various lengths. It is on my to-do list!
#3
Sukhothai
Hire a bike to see all the historic temples. It’s safe and a great way to see the temples at your own pace.
#4
Ayutthaya
Explore the historic ruins and the various temples around Ayutthaya. It’s even possible as a day trip from Bangkok by train.
Which place / destination do you recommend our readers to visit and why?
There are so many places to visit but put Bangkok is a must see city. Visit the temples and ride along the Chao Phraya River. Chiang Rai has more temples but don’t miss the nearby tea plantations and mountain view at Phu Chi Fah. Koh Tao for your PADI Open Water certification and Koh Lipe for amazing turquoise water.
Where do you like to eat?
Idjang’s Kitchen in Sairee on Koh Tao. Amazing food by a great cook. You will love her food so much you’ll be wanting to sign up for her cooking classes. I did it – it was great !
#5
Koh Mook
Get away from it all to chill in Koh Mook. There are daily excursions to the Emerald Cave and nearby islands like Koh Kradan and Koh Ngai.
#6
Koh Tao
Hike along the coast to this quiet beach (Sai Nuan Beach) with a great view at sunset time.
Tip us a nice coffee shop or bar where our readers can drop by.
Try some of the local Thai coffee “Oliang” on the street. This street food drink is very different from the Western coffee we are used to. You can have it as a hot drink or on ice. Look for street vendors at your local market. Morning markers are your best bet.
What is your favorite Thai dish?
Khao Soi. This is my favourite as it’s good to find this dish abroad. Mango sticky rice is also a must! Yummy Thai mango is unrivalled.
#7
Phuket
Stroll along Soi Rommanee and see the beautifully colourful out-of-character (for Thailand!) Sino-Portuguese townhouses. There are plenty of trinket stores for souvenirs.
#8
Bangkok
The Wat Arun is a must see temple. Ride the Chao Phraya River Express and stop off here to see this temple. If you have time go to the other side of the river to catch the sunset with Wat Arun in the foreground.
What is your favorite accommodation in Thailand?
I stayed on a liveaboard boat with Similan Diving Safaris for four nights to enjoy scuba diving sites around the Similan and Surin Islands. Such a great experience and something very different from staying in a hotel (or on land!) Don’t forget your motion sickness tablets in case you get sea sick!
Do you have a (travel) tip that might come in handy in Thailand?
Be brave and enjoy the street food. It’s everywhere. It tastes as good as it smells.
Is there a Thai phrase or word our readers need to learn?
Ped nid noi. This mean only a little bit spicy.
#9
Railay Beach
Relax at Railay Beach on the powdery white sand amongst the large limestone cliffs. During sunset the locals place beach football and you’re welcome to join in.
#10
Koh Chang
Take in the sunset from a deck chair along Klong Prao Beach at the Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort. During the monsoon it’s a great place to watch surfers catch the waves.
What type / brand of camera do you use?
I am currently using a Canon 5D Mark III.
Where can our readers find your work / photos?
On my Instagram page.
Last question, who should we also ask our ‘In the Picture’ feature?
Enjoy the drone captures of luke.whitman. It’s great to see the country from a different perspective.
#11
Phang Nga
Camp overnight at Samet Nangshe Viewpoint for a chance to catch the sun rising over Phang Nga Bay.
#12
Railay Beach
A hike and a bit of climbing rewards you with this view from “The Bat Cave” in Railay over Phra Nang Beach. There’s plenty of wildlife on the way – lizards and monkeys.
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