This past year I have explored more of Thailand than I have in the past 20 or so odd years. It is just such a beautiful country and I'm amazed of what is out there that doesn't always show up on travel guides. But unlike most travelers who go on endless adventures, my home base is in Bangkok and I can't always be traveling.

After every trip I come back with mixed, confliction emotions. I'm always happy to come home and feel a sense of gratification but at the same time there is distress.

I know a real traveler does not compare but only experiences, learns and grows but somehow I can't help it. I always end up weighing in on "what is wrong with Bangkok" and why can't it be more like other cities.

Perhaps it's the monotony of routine.

With a full-time job, I can't keep escaping the city for a slice of adventure, tranquility and paradise. I mean you can go to Bang Krachao or Thonburi only so often, right?

Lord knows how much I love the city's dynamism. But one can dream of a better Bangkok (not that it's not great, it is).

But I wish

I wish Bangkok had mountains of Chiang Mai, which I could hike for a full day to stretch my legs and feel the open skies. To feel the crisp air atop the summit as I marvel at the scenic view with open arms, inviting the contrast of concrete and natural jungle against my chest.

I wish Bangkok had pristine white sandy beaches and azure-colored ocean water where I could dip my toes in. After some R&R, I would head out to sea on a kayak or a paddle board. Maybe even head out all the way to Chonburi or Hua Hin.

I would pleasure in the solace of being away from the sputtering engines and construction noise only to be replaced by the gentle sound of the crashing waves.

I wish Bangkok had waterfalls. What about a massive lake? Or rolling hills and beautiful meadows as far as the eye can see.

For now, I guess I'll just escape the frenzied monotonous cycle of life by climbing rooftops and watch the sun go down. Maybe with a cocktail in hand. Maybe I'll grab my bicycle and zip through wild traffic lanes and head towards the outskirts.

That'll do Bangkok, that'll do for now.

Shayan Adventures

 Wednesday, October 5, 2016 2:50 PM

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