Leaving Bangkok behind, we started our journey northeast to Phitsanulok — a place that’s often flown over or bypassed by travellers rushing between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
We caught a coach from the Northern Bus Terminal, which turned into a mini adventure in itself. The booking confirmation had the wrong check-in counter listed, so after a bit of wandering and a few helpful chats with bus station staff, we finally found the right spot.
The trip took around six hours, travelling through bursts of sunshine and sudden rainstorms. About halfway, the coach stopped at a service station for a short break. For 10 Baht (about 25p per person), we were told we could get a small meal and drink. I gave it a miss, but George — never one to pass up a bargain — went for the Tom Kha Gai. To his surprise, it was actually pretty good.
Our accommodation for the next three nights was a quirky little hotel just off the main city road. None of the places in the city had glowing reviews, and this one could be described as the best of an average bunch. That turned out to be spot-on: spacious rooms, friendly staff, lukewarm showers, and a breakfast that was barely warm. Before checking out, the hotel cheerfully asked me to leave a review, adding, “We hope it was one of the greatest trips of your life.” Sure it was.
We visited a couple of temples during our stay:
1. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Wora Mahawihan
A 14th-century temple complex steeped in history.
2. Wat Chan Tawan Tok
Brilliantly golden and very much a work in progress, with parts still under construction.
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