20.02.2025 – Singapore to Sisaket day 9
Motorbike Journey: Lang Suan to Ban Krut – A Ride Along Thailand’s Royal Coastal Road
There’s something about waking up without coffee that sets the wrong tone for the day. The sluggish start, the dull senses—it’s not the best way to begin a ride. But sometimes, the road throws surprises your way, and today was one of those days.
We started our journey from Lang Suan at 06:45 am, riding into the early morning gloom. The sky was heavy, dark with the promise of rain. And sure enough, it delivered. We got wet, but honestly, that’s not a problem when riding in Thailand’s warm climate. The real challenge was the slippery roads. Wet tarmac always demands extra caution, especially when navigating tight corners or unexpected patches of oil and debris.
Riding the Thailand Riviera
Today’s route took us along Thailand’s Riviera, a stretch of coastline known for its stunning beaches, fishing villages, and winding roads. Much of our journey followed the Royal Coastal Road, a beautifully maintained scenic route that hugs the coastline, offering incredible views and smooth tarmac.
Our first major waypoint was Chumphon, but instead of riding into the city, we opted to bypass it on the main highway. Riding through cities on a motorbike is rarely enjoyable—traffic, stoplights, and unpredictable road conditions take away from the flow of the ride. Instead, we pushed forward, keeping our focus on the coastline.
A 70-Year-Old Coffee Shop and a Step Back in Time
A few kilometers past Chumphon, we stumbled upon a small village with an old, local coffee shop. Something about it caught our attention, so we pulled over.
Stepping „inside“ felt like stepping back in time. This little coffee shop had been serving locals for 70 years, and it hadn’t changed much. The best part? You prepare your own coffee, sit back, and enjoy conversations with the locals. There’s no fixed price—just drop whatever amount you feel is fair into a small payment box.
We spent nearly an hour there, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere and chatting with the village residents. It was a reminder of the simple joys of travel—meeting people, hearing their stories, and momentarily becoming part of their world.
The experience even got me thinking—what if I opened a coffee shop like this in my own area? A place where people could gather, slow down, and enjoy life without the rush of modernity.
Back on the Road: Highway vs. Coastal Beauty
Refreshed and caffeinated, we hit the road again. Unfortunately, the next 30 km were on the main highway, a necessary but tedious stretch. Riding long distances on a highway is never as enjoyable as smaller roads. The monotony of straight roads, the constant hum of trucks, and the lack of scenery make it a section to endure rather than enjoy.
But the moment we exited onto the Royal Coastal Road, everything changed.
Smooth tarmac, gentle twists, and breathtaking ocean views—this is what motorbike touring is all about. With almost no traffic, the road felt like it was made just for us. This section of Thailand’s Riviera is a hidden gem for riders, offering the kind of experience that makes you grateful for two wheels and an open road.
A Lost Place: The Abandoned New Nordic Resort
One of the unexpected highlights of the day was discovering a ghost resort. We spotted a faded sign for the New Nordic Group, a real estate project that clearly never reached completion. Curiosity got the better of us, so we turned off the road and rode into what felt like a post-apocalyptic scene.
Half-finished condominiums and villas stood abandoned, their sales office and restaurant left to decay. The eerie silence was only broken by the sound of waves from a nearby, stunningly beautiful beach.
As we explored, we met a man who explained that COVID had killed the project. Investors pulled out, construction stopped, and what was supposed to be a thriving beachside community became a forgotten shell of a dream.
Wandering through the deserted buildings, it was hard not to imagine what could have been—families vacationing, retirees enjoying a beachfront escape, restaurants bustling with life. But instead, nature was reclaiming the space.
These kinds of discoveries are part of the magic of riding. You never know what’s waiting for you just off the main road.
Reaching Ban Krut: Just in Time for the Downpour
After soaking in the ghost resort vibes, we continued along the Royal Coastal Road, enjoying every curve and stretch of open space.
Then, just as we arrived at Ban Krut, the sky unleashed a heavy tropical downpour. Timing is everything—we were close enough to our resort that we could pull in and wait out the worst of it before checking in.
Ban Krut is a perfect stop for riders looking to unwind. It’s quiet, with long beaches, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere. No party scene, no crowds—just the sound of the waves and the occasional rustling of palm trees.
The Perfect End to a Riding Day
Once the rain eased up, we headed straight to our favorite restaurant in town: The Sea Pine. A meal of fresh seafood followed by a delicious cake dessert was the perfect way to close out the day’s ride.
We’ll be staying in Ban Krut for three nights—walking along the beach, relaxing, and soaking in the last bit of freedom before the journey home.
The Final Stretch: The Road Back Home
After Ban Krut, our trip takes a turn for the routine. The way back will be a long, boring ride through highways and industrial areas, eventually passing through the traffic-heavy chaos of Bangkok. It’s the price we pay for every adventure—after the highs of the ride, there’s always the inevitable journey home.
But that’s part of the deal. Every trip, no matter how amazing, must come to an end. And as we settle into these last few days, we’ll hold onto the memories—of misty morning rides, surprise coffee shops, abandoned resorts, and the open roads of the Thailand Riviera.
Because in the end, it’s not just about the destination. It’s about the journey, the people you meet, and the stories you collect along the way.
And this ride? Definitely one for the books.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!
#dustysocks
Ban Krut is always perfect stay 🥰