March 2015 Travel Roundup: Thailand, Cambodia Adventures, Challenges, and What's Next
In my monthly roundups, I reflect on the past four weeks of travels—what succeeded, what fell short, updates on Globetrottergirls.com, upcoming plans, and the month's top posts.
Where I’ve Been
This month veered off course: Indonesia was off-limits, I lingered longer in Thailand than anticipated, and Cambodia unexpectedly stole the spotlight. Starting with the highlights before the setbacks.
I began and ended the month traveling with companions—with another planned in between that didn't materialize. The highlight was guiding friends through my favorite Thai spots, demonstrating how affordable and straightforward independent travel can be. Nearly flawless, save for severe food poisoning in Bangkok that sidelined me for over a day.
I kicked off in Chiang Mai, got stuck in Bangkok for over a week, then whirlwinded through Cambodia's gems (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Otres Beach), and looped back via Koh Chang—an island I'd long wanted to explore. Lonely Beach was vibrant, not solitary, and I regretted not having more time, but a friend awaited at Bangkok airport. I'll return to Koh Chang soon. Revisiting Cambodia reaffirmed my affection; if anything, it deepened during this trip.
What Went Well
Balancing Work and Travel
Despite extensive travel, I accomplished substantial work. Transit time—bus, ferry, plane, minivan—became productive writing sessions.
Prioritizing Relaxation
After months of relentless pace and late-night work, I finally read a book and savored beach time. It was rejuvenating.
Rediscovering Cambodia
Cambodia exceeded expectations despite being unplanned—perfect for recovering from the Indonesia mishap. It's firmly among my top countries; I wandered towns daily with a smile, enjoying local cuisine, countryside cycling, and the Phare Circus in Siem Reap, a nonprofit empowering local artists. More on Phare coming soon.
What Went Wrong
Missing Indonesia
My worst travel blunder in years. I was set to meet a friend from Germany celebrating her birthday—I still regret letting her down.
The Passport Issue
At Bangkok's Don Mueang Airport, AirAsia check-in canceled my Bali flight: 'Indonesia might deny entry. Passport damaged.' After supervisor talks, Thai immigration review, and tears, I headed to the German embassy for a temporary non-biometric passport, requiring visas everywhere. Indonesia remains postponed.
My passport, battle-worn after five years of full-time travel and 13 flights this year (including Europe), had never been flagged before. New passport incoming—with a holder.
Food Poisoning
Third time from upscale spots, not street food. At Bangkok's Grand Central VIP theater (700 baht for recliners, service, lounge buffet), it struck post-Thailand tours, pre-Ayutthaya. Next day's ruins exploration? Impossible.
Power Outage in Cambodia
In 100F/38C Siem Reap heat, AC cafes were lifelines. Power failed mid-dinner—sweatiest meal ever. Generator fans helped briefly; hotel was a sauna, devices dead, street dark. Power returned just in time. 'Welcome to the third world,' my friend texted.
Bangkok WiFi Drama
Early-month meltdown over nonfunctional hotel WiFi (three rooms!) nearly caused a freelance deadline miss. Questioned nomad life amid hotel staff chaos.
Lessons Learned
Freelance lesson: Don't procrastinate submissions—drama magnet that I am.
Passport care: Essential, regardless of personal nonchalance.
Avoid Tourist Shuttles
Sihanoukville to Koh Chang direct transfer doubled time and cost vs. public options, with same changes (bus, minivan, truck, ferry, taxi) plus waits.
Lessons Taught
Traveling with others let me share expertise:
- Avoiding Bangkok taxi scams
- Finding hotel deals
- Vetting hotel photos
- Determining fair tuktuk/cab fares
- Scoring cheap Southeast Asia flights
Comment below for full guides on any.
What’s Next
Another visitor for her beach birthday in Thailand! Ten more days here before Hong Kong closes my Asia loop mid-April. Prepping U.S. return (not New York—details next month). Fingers crossed for new passport, Germany visit, ticket updates, and ESTA in late April.
