5 Reasons I’m Returning to SE Asia After 24 Years
Twenty-four years ago, I spent a year traveling the world, and Thailand was a standout chapter of that journey. Since retiring, one of my primary goals has been to return to this vibrant, eclectic, and mesmerizing corner of the globe. While I fell in love with the entire region—including Laos, Cambodia, and Indonesia—Thailand has a special pull on my heart.
This return trip will be quite the eye-opener. I still vividly remember landing in Bangkok after a leg in Australia and making a classic “rookie” mistake: I withdrew what I thought was plenty of Baht, only to realize I’d taken out the equivalent of about $20 USD. Talk about a learning curve! To top it off, I arrived during the “fry season”—the absolute hottest time of year.
Despite the heat, I’m ready to celebrate my first full year of retirement in the “Land of Smiles.” Here are the five reasons I’m heading back to Southeast Asia.
1. Nostalgia
I know much has changed in two decades, but the magic of this region remains. I’m looking forward to triggering happy memories, specifically in Koh Chang. That’s where I first learned to cook Thai crispy egg rolls and stayed at a wonderful family-run hostel. I’m hoping to see if that hostel—and that family—are still there. It’s a chance to rediscover the people who made my first trip so special. An article titled, Don’t Visit Ko Lipe by a travel blogger named Nomadic Matt had the same sentiment I had about going back, I’m banking going back, I hope to rediscover new things that changed for the better.
2. The Cuisine
Growing up in Hawaii, Asian flavors were a staple of my life, but nothing beats the source. Today’s term used for people who love all sorts of cuisines are “foodies”. I plan to eat my way through SE Asia, from street food stalls to unique local desserts. I still remember the crepes and Pad Thai from my last visit, and I can’t wait to see what new culinary treasures I’ll find wandering the streets of Bangkok.
3. Art & History
With a degree in Art History, I’m naturally drawn to unique aesthetics. Whether it’s ancient ruins, modern murals, or hidden street art, I love going off the beaten path to find things you won’t see on a standard travel blog. Thailand’s history is woven into the very behavior of its people, and I want to dive deeper into that connection this time around.
4. Culture & Faith
Buddhism is the heartbeat of Thailand, and I’ve always appreciated the mindfulness it inspires. I remember the importance of dressing respectfully—shoulders and knees covered—when visiting the Wat temples. On this trip, Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) on the Chao Phraya River is at the top of my list of new sites to explore.
5. Sunsets & Beaches
There is nothing quite like a Thai sunset with a drink in hand. This time, I’m eyeing Krabi Island. Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and perfect snorkeling spots, it seems like the ideal place to slow down and appreciate the view.
The Plan (and the Heat!)
I’ll be traveling during the “fry season” again, so I’ll have to be smart about the 90-degree days. My strategy? Early morning treks, mid-day siestas, and heading back out once the sun dips and the night markets come alive.
If time permits, I might even hop over to Georgetown, Penang in Malaysia. It was one of my favorite stops years ago for its architecture and incredible food scene. I’m excited for the new discoveries this year will bring—hopefully, I won’t wait another two decades for the next visit.
