We originally were going to go by moped but after speaking with Varada and a few others they said manual was the way forward due to the roads. Beardy test drove a variety of bikes before choosing one suitable for our trip. He also test drove a semi auto bike which was the worst thing he had ever driven and would recommend having a clutch.
So after shopping around we saw this beautiful bike in the shop at Bikky and after a test drive Beardy was sure this was the bike within our budget.
We rented a 125cc (uprated to 150cc) Suzuki Van Van. The motorbike is a 5 speed manual and to be honest with both of us travelling on the same bike the gears are a must for the sheer climb of the mountains that you have to take on.
It also had a rack on the back which was perfect for our bag in which we were taking.
But the most important feature was the big comfy seat which is a must for the 3 hour mountainous drive, it eases the sore bum.
We left our backpacks with Varada the hotel in which we were staying. She ever so kindly offered to keep our bags safe whilst we ventured off, she's very much like a mum away from home. We packed basic and took a small travel bag with essentials. I say we packed basic yet Suze had to be told this twice as she was over compensating for our short trip.
So we set off on our journey nice and early, however as soon as we got on the 107 road we were being signalled to pull over by the Thai police!
Obviously no matter where you are this is pretty unnerving. They asked Beardy for his driving license but after showing this they were more interested in an 'international driving permit' which we had never heard of before.
They originally said we would have to pay a visit to the police station to pay a fine. However having no idea where the police station was, he instantly changed his tune and we were asked to pay the fine on the spot, this soon turned into a bit of a debate especially for Suze as they wouldn't give us a receipt, or proof that this had been paid, which is standard in the UK.
Never the less we cut our losses, paid up the 400THB and headed off on our journey.
At least we can warn you about this though. We've done a little research and apparently with a UK driving license you should be exempt, but it depends on the police officer you are stopped by. So we would definitely recommend getting an IDP from your local Post Office before heading off on your travels. It is only around £6 for a year to purchase and saves you getting fined more than that whilst away.
So feeling a little heated and in shock by what had just happened, from being stopped by the police and not having a legal document, we were now back on course for our journey.
The roads are idealistic for a motorbike and to be honest the route is very simple. You could easily memorise this before leaving, however if you do want to be cautious we would suggest having your maps on in your pocket. By doing this when you stop for a drinks interval and a stretch you can double check your location.
Once off the main roads we started to head into the mountains down long sweeping bends passing small settlements. As the drive goes on there is just more and more to look at however don't lose concentration.
The road to Pai is beautiful but very challenging. You will encounter hills like you have never seen before. One minute your going up and crawling along due to the sheer steepness but the next the road changes to a drop back down and the brakes will be on.
The journey was incredible, we were very much blessed with beautiful weather which made the ride so much better. To be honest if you wanted to break up this journey you could stop halfway at a variety of resorts which we passed. However we just pressed on to Pai.
Along route there are viewpoints, waterfalls and hot springs signposted however not always the easiest to determine where they actually are.
As we passed the half way mark and started going round some insanely tight bends the fuel light started flashing up every time we dropped the bike down into a corner.
The Suzuki is a pretty retro motorbike as it doesn't have a fuel gauge. To determine the level Beardy was flicking the tank on route to hear when it was getting rather empty. We were very thankful to come across a lady selling petrol on a hand pump out of a barrel by the side of the road. This was probably the most bizarre experience we have ever had filling up a vehicle and to be honest we weren't even sure if it was petrol at first.
So after a good old leg stretch, some hydration for ourselves and the bike, we continued on the rest of our journey, this was pretty much the last part now.
The roads turned into almost a race track, the curbs were even painted in black and white.
It was a course of corners downs steep drops literally going back and forth on ourselves to descend into the valley of Pai. Very intense roads, but a beautiful drive none the less.
As you approach Pai you will cross a bridge which travels along the side of the WWII memorial bridge.
This is your checkpoint that you have arrived in Pai!
Instantly a calm feel as you've reached your destination and you know a cold shower is waiting.
Pure Bliss!
Top Tips
▪️SUN BLOCK!! The roads are very open and with the cool breeze from the bike you hardly notice the sun on your shoulders, or in our case shoulders, backs and legs, but it's there! So either cover up or cream up.
▪️Take lots of breaks. This journey has some beautiful stop off points, but by also doing this you can rehydrate and give that numb bum of yours a bit of a wiggle!
▪️Beware of other drivers and please don't drive this road if you are inexperienced. Beardy has many years of motorbiking under his belt and at certain points felt uneasy! So please be careful.
▪️Get an IDP! The traffic blocks appeared to be targeting tourists, so you've been warned. What's an extra £6 to know you're fully covered
▪️Wear a helmet! Safety First People! (Now before you freak out we did have ours on, the picture below is just for photo purposes only) if you don't wear one and you get caught it's another 400THB!
No comments
Post a Comment