SLOW AND STEADY BANGKOK - THE FERRY RIDE, KHAO SAN ROAD AND THE FRIED GRASSHOPPER

Bangkok, Thailand - a city that for most of us conjures images of crazy parties, fulfilling fantasies, and a place that never sleeps. It's a crazy, fast-paced destination filled with adventures and misadventures, depending on how you explore it. But amidst the hustle and bustle, there's another side of Bangkok, slow-paced, peaceful, and not as widely explored.

During one of my visits, my friends and I wanted to break away from the typical tourist scene and do something different. That's when we got to know about Khao San Road, famously known as the backpackers' centre of Bangkok. It's a vibrant area teeming with hostels, bars, and economical places where you can try a variety of local delicacies. Essentially, it's where you head if you want to meet fellow young backpackers and have an unforgettable time.

I decided to research more about this place online and was pleasantly surprised to find that there was a ferry connecting Khao San Road to our current location. None of us had taken the ferry ride in Bangkok before, so without second thoughts, we decided to trust Google Maps and embark on this new adventure.

Following Google's directions, we started our walk to the Sothorn (Central) pier, and despite a doubt raised by a local who tried to sell us a cab ride claiming it was quite far and the map was not correct, we reached the pier within just 15 minutes. The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat service operated with regularity, and we boarded the ferry for our scenic journey.

Riding the ferry provided us with an entirely different view of Bangkok, showcasing various landmarks along the way. Finally, we reached our destination, the Phra Arthit pier, which was the stop for Khao San Road. From there, it was a short and pleasant walk to our destination.

Khao San Road was a lively and fascinating place. The route leading to it was lined with hostels, money exchanges, small eateries, drinking holes, and street-side shops selling everything you could imagine. It was a joy to stroll along the vibrant streets, and we couldn't resist stepping into Madame Musur, where we enjoyed refreshing drinks and snacks. The atmosphere was wonderful, and the free WiFi was a blessing for tourists like us.

As evening descended, the lights lit up the surroundings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. But the highlight of our visit to Khao San Road was yet to come - trying the infamous fried grasshoppers! As we wandered through the streets, we noticed many stalls selling insects and creepy crawlies of all sizes and shapes. Our curiosity got the better of us, and we decided to give the fried grasshopper a try.

My friend, Sree, and I were the brave souls willing to take on this exotic snack. First, he took a bite, and his encouraging feedback made me take the plunge without much hesitation. As I tried it, the initial bite felt a bit amusing, but then, to my surprise, it tasted like prawns! It was an adventurous and pleasant surprise, far from the dreadful experience I had imagined.

After this unique culinary experience, we settled at a roadside stall for some juice and more snacks. By then, Khao San Road was alive with people, and the sounds of music from numerous pubs filled the air. We were tempted to stay back and experience the vibrant nightlife, but we already had dinner plans elsewhere.

Khao San Road had left a lasting impression on me. It's now on my to-do list for my next visit, where I plan to stay in one of the hostels and spend a few days fully immersing myself in the local charm and wonders of this incredible destination.