Phimai and Nakhon Ratchasima

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Said goodbye to the lovely owners of P. California. They made us feel very welcome, almost like staying with family. Before heading out of town, we went back to the coffee spot we found yesterday. We were greeted with big smiles.

Sterlin, with his California plates, caused a bit of excitment!

We had a short day today, which allowed us to get a relaxed start and to take a back road route to Phimai. Whenever time allows we prefer to stay off the mayor roads… too many manic drivers, trucks and others. And it’s just more fun.

We reached Phimai around lunch time and headed to the Historical Park in the heart of town. The site is one of the most important religious sanctuaries in the Khmer style found in Thailand. Most of it has been restored by the ‘Department of Fine Arts’. After our visit we enjoyed a latte, waffle and strawberry smoothie in a coffee shop across from the car park.

This time we set our GPS to ‘fastest’ as opposed to ‘shortest’ route (the latter is the back roads setting) and hit the highway, full of manic truck and other drivers, towards Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat). We checked in to the San Sabai House and the place was absolutely spotless. Another winner it seems.

Kitchen.

After relaxing for a few hours we went for a walk to the town center and we found a local food place. A family was eating there and promptly got their young daughter to help us, in English, with ordering food. Some laughs and giggles later yummy food turned up on our table :). Stephen continues to order spicy dishes that make his ears steam, but he enjoys it!

Our evening eatery.