Be Like Millie: Unwind in Thailand with Weekend Trips to Koh Kret and the Green Lung

One of my favourite aspects of living in Thailand is how easy it is to travel. I love using my weekends to explore new places and uncover hidden gems. Before moving to Bangkok, I had already travelled around Thailand a bit, visiting the southern islands and the northern regions. However, now that I’m based here, I have the opportunity to delve into areas I might have missed as a backpacker in Thailand.

Recently, I’ve been focusing on exploring areas close to Bangkok, as this is where I live and work, enjoying day trips and weekend getaways that are both convenient and fascinating. As someone who decided to teach in Thailand, I’ve found these little weekend escapes essential for recharging. It’s one of the many perks that teachers in Thailand get to enjoy while balancing work and exploration.

Koh Kret: Bangkok’s Hidden Island Escape

Discovering the Charm of Koh Kret

I was surprised by how long it took me to visit this little island just north of Bangkok city. It’s located along the Chao Phraya River and is best known as home to the Thai-Mon people and their authentic pottery making. And getting there turned out to be much easier than I had anticipated.

Even though I’ve lived here for over a year, I still get a bit confused by the public transport, especially the buses. They’re much more local, and most stops are written in Thai, unlike the BTS Skytrain. However, we figured out that we needed the yellow 166 bus from Victory Monument, which cost twenty-two baht.

Fortunately, the driver helped us out by letting us know where to get off and which direction to walk to reach the pier. The bus ride took about thirty minutes, and from there, it was a short walk to the Koh Kret ferry port, crossing the river only cost the grand price of three baht.

Riverside Cafés, Caricatures, and Hidden Treasures

Upon arriving at the island, we were offered bike rentals to explore, but we chose to embrace a walkable life and wander on foot instead, eager to stop at cafes and pottery workshops. Luckily, many charming little cafes were located close by to the pier. We turned left upon arrival and discovered two delightful spots with decking and seating extending over the river.

Both cafes were adorned with an antique store vibe, featuring a mishmash of unique items, hanging plants that shaded the dining areas, hammock swings, and cosy cushions on the floor for casual dining. The menu at the cafe we chose had a good selection of Thai dishes, and although the service took a long time, we definitely enjoyed the atmosphere and the food.

Market Magic and Street Food Surprises

As we explored the island further, we stumbled upon many more hidden cafes, each with beautiful, enticing decor and most located right on the river’s edge. We also discovered several temples and a charming market street lined with stalls and shops.

The market offered a mix of sweet treats, unique and rare street food, natural soaps, and cosmetics, featuring both the usual and the unusual market finds. One of the highlights was getting our caricatures drawn for just nineteen baht. It was such a fun experience, and I’m always amazed by how quickly artists can capture a likeness and bring it to life on paper.

A Pottery Tradition Worth Experiencing

While the island was perfect for wandering, relaxing in charming cafes, and exploring market streets, the main reason for our visit was to experience traditional pottery making. Koh Kret pottery is an ancient craft of the Thai-Mon people, with skills passed down through generations.

As you explore some of the island’s narrow lanes, you’ll find numerous small pottery businesses where you can watch locals skillfully shape earthenware clay on the wheel. The standout feature of their work is the intricate hand-carving done directly into the clay. For a modest fee, you can even try your hand at pottery, with experts guiding you through the process, making it an ideal experience for beginners. Additionally, you can purchase a variety of pottery pieces at great prices, with all proceeds supporting local artisans.

Before we got caught in the literal eye of the storm, this was the perfect warm day to explore the unique island of Koh Kret. I absolutely recommend it if you want a little break away from the bustle of Bangkok. Taking these short trips while teaching in Thailand has become my favourite form of stress relief.

Bangkok’s Green Lung: A Breath of Fresh Air

Breathing Easy in Bangkok’s Green Lung

Bangkok’s Green Lung, which has often been referred to as Bangkok’s oasis, truly lives up to its name. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling noise of Bangkok, this natural retreat could be just what you need.

Although it isn’t technically within Bangkok itself, it’s located in the metropolitan area, making it accessible within about thirty minutes, depending on your starting point in the city. The name Green Lung comes from the area’s shape; when viewed from above, the meandering river that surrounds it resembles a lung.

Scenic Cycling and Hidden Temples

Once you reach the ferry port, a round-trip ride costs just 40 Thai Baht, and the journey is quite short. After crossing, you can rent a bike for between 80 and 100 Thai Baht. Keep in mind that while these bikes are fine for a day, some may be a bit rickety, so make sure you’re comfortable with your bike before setting off. You can also request a map at the rental station.

There are several routes to explore, and I used the ‘Lonely Planet’ guide for my first visit. The suggested route takes you clockwise around the ‘island,’ which is both lengthy and incredibly scenic. The ride is mostly flat, so it’s not too strenuous. This route covers all the major tourist spots, however you can give the ‘Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery’ a miss and head for the temples, markets, and hidden cafes, making it an excellent choice for an initial exploration of the Green Lung.

Parks, Boardwalks, and Floating Market Treats

If you’re looking for a shorter route, I recommend heading straight from the bike rental shop. You’ll soon come across a park and botanical gardens, a delightful, traffic-free area perfect for cycling. You can explore the woods, climb up the watchtower for some birdwatching, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Just be cautious during the rainy season, as mosquitoes can be quite active on warm days. While the botanical garden might not dazzle with an abundance of flowers and flora, the landscape is still pleasant, with charming gazebos around the lakes and boardwalks enhancing the overall experience.

If you visit on a weekend, be sure to check out the ‘floating market.’ While it isn’t literally floating, it’s situated right by the canal, where you can relax at one of the charming cafes along the edge and enjoy a Thai tea. The market is modest and frequented by locals, so it’s less touristy, giving you a good chance to find bargains and sample delicious street food and fresh snacks. As a market fan, I found it to be a charming and impressive experience.

There’s no one right way to explore the Green Lung. Use a map if you prefer not to get lost or want to locate specific spots, but otherwise, just enjoy the ride and soak in the local atmosphere. If you’re comfortable on your bike, venture off onto some of the elevated walkways—they’re stunning and offer a glimpse into life in the Green Lung.

However, they can be a bit of a maze, so proceed with caution. When you’re ready, simply cycle back to the ferry port, return your bike, and head home to Bangkok. It’s a great way to spend a day.

Local Adventures to Balance Your Teaching Life

After spending time wandering the riverside cafes of Koh Kret and riding through the lush trails of the Green Lung, I’ve found that these local escapes bring a fresh perspective to busy weeks.

Teaching in Thailand isn’t just about work—it’s about discovering the little joys hidden in everyday adventures. All these I experienced while working with BFITS, so whether you’re taking a break from grading or planning your next class, weekend trips like these remind you why you chose to teach in Thailand in the first place.

So if you’ve decided to teach English, Science, Math, or any subjects in Thailand, or are already part of the growing community of teachers in Thailand, don’t forget to explore. Even a day trip can remind you of the beauty and freedom that comes with this incredible experience.