September in Salaya: Uncover Nakhon Pathom's Hidden Gem!
September in Salaya: Uncover Nakhon Pathom's Hidden Gem! (A Review from a Real Person, Probably Eating Pad Thai Right Now)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a whirlwind stay at September in Salaya, and I'm ready to spill the tea! This place? It's… well, it's not the Four Seasons, alright? But that’s precisely why I loved it. It's got charm, it's got quirks, and it's got a whole lot of heart. And hey, it's in Nakhon Pathom, which is, let's be honest, a bit off the beaten path. But trust me, it's worth the detour.
First, let's address the elephant in the room: Accessibility. I’m happy to report they’ve made a decent effort. The website says "Facilities for disabled guests," and while I'm not disabled, I did poke around. The elevators are there (thank god! I'm not climbing stairs in this heat!), and the public areas seem fairly navigable. I’d recommend calling ahead and asking specific questions, though. Definitely worth it.
Getting There: Getting to September in Salaya is… an adventure. Okay, maybe not Himalayan trekking, but it's not exactly a hop, skip, and a jump from the airport. Airport transfer is available, thank goodness, because navigating Bangkok traffic solo isn't my idea of fun. Car park [free of charge] is a major plus, especially cause you're gonna need it to get around.
The Room (aka My Little Sanctuary): Now, let’s talk about the room. My room, anyway. I opted for a non-smoking one because, well, lungs. It was clean, thankfully. And you know, the air conditioning worked like a charm. That's non-negotiable in Thailand. I had a window that opens, which is a nice throwback, I gotta tell ya. There’s a mini bar, refrigerator, and coffee/tea maker for those late-night cravings. Honestly, I practically lived on the free bottled water. Gotta stay hydrated, folks! They also offer complimentary tea, which is a nice touch. Plus, I gotta give a shout-out to the blackout curtains– essential for sleeping in after a long day of exploring.
Internet, Internet, Internet! Okay, okay, I know, it’s 2024, but internet access is always a concern. And, good news! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise the gods! I mean, Internet access – wireless worked perfectly fine, and I was able to stream my shows without any buffering. There's also Internet [LAN] if that is more your scene, I imagine.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (My Favorite Category!)
Let's be real, this is where the heart of any good hotel truly lies. The food! The bar! The general ability to stuff your face without leaving the premises!
- Restaurants: There are several restaurants. And listen, the food was… good. Not Michelin-star good, but genuinely satisfying. I loved the Asian breakfast– the congee was a game changer. The Asian cuisine in the restaurants was also a win. The International cuisine in restaurant was okay too -- not a bad pad thai, but nothing to write home about.
- Poolside bar: This place is the real deal! Sitting by the pool, sipping a cocktail, watching the sun dip… pure bliss. The poolside bar served up some killer cocktails. Their Happy hour deals are definitely worth taking advantage of.
- Breakfast [buffet]: The breakfast [buffet] was… well, a buffet. You know the drill. Plenty of options, from the usual Western breakfast fare to some delicious Asian breakfast staples.
- Room service [24-hour]: YES! Room service [24-hour] is a necessity. I may or may not have ordered Pad Thai at 3 am. Don’t judge.
- Coffee shop: A nice little coffee shop to grab coffee and snacks.
- Snack bar: Perfect for those midday cravings.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax (aka, the "Spa" Section)
Alright, so this isn't a hard-core wellness retreat, but there are options to unwind.
- Swimming pool: The Swimming pool [outdoor] is a decent size, with a lovely Pool with view.
- Spa: They have a Spa.
- Massage: I got a massage. Seriously. The best. The pressure was perfect, and I walked out a new human. Seriously consider it.
- Sauna: The Sauna was a nice bonus.
- Fitness center: They have a Fitness center.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, You Know, It's Important)
I was pleased with their hygiene measures, but look, I'm a person with a brain, and I can read. They've really invested in safety, which is reassuring.
- Staff trained in safety protocol.
- Daily disinfection in common areas.
- Rooms sanitized between stays.
- Hand sanitizer everywhere.
- CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property.
Services and Conveniences (The Nitty-Gritty)
- 24-hour Front Desk is always a lifesaver.
- Luggage storage is a must.
- They offer Laundry service and Ironing service – because wrinkly clothes are my kryptonite.
- Daily housekeeping keeps things tidy.
- Cash withdrawal is a plus.
For the Kids
I didn't bring any kids, but they seemed kid-friendly.
- Family/child friendly.
The Quirks (Because No Place is Perfect)
Okay, so here are the things that might bother you.
- The decor is a bit… dated. Think early 2000s elegance, with a touch of Thai flair. It's not ugly, just… uninspired.
- The service is friendly, but it’s not always lightning fast. Be prepared to chill out and embrace the Thai philosophy of “mai pen rai” (no worries).
Final Verdict and Why You Should Book (Especially in September!)
Look, September in Salaya isn't flawless. But the downsides are easily outweighed by the positives. The staff are friendly, the food is good, the location is convenient for exploring Nakhon Pathom, and it offers a relaxing escape that is perfect for the low season.
Why September?
- Lower Prices: September is usually in the shoulder season, so you’ll likely score better deals.
- Fewer Crowds: You'll have more space to yourself at the pool, the spa, and the restaurants.
- The Weather: The heat is still intense, but the rain is less frequent.
My Recommendation:
If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable, and charming base for exploring Nakhon Pathom, book September in Salaya. Embrace the imperfections, relax, and discover a part of Thailand that’s often overlooked.
Here's your call to action (and a little bit of salesmanship, because hey, I gotta get paid!):
Book your stay at September in Salaya this September and receive:
- 15% off your room rate!
- Complimentary breakfast daily. (Asian or Western, your choice!)
- A free welcome cocktail at the poolside bar!
- PLUS, a voucher for a 30-minute foot massage at the spa to help you unwind after a day of exploring!
Click [link to book] now and use code "SALAYASEPTEMBER" to claim your exclusive offer!
Don't delay, this offer is only valid for bookings made in the month of September!
So go on, you deserve a little escape. And I hear the Pad Thai is calling…
Shimla's Boom Stays: Unforgettable Mountain Memories Await!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's perfectly polished itinerary. We're heading to September in Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. Prepare for a rollercoaster of delicious food, questionable decisions, and the inevitable existential crisis brought on by too much heat and not enough sleep.
The September Salaya Shuffle: A Trail of Pad Thai and Regret (Maybe)
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Mango Sticky Rice Debacle
- Morning (Haze, Heat, and a Prayer): Touchdown at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Okay, first impression: humidity levels rival a tropical swamp. My hair immediately transforms into a frizzy, sentient being. Navigating Bangkok is always a chaotic dance. I swear, the taxi drivers here are either master negotiators or the reincarnation of the Tasmanian Devil. We finally arrive, sweaty and slightly delirious, in Salaya after like, 4 hour.
- Afternoon (Temple Temptation and Taxi Trauma): We check into our airbnb. First thought: "Thank god for air conditioning!" Second thought: "Did I pack enough mosquito repellent?" We attempt the local temple - Wat Salaya. The place is stunning, all gold and intricate details. I try to look respectful, but a rogue mosquito dive-bombs my ear and threatens to shatter my zen. I'm defeated. Then we get a ride and the driver doesn't understand where we want to go.
- Evening (Culinary Catastrophe and Sticky Rice Salvation): Dinner! This is where it all falls apart. I'd read rave reviews about this little stall on the side of the road that supposedly served the best Pad Thai in the world. I'm always up for a challenge. The Pad Thai itself was… okay. Nothing spectacular. But the mango sticky rice? Oh, the mango sticky rice! Sweet, creamy, perfectly balanced. My tastebuds did a happy dance. I ate two servings, practically inhaled them. I'm pretty sure I got rice stuck in my teeth. I immediately regretted it as my stomach started to grumble ominously later that night. Note to self: pacing is key. And maybe carry some antacids.
Day 2: Floating Markets & The Existential Crisis of a Souvenir T-Shirt
- Morning (Early Bird Catches… Nothing but Sunstroke): We decide to visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Stupid, stupid idea. I thought I'd be charmed by the quaint boats selling exotic fruits and flowers. Instead, it's a throngs of tourists, overpriced souvenirs, and the overwhelming smell of exhaust fumes. It's basically Disneyworld, but on water and with less sanitation. I feel my sanity slowly seeping away as I dodge selfie sticks.
- Afternoon (The Search for Authentic Thai Food… Again): Seeking redemption, we venture off the beaten path. We end up at a tiny restaurant, and the food is actually… good. Real good. I order the green curry and it's like a flavor bomb exploding in my mouth. I almost cried. Then I decide to buy a "I Love Thailand" t-shirt. Am I a total tourist cliché? Yes. Do I regret it? Maybe.
- Evening (Sunset Serenity… or Mosquito Massacre?): We try to find a quiet spot to watch the sunset near the river. Turns out, quiet doesn't exist in Thailand during mosquito season. They attack with the ferocity of a thousand tiny vampires. We retreat indoors, defeated, swatting and scratching. Decide to order in. Pad Thai again? Don't judge me.
Day 3: Temples, Temples, Everywhere & The Art of Bargaining (Or, My Complete Ineptitude)
- Morning (Temple Hopping & Spiritual Confusion): Back to Wat Salaya again this time! This time, I'm more prepared, slathered in mosquito repellent (which probably contains enough chemicals to give me superpowers). I try to meditate, but my monkey brain is too busy wondering if the monks are judging my questionable fashion choices.
- Afternoon (The Bargaining Game and My Failures): This is where I attempt to acquire trinkets for family back home. I spot a beautiful piece of silk and confidently walk towards the stall. I try to bargain, but I'm about as convincing as a toddler asking for a cookie. I end up paying way more than I should have, feeling both ripped off and somehow incredibly charming in the process. I need to take a bargaining class.
- Evening (Food Coma & Philosophical Musings): Dinner is at a local Thai restaurant: fried basil chicken with rice. Delicious, once again. This country really knows how to do food. So, after the food, there's nothing much to do but ruminate on the meaning of life, global warming, and the fact that I’m probably going home with a suitcase full of regrets and mango sticky rice-induced bellyaches.
Day 4: University & Departure (Maybe I'll Miss It?)
- Morning (University Vibes): I decide to take a walk near Mahidol University. I want to embrace the local living a little. I walk around the campus, and there is a sense of peacefulness. I think to myself: Maybe I can live here.
- Afternoon (Last-Minute Shopping & Panic Packing): I have a few hours left, so I go to the market and buy a last-minute gift. The panic is real! Did I buy the right things? Will everyone like them? Is there room in my suitcase for this extra bottle of fish sauce I acquired? I start throwing things into my suitcase like a tornado. The result is a chaotic mess.
- Evening (Goodbye, Salaya): Leaving Salaya feeling a mix of relief and melancholy. I can't deny it; I'm ready for a proper shower and familiar bed, but I'm also already missing the energy, the food, and the sheer, unpredictable chaos. Time at the airport. Waiting. Goodbye, Salaya. Until next time, Thailand.
September in Salaya: You Want the Raw Truth? Let's Dive In!
Is September a good time to visit Salaya, Nakhon Pathom? Like, *really* good?
What should I pack? (Besides a hazmat suit for the humidity)
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing: Seriously, pack clothes that actually *dry*. Cotton is the enemy in this humidity. Think synthetics, or quick-drying blends. Because you *will* get wet.
- A really good umbrella: Not one of those flimsy things that folds in on itself at the first gust of wind. A sturdy, dependable umbrella – you'll be using it *constantly*. Consider a rain jacket too.
- Waterproof shoes: Flip-flops are fine, but something with a bit more traction is a good idea. Trust me, the sidewalks can get slippery!
- Insect repellent: Mosquitos are abundant, and nobody wants dengue fever.
- Sunscreen and a hat: Despite the rain, the sun can still make an appearance, and when it does, it's brutal.
- A sense of adventure: Seriously. Because you're going to need it.
- And, OK, a camera: Because even though the weather is dodgy, the culture, the food, and the people are totally worth capturing.
What activities are available in Salaya during September? Anything *besides* dodging rain clouds?
- Mahidol University: Explore the campus (great for covered walkways!), check out the museums, and soak up the intellectual vibe. Plus, the cafeteria is a goldmine of cheap eats. Seriously, that pad thai… I still dream about it.
- Local Markets: Some are covered, some are not. But all are a sensory overload in the best way possible. Fresh fruit, spices, street food… be adventurous! Just keep an eye on the sky.
- Wat Phra Pathommachedi: This iconic stupa is a must-see, regardless of the weather. Just be prepared to navigate a few puddles.
- Cooking Classes: What better way to spend a rainy afternoon than learning to cook authentic Thai food?
- Spa Treatments: Because you deserve it. Let the stress of the weather melt away.
What's the food scene like? And more importantly, where do I find the *good* stuff?
My Pad Thai Pilgrimage: Let me tell you about this ONE place near the university. It was a small, unassuming stall. Yellowed plastic tables and chairs. Not particularly clean. And the *best* pad thai I've ever tasted. Seriously, the noodles were perfectly cooked, the sauce had the right balance of sweet, sour, and spicy, the peanuts were crunchy... I'm drooling just thinking about it. I went there almost every day. Even in the pouring rain. The old lady running it barely spoke English, but her smile was infectious. And that *taste*… that's something I'll never forget. I desperately hope it's still there. It’s a testament to the power of good food.
General Food Tips:
- Explore the markets: That's where the real gems are.
- Don’t be afraid to try anything: You might just discover your new favorite dish.
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases: "Aroi mak mak" (delicious!) goes a long way.
- Be wary of the spice level: Thai food can be *seriously* spicy. Ask for "mai phet" (not spicy) if you're not a chili fiend.
How do I get around? Is it all just a wet, crowded, chaotic mess?
- Songthaews (Red Trucks): These are the lifeblood of Salaya transportation. Cheap, cheerful, and often packed. Be prepared to squeeze in. They operate on routes, so just flag one down and tell them where you’re going.
- Taxis and Ride-sharing: Available, but not always as readily available as in Bangkok. Be prepared for potential surge pricing during heavy rain.
- Motorbike taxis: For shorter distances, these are convenient (and fast!). Wear a helmet!
- Walking: When it’s not torrential, it’s actually quite pleasant (and you'll get exercise!).
- Busses: The public bus system can be helpful and cheap.
Pro Tip: Learn a few basic Thai phrases for directions. It’ll save you a headache (and potential overcharging). And always, *always* negotiate the price before getting in a taxi or motorbike taxi.
What’s the worst part about visiting Salaya in September? And be honest!
