Foto Ban Ao Thong

Trang is a sleepy rural town in southern Thailand that doesn’t have a huge amount to commend it; true, it is the home of the first ever rubber tree to enter Thailand, is well-known for its dim sum and particular style of a very tasty crispy pork - but It also possesses a one-way system which would baffle a London taxi driver and, once finally negotiated, bizarrely displays a sign stating ‘Trang Bypass Route this way’…. Having said that, it is certainly an excellent place for an overnight stop when motoring to or from Malaysia, and - having done it a few times now – I can certainly recommend the Ban Ao Thang hotel. Right in the centre of town adjacent to the railway station, it has masses of free parking outside and gives easy access to the local markets – and KFC! The rooms are basic rural Thai; somewhat depressing in decor but extremely clean and comfortable. What makes this hotel, however, is the bar life and restaurant. Situated on the veranda, the staff can mix an incredible array of cocktails, provide extremely well cooked food from a surprisingly large menu and – if that was not enough – entertain you with a one man band! The staff are of course extremely polite and obliging – as is generally the case in Thailand – and it is worth having a look at the contents of the hotels wine collection, another area of interest in this remarkable little hotel. Go - you won’t be disappointed.