How to bicycle from Bangkok to Singapore — even if you’re not fit
A British expat explains why he made the solo 2,481-kilometer journey south and offers tips for cyclists who want to follow his trail
Proud after completing his cycling itinerary, Moody poses next to a giant crab.
I never thought I'd be able to say that I've cycled from Bangkok to Singapore.
It all started when the opportunity arose to buy a decent mountain bike from a friend who was leaving Bangkok, combined with a simple desire to lead a more healthy life.
Immediately, it felt like a collar had been lifted from around my neck and I could properly explore the city, sightseeing while exercising, when I wasn't teaching. I was enjoying it so much I decided to plan a cycling holiday that would involve peddling 750 kilometers from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
After spending hours cycling in soaking wet shoes, British expat Moody started wearing this sexy footwear.
But two days before my departure, northern Thailand's flood situation forced me to alter course and cycle south instead, from Bangkok to Koh Lanta (850 kilometers).
Then, the government announced schools in Bangkok would be shut for two extra weeks due to the floods.
Taking advantage of the extended break, I decided to cycle to Singapore, via Kuala Lumpur, using my journey to raise money for "For Life Thailand," a children's care home for disabled and disadvantaged children.
Preparing for the trip
Let's make one thing clear. As a child I enjoyed biking, but I've never been that fit and would say I probably cycled less than 500 kilometers in the five years prior to setting south.
But I started training six weeks before push-off. Every Sunday became a bicycle exploration day.
Journeys of 50-80 kilometers took the whole day to complete, giving me a chance to see the suburbs and some pretty out-of-the-way corners of Bangkok. I also cycled short distances around the city every other day.
The Journey
In the end, I traveled 2,481 kilometers in 17 days of cycling (my trip took 30 days total), averaging 145 kilometers a day.
The journey took me across Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. For me, it was always about completing the mission over sightseeing, but it's impossible to miss the awesome scenery as you cycle through it.
Highlights
Thailand
Samut Songkhram "railway track" Market
Set right smack on a railway track, this market temporarily folds away every time a train passes through, and reassembles on the track immediately after.
Cha-am fishing harbor
The Cha Am fishing harbor has long twin piers and more than 100 beautiful wooden fishing boats.
A shelter with beer can walls. "This was particularly interesting because things like this were attempted at university but nothing ever turned out this good," says Moody.
Wide open spaces
As expected, I cycled through plenty of open countryside. Especially between Surat Thani and Krabi town. There were sections of road where I didn't see a side stall for many kilometers. Just me and a bike in places. No one stops, which is daunting but inspiring.
Malaysia
Penang Bridge
On the Penang Bridge connecting Butterworth to Georgetown I measured 8.3 kilometers of water under the bridge when I traveled its length at sunrise. If I had to choose one highlight, this would be it.
Perak Cave Temples
The beautiful Perak Cave Temples feature detailed paintings and statues, including a 12-meter-high Buddha.
Melaka
Melaka is a beautiful city on the south coast. It's been influenced by European styles resulting in an architecturally appealing city center with a wide range of eateries.
Long-distance cycling tips
"Getting my bike cleaned at the Hat Yai Mountain Bike Shop. Fast, thorough and cheap," says Moody. "I had worn through the top cog on the rear wheel."
1. Have a reason to do it. Mine was raising money "For Life Thailand" and it made carrying on much easier when I got discouraged.
2. Set yourself a destination each day. One day, after cycling 220 kilometers, it was 10:30 p.m. and I had nowhere to stay. The kindness of a local family saved me from sleeping in a doorway.
3. Buy all your tools in advance. I recommend carrying two spare inner tubes otherwise you might find yourself having to fix a puncture in the dark or rain.
4. Carry a good mobile phone. Mine was vital. It was my GPS, map, music (no music = bad) and allowed me to tweet my location as I rode (so mum and dad could see where I was).
5. If you're planning to bike in hot climates like Thailand and Malaysia I wouldn't recommend tight-fitting cycling clothes. The most comfortable thing I wore was my old baggy swimming shorts and Chelsea top.
6. Cycling in the rain is horrible. Avoid it if you can.
