Downtown Phitsanulok: Mr Pumpy heads out of his hotel along the 'soi' (laneway).

Actually, this 'soi' could be just about anywhere in Thailand, as on the surface of it they all look the same. In fact they each have their own character, and it's fun to explore the different parts of any Thai city on a bike by sticking to these small laneways. Even though they 'bustle', the 'sois' aren't as noisy or oppressive as some of the main streets can be, and you're sure to find a nice quiet cafe, hairdressing shop or food market to park yourself in and while away a few hours.