Embark on a journey across Asia with your closest pals in the movie 'Friendzone'

Not just about friendship and love, the main actors also take the audience on a tour to explore the beautiful sceneries of Asia.

Travel across Asia with your best pals in the film 'Friendzone'

In the movie, airline steward Palm (Nine Naphat) and Gink (Baifern Pimchanok) have been best friends since high school, taking 10 years to become lovers. Throughout those 10 years, the duo traveled across Asia, visiting numerous countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia... with the most notable destinations being Krabi (Thailand), Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar), and Hong Kong.

Krabi – Thailand

While the film was primarily shot in Thailand, most scenes took place in Krabi – a southern province located about a 1-hour flight from Bangkok. This is where Gink chose to unwind after heartbreak. Blessed by nature, Krabi is one of the ideal tourist destinations for nature enthusiasts when visiting the land of golden temples.

Experience the serene beaches of Krabi, known for its tranquil mud-filled shores, attracting fewer crowds for peaceful sightseeing. However, it's also hailed as one of Thailand's finest snorkeling spots, near Koh Phi Phi. Diving tours typically commence at 5 a.m., with travelers swaying on the waves for about 2 hours before reaching the destination. The vivid azure sea and diverse ecosystem mesmerize divers.

Krabi borders Phuket to the west but isn't connected by land. To expedite travel, one must ferry across the sea. Alternatively, for the leisurely traveler, renting a car or motorbike and traversing the 160 km road from Krabi to Phuket is an option. The asphalt road passes through three national parks: Than Bok Khorani, Ao Phang-nga, and Sirinat. Lined with straight, tidy trees, the route exudes romance. It's also where the film's funniest scene unfolds, as the main characters joyride around Krabi on a motorbike, amusingly taunted by mischievous monkeys.

Swimming in waterfalls, elephant trekking, and visiting Tiger Cave Temple are three must-try activities for any traveler exploring Krabi. To reach the natural pools nestled deep in the Khlong Thom rainforest, trekking is necessary, offering a chance to witness breathtaking sunsets. For the less adventurous, renting a motorbike or opting for a half-day tour is advisable. Entrance fee is 200 baht (140,000 VND).

Shwedagon Pagoda – Myanmar

The film depicts several scenes of the main characters praying at Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar. This renowned global tourist spot is revered as the most sacred Buddhist temple in the region. It houses four precious relics for Buddhist devotees: the staff of Gautama Buddha, the water filter of Konagamana Buddha, a piece of robe belonging to Kassapa Buddha, and eight strands of hair from Kakusandha Buddha.

According to legend, the temple is 2,500 years old. However, archaeologists estimate its construction began in the 6th century. Royal members donated vast amounts of gold, surpassing their own weight, to gild the pagoda. Hence, it's also known as the Golden Pagoda. At night, the illumination makes the temple gleam. Visitors must dress modestly or rent/buy sarongs (fabric wraps for the lower body) at the ticket counter before entering.

Hong Kong

Moreover, the film captures the bustling streets of Hong Kong, showcasing the iconic flashing neon signs that adorn every corner of this fragrant harbor city. Especially when Gink climbs onto the frame of a billboard while sitting on the second floor of a tram, it sends shivers down viewers' spines. Trams are a longstanding mode of transportation in Hong Kong, still running on old railway tracks slowly weaving through the streets. The most fascinating aspect of riding a tram is that you not only get to hear the history of Hong Kong narrated but also enjoy the scenery while strolling through the streets. The tram takes you past most of the city's major tourist attractions at a fare of 2.6 HKD/way for adults (approximately 6,800 VND), 1.3 HKD/way for children (approximately 3,800 VND), and 1.2 HKD/way for seniors (approximately 3,500 VND).

By Vi Yến/Ngôi sao

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Reference: Travel Handbook by Mytour