Welcome to my Travel story

There’s a time of saying hello and a time of saying goodbye – last night we said goodbye to our dear friends Pintuwan and Jan and promised we would love to get back for the winter months next year!

Via Pintuwan we ordered our pick up to drive us back to Bangkok where we would be staying overnight for our flight on Friday. Our driver Mr Prawitt was well on time so we left Makmai Villa well before 9 a.m. Mr. Praait held a sign showing my name and that our destination was Hotel Royal Bangkok in Chinatown!

Halfway to Bangkok, we stopped for coffee and a croissant – and then further to Bangkok where we arrived at our hotel in Chinatown before noon!

The drive into Bangkok was most fascinating – all those high building were spectacular!

Our drive to Bangkok

Time to pay Mr Prewitt – with a generous tip!

Our hotel is situated right in the middle of Chinatown with of course loads of Chinese signs – we were really in China!!

Chinese new year celebration decorations are still abundant – and it’s the Year of the Rabbit !

One of the many gateways in Chinatown

Once we were settled in our room, we waited for Mr Ti who was supposed to come and pick us up with his TukTuk but as he didn’t turn up, we started walking to IFC (International Fashion Company ) where we had ordered various garments including leather boots and a suede jacket for Gerry! We had gone for a fitting before we left Bangkok to start our Thai Travels and we were to pick up everything when we got back prior to going back home!
Gerry was somewhat skeptic whether we would get delivered the goods we ordered! And yes we were pleasantly surprised that we did! I didn’t try on anything as I was too sticky from our walk but Gerry tried in one of his shirts, pants, suede jacket and boots – these were examples of good craftsmanship!

Ram who assisted us showing off the bag with Gerry’s suede jacket and Gerry with one of his new shirts

Gerry wearing his boots and shirt on his way back to NL

As we had quite a number of bags – including free gifts of a cashmere shawl for me and two silk ties for Gerry – we were offered transport back to our hotel in the company car! It seems we’ve been promoted to a “preferred customer” status!

Back at the hotel we rearranged our packing to include the new clothes and then went out to discover Chinatown!

We walked through the older part of Chinatown making our way to the river – actually I hadn’t eaten all morning so was looking for something to snack on. Although most of the food stalls looked interesting with all sorts of – Chinese – food it was completely different to Thai food!!

At one point we walked through a barrow street that only had shoe shops and stalls – and nothing else! Then onto a street where it was full of mechanics!!

All sorts of metal spare parts being sorted out!

Then we passed another alleyway where brooms and dusters were being sold –

By now we were in a very old area of Chinatown – the one storey buildings were similar to those we saw in Chinatown Singapore ( but those were well kept!)

Finally we were down by the river after we passed the Holy Rosary Church which was built by the Portuguese back in the 1700’shttps://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Rosary_Church,_Bangkok

The Church of the Holy Rosary

We stopped at the Coffee Club as by now I really was famished and ordered a chicken and avocado toasted sandwich. While we waited Gerry rolled a cigarette to smoke but was made aware that this area was non smoking – hence he had to get out of the terrace and move to the street to smoke!

My breakfast cum lunch at 4pm!

We were close to the river shuttle and saw quite a lot of activity on the river.

River scenes at rush hour!

It was time to walk back to our hotel and by this time it was close to 6pm and it started getting busy on the street food stalls – the smells and cacophony of food and people was quite overpowering!

Colourful tables and chairs, colourful people and colourful food too!

Evening traffic, decorations, gateways

As we approached closer to our hotel, all the sidewalks were filled with food stalls and decked with tables and chairs. Too much choice that it’s difficult to make a decision so we decided to have our cocktail and watch the world go by!

Urban jungle in Bangkok Chinatown and the sign to our hotel, Hotel Royal Bangkok, Chinatown.

Our last cocktail in Bangkok – G&T for Gerry and a Margherita for me ( the prices were similar to European prices!)

By the time we finally arrived at our hotel we were too tired to do anything else except to go up to the Sky Lounge and admire the view!

The street views from the 14th floor Sky Lounge at our hotel

We were supposed to try some of our new clothes and go out for a meal but we were too tired, still had to repack and shower that all I could think of was to get into bed – and it was only 9 pm!!

I set the alarm for 6.30 – our pick up was to arrive by 8 a.m. as it would take about an hour to get to the airport. We would have enough time for breakfast! I’m not too sure I am ready to face the cold weather back in the Netherlands !

Good night all!

Today we planned to visit the island of Koh Samet which lies off the coast of Rayong and only 15 minutes away by high speed catamaran. I had booked the tickets yesterday and our friend Jan offered to take us to the pier only 10 minutes away.
So just before 9 a.m. we were already downstairs waiting for our pick up and of course Jan has adapted to the Thai way of life that you always are on time. Pintuwan came along for company and it was good to see that she’s feeling so good! At the pier we exchanged our ticket confirmation for the real tickets and agreed with Jan that I would app them to let them know the time we would be returning in the afternoon.
As we had had no breakfast, and we were early, we ordered a take away coffee and for a really good croissant and for Gerry an almond filled pastry and took everything to the end of the pier and waited till we could get on board.

Lots of fishing trawlers we’re moored along different piers

It was fascinating to watch all the activities going on but by 10 a.m. we were on the way with two screeching blasts on the boat’s horn!

Scooters and trawlers lined the piers

Various scenes at Ban Phe harbour

The trip wasn’t more than 15 minutes and as we went along the Rayong coastline we spotted the condo tower where Pintuwan and Jan live! They are so lucky to live in such a beautiful area which is easily accessible to Bangkok as well as amazing national parks

Rayong skyline

Gerry making sure that our trip went well

When we arrived at Koh Samet pier, we were greeted by a large statue depicting the story of the giantess who kidnapped a prince and held him prisoner. I’ve read about this story or actually it’s a Thai poem from the 1800’s called Phra Aphai Mani which features Koh Samet in the story – besides the wicked giantess and the flute playing prince, there’s also a mermaid who helps the prince to run away from the giantess and helped by a hermit they escape to the island of Ko Kaew Phitsadan ( Magic Crystal Island) which was the former name of Koh Samet https://www.thaizer.com/why-are-there-statues-of-giants-mermaids-and-pipers-on-ko-samet/

The wicked giantess

Of course taking pictures of Gerry in front of the giantess when we landed shows his fetish for boobs!!!

Gerry and the boobies!!

When we got off the boat, we had to pay the National Park fee of 200 baht per person. The whole island is under the protection of the National Parks of Thailand. The nature here is considered to be so unique that the authorities decided that the island should be designated as a national park. However tourist industry is allowed on the island with some geographical restrictions. Kosamet.net

We walked through “ Samet City” , as the main town is know and we saw again various statues of the great poem I mentioned earlier – well I had read that we could rent a golf caddy to go around the island but these were stopped some time ago! There were loads of motorbikes to rent but being so close to the end of our travels, I just didn’t want to jinx the last few hours!!! So we walked which was also pleasant!!

More statues depicting the flute playing prince

Well we walked up “Main Street” filled with shops, bike rentals, taxi offices and coffee bars until we came to a square with signs about the National park.

We walked down a little alleyway filled with shops and ended up on the most beautiful sandy white beach!

Silver white fine sand, turquoise blue clear sea and enough sun shades and deck chairs to ensure a fabulous day on the beach

Various views from under the sun shade

We were able to swim in the lukewarm water abd also go for a walk along the beach – today was also a fruit day for us – first we had fresh mango juice ( how I’m going to miss this when I get back home!) , then a fruit vendor came along and we bought a packet of pomelo segments and mango pieces – all this fruit and juices for a total of 220 baht!! But then we had to pay for our deck chairs – 50 baht each!!

A very interesting thing I noticed was the fruit vendor had a QR code tag – which meant we could pay with our smartphone!! I had to take a picture of this!!

On my walk I came across another sculpture on the rocks – this time of a mermaid giving up her baby ( also out of the story of the wicked giantess and the flute playing prince)

The time we spent on the beach went really fast – soon we were packing our things to start walking along the beach to get to the pier on time for our 15.45 return trip to Rayong.

We were back Arcturus pier well on time to catch our ferry back to the mainland so we stopped at 7/11 supermarket for coffee and a snack.
The ferry was waiting to take us back and once again left promptly. That’s when I called Pintuwan let her know that we were on our way and that Jan could come and pick us up.

Leaving the island of the Wicked Giantess, our fast ferry waiting for us to board and then scenic short trip passing fishing areas and trawlers

Finally back on the mainland and within 5 minutes we were picked up and by 4.30 we were back at the hotel – enough time to relax a bit, shower, write some in my blog and get ready to go out tonight for our last meal with Pintuwan and Jan!

As I was on the balcony to hang out our towels, I saw that there was a beautiful sunset. I couldn’t go down 3 flights of stairs and be on time to take a picture of the sunset. So called Pintuwan to get some sunset pictures and here they are:

Our last sunset in Rayong – by coureur of my dear friend Pintuwan

Between writing in my blog, got things ready to go downstairs and wait to be picked up by Pintuwan and Jan – we reciprocated their hospitality by inviting then out to dinner – but of course they had to find which restaurant we would go to!

The chosen restaurant – Tamnanpar – is actually set in a man made jungle

We had a great meal all together – the ambiance, the company and the food was all superb!
Pintuwan did well to choose the various dishes which included fried rice in a pineapple, shrimp fish cakes, morning glory crisps, crispy fish flakes,mini grilled spare ribs, crab meat and a dessert of sweet potato balls filled with cashew nut paste. Of course all these dishes have proper Thai names which I cannot remember but everything was delicious. Pintuwan advised us which sausje went with each dish……….

We also took loads of pictures to cherish and promised each other we will meet again! Having special friends in any country makes that country feel a bit like home! And we were leaving a bit of home behind us when we leave on Friday!

Good company and good food!

And then our final photo together – Pintuwan is very good at taking selfies!

Au revoir good friends!

Jan drove us back to our hotel and we said our “au revoirs” – till we meet again dear friends!!

Tomorrow at 9 a.m we will be picked up and driven to Bangkok where we will be spending our last night before catching our flight back home!
Good night all!!

Once again I had set the alarm for 7 am as we had ordered our pick up for 9 am and I cannot rush Gerry to get ready on time – hence 2 hours should be sufficient! Actually I was up before the alarm went off and that was good as I could finish writing and updating my last blog!
Well by 7.30 , we were downstairs and were the first guests for breakfast – as everything was still so pristine, decided to take a few pictures!

We were the first ones to choose from the breakfast buffet

Back in our room, just the last few things to pack and called Reception desk to have someone come up to collect our luggage! We were on the second floor and no elevators!

Our pick up van arrived on time and we travelled luxuriously to the airport! We decided to get to the airport somewhat earlier as when I wanted to check in yesterday evening, we were put on the “standby” list. Anyway once at the check in desk there weren’t any problems – we checked in and then went through security.
Koh Samui’s airport is small but it’s had an upgrade in recent years and it’s pleasant to hang around as it’s all open air with good shading all round!

Boarding time was somewhat delayed but once it commenced, we were transported by an elongated caddy car to our propeller airplane!

When we lifted off, I was looking for the Big Buddha, but we had a different route in which I managed to capture two scenic spots – the Golden Temple and the sparkling white sandy beaches of Cheweng

Our Thai Airways flight was just over an hour and just imagine we were treated to a wam lunch in that time with coffee or tea! I do t believe that KLM offers such services on a short flight – you’re lucky if you get handed out a cookie with your bottle of water – or perhaps coffee or tea if they are feeling generous!

I’ve noticed this service minded Thai mentality during our travels – it’s just incredible how delightful it is to be greeted with a warm smile and “Sadaweka”.

Once we landed, our luggage was quickly on the transport belt and we were outside were we were greeted by our driver who was to take us to Rayong’s Makmai Villa Horel on the beach!

However, it seemed that our driver was taking a round about road which took us to the forest instead of following the coastline from Pattaya Airport to Rayong. According to my Google maps, our driver had a completely wrong route and instead of the travelling time was decreasing, it was increasing!!

To cut a long story, short, our driver had a route to another Makmai Villa in the Rayong Region and this was up in the mountains. To make matters worse, his GPS failed so he had to navigate on my smartphone!

After two hours we arrived in Rayong and we quickly got settled into our room at Makmai Villa – across the beach – and on the third floor without any elevator! We’re back to walking up and down quite a few flights of stairs before we leave Rayong!

I called Pintuwan that we were finally in Rayong and she asked us over! It was good to catch up with Pintuwan and Jan again!

Finally we could admire the view from Pintuwan and Jan’s terrace – a view we have often seen on FB!

Pintuwan was very attentive to Gerry’s craving for vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce and whipped cream – and as he had had no ice cream for the last couple days he gladly accepted!!

Gerry was spoilt when we went round to our friends, Pintuwan and Jan!

We made a dinner date for the same evening and Pintuwan’s Dutch Thai friends would be joining – in her own words, Pintuwan felt she was so lucky to have so many different friends visiting at the same time in Rayong!

The views on the backside of our friends’ condo

Back at Makmai Villa, we showered and got ready as Jan and Pintuwan were to pick us up at 6.30 pm to drive to the seafood restaurant.

This was our first sunset in Rayong – the colours were magnificent even though the sun was hidden by the clouds

We had a tasty seafood meal – all the Thai women knew exactly what to order and the dishes kept on coming……. We had shrimps, clams, crab, rock lobster, steamed fish and other dishes of which I don’t know the names

A collage of the various dishes

And the best of company

And it was hard work!!

Everyone having a good time

And this is what was left behind on our table – am sure the cats had a feast!!

Tuesday, 7th February

Our hotel is a very simple one with minimal requirements in the room but at least there’s a good bathroom with shower, airco, coffee and tea, and a balcony overlooking the tree line along the beach. But we were a short distance walk from Pintuwan and Jan’s condo.
Anyway, as I was up earlier, I decided to check the ferries to the island of Koh Samet which just lies off Rayong. We had talked about making a trip to this island on Wednesday and Jan had offered to bring us to the ferry just 10 minutes away. I did manage to get return tickets for us – and we were going to have a speed boat connection which only took 15 minutes.

The view from our balcony

So first things first, Gerry had to have his coffee and roll his cigarette to have his smoke on the balcony – it was not yet 8 am and the sun was already scorching!

Gerry deep in his thoughts while having his smoke!

Well we got ready – got our swimming gear with us as once we left our hotel room we were not planning to get back till after spending time on the beach – and went for breakfast. As this was not provided in the hotel, we walked outside and a few meters to the left, as Pintuwan had explained the evening before, there was a restaurant, Pama, who would be open for breakfast. Apparently lots of the expat community went there for their meals!

Breakfast with a view – American fried rice – not to be ordered again!

We did not make the best choice as the American fried rice was, according to my taste, just rice with tomato ketchup! But the coffee was good!

Anyway as we were finishing our breakfast I WhatsApped Pintuwan and she invited us to come over and have our second coffee at their place. We walked over the beach to reach their condo and at this time it was quite deserted!

The picture on the right show Koh Samet in the background and the one on the right just the endless beach!

At Pintuwan’s she made us a very good cappuccino and it was good just to chat about everything. Although it was a busy evening with friends, Pintuwan was up and about preparing our coffee. Before we left for the beach, we had to take a group picture on their balcony!

No worries – that’s a fake snake that Gerry had in his hands – Pintuwan has it lying on the terrace to scare birds away!!

The beach in Rayong is very long but to get to it, you just cross the road, walk through the slither of forest where some deck chairs and tables are set up by restaurant owners or even food trucks and then you’re on the beach!

Obviously there is enough choice where we can relax – only a few expats were there and the Thai people come down in the weekend!

This is where we sat under the trees where there was a cool breeze

And this was the neighbouring set up by a food truck!

As we had a late breakfast and then also a filling cappuccino at Pintuwan and Jan’s place, we did not need any lunch. I was enjoying my e-book and Gerry was catching up with the Ukrainian war news! However we did order two fresh mango juices from the restaurant – once again we had a liquid lunch!!

Mango juice – a healthy liquid lunch

While we were relaxing, Pintuwan and Jan came down to check on us! It was good to see Pintuwan on the beach and of course we had to have a picture of us both together on the beach!

The two diva’s!

After our friends left, Gerry and I went into the sea for a dip – and the water was warm!! It was like getting into a bath or actually a jacuzzi as there weee some small waves!

Different stages of Gerry on the beach!

And of course a selfie!!

By the time we had our swim the tide started ebbing away and it was interesting to see all the patterns and holes that the tiny transparent crabs made in the wet sand!

The intricate passageways and tunnels created by minuscule crabs on the wet sand when the tide ebbed away

After our swim we packed our things and made our way back to Makmai Villa by walking on the beach – all in all a great relaxing day and there were moments to cherish especially the ones with Pintuwan and Jan!

Back at the hotel, it was time to get ourselves coffee / tea and to shower! It was still too hot on the balcony so Gerry took his chair out on the veranda running at the back of the building – and it was cool here – it took the airco quite some time to bring the room to a comfortably cool temperature! By the time we left the hotel we had missed the sunset but the colours were still amazing.

Twilight over the beach

This evening we were having dinner together and I had googled where best we could eat within walking distance – found a couple of restaurants one of which was Nee Na . We walked further to see if there was anything more interesting but decided to go back to Nee Na. We had a simple dinner downed with beef for Gerry and Coca Cola for me!

We strolled back to the hotel after dinner and we did not stay up late as tomorrow we have an early start when Jan will pick us up to drive us to the ferry for our trip to Koh Samet!

Once again, we had a free day and it’s Saturday morning – our only commitment was to get to breakfast on time before the kitchen stopped serving. We thought of having a beach day today after our hectic day yesterday visiting the marine National park. However, by the time we got to the breakfast room overlooking the pool and the beach, practically all the sun beds were “reserved”! I must mention that there are many Germans ( young and old) staying at the resort……….

At 9a.m. the sun beds had already been “reserved”

By the time we had had breakfast, gone upstairs to change into our swim ware and brushed our teeth, the weather started changing – the blue sky was hidden behind menacing grey clouds which were quickly moving toward the beach. Anyway we had made ourselves comfortable on a couple of empty sun beds and had ordered our drinks when big rain drops started pelting down! We moved up to the terrace under the awning but we couldn’t keep ourselves dry – was this an example of a monsoon?

The skies turned grey and soon the rains came

So much rain – it looks like monsoon time!

We were really drenched but we finished our drinks before going up to our room to change into dry clothes and watch the rain from our balcony.

Luckily I had downloaded some new e-books so I started on a new book while Gerry caught up with all the news about the Ukraine. For me right now, I feel so distanced from the war going on in Europe and perhaps it sounds selfish, but I’ll catch up with in when we’re back home!

As we had had no lunch, I suggested an early dinner and by this time it was dry and mist tourists were out and about again. We decided to go back to the Kitchen where we had been a couple of days back and where we had a lovely dinner.

This time Gerry took the mixed skewer I had last time while I ordered grilled tuna ( rare) and salad to share with some appetizing crostini with Parma ham. This time no dessert for me but I wanted a double espresso while Gerry took one scoop of vanilla ice cream

Gerry thinking “how do I tackle this skewer” while I was ever so glad of my choice!

Finally we were served with our coffee and ice cream – and we had a right giggle!

I mentioned that I had ordered a double espresso so what did I get? Two espresso cups with coffee – that makes it double, right?

That’s my double espresso which I shared with Gerry even though he got his vanilla ice cream!

By the time we left the restaurant, it turned out to be a busy Saturday evening – so we went for a short walk and saw that a Thai Boxing competition was to be held later that evening – many spectators were expected as there were quite a number of chairs set out!
Anyway, we were not going to this event ……..

Sunday, 5th February: private trip to see Samui’s highlights

This morning we had set the alarm for 7 a.m. so that we could leisurely wake up have our coffee and get ready for breakfast so that we would be on time for our 10 a.m. pickup by our private chauffeur who would be driving us around the island for the next 6 hours!

With nearly an hour’s delay our chauffeur turned up – he had been given the incorrect pick up time ( 12 noon) but the company tijd us not to worry as our 6 hours started from the moment that the chauffeur picked us up!

Our first stop was at Lamai’s view point high up on the mountain where there was also zip lining. We took the cable car up the steep mountain but by then we had already walked some 150 meters uphill to reach the cable car station. The view when we finally arrived at the top was breathtaking!

YOLO – You only live once! That’s why we’re doing what we are doing!

The cable car squeaking up hill as we waited to go down from the viewpoint and the Valentine Rocks standing below.

Back at the parking area, our driver was waiting for us and he informed us that the next stop was the Snake Temple about 15 minutes away.

Various scenes at this temple complex which was built right at the seaside shoreline

Our next stop – also about a 10 minute drive – was at the Lord Warrior Temple built by the Chinese when they emigrated to the island.
I thought we were done with walking stairs today but we had already climbed some steps to reach the viewpoint cable car and now there was also a set of stairs on each side of the Lord Warrior outside the shrine.

Apparently Chinese – Hainan migrated to Koh Samui around 1872 and settled down at Baan Nakai, a little village outside Lamai. The Chinese migrants brought with them a small wooden statue of Guan Yu and had a shrine built for their prayers. In 2008, the wooden shrine was replaced with the current shrine by collecting donations from the Samui people abd hence a 16 meter bronze statue was built.

Another place of worship – Guan Yu Shrine revering the military general beliefs of being loyal, righteous and brave

How appropriate of us – today being Sunday – we are visiting so many places of worship! Fir such a small island , Koh Samui does have a concentration of temples.
Our next stop was at the temple of the mummified monk with sunglasses – Wat Khunaram – who died in 1973 . The mummified monk, Loung Pordaebg, is kept in an upright glass casket and surrounded by flowers, candles, incense sticks and fruit offerings.

Worshippers still bring offers to the mummified monk who apparently is believed to answer their prayers

By this time we had had enough of temples and needed to be safe n natural surroundings – and yes our prayer was answered – we were on our way to the Na Mueang Waterfalls.

This is a pretty waterfall gushing down some 18 meters to form pools among the rock formation. It was very busy with visitors all clambering over the boulders and even dipping into the pools ( didn’t like the colour of the water so we opted out of taking a dip?)

It was refreshing to sit fir a while here and just listen to the waterfall

Our driver was waiting patiently for us and actually it was good to get into an airconditioned car. It turned out to be quite a hot day!!!

Our next point of interest was the Big Buddha which was about 45 minute drive to the northern tip of the island. This is one of the star attractions of Koh Samui , standing 22 meters high abd to be reached by a wide staircase!
Actually this shrine – Wat Phra Yai – is more than the Big Buddha golden statue built in 1972. There are outbuildings, areas for prayer and contemplation and of course the necessary tourist shops. The large wheel was added a few years back and represents the Buddhist wheel of life.
Well when Gerry saw the big staircase, he had enough of stairs and stayed downstairs resting under a shady tree! The picture of him in front of the staircase proves he’s been to Big Buddha!!

The big staircase leading up to the Big Buddha with its back to the sea – hence my selfie overlooking the ocean

By the time we had finished we were running an appetite so we asked our driver to take us to a nice spot for a quick bite and asked him to join us – however he had already eaten while we were at the waterfalls!!

As we were driving, we noticed that the north eastern part of the island was more luscious and quieter than where we were staying in Lamai – if we come back we would prefer to stay in these parts of the island!

Well our driver came with the idea to take us to “Koh Kun” – or at least that’s what I understood!! He said we would really like it as there were picturesque views and the food was good. I tried to locate the place through Google maps but couldn’t find it – and anyway I know that Koh is an island in Thai language…….
Anyway our driver took us up a winding road and indeed the views were breathtaking ……… and we stopped at a restaurant called “The Cocoon”!!

What a lovely place to have a late lunch!

Spectacular views overlooking the airport and Chaweng Beach – but we also saw rain clouds gathering!

Back in the car, we would have enough time to stop at the Chaweng viewpoint for our last pictures of the day before returning to our resort in Lamai

Viewpoint at Chaweng – the hilltop in the background is where we had lunch!

After having been sightseeing for the past 6 hours, it was good to get back to our resort and relax. As we had a late lunch we weren’t hungry yet so we only went out after 8 pm for a stroll and a visit to the family or stalls down the road to listen to some music and have a bite to eat. Also it’s full moon and lots of tourists have made their way to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Parties!
Tomorrow we will be saying goodbye to the islands as we fly to Pattaya and drive down to meet up with our dear friends Pintuwan and Jan before returning back home!

Full moon over Lamai Beach

It was good to get up in the morning without having any commitments today except having a lazy day on the beach starting off with a great breakfast next to the pool.
On the way down, we passed through the gardens where one of the gardeners was tending to the luscious plants!

The gardener and his early morning duties

At breakfast we bumped into the Dutch couple whom we’ve been meeting since Kao Sok – they were actually leaving the Jasmine Resort today as it was officially their last day of their holiday but they extended their stay in Thailand and hence were moving to another hotel on the island. I learnt from them that nowadays the tourist visa is valid for 45 days instead 30 – we’ll even if we were tempted to extend our holiday, we had too many commitments when we got back to the Netherlands!

A fruity breakfast

There are a number of German guests staying in our hotel and most of them had already reserved sun beds on the beach strip in front of the hotel by laying their beach towels while having breakfast!! Ooh that made me so angry but anyway we enjoyed our breakfast and then went up to our room to collect our beach towels!

Luckily we found two unoccupied sun beds and settled ourselves on the beach. Actually I was still updating my blog for the previous 2 days and I thought I would be ready in an hour’s time – no such luck! WiFi was not too good on the beach and I just couldn’t upload any pictures – most frustrating so I decide to go for a walk on the beach.

We did some swimming together – it was quite a slope to get into the sea – but helping each other Gerry and I got into without a problem. Oh it was great to be swimming again however after a while we got out to relax on the sun beds – well for me it was working at updating my blog and getting frustrated that the WiFi was so slow!!!

By 4 pm we realised we had gone without lunch so we just settled for a denk at the outdoor bar – well Gerry had his usual and I just had water. ……… and finally managed to finish updating my blog and to publish it! Hip hip hurray!!!!

Back in our room, we decided to have an early dinner and I had looked up what seemed to be a good restaurant serving steaks ( for Gerry) – The Kichen – run by a Frenchman – and we had a superb meal! https://timesamui.com/place_the-kitchen-lamai-beach_1287

What a delicious dinner we both enjoyed!!

It was an early dinner as we wanted to go to bed early as our alarm was to be set for 6 a.m. This was because we were going on a whole day trip to the Angthong Islands Marine National Park the following morning and pick up was at 7.15 a.m.

However, we did go for a short walk before getting back to our resort and again I was astounded with all the lights, music and buzz of Lamai’s nightlife!

Nightlife on the streets of Lamai

Friday, 3rd February

The alarm went off at 6 a.m. I had a restless night waking up a few times thinking I missed the alarm! Any like a pair of zombies, we got ourselves ready to go down and wait for our pick up at 7.15

Apparently it had rained all night – the gardens and street were completely wet – but I never heard the rain pelting down, Gerry did! Anyway we picked up our takeaway breakfast box as we had ordered it because we were leaving earlier than the resort’s breakfast opening times! But even then, it was too early to eat anything!
Our driver was punctual and besides us, he had 3 more passengers to pick up from another resort and then still early, we made our way to Nathan Pier.

The interior of our pick up van was very luxurious!

We were the first ones to arrive and filled in the various forms ( for insurance purposes, we were told), paid our National Park entrance fee of 300 baht per person and once we got on board we were given life jackets – only to be used when being transferred in the long boats to the islands! This was a big slow boat to the archipel of 42 limestone islands where we would be visiting some to climb to view points and salt water lakes!

Quite a few slow boats moored and ready to take out guests for the day

Breakfast pack but first coffee on board!

In total we must have been some 30 passengers when we set sail. Most of us still somewhat sleepy, we enjoyed the calm sea as we left the pier and sailed towards the Angthong archipelago’s.

After sailing for a couple of hours we arrived at the first island where we would be climbing the 500 meters high cliff up to the view point. Luckily there were different view points at different heights – we only made it to the first 100 meter high view point!

Being transferred by longboat, we were packed like sardines – gave us a hint of how boat refugees feel when crossing over to a new life

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park https://www.thainationalparks.com/mu-ko-ang-thong-national-park is under the protection of the king who like his father supports projects to protect the Thai people from draughts, floods, famine and other natural catastrophes. This marine park is a perfect example of how nature is being protected in this country!

It was hot and humid hence we only got to the first view point, close moving many uneven steps – but the view was breathtaking just the same!

Back on the beach we lounged around till most of us were back from the 500 meter cliff climb. Not being sour grapes, but apparently the view was more or less the same as the first viewpoint- obviously the natural surroundings were different and finally right at the top there was no more green vegetation but just limestone rocks!

Once again we travelled per longboat to our slow boat where lunch was ready to be served! It seemed we all had worked up an appetite! It was an authentic Thai lunch with curried chicken, stir fried vegetables, boiled white rice, salad and fruit

Lunch on board our slow boat

Our next stop was to go kayaking and swimming on another island but there was so much to see when we were sailing! I took the video below standing on the top deck of our boat – we were surrounded by these small limestone islands!

By the time we stopped to drop off the first group of kayakers, the clouds started gathering and looked quite menacing – hopefully they would pass over!! But we weren’t really worried – we enjoyed the marvels of nature!

We continued sailing a little bit further where we dropped anchor and as we were in the second group we boarded the longboat to go ashore. Here we were going to climb up (again!) to the sea salt lagoon some 150 meters high – Ta Le Nai Lagoon

The lagoon was formed through fissures in the limestone rock whereby the sea rose and formed a salty lake

The view from the lagoon overlooking the islands and relaxing on the beach before the heavy rains came.

When the first group of kayakers arrived it had started pelting with rain – we all waited under the one shelter on the beach but the rain didn’t want to stop. It was over half an hour that the rain started easing so the second group could go kayaking – that was including Gerry and me but we opted out!!!

Just an observation from me – when we had gone to the National Park at Kao Sok, we bought a dry bag to put our stuff in it when kayaking – did we think we brought the dry bag with us today? No!! So most of our stuff in my ruck sack got soaking wet!!

Raining and swimming at the same time

It was good to get back on the boat where coffee and cake was awaiting us – we wrapped ourselves in our towels and started our way back to the harbour!

Everyone was quiet – we were all tired out from the fresh sea breeze and all the activities but it was great fun! The young staff on board were most friendly and helpful and I was most times aided by two young men getting in and out of the longboats!

Good to see Nathon Pier in sight – and the rains have stopped!

Our driver with his luxurious van was waiting for us so we got in and certainly our fellow passengers fell asleep straight away and had to wakened up when they arrived at their resort!
Gerry and I were happy just observing the Friday evening buzz and traffic jams – our driver got us back to our resort by following the back streets as the main road was stuck with traffic jam!
Happy to be back and able to shower – actually I treated myself to a relaxing warm bath!
Dinner was at the resort – we just couldn’t walk another step outside and actually my tiredness caught up with me – a restless night before and so much activities during the day, I was fast asleep by 9.30pm!

We had a simple meal – spaghetti marinara in white wine sauce for me and a basket of fish and chips for Gerry

Tomorrow will be a lazy day for us!

As I was up to date with my blog yesterday, I thought of updating it with yesterday’s events after we came back from the night market – alas the couple Basil Margheritas made me instantly sleep when I got into bed with my iPhone and iPad!

The breakfasts here at the resort are just the same as elsewhere – fresh fruit, yoghurt, fried rice or noodles, pancakes and eggs prepared to order! I stuck to my normal breakfast: fresh fruit, fried rice and salad and ordered an omelette ( which I gave to Gerry as he thought I had ordered it for him!!)

Right after breakfast we went for a walk along the beach – we could see the debris that the stormy sea brought back to the beach!

We saw all sorts of debris on the beach even sandals and wood covered with tiny shells

As we did not have our swimsuits and beach towels with us, I volunteered to walk up to our room to get everything while Gerry organised the deck chairs before they were all taken!

A peaceful morning went by quickly – it was sunny but the waves were too high for me to venture in the sea – listening to my Spotify list, reading my new book and generally being lulled into a gentle sleep by the sound of the waves crashing onto the beach!

The beach being beaten up by the wild waves

This is where we had lunch – when the tables were still safe on the beach – after our lunch the tables were all removed

Our pre lunch drinks – pina colada for Gerry and a mango Lassi for me

More relax time till we got ready to go to the night market. Our van with other guests was leaving the resort at 17.30 to the Thong Sala market close to the pier where we had arrived the day before https://www.welove-kohphangan.com/item/night-market-koh-phangan/.
It was interesting to see that just outside our resort there are quite some shops as well as a village which we will explore tomorrow.

Our van driver dropped us off just at the beginning of the market not far from the pier and he told us to be at the same spot by 9 pm when he would be returning to the resort. We all paid 800 baht per person for the round trip!

At the night market – full of food stalls, Jewellery, clothes and weed of all sorts

The spicy aromas from the different stalls was enough to make us hungry!

The only food we bought from the market stalls was sticky rice and mango with coconut cream – actually that was my treat which I’ve missed since we left Bangkok!

Me and my sticky rice and mango

We had walked the whole length of the market and decide walking back on the other side which was mainly filled with clothing stalls. We still had time so we decided to stop at a trendy restaurant and bar called Salt Salt. Seafood restaurant & bar 082 169 7762

This is we’re we enjoyed a couple of cocktails and some deliciously presented sushi’s and it was a delight being served by charming young staff.

Charming young lady serving us and cocktails for us – Gerry is back to G&T and I tried out the Basil Margherita – heavenly!

That’s me studying the menu and a picture of part of our order

Whilst enjoying our nibbles and drink we also had the time to enjoy the market from our table – as it got later more people were buying food!

After such a delicious meal it was time to get back to our meeting point. The driver and the van were there and in time the rest of the passengers arrived too! I slept most of the way back to the resort!!

Thursday morning was still quite stormy but that did not stop us from going down to the beach. Gerry definitely wasn’t going diving as the sea was still too rough.
Down at the beach, there were a number of swimmers who braved the waves and started jumping from the big boulder in the sea. A great past time for them but also for us!
Actually there is a rope dangling from the top of the boulder which makes it easy for the swimmers to climb one end and jump off the other!

When I shared the pictures below with my son and told him how we enjoyed watching the swimmers jumping off this boulder, he came back with the answer that he was at the same place 10 years ago and had jumped off that rock too!!!

After a late lunch, we were back in our cottage to start our packing routine – we had some laundry done here so we’re moving to our next destination with clean clothes. I’m getting to be an expert in efficient packing resulting in two big bags, one small rucksack for me and Gerry having his Apnea machine which he needs for his night breathing.

We both showered and by 6.30 pm we were down to the main area for dinner! I must say the staff here are so well mannered and helpful but again Gerry tips them generously – we were told that the tips went into one pot which end of the week was shared equally – very democratic!!

Gerry had a spicy vegetable dish with steamed rice while I had spicy noodles with shrimps and vegetables. As usual we had a great meal but as usual we missed our cocktails here and no vanilla ice cream for Gerry!

We settled our bill for our meals and drinks outside our breakfast and it came down to €160,00 including Gerry’s diving refresher training. Montalay is a family run resort with even grannie doing the accounting and keeping control of the staff!!

Tomorrow after an early breakfast we will be getting the shuttle down to the ferry – it’s goodbye to this lovely place!http://www.montalayresort-kohtao.com/

Friday, 27th January

Our alarm went off at 7 am and of course as always, I’m the first one to get out of bed! I got some water boiling for a coffee so that Gerry could have that with his first cigarette of the day – everything was packed the night before and all we needed to add were our toiletries! By 7.45 I was down at the reception area to ask that someone would collect our luggage from our cottage and take it to the shuttle van. I was one of the first ones at breakfast so choice enough for a table! Gerry joined later and as soon as one of the staff saw him coming they quickly got his coffee and orange juice! By 8.15 we were ready to head to the ferry – our luggage was already loaded onto the pick up truck and we waited a few more minutes for other guests who were leaving with us.

Breakfast buffet to be enjoyed by the guests and our luggage stacked on the pick up van.

Our last trip to the harbour went off smoothly – within 10 minutes we weee on the quayside and the driver picked up our luggage and headed towards the check-in. Here it was swarming with passengers – a catamaran ferry boat had just arrived and passengers were descending and grabbing their luggage which was waiting for them on the pier. Other passengers like me were checking in and exchanging their voucher for their ticket and shirt sticker displaying where they are heading to.
There were all sorts of passengers – locals and foreigners – with all sorts of luggage and carrying children either in baby sling carriers or backpacks and in buggies. Fingers crossed we all got on the right ferry!!

Luggage labeled according to the sticker handed out with the ticket

Sticker used for Koh Phangan and passengers waiting to board the ferry while the longboats lie idly next to the pier

When we were finally underway, it took us just over an hour to reach Koh Phangan and once we retrieved our luggage and walked down the pier, we were met by our pick up who would be taking us to our next resort for the coming 5 days – Havana Beach Resorthttps://www.phanganhavana.com/v3/index.php

Our pick up from Havana Resort advertising my name!

We had to wait for another couple with a young child and then we were off driving a 40 minute ride through the mountains. The ferry is on the west side of the island and our resort is on the east side so we had to go through the mountains to get there. From the map below you will see Thong Nai Pan Nou Beach – this is where Havana Beach Resort is located

Once we arrived at the resort, we were welcomed by a Dutch young lady, Leonie, who’s been working here for the past two years. She showed us to our room which is at the top of the hill meaning a great view of the bay but also walking up and down the hill to the beach and restaurants!!

So sweet to be welcomed with flowers on the bed – spacious room and terrace with a good view!

Once we had organised ourselves it was time to explore the beach – and have a spot of lunch!

Just as we had reached the restaurant we bumped into the Dutch couple ( who live on Ibiza) and actually were not surprised to see them as they too are doing the islands! It’s a small world!

Views of the wide shallow bay with fine white sand!

Of course we had to have a swim – in the lukewarm shallow sea! It was paradise! And then lunch with some cocktails – what is life good!!!

Stir fry for Gerry and papaya salad with shrimps for me ( I have to stop eating shrimps)

Sea, ice cream and selfies

We had a lovely easy going afternoon – I walked along the beach which was just marvellous and took some more pictures – we’re going to enjoy this place for sure!

After the beach it was time to relax in our room, shower and enjoy our terrace till it was dinner time! It was cocktail time for us before we were ready to enjoy a barbecue on the beach

Various fish to be bbq’ed – Gerry took red snapper and I took tuna

By the time we finished our meal we had still some energy over to take a stroll at the other end of the beach before we had our strenuous climb up the hill to our room!

and we made it without any problems! We sat for a while on our terrace and chatted with our Dutch neighbours before we called it a night!

Good night all from our first day in Koh Phangan !

As we are spending our time leisurely, I don’t have much to write about as it would all be repetitive – lying on the beach, going for a swim, reading, stroll on the beach all in between breakfast, lunch and dinner!!

However yesterday Gerry enrolled to take a refresher course for diving – he was together with a Canadian of similar age and they spent a long afternoon handling a multiple choice test, go through the equipment and first, geared up in their wetsuits, they took their first plunge in the swimming pool. Their young German instructor needed to know how familiar they were and they spent a good hour going through various manoeuvres.

By the time they came out of the pool, it was gone 5pm and they weren’t ready yet as the next part was to go into the sea! By that time I had gone up to our cabin to read. That meant I hadn’t taken any pictures!

It was gone 6 pm when I started wondering whether Gerry had made it back to the beach so I went down to the diving school and on the way I met the Canadian guy returning – I was relieved to see him and joked about how please I was that they hadn’t drowned!!
I found Gerry at the bar chatting to the Dutch couple whom we had met in Khao Sok and were also spending some time on Koh Tao.
Well Gerry was completely exhausted especially getting back to the beach with the waves beating him, it was all too strenuous – he had second thoughts of going out with the boat tomorrow for a dive near a wreck!!

We were staying at the resort in the evening as we planned an early night just in case Gerry changed his mind about going out for the dive!

13th Day – 25th January

Apparently we had torrential rain all night but as I had my earplugs in, never heard anything – I slept right through it and when I woke up at 8.30 I had to wake up Gerry to let him know that it started raining! That’s when he told me it had rained all night!!!

It had cooled down a bit and it was actually quite pleasant – the wet soil and trees had a dang earthy smell and I could just imagine the shrubs and trees feeling grateful for the rain. No wonder it’s all so lusciously green here!

By the time we wanted to go down for breakfast, it was dry – however the restaurant was full and we shared a table where a young German couple was sitting!
Something I like about this trip is that everyone is interested in their fellow travellers whether they are old or young. Where have you been, where are you going to? are frequent questions………

Well Gerry cancelled his second diving session but that was also due to the stormy weather. By the time we were back in our cabin it started raining again! And this time I did take a video even though the rain was not always visible but the sound of falling rain was crashingly loud!

With the rain pouring down, we just relaxed in the cabin however Gerry had to be out on the deck to have his smoke! It was clear that most of the guests were in their cabins as the internet was very weak! Anyway the rain cleared up round noon so I decided to go for a walk round the resort and even go down to the beach to watch the huge waves. The wind that was blowing was actually quite warm – like a hair dryer!!!

Scenes of stormy weather on the beach front

As the weather seemed to hold out, we decided to go into town and as there was no shuttle at that moment, we paid 50baht per person to have the pick up truck take us. While we were waiting, the Canadian couple joined us and they decided to go into town as well – they hadn’t been there yet.
When we were dropped off at the jetty, it was chaotically busy as a ferry had just arrived. Travellers, old and young with backpacks or gigantic luggage, were wandering around trying to find out with which pickup would bring them to their resort. These were the brave travellers as the sea was very choppy and there must have been a few passengers who were sea sick and now thankful to be on safe ground!!

Chaotic scenery at the ferry – tourists arriving and pick up shuttles waiting

Our next stop was at Cafe del Sol where I could charge up my phone while enjoying a cappuccino – and Gerry enjoying his second ice cream! While sitting there watching the world go by, we were surprised – or not – to meet up with the Dutch couple from Ibiza! They too had decided to leave the resort and wander around town!

Gerry enjoying his addiction to ice cream

We wandered around town and one thing for sure – there’s no lack of diving schools offering PADI certification and no lack of Thai food stalls if all sorts including juice bars with mounds of exotic fruits

Also as cannabis has been legalised there are quite a few shops that have sprouted in Thailand https://www.dw.com/en/thailand-legal-uncertainty-dampens-thriving-weed-businesses/a-64109306

Some time later it started drizzling so we decided ( as it was still early for dinner ) to have a full body massage. Massage parlours are fully abundant on the Main Street so it was quite difficult to make a choice ! The first one we tried could only squeeze us in at 8pm ( and it was only gone 5.30 pm)!! But the second massage parlour that looked decent could take us both in at the same time.
This parlour had four cubicles separated by curtains and we were led to the last two – as we were together the curtain between us was left open allowing more space to move around. Anyway we were given a really good massage; the masseuses using their body weight to put pressure on various pain points. We had a full hour massage and then we added a manicure and pedicure for the both of us – first time for Gerry to have manicured hands!!! And all this for only 1.600 baht for the both of us so we left a very generous tip for the girls!

By the time we were ready and feeling more supple, it was gone 7 pm so we decided to go to our favourite Italian Cafe del Sol for dinner https://www.cafedelsol.ws/

Once again we had a lovely meal starting off with our usual cocktails ( gin tonic for Gerry and for me a Mojito)- the photos above are evidence of our delicious meal; tuna steak for Gerry, mixed vegan salad for the both of us and for me a vegan spaghetti ( of which I forgot to take a picture as I was so hungry!!)

For desert we had a crème brûlée for me and of course a dame blanche for Gerry ( that’s an overdose of vanilla ice cream for him today!)

As we had still some time before we had to take our shuttle back to Montalay, we ordered an Amaretto as a digestieve together with the bill.

We had such a good meal – one can live and eat very comfortably here in Thailand – the same meal back home would be triple the price!! Should I seriously think of spending winter in Thailand? Or perhaps move here ? Life is good here – even when it rains!!!

Our shuttle arrived on time but this time Gerry and I climbed into the back as some young Germans decided to crowd into the cabin – showing lack of respect for older citizens!! But never mind, we enjoyed the ride feeling the breeze through our hair and feeling young at heart – and it was dry!!!

Good night all!

I just could not believe that I woke up at 8.30 a.m. – I slept nearly 12 hours!!! And Gerry was already up having his coffee! I was quite groggy from my long sleep but that was soon over when I was sipping my tea on our verandah………

When we finally made it to breakfast it was 9.30 am – it’s great just to do things leisurely! Our waiter who had served us last night and had received a generous tip from Gerry, came straight to us with a wide grin across his face – he showed us to a table and went to get us fresh coffee and fruit juice. I guess tipping well in the beginning ensures that you’re provided with excellent service!

I have not mentioned it earlier, but while we’ve been out in Thailand, Gerry received the news that his only surviving uncle passed away and today the family was holding the cremation service back in the Netherlands. So when I asked what Dutch people would be doing on a Monday morning, Gerry mentioned that some would be going to a funeral.
So after breakfast and in honour of “Oom Rob”, we went down to the beach to build a cairn in his memory – we didn’t find any rocks or pebbles but dried coral so we used that to make our memorial tower.

Going back to our bungalow we had a lovely walk through the gardens – so luscious and green! We also discovered a lovely Buddha statue sprawling on a rock just outside our bungalow as well as an interesting tree with strange roots

Back on the beach we found two chairs and a little table in de shade of the tree and that’s where we spent most of the day, watching other bathers who were also snorkelling and the boats coming and going with scuba divers.

This time I did go in for a swim and the sea was very enticing – both Gerry and I just felt relaxed floating in the warm sea.

It was quite a repetitive time we spent on the beach – swimming, watching the world go by, taking a stroll along the beach and drinking (and eating) fresh coconut!

Around 3pm we went up to the restaurant for some fresh fruit juice before we went up to our bungalow for a shower and to get ready to take the shuttle down to the main town.

All healthy liquid snacks and lunch!

Our shuttle left on time and actually it was quite crowded – once again Gerry and I sat in the cabin and at the last moment we had a young Spanish girl sitting between us. We tried to make conversation with her but she didn’t speak a word of English!! I was quite surprised that a young person is travelling so far and doesn’t have a second global language – I don’t think that Thai people speak Spanish……

Within 10 minutes we were back at the harbour were we arrived yesterday but this time it was not chaotic at all. We agreed with the driver that we would take the 9pm shuttle back to the resort together with some other guests. We then went for our walk around town which was quite busy. Every other shop was a diving school or a scooter rental and we had to look out for the scooters when just walking around the narrow streets !
Of course there were quite a number of seafood restaurants and Thai food. However, after a while Gerry decided he had a craving for vanilla ice cream! So we tried to find a coffee shop that would have ice cream – we came across Cafe Amazon ( which is a chain here in Thailand) but they only had pastries so we continued our search and on the main road we found an authentic Italian cafe…. And what did he have on his menu? Dame Blanche!! Just in time as Gerry was going cold turkey not having had a vanilla ice cream in a number of days!! Well I am not an ice cream fan so I opted for a Mojito – after all it was long gone cocktail time!!

Besides having excellent ice cream, this Italian cafe called Cafe del Sole, also had excellent WiFi and I could complete yesterday’s blog without too much hassle. Also finally I’ve managed to update my blog on my iPhone!!

As both Gerry and I were catching up with our social network, we decide to have dinner at this cafe / restaurant and we ended up having a super delicious meal. Apparently the owner is an authentic Italian from Napoli and we saw some tasty pasta dishes and pizza’s coming along. Anyway we choose a green salad, tenderloin steak for Gerry and a tuna steak for me! Well prepared and super delicious!

Well after dinner, it was time to make our way to the harbour where our shuttle was to pick us up. Some other guests were already waiting and not too long after, at exactly 9 pm, the pick up truck arrived.

Our drive was an easy one – no scooters on the road and certainly no cars!!! The road is wel lit especially the hairpin bends so we felt at ease! In no time we were back at the resort and we went straight to our bungalow where I now am finishing off my blog for today!