Week 8 Koh Phangan, Thailand

Dear Ethel, family and friends,

The week has rushed by, last week we were in Ao Nang and on Thursday we journeyed, by way of 2 minivans, a bus and ferry to the other side of the peninsular, to an Island just north of Koh Samui called Koh Phangan. When we were in Penang, Michael and Joyce came to stay with us for a few days and brought Joyce’s nephew Richard along for a visa run. Richard is living on Koh Phangan and is starting a business here as a carpenter. So we have come along to visit on their recommendations.

The place is as beautiful as they describe it and is indeed a snapshot of Asia 20 years ago. There is a big expat community here of people in business and retired and of all nationalities as well. Lots of backpackers make a pilgrimage to Full Moon Parties on the other end of the Island at Haad Rin. The Island is not just a tourist Island exclusively like Saumi, but has a big local Thai population as well. We have spent the last 4 days in Thongsala, the main town on the Island in the southwest corner. We stayed in the very comfortable Buakao Inn Guest House above the popular A’s Coffee shop, which is in the middle of town. We have also done all the recommendations including going to the Masons Arms, a traditional English Pub for a pint and Sunday Lunch at John’s (next to the English pub). PS, mention my name to John to get a free beer.

We have borrowed Richards motorbike for a few days and headed north to a fishing village called Ao Chaloklum and will spend a bit of time by the pool and beach hopping. There is also a Laser Sailing boat for hire, I’m told so I’ll try to hunt it out. We will be on the Island for about 10 days altogether.

All the best for now

Ric & Louise