Angthong National Marine Park & Ko Phanghan
Trip Start
Dec 29, 2007
1
32
33
Trip End
Mar 10, 2008
Ko Phangan, Thailand
Friday, March 7, 2008
We spent the morning sea kayaking between some of the bizarre rock formations, snaking through some tight caves while hugging the coastline. After some swimming and snorkeling, we paddled back to the boat for lunch while we jetted toward the southern-half of the park, where we kayaked some more, hiked up to Talay Nai (an emerald-green lagoon inside the mountains), and still had time left over for sunbathing. I was back in Ko Samui by dinnertime and, after a quick shower, scarfed down some green curry, finished up a little shopping, and went to bed early.
This morning, some major storms rolled in and I headed out for Ko Phangan. Ko Phangan is often described as the rebel little sister of Samui - a relaxed backpackers' haven compared to its overstimulated sibling. You can only reach the island by ferry, which was a bit of a challenge this morning considering the weather. Between the horizontal rain and the rough seas kicking up waves on deck, everyone on board was completely drenched and a bit nauseous. While no one got seasick, we were grateful the trip lasted only an hour. I'll be sure to take a Dramamine before my return trip on Sunday! :)
We anchored at Hat Rim, a beach town located on the island's southernmost tip. Although Ko Phangan was first inhabited by Buddhist monks over 600 years ago because of its tranquility and spiritual importance, the island is now best-known for its Full Moon Party, a lunar get-together that attracts upwards of thirty thousand revelers each month and is the largest beach, psy-trance rave party in the world. The action lasts until eleven in the morning and features a wide assortment of intoxicants - both legal and illegal - as well as celebrants in various state of undress. Alas, the next full moon doesn't arrive for a few weeks, but I'm here on a weekend and this is town that doesn't need an excuse to party.
I checked into the Sea Breeze, a secluded bungalow village just outside of Hat Rim Nai, far enough away from the drunks and foot traffic to ensure I'll get my beauty rest. My place is pretty cheap, has hot water and air-con, and a cool little hammock balcony overlooking the west beach. If it ever stops raining, I should have a spectacular view of the sunset! Over the next few days, I hope to knock back a few beers, dodge the raindrops, and chill out before I fly back to Bangkok on Sunday, weather permitting.
That's it for now. Have a great weekend, everyone!
Comments
beware
Thong-girls banana-hammock boyfriend looks like he is going to KICK your ass for zooming in on his woman's ass cheeks!
The water is SO beautiful!!! And I love the full-moon partying! My kind of place, for sure! :-)