Waking up to birdsong this morning was absolute bliss. Even if it was 530am. You may remember from last year, I don’t tend to sleep all that much while I’m travelling. Not on purpose, but once I’m awake, it makes sense to get up and enjoy the day. This resort is so relaxing and quiet. Everyone working here is calm, polite and helpful, you wouldn’t know there was a wedding tomorrow! While waiting for the rest of the tribe to wake up, I attempted a run. This lasted less than 20 minutes and was followed by a leisurely breakfast with the grown-ups (parents/aunt/uncles) and a very relaxing paddle in the pool, a much more sensible thing to do.
We’re coming into some stormy weather, so to make the most of today’s sunshine, we hired a couple of long-tail boats for an adventure on the sea.
The long-tail boat originated in Thailand in the early 20th century and has varied in style over the years. What remains the same, and what gives it its name, is the driveshaft. This needs to be extended by several metres of metal rod to allow the propeller to function properly due to how all the things are attached to each other. Yes, I said things, I don’t know how boats/engines/motors work.
It was an amazing service. Our boats came with drivers who parked up and waited for us to be done with our activities. They provided water and snorkels and were very patient with our group of various wants and needs.
We anchored for a bit of snorkelling before getting dropped off at Banana Beach on Coral Island (Koh Hey). Here, we did some more swimming/snorkelling and had a bite to eat, followed by some relaxing on the beach. Worried about getting burnt the day before the wedding, I mostly kept to the shade. The fish were colourful and fun to watch, and I’m so proud of myself for getting in the water even though there were jellyfish around!
Back in time for happy hour (2 for 1 cocktails) at the poolside bar and to meet some more of Grace’s wedding party. More swimming before dinner at another local and very cute restaurant. My meal and drink was $6, plus they gave us all a cocktail to start and a plate of watermelon and pineapple to finish. How do they make any money? It was a quiet night, in bed by 1030. Very responsible Small family.
A Small Adventure 