Thailand

Thailand has proven to be a true beach holiday destination.

All our worries, thoughts, and in some cases inhibitions were carried by the wind across the teal blue waters and deposited somewhere in the dark blue abyss. The largest concerns have been: how to tan the reflecting large white middle I developed in Korea, not to overdose on fresh blended fruit shakes or amazing Thai food (mmm Pad Thai) and how to avoid the island mopeds on the bar/restaurant pedestrian street.

Our island adventure began with a flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui. The airport was the cutest island airport with quaint little wooden huts leading the 7 steps to our luggage pick up. From there, we took a short bus to our ferry port to our first true destination Koh Phanagan.

Koh Phanagan's reputation is that of "Party Island." This is the place where the Full Moon party is held. A Beach party that accomodates 10 000 - 60 000 alcohol/redbull filled intoxicated individuals. Alas as luck would have it we were no where near the full moon so our intentions were much more subdued; find a quiet beach and RELAX. Lonely Planet referenced, we had our beach in mind and as a turn in luck would have it a group of 8 Malaysians on our ferry were headed to the same exact location. This was a great coincidence as this beach/cove was not the most popular, and the ring leader of the group, Top, was part Thai. We all of a sudden had friends, our very own interpreter and more importantly barterer.

We all scrambled into a large pimped out in leather van cab- where the sauce began flowing compliments of the already half-sacked Malaysians. The winding , up and down, island dirt roads truly became a roller coaster.

We got to the cove dropped our bags in a pile on the beach and the nominated few went to find a beach front bungalow in our price range. Half an hour later, we had a place for 500 Bhat a night and a 2 minute walk from the beach hidden in the jungle.

Night one we did standing speech introductions over a fresh seafood dinner and got to know our little group of 12 better literally on the beach by lantern/candlelight.

Day 2 we woke up and headed straight for the beach. Waded around and did a whole lot of nothing. I think our biggest accomplishment was finding a place to get our laundry done.

That night after a little peer pressure from the Malaysians we decided we would try out the 'Black Moon Party.' There are 3 kinds of moon parties, full, half, and black moon. Really it is just an excuse to party.

After 'hoing and humming' we agreed to go. We all met on the beach and boarded a long boat taxi. It was dark and the stars were all out as we slowly manuvered around the shores of the island. As the boat made small iridescent waves (glowing jellyfish) I couldn't help but think how cool it was to use this means of transport vs a cab like back home.

We got to the place where the Full Moon party is actually held and had dinner here. Many laughs were had especially when one of the big Malaysian guys took a step and almost went through the board walk floor.

After dinner we got in a real van cab and arrived at the black moon party. It was insanely decorated with black lights, suspended neon art work, and enough techno vibes to blow your ears off. I am not a fan of drugs/raves myself but I could see how this place could encourage those that like that sort of thing. (I am happy to report that NO drugs were taken by any of these Canadians)

Alcohol was consumed though... and I think Spencer and Sasha really did it up Black moon style! We all were dancing around Spencer equipped with hand lamp and all of us with a glowing wand. There were fire shows on the beach and my pyro brother even got in there and did a pretty good job! Ohhh dear! Nothing was lost though mom.

We left at a decent hour some of us in better shape than others. Our mode of transportation home was more of a refugee/escapee style crammed into the back of a pick up truck. At least the fresh air was good!

The last day on this island was understandably quite low key. We swam and then had a quiet dinner where the whole group tiredly mingled.