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Published: January 11th 2006
This place is incredible. As you approach the island harbourside the impact of 26 December 2004 really hits home. Forget the pictures in the paper and the reports on the TV. This is real life (and we are seeing it 1 year later) and these peoples lives, homes and businesses were destrtoyed. Although not the worst place affected, with Sri Lanka's losses much higher, it was a pretty humbling experience coming here. On our way over Sri Lanka on our way to the Maldives the devastaion to the forrests could be clearly seen and we ooghd and aaahd at that but actually living here for this short time has brought the reality of the devastating time home to us.
One whole section of the island was clearly flattened. Previously resorts, dive schools, palm trees and restaurants were blocking the views from one side of the island to the other. Now it is a clear sea view all the way. Some trees have no tops to them, left planted as reminders. Baby palm trees with support sticks line this area now. The rebuilding is slow but progress is being made and the spirit shown on this island by the locals is
inspiring. Guesthouse owners have replaced their rooms with tents on the beach, open air restaurants are springing up again. Pictures line the streets of volunteers who have helped on their way round the world. It goes to show that every traveller in the area at that time who survived put every ounce of effort into helping clear debris and build again. The effort continues and you can stay offer your services whilst there to any number of local projects which are going on. Something we will hopefully be able to join in with on our return.
Yes there are open sewers and its not as unspoilt and beautiful as it once was but for those who read this, Ko Phi Phi meeds our baht more than ever before. I think going there one year on as travellers ourselves has made us realise how easily it could happen to us / could have been us. Plaques adorn the island dedicated to those travellers, many of whom were younger than us, who died. It really has been an amazing experience.
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brian
non-member comment
thank you
I just wanted to say thank you for all the blogs you've been writing. The latest ones are particularly moving for Pam and me because we visited Krabbi and Phi Phi only a few weeks before the tsunami. The devastation, even after a year, is incredible. In a cold grey British winter, the accounts of your travels are a real bonus. Keep them coming. Well, I'm off to another round of boring meetings. Thinking of you both. Love, Dad