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Published: January 9th 2006
Footloose and Fancy free
Ferry ride to Phi Phi is crowded Asia style.Hmmmm. where did we leave it last? Ah yes grumble grumble stolen wedding band and such. Well, as any smart traveller knows- you must leave accomodation once you have been robbed. So, to that end, we bid adieu to the Winters (rock-climbing legends- see photos below) and headed from Rei Lei to Ko Phi Phi. This was an area significantly damaged / destroyed by the Tsunami one year ago and also one that we had not managed to see the last time around. We stayed in an area unmarrred by the wave but debris and memories were everywhere. Especially since it was just the one year anniversary. Pre-tsunami this was the undisputed pearl of the andaman coast - mecca of tourism. In the tsunami this island alone lost over 2000 people and has seen a loss of over 50% in tourism. We spent some time with the locals who don't speak about it and, actually don't speak much English. We tried to contribute back to the economy as much as possible (within our means and we're sure Sirie's children's clothing will be appreciated by the family we left them with). We passed the time staying in a beachfront bungalow (this place
really is still paradise), eating a lot, snorkeling and sunning with all appropriate sunscreen coatings (you'll be happy to know). Oh yeah- no diving but snorkelling alone revealed many eals, lion fish, a couple of sea snakes, numerous puffers, nemos and, of yeah- a rather sizaeable shark in rather shallow waters (eek!). As we said, the place was beautiful (see picts if this computer works) but has that feel like WTC post 9-11, an energy of sorrow that is hard to describe. After a few days we packed up and moved (via 18 hour multi-boat/overnight bus trip) on to arrive here in Bangkok and get a room at the same hotel whose hallways we darkened some 5 yrs ago. It is a nice trip down memory lane and with American breakfast included how can you go wrong. Our days here will be spent visiting the various third world embassies we need visas from and taking in the sites and such we missed from Bangkok. Not to mention a little foray into the 8 story shopping mecca across the street. Picture the Valley Galleria on major 'roids Governator style. Knock off clothes and electronics and the spiciest Tom Yam(thai soup) we
Aneta Rock Climbing Goddess
Yes it's true and this is some 15-20 ft off the ground with not a single yelp. could hardly handle (read as run to Swensen's mega ice cream store after lunch). Good news though, after 10 yrs Aneta has finally been reunited with the chocolate ice cream of her youth- yes- sticky chewy chocolate still exists!!! That is about it from here. Hope the new year finds you all well and, should travel be in your futures - let us know where to meet you😊
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Dana
non-member comment
Sticky Chewy Choc. Ice Cream
Yes yes yes!! I cant believe you found it! A dream come true...I could almost cry. You must eat some for me too...Iam sure you already did. 80 degrees and sunny in LA.....2006 is starting out right. We miss you tons.