Last day in Ko Lanta

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A couple of days ago we travelled up the island to Long Beach, which is an amazingly long stretch of beautiful soft sand. However, we decided that the quantity of bars along the beach probably meant that this would not be the place for us at night (far too loud).

Yesterday I had another massage (it seemed a shame not to use the second discount voucher). I finally got the courage to try a Thai massage, which is all about putting pressure on your 'Zen' lines and quite a lot of stretching. Given the nature of the massage, I was given a change of clothes - a top and the biggest pair of trousers ever (fortunately they could be tied at the waist). I was then escorted to the massage platform which is located in a lovely setting surrounded by tropical plants and waterfalls. It was surprising how relaxing a massage involving such pressure could be (I opted for medium pressure - strong must be quite hard). My bones cracked in places I didn't know I had them and I was twisted all over the place. I think this massage requires a degree of flexibility. Then a hot pultice of Thai herbs was applied all over. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed it. Shame the discount vouchers have run out!

Yesterday I bought a sight corrected mask and it was incredible. Within the first 10 minutes I had seen the biggest puffer fish I have ever come across and a lionfish. Later I found a lobster. There are some beautiful fish in the bay, althought the visibility isn't brilliant (but a damn sight better with good vision). At times the fish completely surround you, fortunately they don't seem to bite here.

Tonight (our last night at the Pimalai) we have booked a table at the main restaurant. For the first time in 6 weeks Nigel will have to wear his long trousers, so we will be arranging a golf buggy to take us up the hill. It is still so hot here at night. A couple of nights ago it was like someone had turned off the wind and even I was sweating (but I'm not complaining). The hottest daytime temperature has been 32.8.

Tomorrow we are flying to Bangkok for our last night which we will spend at the Peninsula Hotel on the River. It is supposed to be a very nice hotel, but it will have to go some to beat the Pimalai.

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Photos

Full Moon over Kantiang Bay
We watched the moon come over the hill and then cast a beautiful light across the beach

Long Beach
You can see why this beach gets its name.

Nigel in the 'Top' Jacuzzi
Could this be the Jacuzzi with the best view ever?

Sarah in the top pool
The main restaurant building can be seen in the background