Today we headed out early to catch our boat for the day but ended up waiting ages for it to turn up. Meanwhile, we speculated which boat would be ours as the one right on front of us was half sunk so we presumed that should have been for us! However, our expectations were exceeded when a private speed boat arrived to zip us around!
The boat was a little difficult to get on from the sea and usually took two people to heave you out! Plus the boat was pretty bumpy and our grumpy driver liked to jump us over all the big massive waves and show off, but he didn't manage to crack a smile all day!

Throughout the day we visited Viking Cave, Maya Bay (where 'The Beach' with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed), Monkey beach, Long Beach (Shark Point), Mosquito Island and Bamboo Island. At each place we either got to jump off and snorkel or sit on the beaches or just take some pictures (we will get round to uploading some photos on Facebook soon!)

We picked up our lunch from another boat in the middle of the sea and took it to a really nice national park on an island with pristine white sand and crystal waters - bliss! And the sun came out for a substantial amount of time! On the negative side though, between getting in and out of the water and speeding around on the boat, we are all a little sunburnt now! :(
Also during lunch a bird pooped on Jadie, which, our other boat man found hilarious! Although it is said to be good luck!

Tonight we had a drama with a humongous beetle and were trapped in the room for a while! We're still getting used to the critters!

Tomorrow we're moving on to Phuket. Phi Phi has been the paradise island we hoped for, although it was a lot busier than I expected with a lot more shops, bars and restaurants. But, the beaches never seemed overcrowded.
It is a quiet and peaceful place by day, with lots to do for those who want it - diving, rockclimbing, walking, boat trips and sunbathing. Yet by night the small island comes alive with music and lights and turns into a real party scene. People we have spoke to say Koh Phangan (where we are going next week) is very similar but much busier and livelier so that should be good too!

Right, another journey tomorrow so the bag needs packing again. It's a hard life this travelling business(!)

Amy x