Yesterday on our trip, the first stop was to a waterfall that wasn't anything really special! Next was Hellfire Pass and the Memorial Museum. Wow. It was so sad yet so obvious of what hard work it must have been. Along the rocks lining both sides were clear marks of where drills had hammered through rocks and the splits and holes in the rock from dynamite used. It was really shocking.
After a quick lunch we went elephant trekking. The elephant had a seat on it's back for us both, with our guide sat on its shoulders on front. It wasn't comfy! I never knew an elephant could go down steps either, that wasn't something I enjoyed. We briefly went into the river and avoided get sprayed with it's trunk which I was surprised about!! It just loved the leaves from pineapples. That's what it kept getting as treats along the way. Our guide jumped off to take some pictures for us and then told me to get on the elephants shoulders. It was not a ladylike attempt in a dress! I kept thinking I was going to fall off and was relieved when it was Ben's turn. Afterwards, Ben said he noticed the elephant hitting it's trunk on the floor which is apparently a sign that they're unhappy, so then I felt awful and still do. Hopefully the pineapple leaves will keep rolling in for it.
Next on the agenda was bamboo rafting. It was exactly that. On the River Kwai and it was very peaceful. Ben got in for a swim and loved it. All I could think of though was water snakes and leeches!! I think the river was too fast for that but just my feet dipped in anyway.
We then went to a cave which the Japanese used as a base, a bomb shelter and hospital. It now has a large Buddha in it to bring peace to all those who died. There were a lot of bats in there making a lot of noise but they were quite hard to see. Outside was a large wooden bridge, built by British POWs in 3 weeks!!! It has barely been touched since to strengthen it either. We took Death Railway over that bridge and through stunning scenery along the river.
Our last visit was the famous bridge over the River Kwai. It was a lot longer than expected and impressive. It was a long day but well worth it.
Later on we treated ourselves to burger, chips and beer for the football. Bit of a waste but the food was nice anyway.
Late night last night and today we've just lazed about, done some laundry and decided that it's time for a beach. After spending a few hours debating and changing our minds over the route to do we chose Koh Lanta. Quieter and cheaper than Ko Phi Phi (our first choice and where 'The Beach' was filmed) it still has beautiful beaches and I definitely think we need a rest. Plus the trips here have been expensive. It's time to enjoy the sun! We're staying right by the beach and have a pool too, though apparently there are only 2 sun loungers, so a fight may be on the cards!! We'll look to do Ko Phi Phi next if we find cheaper accommodation or maybe just do a day trip.
We have to take the bus back to the Bangkok heat tomorrow, then swap for an overnight coach and then take a ferry to the island. Wonder how much sleep we'll get!!
Will update on Wednesday x