Hello from Koh Phangna,
We arrived here after a nice short (for once!) boat ride from Koh Samui. It was ridiculously hot when we arrived but decided to take our time over our choice of accomadation. Had already rung somewhere but wanted to make sure we were getting good location at best price. After walking for a while and ringing around to see what was good, we settled on a place called Phangna Bayshore Resort for one night. It had the added benefits of a pool and was literally seconds from beautiful Had Rin beach. The little bunglow itself was a little shaby but had a big bed and little porch outside with a hammock that I fell in love with!
In the afternoon we decided to suss out the other accomodation and prices on the island. Having decided to stay in the touristy area of Had Rin it was quite a small area so we walked around. We found several other cheaper places including a proper party place with regular pool parties which looked good but was quite a walk from the beach. We decided though to stay where we were as location and pool out-did everwhere else!
After our very hot walk we had a dip in the sea and decided to go out for a few drinks. We got dressed up for once and went out for dinner and drinks! It was quite a messy evening. We watch the fire shows on the beach and sampled the famous island's buckets! Met some nice people (and a lovely dog which we named Benji!-he showed up a lot during our stay and even slept on our balcony one night!) and had a drunken dance in a bar. Becky went in the sea and we went to bed after the sun came up!
The next day was a definate hangover day as we both felt awful! Hangover in the heat is not fun-don't think we'll be doing this again for a while. Although as Dad pointed out, I did say that last time!
Thought a dip in the pool might cure us but only helped a little! So we spent the day chilling and only managed a meal and to check our e-mails. We also booked an elephant trek for the following morning with a lady at the resort.
The elephant trek was a lot of fun. It was great to see these amazing animals but was slightly sad as they were chained to the trees when we arrived. Me and becky climbed aboard and held on tight! We sat on a double seat type thing but the guy also encouraged us to sit on the elephants neck- Becky was very brave and went first! It was quite a ride and a bit uncomfortable as i was right on his shoulder blades! The guy who was leading the elephant took our camera and took pics of us both on the elephant so hopefully these will turn out well.
After the treking we made the most of the sun and got some more pool time in. After this a bit of dinner and some shopping (have both decided it's best to do shopping here if anywhere as its definatly going to be the cheapest!) We found a few bits and pieces and headed back quite early as still tired from our drunken exploits!
Packed up to yet again to get on the road to Krabi for our flight to Kuala Lumpur. I would definatly recommend a trip to Koh Phnagna- although we missed the full moon party the island was beautiful and the night life a lot of fun. Try and get a hammock too-perfect for enjoying island life!

Lots of love to everyone- hope you're enjoying the heat at home
Kate and Becky xxxxxx