Hello everyone,

First off we now have our bags! The Thai staff in Bangkok have been much better than the useless lot back in the UK.

Yesterday we hired a jetski which was ace. We had a blast out to a couple of islands not too far from Big Buddha Beach where we are staying - it completed our 'beach day', which we felt we deserved after the baggage hassle. Unfortunately as we didn't have our baggage, we had no mosquito repellent for a few days, in which time we have been feasted upon! We also had a shock when George, the Gecko in our bathroom, fell off the ceiling and into the toilet. It took us a while to get him out of the bathroom and back to nature where he belongs. But he must like us as he returned this morning to say hello.

Today we had an early start as we were booked on a Sea Safari out to Anthong National Marine Park. We started off on a speed boat ride out to a shallow reef so that we could go snorkelling with the fishes. From there we headed off for the island trek up to a green lagoon and viewpoint. We then had lunch on the beach at the National Park before heading out to the sea on canoes - which was very fun! Next we had a harrowing return journey on the speed boat to Koh Samui, due to choppier seas and the drivers fondness for speed. Once back at Samui we were taken for an elephant trek where the driver made jewelry from long blades of grass for us. Finally we fed the baby elephants bananas, which they made short work of!

Tomorrow we have another early start as we are off to Koh Phangan for 4 days. As we are returning to Shambala later in the week, they have allowed us to leave our big rucksacks there so we can travel light. We have had a really good time here on Samui, and are looking forward to coming back!

Sian and Fin xxx