I arrived in Koh Phangan after a fairly short and enjoyable ferry ride from Samui. I had no idea where to stay when I arrived, but knew it had to be cheap because I was here for 10 days. I was accosted by a local trying to sell his bungalows as soon as I got off the ferry (this I have taken to be the norm now). I haggled hard with this guy as I knew I could get much cheaper, but I was attracted by his accommodation as it looked lovely. After bargaining down on the price, I agreed to see the room. The room was right on Had Rin beach at the extreme end so not disturbed by the noise of the clubs. It was on high stilts and over-hung the ocean, which was just perfect when sat out on the balcony. The views were stunning and I couldn't have asked for a nicer place for the money. I would be very happy here for the duration of my stay. Koh Phangan is a lovely island with a very relaxed backpacker feel to it. The bars by day are slouchy with movies playing continuously if you so desire. The beaches are idillic and not too over crowded. I spent most of my beachy days on Coco Hut Resort, which was full of Israeli's but generally a beautiful beach. The ocean was crystal clear and calm as anything so the visibilty for snorkelling was perfect. My tan was progressing fabulously. Towards the end of my stay, the island was gearing up for the infamous Ful Moon Party. I was very excited about this as it brought many new people to the island for the night and I was expecting a mad party atmosphere. As I sat on my balcony at dusk having a beer, I watched the full moon rise out of the ocean and float effortlessly in the sky to cast the atmospheric light over Had Rin beach where the partying was getting underway. I thought it would be wise to pace myself for the evening so went out for dinner first before indulging in the delights of the party. I can't say that I remember much from the party, but I do recall a wonderful vibe from all the people that turned up. It was absolutely crazy and I remember finally giving in to the temptation to try a 'bucket'. A bucket is a small bucket (the kind you made sandcastles with as a child) filled with whatever spirit and mixer you liked - usually a quarter bottle with two cans. I had vodka and lemonade because I've seen how people react on the local whiskey and it scared me. My next memory is arriving back at my bungalow at about 3:30 the following afternoon without my clothes having been for a swim in the sea. I must have been wandering around half naked for god knows how long, but believe me I didn't look the most rediculous person on the island! There were lots of idiots, just like me. I felt quite at home. It was the hangover from hell, and I felt shocking for days, including the ferry back to the mainland and the flight back to Bangkok. I lost about 14 pounds in weight as I couldn't keep anything down until just before my flight back to the UK where I managed to eat a McDonalds chicken Mc Nugget. I felt the energy boost straight away. So it's back to the UK for Christamas and New Year where hopefully I'll be able to catch up with some of you lovely people. My next update will be from Australia in the New Year. Much Love, Stephen xxx