We have pitched up in Thailand and have been exploring the Phi Phi national park both above the waves and below. We spent yesterday skimming across the Andaman sea by spead boat to various islands called Phi Phi. One of the islands wasused as the location for "The Beach". It is very crowded these days but still very beautiful. Our snorkling experience was a delight with brightly coloured coral and fish of all sizes and species. Above the waves the karsts rise vertically out of the sea. Most of them are populated by monkeys and we got close enough to have got one but I didn't have my blow pipe with me.

The food here hasbeen a delight - much better than Malaysia and we haveeaten well both with our group and romantically on our own by the ocean.

We are preparing to depart for Bangkok on the overnight train - this should be an experience.

Best wishes. We hear that the snow is going now.