Thailand

We arrived in Bangkok at 6 in the morning feeling exhausted from a lack of sleep. Stepping off the plane we were enveloped in a humidity that was suffocating, wiping away sweat that was dripping from our brows. We could only imagine what the midday heat would feel like. We checked into our hotel after having to pay an extra half day rate but it was totally worth it just to be horizontal, even if it was only for an hour. We met up with the rest of the gang over breakfast and after some long embraces and a bit of a catch up session we were off to the Chatuchak market. It is the largest market in Thailand and has more than 8000 stalls. After 2 hours of perusing the various stalls, Tanya and I were done in. The heat and humidity increased our tiredness and feeling completely wilted we made our way back to the hotel for a little siesta. At sunset we all met up at the Octavia rooftop bar at the Marriott hotel to enjoy a few cocktails with a lovely view of the city. Toasting to good fortune and our happy reunion we braced ourselves for our one night in Bangkok. First we had a fantastic meal at Cabbages and Condoms in Sukhumvit. The restaurant was created in order to raise awareness for a number of social issues including sexual health, where the money made from your meal is used to support various development programs. Interestingly, the restaurant's motto is "our food won't make you pregnant". Upon leaving, instead of the usual mints that accompany the bill, diners are encouraged to take some condoms. After our unique dining experience we watched the rugby semi-finals in a sports bar. Unfortunately SA lost to NZ but it was a close game. We had a nightcap at the rooftop bar in our hotel and were in bed by 2am to try and get a bit of sleep before our 6am start the next day.

Feeling a bit worse for wear Tanya and I made a head start to the airport as we did not want to miss the flight. The queue was insane and the others were cutting it very fine. Due to earlier adverse weather conditions we all seemed to be flying at different times and Tanya and I ended up on the midday flight even though we got to the airport earlier than the others. We arrived in Koh Samui having just missed the 13:00pm ferry which meant we had to wait until 4pm for the next one. Finally we arrived at Thong Sala pier where Tom was waiting to take us to our island paradise. The private villa is called Baan Napa and is perched on a hill top and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. It is perfectly situated, with a gorgeous sea view and no direct neighbours. It felt like heaven on earth and we couldn't help feeling just a little bit blessed. After a welcome dip in the infinity pool, Koko the live in caretaker drove us into town for dinner. Warren, Andrew and Lincoln opted to stay behind at the villa to chill out but the rest of us wanted to toast our arrival on Thong Nai Pan Noi beach and enjoyed a delicious Thai meal at Luna restaurant. We all felt so relaxed and happy and after a nightcap we headed to bed for a good night's sleep.

We went for an invigorating early morning swim which was soon followed by a heavy downpour of rain. Undeterred we congregated in the games room located on the covered patio for a few games of pool and ping pong. It was so good to be amongst friends. Even though we are spread across all corners of the globe and rarely see each other, it seemed as if no time had passed. It brought back such fond memories of when we all lived in London. Once Warren and Andrew surfaced, Koko drove us all into town. Koko is Burmese and lives on the property with his family. He has such a lovely nature and we found his kindness and humble attitude remarkable. We had breakfast at the Jip shop and then we treated ourselves to individual massages. Feeling relaxed and very Zen we walked along Pan Noi beach and had cocktails at a beachfront bar. Here we met a young backpacker called Johnny who distracted us with his naked bottom, when his towel accidentally slipped as he was changing. After several cocktails we drove back to the villa to get ready for the evening's festivities. Koko and his wife were preparing a feast for us for dinner in celebration of Donne and Warren's 40th birthdays. The meal was amazing and we polished off every delicious morsel. After dinner, the dancing commenced and once the tequila came out the party was in full swing and much hilarity ensued. More than just a little intoxicated, we decided to skinny dip in the pool. After a lot of chaotic laughter and splashing around we called it a night and drunkenly fell into bed at 2am.

Hung over and feeling very delicate we rose to a new day. It was a slow start for everyone and once we were all present and accounted for we drove down to Thong Nai Pan Yai beach to revisit our old friend Baan Panburi. It has been pushed out of Pan Noi beach, by a swish five star resort and relocated to a smaller and less impressive section of Pan Yai beach. Sadly, it exists as a mere shadow of its former glorious self. Nevertheless we had a lovely lunch there, or as the waitress rather aptly mentioned it is "yummy yummy". Her voice was high pitched and very squeaky and had us in fits of giggles. It was a funny moment captured on video, which will keep us entertained for years to come. Not impressed with the beach we headed back to Pan Noi where most had another massage whilst Tanya and I reminisced over pine apple shakes at the Jip shop. In the evening we sipped on 100 baht cocktails at a colourful bar in town. The DJ was willingly taking our music requests while we provided the party atmosphere. Soon enough the bar got busier as passers-by were drawn into the fun and relaxed vibe. As the cocktails flowed we dined at the bar while Lincoln painted all our names in bright colours as proof of our presence and a little reminder of our summer reunion.

The next morning Koko drove us to Mae Haad beach for a day in the sun. On route we stopped at a Buddhist Temple frequented by locals who were paying their respects and giving thanks on Buddha day. The colourful shrines were overflowing with offerings and the smell of incense was heavy in the air. Although we felt like intruders we were welcomed into the fold and willingly obliged with our "farang" version of the prayer pose. After our foray into local life we headed to the beach. It was lovely and we found a great spot to relax and enjoy the view from. We settled in for the day, languishing in the tranquillity of our surroundings. After a heavy downpour we drove back to the villa. Those of us that sat at the back of the pickup truck got completely soaked but it was fun and there was something pure and freeing about the rain washing down on us. Back at the villa we all got ready for the full moon party. Andrew was a complete star as he creatively painted our faces with a colourful and neon theme. We were ready to paint the town red and headed to Haad Rin beach full of excited anticipation. We had dinner at one of the restaurants and then made our way to the beach for a night of dancing under the stars. We found a great spot and planted temporary roots in the sand amongst the other revellers. The Samsong buckets were out in full force and soon enough were taking effect. It was an interesting night and at 4pm Koko transported us home for a bumpy ride in our "carriage" and we all gladly fell into bed.

The next morning was one of reflection and a few giggles as we revisited the previous night's antics. After a swim and a few games we went into town to fill our bellies, have massages and enjoy our last day on the island. The mood was subdued and it was with collective heavy hearts that we packed and prepared to say goodbye to our week in paradise. In the evening we had some cocktails at "Rasta Baby" which is where we used to hang out 10 years ago. The memories came flooding back as we sat on low pillows amongst the tree tops. Then we had our last family dinner at the Jip shop. The owner was so happy that we made it our regular haunt. The food was excellent and the atmosphere really brought to life the island vibe. It was the perfect place to stumble across and spend some time in. Our goodbyes were a bit tearful and emotional. We had some great moments and shared many laughs. Our reunion was testament to our great friendships with one another and I can't wait for our next one, which will hopefully be sometime in the near future.