Sheila writes:

We arrived in Krabi Town on Fridy after two consecutive night bus trips (a) from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and (b) from Bangkok to Surathani and then Krabi. (Both about 12 hour trips.......we got little sleep). Nasty bus conditions on the first leg (no Air con and sticky, cramped plastic seats) and rifled bags in the hold on the second leg. Best not to trust tourist coaches in Thailand.....

Made an instant decision (on seeing Krabi Town which is pretty dire) to go on to Ao Nang beach about 22km west. What a good decision - its not too busy and touristy and has wonderful scenery - broad sweeps of sandy beches backed by fantastic 200ft sheer vertical limestone karst cliffs. Had a fab kyaking expedition today - around the steep stacks and undercut cliffs with dense tropical vegetation growing out of them. Shoals of tiy fishes around the boat and deep green water - a great feeling.

We found the beach favoured by the locals - with lots of seafood stalls and restaurants - I didn't quite persuade myself to have the "squid on a stick" lunch option - but I may do before I leave Ao Nang! The beach here is populated with crowds and crowds of tiny red and white crabs which run away from you as you walk towards them - makes it feel as if the ground is moving as you walk!

We're certainly having a relaxed time here and sleeping like babies. The most calm we've been so far. Watch out for the next epistle of our travels - we're off to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) on Wednesday and we've decided to fly from KL to Jakarta (Java) for the next leg of our trip - in search of some active volcanoes and more spicy hot food!