brainfarts

Hi All,

you must have heard about the bangkok bombings by now in the news....I am safe and sound here on Phi Phi Island...in Southern thailand....i dont get to bangkok for another two days.

The Phi-Phi islanders, locals - expats - and tourists alike, seem blissfully unaware...i think I just happen to read cnn.com whenever i get online...so I was up to date on the bangkok bombings.

I like to think im a safe traveller..so try not to worry about me...but thanks for your thoughts and concerns!...Our friend Taam is a bangkok local and we will be in good hands...and my travel style is to avoid the major touristy things...I try to have an immersive experience, living in bangkok as much like a local as I can.

How I spent new years eve...

There was definitely partying and drunkeness in the village streets...but we sought out something different. We spoke to the locals and the folks that work on the island..and found the best mellow, chill spot to ring in the new year. There is this charming beach bar called "sunflower bar" on the farside of the island...they were playing reggae music and there were beach lounges, thai pillows, banigs and mats...to sit on the beach...have drinks...and watch some low flying fireworks over the bay. ..the moon hung right over the center of the bay..and the fireworks were so close (i dont think safety was the first concern...but it was neat!)

when the countdown happened we toasted the folks around us...and just soaked up the good vibes. i spent some time texting someone special in my life, who I wish was there with me for that moment...but for now its a moment deferred...something to come home to :)

We're going to meet some of our new friends and rent a long tail boat to go exploring, swimming, and snorkeling...I wanna check out monkey beach and hopefully get in touch with my inner monkey.

SAWATDEE PI MAI KRUP! (Happy New Year!)