From Khao Sok I made my way to Koh Lanta. This involved more travel badges (a.k.a. stickers) and a set of random bus stops and transfers.
Koh Lanta is less developed than many of the neighbouring islands (like Koh Phi Phi), only receiving power in the 90’s and a connecting bridge a few years ago. This was one of the things that I liked most about it, and led me to stay a week at a couple of places on the island.
I spent a lot of this time relaxing at the beach, and getting over the cold that I had been fighting since I left Koh Phanagan. The beaches were a nice change from the ones in Koh Samui as they were much less busy, devoid of hawkers trying to get you to buy sunglasses. In fact I actually saw locals on the beach having a picnic, it gave the place a bit more of sense of authenticity.
I also explored the island, discovering delicious fruits including longan (a type of Thai lychee), and eating a number of delicious Thai foods. The chef at one restaurant was concerned that I would not be able to handle the spicy glass noodle salad and following checking on me, made sure to tell me that she only used two medium chillis (I was fine). O, I also had my first experience with genuine Thai quality goods, with a pair of sandals I bought lasting a good two hours before falling apart…
Everyday involved watching the sunset from the beach, which was always amazing!
Sunsets – such a horrible way to end the day
Finally over my cold I decided that I would take in a longboat tour of the nearby islands. I did this with a bit of trepidation considering how sick I was the last time I tried to go on a boat trip, but was glad that I did. Leaving by longboat we made our way thru a number of the neighbouring smaller islands.
The best part of this tour was when we stopped at the Morakat Caves. Jumping from the boat we swam thru several hundred meters of a dark cave before reaching a clearing with a few meters of sandy beach that was surround by cliffs and only accessible thru the tunnel from which we came.
After spending some time there we made our way back to the boat took in two snorkelling sites, both only accessible from the boat. One of the sites was better than the other and had clear water that allowed for a number of colourful fish to be observed (Hi Nemo!).
We then made our way to a beach where we had lunch, lounged around for an hour or so before making our way back to Koh Lanta. Luckily I made it back in time to take in my daily ritual of watching the sunset from the beach.
4-island snorkeling tour – complete with swimming thru a cave to find paradise
Rested and convinced that I could stomach another boat trip I boarded a speed boat and made my way to Koh Lipe.
The Travelling Scientist 