Thailand (Part 6): Phuket

Our time in Phuket was relaxing, scenic and more than a little bit wet! Rain was pouring down as we arrived and continued for a substantial portion of our stay, yet didn't dampen our experience since we were in need of some R&R and managed to upgrade our hotel to allow us a luxurious respite to watch the rain and relax. Fortunately, the rain eventually subsided and we did get to enjoy the region's beautiful beaches as well. Our drive to Mass on Sunday provided the perfect route to stop in and sample several of beachfronts along the coast. We also enjoyed wandering the city before venturing out on our final day for a "James Bond Island" tour. The weather also cooperated, making this outing a highlight of our trip! Jennifer had seen Phuket's outlying islands showcased on TV several years ago (confession...on The Bachelorette) and had longed to kayak through their unique beauty every since. Our tour took us on an all day cruise to several islands and included canoeing, monkeys, sea eagles, a remote beach, a Muslim fishing village and a stop to see the small island where The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed in 1974. Spending a sunny day on the water and fulfilling a travel dream was the perfect way to conclude our Thailand getaway!

Rain!

 

The lobby of our special rainy retreat!

 

Beachfront Thai food...yum!

 

Dinner AND a show! These kids playing soccer on the beach provided heartwarming entertainment during our beachside meal :-).

 

One of countless breathtaking Thai beaches!

Strolling along the waterfront!

The touristy streets of Patong Beach.

 

Just chillin'...

Can you spot the cave-dwelling monkeys?

Loving our boat ride!

Watching the local sea eagles dive for raw chicken from the back of our boat.

 

"Thanks for making one of my travel fantasies a reality, John!"

We literally had to duck and lie flat to make it through some of the caves!

 

Fortunately each raft had a guide, so Jennifer didn't have to watch John try to set up the tripod on a canoe :-).

 

We were so excited to finally lay eyes on this sight in person!

 

James Bond Island!

 

Ko Panyi - Muslim fishing village built on stilts by its Indonesian founders. See the Mosque?

 

Ahhh...a relaxing end to an amazing and memorable vacation!