Phang Nga National Park

Today we’re exploring Ao Phang Nga National Park by speedboat. This is a stunningly beautiful area of karst outcrops and tiny islands - one made famous by the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. So much so, in fact, that one island is known as ‘James Bond Island’ though its correct name is Ko Khao Phing Kan. Our guide suggests that the film changed the life of islanders for ever and turned a fishing backwater into a major tourist draw. The same is probably true of several other films as well. 

I’m always apprehensive about speedboat journeys - and I’ve forgotten to bring seasickness medication with me. G is convinced my need is only psychological, and I accept that over the last few years I’ve undertaken many such trips and not only survived but really enjoyed them. Still,  I pick up one of the little yellow pills offered at the boat depot - just in case! 

The last ti e we travelled by speedboat here was on that same holiday 20 years ago when we went out in a small motor boat in conditions that were rather challenging - I don’t think the pilot should have taken us, but the boys wanted to go to Ko Phi Phi - the location for the Beach! For some reason I decided to sit at the front and spent what seemed like hours bouncing around, slamming back on my seat.  I’m convinced this is where my back problems started, so not wanting to undo the good work of my surgeon. We sit in the back of the boat - which is definitely larger than the previous one! 

The scenery is stunning - turquoise seas and tropical greenery. At first, the karst islands are shadowy features in the distance, but as we come closer we can see the lush vegetation clinging to impossibly steep sides. We stop at Ko Khao Phing Kan 
which is obviously a stop for most tours. I’m a bit cynical about just what we’ll see, but it really is beautiful. As well as the iconic view of the towering rock just off the coast, there’s a sandy beach with colourful long-tail boats lined up awaiting customers.  

Floating villages are common throughout Asia - indeed we spotted one just opposite the marina this morning. However, we’re taken to one that looks far more polished than most, with immaculate buildings and colourful roofs. These house restaurants- frequented by tour groups but not ours - and we feel this is a long way from authentic Thai life. However, wandering around the walkways we see there is reality behind the facade. 

We’re heading for the Muslim school - unlike most Thais, here the religion is Muslim. It appears to be lunch break as most of the older children are playing outside - all beautifully neat right down to socks and shoes! Clearly visitors are commonplace as we are almost completely ignored. In the younger children’s classes, the little ones are all lying on the floor on blankets having naps - so sweet - watched over by their teachers who all wear a uniform of their own. Tourism to the village raises money for the school, but I can’t help wondering how easy actual teaching would be with visitors like us peering in! 

Now it’s back to Phuket and a return drive to the ship, stopping first for lunch.  After last night’s experience, I feel apprehensive, but here each table is brought dish after dish of delicious food until there’s no more space left. There’s a whole steamed sea bass, rice, various curries and stir fries, and - everyone’s favourite - prawns and seaweed tempura. This looks pretty scary - rather like a deep fried scorpion fish - but it’s absolutely delicious. Add tamarind sauce and it’s even better. 

It’s been a fabulous day!