23rd October 2006 - Night Bus to Surat Thani

Sitting in an internet cafe right on the beach in Thong Nai Pan Yai, our bungalow is literally on the beach and I will go to sleep tonight to the sound of waves lapping on the beach, can't wait.

The journey was an adventure. I wanted to be at the front because Sue suffers from travel sickness so I had it all planned, she would carry the two day rucksacks so she could get to the front of the queue and I would take the two big rucksacks and the guitar to the luggage area of the coach which was parked just outside the station - NOT. We formed a crocodile with me following the driver, one pack on my back the other in my arms and my guitar crossways so it could knock stray pedestrians and other unfortunates into the road as I struggled to keep up. Sue suggested I stop so she could help but the "No thanks" through gritted teeth was enough for her to realise this was a macho thing. Half a mile later we finally reached the coach Sue was first on - up the stairs , loads of people already on and the front seat was reserved anyway. That's the last time I try and be first, last is best every time.

Left Bangkok at 7.00pm last night arrived at the beach about 2.00pm today. There was a bit of road rage on the way, reminded me of 'Duel' Stephen Speilberg. This battered lorry overtook blasting his horn then pulled in front and slowed right down, the driver tried to overtake but he kept blocking us, at one point our driver even tried to overtake on the hard shoulder! We eventually got past, no idea what it was all about; boredom?

I think we are going to like it here, got chatting to a couple of Canadians from Ontario, Kevin and Jenny plus some others on the boat where we 'jammed' on the guitars! (Yes ,me!!). We were right at the front so nobody could hear anything we played above the noise of the engine and the sea including us which probably helped.

We are now going to have a Thai massage and then off to the nearest chiropractor for traction!

mark and sue.

(Again photos later)