Scarred by the events on Phi Phi we left for Koh Lanta in the search of a footloose and fancy free time. The group separated into boys and girls, the female contingent were up and out with the sunrise, the males sticking with tradition took their time. Emily and Abi managed to find a really cool hostel, the Chill Out House on Long Beach which was run by a Canadian women, who's daughter had married a local Thai man and had lived there every since. Every night she ...

Next stop Phi Phi. Without question one of our favourite islands, not only is the whole island accessible by foot but there are no motorised vehicles, just carts and bicycles. A backpackers paradise!!! Emily & Abi managed to find a nice central guest house to relax in, Abi however was not so relaxed, an early night was on the cards in preparation for the imminent birthday celebrations. Meanwhile Lucas and Martin having engaged in a topical yet intellectual de...

After an eventful journey we eventually made it to Surin Beach, which was evidently not equipped for backpackers. It proved a little difficult to find accommodation that was within our budget, but we managed to find something suitable which included a baby bed for baby Brown. Catch up cocktails on the beach and much to our delight the beach was stunning, an all encompassing bay, white sand and barrel top surf. The following day we caught some rays and had relaxin...

A quick change in Phuket we were straight on a bus up the coast to Khao Lak. Cheap accommodation at seaweed hostel sorted we only had one thing to do, booking our much anticipated dive trip!!!! After sensibly asking around we knew that Silvan at Khao Lak Explorer had the trip for us. 4 days, 4 nights live aboard and 3 dive courses between us, we were giddily buzzing with anticipation all evening. There was no messing around, the same night Martin watched 3 hours ...

After a long wait in the airport and a fairly luxurious bus journey we arrived in the bus station. Conveniently located a few k out of the main town, our only option was to get a tuk tuk. Found a cheap guesthouse built right on the sea, literally. As if Hua Hin had got too big for its boots and the only way was to build into the sea, like a collection of built up piers. It made for a loud wake up call. The following morning we walked the whole stretch of the bea...