What A Difference A Few Days Make

Ko Tarutao from Above
 

 Without going into all the sordid details about getting to Tarutao, I will just say that after many connections on (literally) planes, trains, taxis, subways and a speedboat, we arrived here in one piece despite the speedboat’s attempt to jostle us into pieces.  It was, in my opinion, worth every bit (and hour) of travel.  What a place! NOT for those who want luxury and pampering but it is peaceful, uncrowded and the jungle and beach are amazing.  If there are more than 4 people on the beach, it’s crowded! 
We’ve settled into a routine of hiking, swimming, relaxing and watching the monkeys play.  Hours of entertainment there!  The beach here is perfect for watching sunsets and swimming and, while I’ve snorkeled every day, it’s not really a snorkel beach – no coral and a smooth, sandy bottom. Fine with me for the moment.
Yesterday was leaving day and, after taking the "bus" from our remote campground to the pier and ranger station, we arranged for our speedboat to Koh Lipe - another island in the National Marine Park, but the one they have allowed to become developed.  While waiting for the speedboat I went for a walk and found a path that directed to a lookout that was only 400 meters . . . . Straight up!  I went for it though and the views were worth it but my encounter with four monks made it all worthwhile.  I was blessed by them, wished good luck, they gave me a bottle of water and a pack of ramen as well as an amulet and tied a string around my wrist (a good luck blessing).  They asked if I would like a picture (I REALLY wanted a photo but didn't want to ask) and they even said to share with my friends.  So, here you are friends! 

Koh Lipe  is very different than Tarutao: crowded, walking streets, shops, restaurants, and did I say crowded?  Being here is necessary in order to get to Malaysia by ferry and go through customs.  Good snorkeling though!  Really good!  Also had a massage - my first since I arrived and it was great after lugging my backpack around.  Note:  did not get the 'Sliming Massage"!  Ha!

 

View Out the Back of My Room

 

A Hermit Crab With a Nice Home

 

Our Beach

 
 


Monkey Family - Morning Grooming

Sunset From Our Beach

Wild Boar

An Island Between Tarutao and Lipe