It’s interesting what tiredness and discomfort can do to one’s confidence. After the 10-hour journey to Koh Tao, which ended with the Vomit Ferry, I hid in my bungalow all night and most of the next day. I was told that a recent typhoon near Vietnam had brought the foul weather. It alternated between ‘normal’ rain and ‘REPENT NOW AND START BUILDING AN ARK’ rain.
On night two, I reminded myself that life is short, put on a smile and my oversized poncho, and headed out! I also had the squeakiest slops in Thailand that were turning heads, so I ditched/stored those and enjoyed a good barefooted puddle-jump down the small streets.
I found a “gaming room” and tried VR for the very first time! These young sisters from Portugal had recently started the business. Such a great idea for something to do on apocalyptic rainy days! A long-haired dude (who looks just like David Scott from The Kiffness) walked in and I caught his accent straight away. Capetonian. “I was thinking of checking out the cabaret tonight” I said after chatting for a bit. “Wanna check it out bro?” He was game and we checked it out. The show was FABULOUS (in the most ladyboy-like sense of the word)! I also went up on stage with about 6 other blokes! My new friend took a clip of it. I’m the blue, bearded one.
I hit the snooze button one time too many and jogged to the dive center the next day. I had booked two dives, but honestly thought they might be cancelled due to the weather, but they went ahead and it was great! I had a young British dive buddy, named Phoebe. A highlight was seeing a Titan Triggerfish. These are ancient beasts are related to the Sun Fish, which are a bit of an evolutionary joke/marvel. But I will say it every time: simply being underwater and in the marine world, makes me enormously happy. I signed up to do a half-day snorkeling experience next.
Some final reflections: Don’t pack too many toiletries. Most places in Thailand provide quite generous amounts. Pack just ONE jersey/something warm (preferably waterproof). Pharmacies are everywhere. (I wish I had substituted my first aid kit for my ukulele). Sunscreen is cheap. Laundry services are everywhere – 50 Baht per kg (washed, dried and ironed). Plan around rainy season.
Next: Thailand #23 – A Shit on the Pavement
Previously: Thailand #21 – Murder Island
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