Khao Lak

The plan to head over to Phi Phi stalled due to a lack of accommodation. Could've risked a trip over there and probably would've found something, but all the tour touts and a few phone calls indicated that it would be pretty tight, and the thought of spending time on a small island cram filled with other tourists wasn't the best. Will save Phi Phi for next time.

I'm up at Khao Lak, which is about an hour's drive north of Phuket. This place was pretty badly wrecked by the tsunami, and the remnants of the destruction are still very apparent. There are many places half destroyed or half repaired, with more than a few resorts still closed. But because a few are re-opening, there are bargains to be had, and I was able to get a room at the Ramada resort for 2500 Baht a night (about $80) when they normally go for 10,000 Baht. So it's good to experience a pretty plush resort at a fifth of the price. The downside is that there's still a bit of construction going on, but nothing too bad. The pool is great, the room is pretty swishy and the service is more than I'm used to.

Khao Lak is a pretty average beach. In fact all the beaches have been pretty average. I think Phi Phi and places around Krabi are better. The water is very warm, though, and no doubt due to the after effects of the tsunami, it's pretty quiet. Will head out to a few excursions to nearby sights, starting with the Similan Islands which are about 60km off shore, but they look spectacular. There's also a national park nearby where you can ride an elephant, so I might give that a try as well.

At least I'm not in Patong anymore. I feel like I need to go to confession on behalf of all the sleazy and disgusting caucasian men...