We were up early in order to get the tender ashore into Patong Beach and join the coach for a trip to Phang Nga Bay. This involved driving most of the length of Phuket island and across the bridge to the mainland. The drive itself was interesting as we passed all manner of roadside shops, stalls, houses old and new, rubber plantations and thick jungle, and spotting Thai names such as Bumthongbang road never failed to raise a smile. But eventually we reached our stopping point and transferred from coach to motorboat for our excursion around the bay.
The bay itself contains a number of fascinating limestone islands, many hundreds of feet high with sheer cliffs. Indeed the most famous island is now known as James Bond island as it featured in the movie The Man With The Golden Gun. Although it was possible to go ashore on this island, we just viewed from the motorboat, no doubt not to disturb the arch villain in his headquarters hidden below the surface.
On the return leg we stopped at a local Moslem village which is built on stilts over the sea. It was a maze of small dark passages and alleyways with the residents, both old and young, eager to sell the tourists their wares.
Once back on dry land it was time for a very tasty Thai lunch of noodles, battered crab balls, tempura prawns and vegetables, rice, chicken and cashews. Absolutely fabulous. The restaurant was situated on the waterfront overlooking the bay and a more tranquil and picturesque spot would be hard to find.
Following the inevitable stop for souvenirs we eventually got back to Patong Beach and had time for a quick look around. The narrow and incredibly busy streets were crowded with tourists and locals and every bar and restaurant owner, every street vendor, every massage girl and every tailor was doing their best to drum up business. It was quite an experience, and although a hassle, was never threatening.
On the other side of the road, the beach was also still busy with swimmers, watersport enthusiasts and those just sitting and watching the world go by and it looked wonderfully tropical.
By the time we were ready to return to the ship it was already dark and a refreshing shower was most welcome before heading to the bar for our pre-dinner drink.
Although we only saw a small part of Thailand (we will return later on the trip), we did enjoy the experience. Yes, it is busy and frenetic at times, but there is a wonderful mixture of new and traditional.
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