Day one- Journey into Phuket

Day 1- The 22 hour flight was tough. Four movies later, two smelly fish meals, some strange pastry with pork in the middle, a quick nap, and I was at the HKT international airport! 

I made it through integration fine.  Phew! Then came time to claim my bag. I’m thinking to myself, “No problem! This is great! I can finally sleep!” 

Ha! Stay humble Rene… 3 hours later, after waiting for my bag, I give up. The carousel went around 3 times, after my flight number disappeared. I went to baggage services to file a claim. The language barrier added some extra stress. He asks where I’m staying. Uh, that’s complicated. I show him 3 different addresses. He shakes his head and puts up 1 finger. I respond by shaking my head, trying to explain, and number the order of my Airbnbs. 

I tell him how urgent it is, because I depart over an hour away for a 7 day sail trip. I write down as much information as possible, then leave to go to my first Airbnb.

Davids airport hotel. Convenient is the best way to describe it. It was about a 5 minute shuttle, and they arrange free pickup. I had no trouble sleeping. I was out within 5 minutes but woke up at 3 am. I did manage to find the only movie channel in English, with Chinese subtitles. SCORE!

I went downstairs around 10 to ask if there’s anything I can do until check out. She points to bikes and scooters. Heck yes! She draws out a map, to a beach and national park. I wanted exercise, so obviously chose the bike. Plus, people here are maniacs when it comes to driving. There seems to be no system. Scooters in all lanes, bikes, people walking, cars parked in the on coming traffic lane. The arrows actually switch to open different lanes. I hope it isn’t too sudden. I feel like it is real life Mario kart!

I ventured to the park with 40 baht in my pocket. I then realized how little that is worth. .028=1 USD. Oops, rookie mistake! It is 100 baht to get into the park, but the ranger gave me a break.

The scenery is beautiful. All types of boats in the water. Well, non motorized. People swimming, surrounded by mature trees. 

I returned to my hotel, returned the bike, and booked my taxi for 1000 baht to drive me closer to where I depart for my sail trip. It was hidden. The driver turned around 5 times! Anyway, we made it!

I meet Naan, one of the owners of the Airbnb Rawai Garden. It’s beautiful. Her husband was not home. He teaches diving lessons down the street. Anyway, I was STARVING! I hadn’t eaten all day. I asked Naan if she recommended somewhere to eat. She showed me a menu and said “I’ll cook for you!”

When asked what I wanted, I replied with “healthy, and with chicken!” She was pleasantly surprised with my ability to handle spice.

After, I walked into town. I came across a little market. I saw fresh pinapple! I asked where and how far away does this come from. He simply pointed. My eyes lit up, and he makes the motion to “shoo,” hopefully meaning to go get. He came with me with a small knife.. (yes I know, not the brightest) and cut some for me. I was so grateful and gave him 100 baht. I hope this was not offensive.

I did a little shopping at a beauty supply store. I saw shoes by the door, so followed order. I will go back here to get some of the amazing beauty masks. They had EVERYTHING!

At this point I was exhausted. I couldn’t believe it was 6 pm… Oh well, I had 8 more days ahead of exploring, and the main attraction, my sail trip. I can’t wait to meet my crew!