South East Asia

An early start to the day although we stayed inside for this mornings rain to pass. We then left and walked to a local scooter rental shop to rent a scooter for the day costing approximately £5. The first stop was Karon viewpoint overlooking Phuket. After taking in the views, we rode to Kata Noi beach, Kata beach and finally Freedom beach. Getting to Freedom beach was interesting as the final part of the route was off-road, like really off-road and with a screaming pillion, it wasn’t the easiest ride on a scooter! After trekking down to the beach passing a large jungle like spider, we finally got to relax and enjoy the sun on the quiet white sandy beach. It really was a little paradise cove with crystal clear warm water, white sand all backed by vibrant green vegetation set on a mountainous landscape with mostly coconut trees in the forefront. After some time to relax we packed up and rode to see to Big Buddha, I saw my first wild monkey then we rode back. On the way back we were unfortunate enough to be stopped at a police checkpoint looking to catch tourists out who did not have the correct documents including their international drivers license. Luckily for us, we did so after the police flicked through our papers we were let through without any problems. We did note that the police had absolutely no intention of stopping locals. This was purely set up to catch tourists. As I understand it, there is no official fine to be paid to the council equivalent for incorrect or missing documents. Instead it’s a small bribe/ fee to the police to allow you pass. Not ideal, but as mentioned we were fine so no issues.

We are off to the infamous Bangla Road this evening.Read more