• Today ... We Turned Right! 😉

      6 février, Thaïlande ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

      We've been here for nine days and aside from from going to a new restaurant for lunch on one occasion ... we always turn left!

      So, today, we thought we'd hang a right and see what we might find! To our good fortune, there was a Wine Cellar! We got excited for a moment until we realized that we could get two or three bottles of wine for the same price as one here! So ... we left empty handed!

      I couldn't get my mind off having a other foot massage, so ... headed back to East by South Health Massage! Even the old boy was eager to to get pampered again. I panicked a bit when 'my girl' was no where in sight! English is fairly limited, but somehow I was able to convey that I wanted the same massage therapist. And, within minutes, she came walking through the front door! I was so delighted to see her! 😍

      The old boy was happy to try someone new! And, he's really glad he did. He said this second foot massage was even better the first time! I know this to be true because he dozed off a couple of times! I could tell because he snarfled a couple of times! 😉

      I was very happy with mine as well. She incorporated even more Thai stretching into this one after she had me sit up in order to massage my back, neck and head!

      We headed back to the room for a pit stop and before we knew it ... it was 1:30pm. Sheesh! Time flies when you are busy being relaxed! We figured it would be wise to eat something because dinner was going to be later than usual this evening.

      We are scheduled to meet the Wheel & Anchor crew at Prego for pizza! One of the things that has really impressed me about this tour company is that it gives you ample opportunity to socialize as a group ... or ... not. 🙌👍👏

      We determined that Mit Samui would be a good choice for lunch because it is right next door to the place we can purchase reasonably priced wine! The old boy couldn't resist the red curry with chicken and I ordered the crispy spring rolls again!

      I didn't see wine on the menu but when I went to the bathroom, I saw wine in their cooler!!! 👏👏👏👏 Turns out that I didn't need to drink water after all! And, it was a nice healthy pour for $180BAT! I could not have been more delighted!

      The walk to and from the restaurant was so oppressively hot that we quickly changed into our swim wear and headed to the beach. The breeze off the water always makes it feel a few degrees cooler!

      I couldn't believe how different the water looked!! It was shallower and calmer than it has EVER been before. We actually walked all the way out to the sand bar and the water never got higher tha 3 or 4 feet! The water was as clear as drinking water! And, by gosh ... it felt heavenly to get wet! I'm still wearing sleeves as my rash is slowly improving, but not gone yet.

      We were lazing on the chaise loungers in the shade when the old boy got a hankering for some more of the sweet pineapple he had previously purchased on the beach. He got another bowl full and was once again declaring that this was the "best 🍍" he has ever tasted! 🤣 I have to agree that pineapple never tastes this good at home.

      Although the temperature was stifling hot, I found myself getting chilled in the shade with my long (and now wet) sleeves on. So, I went for a walk on the beach to dry off a bit! It felt good to get some steps in the sunshine!

      The old boy was snoozing when I got back. It was good to see him so relaxed! A couple of very nice ladies from our group were on the chairs nearby and one of them was snoozing too. She had lost a hat earlier during this trip ... so ... the old boy pilfered the one on her lap! 🤣 He'll give it back when we meet for dinner!

      The old boy played some Bridge online while we sipped some wine and I was writing this! Both of us are enjoying the a/c. It's only set at 22°C but it feels so refreshing because it's 12°C cooler that it is outside!

      Our day ended with a nice gathering of all the people in our Wheel & Anchor group! The pizza was good but the white wine was probably the best I've had since we arrived in Thailand. And, more importantly, the conversations were wonderful ... and ... we had a private air-conditioned room!

      All in all, it was another lovely day! We are very much ready for bed now. Its 9:08pm! Hope you all enjoyed a good day too! See you tomorrow!

      Much love,
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • Happy Birthday to Me!! 🥳

      5 février, Thaïlande ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

      I had lots of awakenings last night! Not the insightful kind though. Lots of the tossing and turning and flipping and flopping in the bed! Perhaps I was a bit worried about the weather. It was really windy yesterday and if the wind continued today, I worried that our sunset catamaran dinner cruise would be canceled.

      It looks like we are going to have sun though and the forecast is not calling for too much wind ... so ... I am looking forward to all the gifts this day will bring! I share my birthday with another gal in our group so I hope we can double the fun!

      The old boy had a nice card for me and served me coffee in bed as I was writing this. So, we're off to a good start. And then, when we were at breakfast ... several members of our tour group gathered round us and sang the birthday song to me! It touched my heart.

      We enjoyed a lovely breakfast (as usual) and I noticed the watermelon was cut into heart shapes. 🤩 After breakfast, we lazily chatted some more with several lovely ladies in our group ... over a third cappuccino. And, from our seats, we could see others in our group shopping for dresses and cover ups on the beach! It was fun to watch the fashion show from afar! I might have joined them, but I don't have an inch of room in my carry-on bag for any purchases!

      One of the servers in the restaurant has been exceptionally kind to us! I grabbed a photo with her! We had a nice lunch and then packed our bags to head out for our Sunset Dinner Cruise on a Catamaran!

      It proved to be such a stellar day. Another lady, Debra, and I share our birthday ... so ... it was double the joy and celebration! We ate magnificent food prepared by the boat crew and the Wheel & Anchor rep even ordered two birthday cakes! One of them was green!! I don't know what it was made of ... but ... damn it was soooo delicious! And, to top it all off, the whole gang sang us "Happy Birthday!"

      And then, my heart was filled to overflowing with all the touching messages I received from friends and family on Facebook and What's App! It has truly been an extra special celebration!

      Route 67 is off to a terrific start ... well ... except maybe for one thing! As I stood up to walk from the front of the catamaran to the back, the old boy cautioned "Don't lose your hat!" It was windy ... but I felt slightly annoyed at him for mothering me because, being the extra careful and hyper-vigilant person that I am ... I had already very carefully secured it tightly on my head with the elastic chin strap!! I needed no reminders from the lackadaisical one! 🥴

      And then ... no sooner had I righteously scoffed back "I'm not going to lose my hat" (maybe even with a wee eye roll at such folly) ... the wind snatched my hat from the back of neck and it rolled off my head in a heartbeat! It did two somersaults before it gracefully landed on the water! Oh my ......... I was eating some humble pie as I bid my hat farewell. 🙄

      I had bought that beauty in Lisbon and I didn't want to crush it, so I carefully carried it in my hands all the way here!! It served me well in this hot sun. I'll be on the look out for another one! I might need a rainproof one for Bali! It's still the rainy season there! I'm glad someone got a photo of it while I made a wish and blew out the imaginary candles on my cake. 🎂

      And so, despite the loss of my hat ... my spirit is so nourished! The joys from this exceptional birthday will be etched in my heart forever! I am treauring all the delights I collected on ' Route 66' and am eager to see what awaits me on Route 67! 💖💖💖💖💖💖

      Thank you to each and everyone of you for adding so much light to my life! I am ever grateful to you! ✨️

      With deepest appreciation and very full and humble hearts,
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • Sawasdee + Ka (women) or + Krub (men)

      4 février, Thaïlande ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

      We're learning a little bit of the Thai language. I have felt bad not greeting people in Thai ... so this morning I am practicing saying "Good Morning" in their language! Thai is like French in that the words are gendered. I'm going to have to add "thank you" to my growing vocabulary soon! 🤪

      We had another lazy start to the day. It's a bit cloudy and breezy! It's still 27°C but doesn't feel as hot as the past couple of days. I typically detest the wind at home, but it's a welcome relief in the heat!

      We joined a couple in our group for breakfast. We had an interesting conversation about the problem of homelessness back in Canada. At first I heard considerable judgment, but as we chatted more about the roots of attachment injury and trauma in addiction and homelessness ... I felt some softening.

      After breakfast, we walked over to pick up our laundry. The old boy has made a friend in the parking lot attendant. He was quick to head onto the street to halt traffic and make sure we crossed safely. We continue to be impressed by how kind and respectful the Thai people are. I think I mentioned that even the vendors on the beach do not pressure nor harass. They simply smile and ask and do not persist past hearing "no".

      On the way to get our laundry, we passed an air-conditioned massage and nail establishment. I think it was called East and South Health ______(?). When I spied the large yellow recliners, I knew I needed to have a foot massage there! The old boy decided to join me ... and ... we enjoyed the most sublime experience.

      At first it was just the two of us and the soothing music in the background. About halfway, another couple came in and the woman beside me decided to watch videos on her phone. Yes. With the volume loud enough to drown out the background music. 🤔

      I debated saying something ... because we learned that the Thai people are not fond of confrontation. I wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt by assuming whatever she was watching might be urgent. When it continued for three more videos ... I got brave and gently touched her arm. When she looked my way, I kindly raised my finger to my lips and mouthed "Sshhh."

      Fortunately, she was very receptive and turned off her device. Maybe she didn't realize she was disrupting the Zen for the rest of us? I'm not sure, but I'm glad I honored my needs.

      Our foot massage/reflexology also included a shoulder, head and short back massage at the end. We both thought this session was even better than the massages on the beach ... so we will be sure to go back. It cost us $300BAT each ... which is about $13CAD for each of us. We added a nice tip because it was so relaxing. I'm going to be sure to tell others in our group to give it a try! I hope we can steer some business in their direction!

      The practitioners were both so intentional and mindful as they poured their tranquil energy into their work. It was so comfortable and soothing that we both almost dozed off. We were both so wobbly when they finished that we had to sit on the bench outside to enjoy our complimentary water afterwards. The old boy had never had a foot massage before and we talked about how our parasympathetic nervous system was activated during our treatment.

      After our foot massages, we snagged a couple of lounge chairs on the beach. I had plans of taking a walk along the beach but didn't get any further than the shore line. The old boy decided to have some pineapple that was being sold by a beach side vendor! It was so sweet and delicious. And, amazingly ... it was also so artistically carved!!

      We played some more bridge a 2:30pm today. Our fourth was not feeling well so we recruited another guest who took some lessons years ago. The staff were marvelous about lowering a wind screen so we could play without the strong breeze blowing our dummy's hands off the table! It was still so much fun. I really hope we get to play again one day before we leave here!

      We had to cut our Bridge game short in order to get ready to join all the others at 'The Green Bird' for cocktails. Everyone except two of our group gathered together. It was wonderful to be seated near some of the other people in our group that we had not had as much opportunity to chat with before tonight.

      For example, a couple from Montreal will also be going to Bali! He has not been feeling well, so we have not had much chance to connect with them before now.

      We thoroughly enjoyed the conversation and got home just in time to regroup before a group of us headed out to see the "Paris Follies Cabaret" tonight! This is a show that highlights the 'lady boys' of Thailand.

      It was very bright and busy! They used a lot of strobe lights which wasn't much to my liking! The costumes were amazing and the gal in the scrappy black outfit found her way onto the old boy's lap for a little flirting! It caught him a bit by surprise when she squeezed his bossom! I wish I'd had a picture of 'their moment'.

      I'm glad we experienced it, but let's just say it won't stand out in my mind as one of my favorite moments on this trip! 😉

      With much appreciation for all the memories we are tucking into our hearts,
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • No Sun for Me Today!!

      3 février, Thaïlande ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

      The weather has been just so hot and gorgeous that this fair-skinned 'fragile blossom' has developed a sun/heat rash over my arms and upper torso. I am covered in raised red and ITCHY bumps. My skin feels like a reptile of some kind! I will spare you the visual, but I am hoping that the rash will diminish soon!!

      In order to facilitate healing, I'll have to stay in the shade as much as possible! I thought I was already doing that ... but ... it's clear that I have had too much sun/heat. Perhaps my mistake was not immersing myself beyond my midriff in the sea. I didn't want to risk sunburn by washing off my sunscreen ... but ... clearly my arms and chest needed to be cooled down more. Lesson learned.

      So, I am not the least bit sunburned, but ... the prickly, red rash is really uncomfortable. I am glad I bought the antihistamine cream for my mosquito bites at the pharmacy. I hope it will also take the itch out of my rash. 🥴

      I see winter and cold temps have arrived at home so I'll not complain about the sunshine anymore!! It's actually supposed to cool down a bit here over the next few days. That said, however, the temperature range from morning through night is only about 5 or 6 degrees. Nighttime is about 25°C and daytime gets to 30° ... but ... with humidity, it can feel like 38°C.

      We enjoyed our breakfast and then the old boy took another load of laundry to be washed while I got caught up with my blogging. I didn't think it would be hard to keep up with the sharing here since we are not busy with excursions each day, but ... I have fallen behind. So, it feels good to have this moment to get our days honored on the pages of this blog.

      Sometimes I question why I do this blog, but then I think that one day, when we are old(er) and can no longer travel ... we will be able to pull out the books created by using this blog and revisit our trips!

      Once I got caught up with my blogging, I joined the old boy by the pool and we ventured down some other walkways in the resorts courtyard! There were oodles of streams and greenery and gold fish!! It really is beautifully landscaped!

      The old boy ordered a lovely iced coffee ... and ... I remembered I had packed a long sleeve dri-light shirt that I was going to use if we went somewhere (e.g Temples) that required my shoulders be covered! It's also SPF50, so I decided to wear it in the pool! It worked great! I think it will be perfect for walks on the beach as well!

      We lazed around the pool this morning! until it was time to change and have a quick lunch before we played bridge at 2:00pm! There are three other people in our group who play. One who plays four times a week and another who is quite experienced and the third hasn't played for years. One of the experienced ones couldn't join us today, so the remaining four of us enjoyed a few hands together.

      The experienced one was so helpful to walk through the hands and remind us of the conventions and bidding. We had such fun that we are going to meet again tomorrow at 2:30pm.

      We had just enough time to enjoy a glass of wine over happy hour and then, at 6:20, we headed out to Fisherman's Village for dinner with four others in our group at a place called CoCo Tams.

      The busy, busy, busy restaurant was located right on the beach and had a real party vibe! The music was loud so the old boy couldn't really participate in the conversation. He ordered the sea bass. It was pretty good. Surprisingly, I ordered a pasta with bacon that I did not enjoy. Doesn't bacon make everything delicious?? Two others ordered the Seafood pasta and one of them sent hers back!

      This was our first really disappointing meal. The company was really good though ... so ... the conversation and laughter made up for the food fails.

      They also had a really good fire show that we watched from our table! Ill post a couple of videos to give you a taste of it! We didn't get home until 9:20pm! It was definitely a late night for us! 🤣

      With grateful hearts,
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • Day Trip to Koh Phangan!

      2 février, Thaïlande ⋅ 🌙 26 °C

      We were up and out very, very early this morning!! We even had to set an alarm for 5:45am! The restaurant opened at 6:30am but we needed to be at the pick up point at 7:00am, so that felt a bit too rushed for me to eat a substantial breakfast before leaving.

      Instead, we ordered 4 cappuccinos and put them in our go-cup. I had packed some small Ziplock baggies, so I put a couple of hard-boiled eggs into one and some oranges and baby bananas into another. That way, we could sip our coffee on the ferry to Koh Phangan.

      Ko Samui is the third largest island in Thailand and Koh Phangan is the fourth largest. It is also the island that the founder of 'Wheel & Anchor' calls home. Gordon is originally from Toronto, but now lives in Thailand. He has been here for the last 10 years and expects he might continue to call it home for another 10 years.

      Yikes. While I think it is a great place to visit, I could NEVER live here permanently. Nope. For me ... all our travels have reminded me of how much I appreciate being able to call Canada home. 🍁

      Our first stop, once we arrived, was to a waterfall in one of the national parks. Apparently, 2/3 of this island is parkland. The waterfall was not large, but was very pretty and fed a small pool at the bottom of it inhabited by those little fish that nibble at your feet. Maybe you have seen those little shops, in your travels, that invite you to immerse your feet into a tank of water filled with these little 'pedicure' fish. We've actually paid for the experience in the past! The old boy got another one free today!!

      After our time at the waterfall, we took a longboat to three different beaches. Our first stop was Bottle Beach. I have no idea why they called it that, but it was enchanting. We enjoyed a refreshing drink in one of the restaurants on this beach. I had a mango shake. Shakes are really popular here, so I thought I'd try one. The old boy opted for a "Mai Thai." I'm not sure if Thailand is where that drink originated, but he enjoyed it!

      I was glad I had packed my fruit and eggs because I was hungry and this was the perfect spot to eat! I shared my fruit and devoured my eggs! It was just perfect! This beach was so quiet and there were some little cabins that people could rent. Apparently, the beach is really only easily accessible by hiking or by boat ... so ... it was incredibly peaceful.

      We got back on our longtail ... which I should share ... is no easy feat! I was grateful that the water was so glassy and calm because the boat is heaving up and down as you try to get your feet on the round rungs of a little metal ladder that they toss onto the side of it.

      In fact, one of our group members that went out on the first excursion to Koh Phangan sprained her ankle getting off the boat. She, unfortunately, has been laid up for the last couple of days. I think we were all a little extra careful given our thoughts of how she injured herself trying to get off the longtail.

      Our second beach was called Coral Beach. This was my favorite beach! And, it was where we had the most amazing lunch! I couldn't eat the appetizer because it was guacamole, but ... I thoroughly enjoyed the Tuna Poke Bowl. I wouldn't normally have consumed such a meal because it was not cooked, but our founder Gordon was with us and said he asserted it was the best Poke Bowl on the planet. So ... with that endorsement ... I chowed down. It was really good. They replaced the avocado in mine with mango.😋

      The dessert was a wee little chocolate looking parfait. I was disappointed to see that mine was different ... but then ... I was grateful. They made me a special one because the chocolate had avocado in it!! Who would have suspected that??? And, my mango version was very refreshing indeed!

      We boarded our long tail again and arrived at our third beach ... called Secret Beach. It was filled with people ... so ... it was not so secret. And, for some reason, it was laden with sea weed. So much so, that the water was a very unpleasant green. We understand that it was not that color a couple of days ago though. So, who knows why or how, but none of us wanted to go into to water at this beach.

      The neat thing about this beach was the bar/restaurant that was located on the point of the island. It was such a fun place with coconut seed garlands, and swings and all kinds of creative decor! We were able to get a big table and enjoy a glass of good cheer before heading back to the ferry.

      All in all, it was a long, hot day ... but ... such a fun day!! We were pretty tired by the time we got back to the hotel at 6:30pm. We had put in a 12 hour shift in the sun and heat. So, the old boy wandered down to Mit Samui and picked up some of those amazing spring rolls for me and some chicken dishes for himself and brought it all back to the room.

      We ate and then tucked in so we could get rested up for another day of fun and games (literally) tomorrow. I have to say that we are enjoying the Wheel & Anchor experience. They are taking very good care of us here!! Our rep has organized for us to play some bridge tomorrow at 2:00pm. 🙌

      Hugs to one and all,
      ❤️ k & j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • A Bright, New, Sunny Day!

      1 février, Thaïlande ⋅ ☁️ 26 °C

      I slept in again! Sadly, the old boy did not have as restful a night! It might be that his sinus medication is disturbing his rest??? We are not sure, but hopefully he can catch a few more zzz's on a chaise lounger later!

      And ... for the first time since we arrived ... it's a green flag on the water! It's glassy clear and perfectly calm! Quite a difference from when we first arrived! We are so grateful for the arrival of this gorgeous weather!

      I'm not sure how I got so far behind in posting these blogs ... I thought it was going to be easy given how flexible our days have been, but apparently the old adage is true: I have been extremely "busy doing nothing". 😉

      It's really nice, though, to FEEL like you are in total vacation mode. No where to be and no eyes on the time. We are not really used to this pace. In most of our travels, we are on the run a fair bit ... doing and seeing and exploring our surroundings. Maybe we feel a little less inclined to do that here because we have been to Thailand before and have already done so many of the 'touristy' things?

      One of the things that we have really enjoyed is our tour guide Nina. We also have a rep with us from Wheel & Anchor at all times. Linda is responsible to ensure all our needs are met and she is our 'go to' if anyone in the group has any issues or requests for activities etc.

      Nina, however, is a local tour guide from Thailand. She is a wealth of knowledge and information. We have learned so many 'little things' from her about local customs of this culture. I wish I had remembered to share all the details we have learned ...but ... I keep forgetting. I will offer up a few things now, while I am thinking about it.

      For instance, when raising glasses to say 'cheers', you do not look at people's eyes. You should look at the glasses. It is deemed disrespectful to look into people's eyes. And, another interesting tidbit is that if you are younger than the person whose glass you are clinking ... you must position your glass LOWER than the person with whom you are cheering! This is a way of showing deference and respect. Respect for elders is very important here in Thailand.

      We also noticed that, despite much traffic, no one toots their vehicle horns here. It was the same in Italy. Here, they believe tooting of horns is a reflection of irritation and anger. And, they believe anger is a precursor to causing accidents. So, it is recommended that you must calm yourself down if you feel inclined to toot your horn. And, it is so nice, because you can eat at a roadside restaurant and not hear beeping and honking!

      Oh ... and there is lots of traffic. If a pedestrian wants to cross the road, it is suggested that you raise your hand. Motorists will slow down and let you cross.

      Oh ... when we were at the cooking class, Nina was telling us that people in Thailand do not like leftovers. They prefer everything to be cooked fresh daily. To that end ... because of all the chopping and prep work ... many Thai women start working in the kitchen at 4:00am.

      Oh ... we also learned that the hottest peppers grow upwards on the vine. If they hang down on off the branches, they are not likely to be as hot. However, 'not as hot' is clearly relative. Their idea of hot and our idea of hot are two different things. 😉

      And, although we were not told ... we have learned a key rule in Thailand: "No gawking while walking!" The foot paths are so uneven ... even on the sidewalks ... that it is much too precarious to try and sight see while moving. One is always best to stop and then take a look around.

      The old boy was craving more of the culinary delights at Mit Samui, so we decided to have lunch there on our way to the mall. He ordered a Singha but was told they couldn't sell him one. It was voting day. The Thai government determined that it was likely best if their voters were sober, so it is illegal to sell alcohol on election day while the polls are open.

      We also learned that it is also illegal to sell alcohol between 2:00pm and 5:00pm EVERY day. This protocol is inspired by the intention of ensuring people are not abusing alcohol. It's different at our hotel. We are not locals, so they will sell alcohol to us at any time of day.

      Oh ... I have a confession to make. When we arrived at the hotel ... I unwrapped the bar of soap by the sink in the bathroom and placed it in the dish. At some point, I noticed a dispenser and thought ... oh ... that will be easier than picking up the soap bar. It wasn't until today that I realized I have been washing my hands with "body lotion". Oh my ... another vacation faux pas to add to the books! 😆😂🤣

      Since we had nothing on our schedule, I suggested to the old boy that we should go get massages. I would take the "Thai with balm" option because I did the oil massage already. Nina mentioned that you might want to start with with oil and leave a day in-between massages because otherwise your muscles will get too tender.

      The old boy has had a couple of massages before over the years but has never really enjoyed them. He finally conceded and we went back to the 'blue massage hut' because everyone was raving about their staff. Unfortunately, they had a one hour waiting list. So, we opted to go with the massage therapists dressed in purple.

      The old boy got a male masseuse. I wasn't sure how he'd feel about it, but ... guess what ... he LOVED it. He told the massage therapist "You are really good!" THREE times before we left. And ... he kept saying to me it was "the best he has ever had!" Usually he reserves that phrase for food, but I was tickled that he enjoyed his massage so much. I am guessing it won't be hard to convince him to have another one.

      After that, we showered up and walked down to the night market. It was crowded ... and ... filled with different kinds of foods! We didn't want to eat there though because we heard that there was going to be live music at our restaurant.

      We admired the seafood options available at Mit Samui on our walk back to the resort. And then, before we headed down to the restaurant, we enjoyed happy hours on our deck with our neighbors (they are also in tour group).

      We really enjoyed the musician and had a lovely meal as well! With another beautiful day behind us ... we toddled off to bed. I had been thinking earlier that today might be the day I finally stay awake until 9:00pm today, but no. Not yet. Perhaps one of these lazy days ahead will extend beyond 8:00pm .........😉

      With much love to you all,
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • Another Lazy Day in Paradise ... ☀️☀️

      31 janvier, Thaïlande ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

      We got down to breakfast later than usual ... because .... we slept in longer than ever before!! 👏👏👏 I had to snap a picture of the sunshine dotting the sea with dazzling diamonds dancing delightfully on the water! What a spectacular welcome! ✨️✨️✨️

      We languished over breakfast ... deepening our connections by getting to know the stories of others in our group. It was so nice we were there until 11:00am!

      After breakfast, we took a walk to the Central Mall! We used a special peeler/shredder in our cooking class that I have never seen in Canada. I thought it would make a great gift for my Secret Santa recipient. I am hoping that whoever has my name will get me one too!! I might buy one for me as well ... and then ... if I end up with two, I'll have a nice gift for someone when we get home.

      And, look what I spied when we were in the grocery store!! Yes! A new flavor of Fisherman Friends!! 👍 They are actually quite tasty! I didn't find anything I wanted at the Central Mall, but it was a nice experience browsing.

      On the way home, we stopped for some red curry and spring rolls at Mit Samui!! It was one of the recommended local favorite restaurants and the food was sensational. They kindly pull a fan up the table for the tourists and only cost us $330BAT ... which is the equivalent of about $14CAD. That even included a Sinha beer for the old boy! 🌟

      And after that, we meandered down to the sea and snagged a couple of chaise loungers right in the water. The tide was receding but the water was still coming right up to our chairs ... which was unique and quite fun to simply set my foot down to cool off!

      A couple of the other ladies had bought swimsuit cover ups from the guy carrying the heavy wooden rack on the beach! I never usually even look at what they are selling, but after admiring their purchases, I was watching for him! I didn't pack a swimsuit cover-up so I decided to get one too! It was super fun trying things on! I settled on an electric blue one! It was $17CAD.

      We sipped on an iced coffee and chatted with passersby. It was glorious! I took a short walk before our 5:00pm date for cocktails by the pool party! The socializing offered up a nice chance to chat with some of the people we haven't had a chance to get to know yet ... including the old boy's secret Santa recipient!

      And then, we finished up the day with supper on the beach under the tripods they set up! It was absolutely magical!

      I thought maybe I'd be able to make 9:00pm because I'd slept so well and so long ... but ... nope. We were tucked in bed by 8:00pm .

      It was, however, such a nice day. We will treasure the memories in our hearts forever. 💕

      Hugs to one and all! It's such a treat to see you here!
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • It's a Busy Day Today ... 🤣🤣🤣

      30 janvier, Thaïlande ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C

      We have plans!! We even have time lines. Yep. We have things to check off the list! Whoa. It's a busy day in paradise today!

      The weather is spectacular today! The humidity is down and the sun is up and out! After another wonderful breakfast, We enjoyed our first excursion with Wheel & Anchor! We went to an organic farm called The Nature." We were outdoors under a thatched hut and it was wonderful! We were greeted with a very pretty homemade ginger drink adorned with edible flowers! We took a tour of the gardens and got introduced to many different plants used in Thai cuisine.

      We learned to make three recipes. We made Pad Thai, Green Papaya Salad and a rice ball dessert whose name escapes me. I loved both of the first dishes, but I wasn't too fussy about the texture of the rice ball dessert. Some of the others loved it so much that they couldn't stop eating it ... but ... it just wasn't for me. It reminded me of tapioca.

      We certainly learned how complicated it is to make all these lovely dishes though. I had not before thought about all the steps that have been taken when you get a nice plate of Thai food set in front of you. I have a deep appreciation for it now!!

      After enjoying such wonderful food, we headed down the street to pick up our laundry. It only cost 90BAT and was folded and returned in a sealed bag. We notice that presentation, in all things, seems to be so important here in Thailand. I love that they pay such careful and thoughtful attention to detail!

      With our scheduled tasks completed, we donned our swimwear and headed to the pool. It was then that I noticed a couple of empty lounge chairs available right on the beach!! We ordered a drink and simply enjoyed the sound of the waves as they splashed up towards us. It was so cool because the resort is so close to the beach that I could use the wifi while we lazed by the sea!

      With the better weather, the vendors were on the beach selling their products. Oh ... I should also add that the vendors on the street are not bothersome. They walk past and ask but they do not harass or try to guilt you like they do in other parts of the world. One woman was cooking corn and slicing fresh fruit right beside us! People were thoroughly enjoying the sand and the sun! Oh ... I should share that the sea water is warmer than the pool ... and with the rain behind us ... the water is so much calmer and quieter!

      The old boy had a nap. I took a stroll. We visited with passersby. One woman had just bought fresh coconut and offered us a slice. And then, a couple of the other women in our group were going back for a second massage on the beach. I opted to join them for my first. It cost 300BAT (@ $13 CAD). OMG ... there is nothing quite as good as the strong hands of a Thai masseuse!

      I forgot just how amazing the Thai masseuses are in knowing just the right pressure on each part of the body. I especially enjoyed the way she massaged my arms. Yes. Isn't that crazy? What is even more interesting is that they suggest you NOT have a massage everyday or you will be bruised. So .... I will have to wait until tomorrow to go back! And ... I will. I had an oil massage today, but I am going to get a combo next time!!

      After my massage, it was close to 7:00pm, so we opted to go back to the room and have leftover pizza and papaya salad on our deck. I marinated in some Deep Woods Off ... and ... we sat outside looking at the beautiful colors in the pool!

      Our neighbors got home (they went on a longboat tour today) so we swapped stories and then tumbled into bed by 8:00pm. We haven't made 9:00pm ... yet ... but are thinking we might be able to manage that soon!! The jet lag is getting to be less and less.

      Sheesh. Isn't this the life??? Tomorrow we have another free day. I just love that we can pace our excursions and enjoy lots of down time by ourselves too!! So far, I highly recommend Wheel & Anchor if you are looking for a tour company!

      With full, full hearts we are sending hugs across the pond,
      ❤️k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • A Whole New Day in Paradise!

      29 janvier, Thaïlande ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

      I am so delighted to share that I had the best sleep last night! We tucked in around 8:00pm and I never woke up the first time until 3:00am. Here's hoping the jet lag is lagging! 😉

      We enjoyed another great breakfast! The hotel's buffet is a scrumptious mix of Thai and American delights. Homemade omelets topped off with spicy Thai options that equate to sublime goodness!

      It looks like we might have sun today. We have absolutely no plans ... thankfully. We decided to drop off our laundry ... and then ... it was hot, so we headed back to the hotel and landed a couple of nice cots right on the water!

      The old boy was happy to snooze, but I had ants in my pants so I decided to take a walk north on the beach. The tide was still pretty high, but it was hot ... so ... the water lapping up against my legs felt really good.

      I noticed lots of fun things along the waterfront ... swings and massage tables and restaurants galore! We might have to go back together and check them out!

      We enjoyed a late lunch in our hotel restaurant and then we wandered up to the Pharmacy. The old boy's sinuses are acting up ... so .... he got something suggested by the pharmacist. I also got some anti-itch salve. The mosquitos continue to have their way with me!!

      Once we got back to the hotel, we played a couple of games of Clever! I lost both of them!!! The better news is that I learned that there are five of us in our group that play bridge ... so ... we might be able to have a game or two before we leave here!!

      The tide goes out in the evening! So, the old boy and I took a walk along the beach in the southern direction! I was hoping I might be able to catch a wee bit of the color from the sunset. And I did manage to capture some pinks in the sky!

      It was also incredible to witness just how much work that each establishment makes in terms of putting chairs and tables and opportunities to enjoy the beach after the tide goes out!

      We haven't walked a whole lot since we left home, but today ... I logged a handsome total of 11, 746 steps today!! Yesterday was 7,548 and the day before was 5,491! We only logged 1,657 on Sunday!! So, it feels good to be a bit more active.

      I should share that the sand on the beach here is so incredibly fine that it packs down so densely by the tide that one doesn't even need to remove their shoes while walking on it. I have never before felt this kind of sand. It might be the nicest feeling beach we have ever walked upon!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

      And, on the way back to our resort, we were entertained by some buskers who move from hotel to hotel with their fire show! It's amazing to think that they are working with real fire!! I took four videos ... I will only post one of them! 😉

      We ordered a pizza from the restaurant! We enjoyed a few slices and put the rest in the fridge for another time when we don't need a big meal. Hopefully, we will sleep as well ... or ... even better than last night!

      We are off on our first excursion of the trip tomorrow. We will be enjoying a Thai Culinary Course!! We are looking forward to it because we have so thoroughly enjoyed the chance to savor Thai food again.

      So, I will say good-bye for now! And, I'll catch up with you again tomorrow!
      Hugs from both of us,
      ❤️k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

    • Absolutely Jaw-Dropping!

      28 janvier, Thaïlande ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

      As I shared in my last post ... our first impressions of Koh Samui and our resort were nothing short of jaw-dropping!! It is absolutely gorgeous ... despite the wind and continued forecasts for rain over the next few days.

      Well, I had a hard time sleeping last night. I am not sure if it is jet-lag related or if I am just finally excited to actually be here ... at our 'first' final destination!! I stayed in bed as long as I could, but by 5:00am I was ready to get up and at it! We didn't have any time to wander and explore and acquaint ourselves with our surroundings last evening so my mind was full of things to take care and get organized. ☺️

      My enthusiasm was short-lived when I discovered that the coffee station had no outlet for which to plug in the coffee maker. There was a great machine but we had to move it into the bathroom to plug it in. And, once we got it plugged in .,.. we had a hell of time figuring out how to start it!! 😏

      Then, I also discovered that although I had nicely set up a charging station for my phone on my bedside table ... it didn't work once the light switch was turned off. So, now I know that when you turn out the light, you turn off the electricity to the whole plug. Well then ..... 🥴

      And, there is no table in our room for us to play games. There is not even a comfy place to sit. We have one chair at the desk and some kind of backless sofa by the window. Oh ... and ... mosquitos. There are some mosquitos in our room that have determined that I am the tastiest delight! They don't bother the old boy, but seem to have a honing device which follows me as perfectly as a drone.

      And so, with all this said, I came face-to-face with my entitled, privileged and easily annoyed travelling self even before the sun was up today. Arghhh. I realized I needed to do a turn-around. I must remind myself that I am not in Canada. And, all those privileges and luxuries I get to enjoy because I was born there ... are not offered to everyone, everywhere on the planet. This resort is offering the best experience that they can muster given the circumstances and limitations here.

      Okay. So I am sipping my coffee and giving thanks for the opportunity to experience the 'look' of luxury and inviting myself to be a little less snooty and a little more patient.

      We had an orientation this morning and took time to introduce ourselves to each other by sharing one of our most epic travel experiences. It was heartwarming to hear all the travel stories that had touched people deeply. And, it fostered some deeper connections between one and all as we realized how much we humans really have in common.

      We also learned a few things from our local guide Nina! We were reminded to use the "bum gun" to wash our derrieres and to dry with the paper! No paper is to be put in the pipes! Now, I feel like I need an additional tutorial regarding the best way to point and shoot! 🥴

      She also took us for a tour and pointed out the laundry services as well as some good local options for restaurants along with the way to the mall. We even found a liquor store that had better prices for us wine drinkers! We paid 390BAT for a whole bottle instead of just a glass! Fingers crossed that it will taste okay!

      It wasn't even terribly hot today (only 29°C) but the humidity was so high that we were sweating like crazy by the time we got back. It makes me really leery for how we'll manage when it's a whole lot hotter and sunnier! 😬

      We enjoyed a fabulous lunch at the hotel restaurant again! And then, headed back to the room just before the clouds opened up and offered another huge downpour! It's fascinating to me how fast these tropical rainstorms appear!

      After it quit raining, we went down to the pool for a bit and had some wonderful conversations with a few others in our group! There are a number of single women travelling with us. And, to say the least ... they are a hoot! We have been in stitches already with the amount of laughter shared! It looks like it is going to be a fabulous group!!

      And then, we were off to a cocktail reception at a Tiki Bar! And, once again, we had time to talk and laugh and get to know the other members of our group. We have drawn names and been given 200BAT to be a 'Secret Santa' for one of the other guests in our group. We will need to get to know our people a bit more and then go shopping for something for them!

      Neither the old boy or myself had a chance to connect with our 'secret santa' gift receivers, because they were both seated at the other end of a long table. So we are going to have to cultivate opportunities to get to know them. I love the way Wheel & Anchor creates opportunities to connect!

      Okay. We have one full day behind us. We were laughing and chatting until 8pm. Some of them were going to go get dinner, but we opted to head back to the room and go to bed. I'm not sure if it was the heat, but neither of us were hungry. We just wanted to tuck in and get a good sleep!

      And, it looks like the weather is going to improve! ☀️☀️We are off to a great start indeed!!

      See you all tomorrow! Hope all is well at home,
      ❤️ k&j ❤️
      En savoir plus

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