Another cheap crowded ferry, but it takes you from the sardine can of Patong to the treasure chest of Phi Phi Island. Remember the "h" is silent? So it's pronounced "Pee-Pee". Sheer green cliffs jut out of the water like the walls of an unfriendly fort. But just around the bend are crystal waters and white sand beaches galore. Full disclosure --- the narrow lanes (no cars here!) are crammed with twenty-somethings from all over the world who got the same invitation. Pee-Pee probably has a Facebook account that has only one word on it, but in 20 languages --- party! But somehow there's friendly energy and a carnival of newcomers around every corner. Easily the most beautiful natural scenery around. Gorgeous calm waters that oddly have no sea-salt smell. Coconuts, papayas, pineapples, and bananas.
So coincidentally we have a private bungalow at the Pee-Pee Banana "resort". High-season expensive at $47 but with pool, big breakfast, wifi, and a green mountain view that would have made Tarzan homesick. Mornings it's out to claim some shade near the shore and join all kinds of watercraft luring all kinds of waterpeople. The snorkelling is a fish-voyeur's dream. After dark the alleys are crammed with kick-boxers, Thai massage salons, and dozens and dozens of tattoo parlors. I have my doubts whether the "artists" are trained or regulated but there are lineups of all ages and all 3 genders. No electric needles here either ---- the guys stab you over and over with sharp bamboo picks. Pain is excruciating but only for a few days!!
A truly world-class destination, a tropical cliche with heat and sea-breezes included. Body parts throb and this couple even got married, in anticipation of this weekend's Chinese New Year. The best island since the hippies' Ios so long ago. Ten wows out of ten.
The main bay is so shallow that a construction barge is floated in at high tide. Then at low tide the front-end loader just drives off onto the sands with the cargo. No dock needed --- and not even the birds are bothered.
So coincidentally we have a private bungalow at the Pee-Pee Banana "resort". High-season expensive at $47 but with pool, big breakfast, wifi, and a green mountain view that would have made Tarzan homesick. Mornings it's out to claim some shade near the shore and join all kinds of watercraft luring all kinds of waterpeople. The snorkelling is a fish-voyeur's dream. After dark the alleys are crammed with kick-boxers, Thai massage salons, and dozens and dozens of tattoo parlors. I have my doubts whether the "artists" are trained or regulated but there are lineups of all ages and all 3 genders. No electric needles here either ---- the guys stab you over and over with sharp bamboo picks. Pain is excruciating but only for a few days!!
A truly world-class destination, a tropical cliche with heat and sea-breezes included. Body parts throb and this couple even got married, in anticipation of this weekend's Chinese New Year. The best island since the hippies' Ios so long ago. Ten wows out of ten.
The main bay is so shallow that a construction barge is floated in at high tide. Then at low tide the front-end loader just drives off onto the sands with the cargo. No dock needed --- and not even the birds are bothered.
Now that is a place I would like to be!
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