[Railay to Phi Phi, Thailand] This morning we said our goodbyes to Railay as we boarded the Ao Nang Princess ferry to Phi Phi. The Pra Nang peninsula was marvelous in the end, even if the weather was terrible, we only had a cold water shower and the WiFi was expensive. The weather today started off perfect and it was an easy hour long cruise out to the island (not even a hint of sea sickness because it was so calm).

We were a little concerned about finding accommodation on Phi Phi (the place is always busy) but the touts at the dock had plenty to choose from and it was a relief not to have to schlep around looking for something. The hotel even came to fetch us and transport our luggage (first time that has happened). We’re happy with what we found (Uphill Bungalows) and it seems like a reasonable deal since we have hot water, aircon and most importantly free WiFi. We grabbed a quick bite and spent some time internetting ourselves in the bungalow. As luck would have it the wind and rains started up ferociously giving us no choice but to keep playing online (there is always something to download or news to read).

By 4 the rain had gone and the sun was back out. I managed to convince V to go and chat to dive school about completing her course. She was not wild about the idea, the fear is still fresh in her mind, but we found a PADI 5 star company (Barakuda Divers www.phiphibarakuda.com) online that made special mention on their website about giving more time to ‘nervous’ students. We went looking for them in the maize of streets that is Tonsai village where dive centres pay instructors on commission only. The result is that the western instructors lurking outside of the dozens of dive operators hardly let anyone by with trying to sell a course or outing. We found Barakuda and were greeted by Stephane (a French fire fighter and rescue diver who has been an instructor for about 25 minutes). Explaining that V needed to finish her course he got the branch manager involved. They were great to chat to and we felt completely comfortable in spite of Stephane’s recent graduation to ‘Instructor’.

So it’s all set. Tomorrow my brave little V will be facing her fears once again. I’ll be able to dive with them for free to just watch and fool about while they do the confined water dives. After That excitement we spent the rest of the evening strolling down the island and back along the beach. It is a beautiful place.

[Pictures: Cattitude at the local restaurant. Our new little ‘Bungalow’]

Goodbye Railay

– Posted from my iPhone via WiFi