I’ve posted quite a bit about Bangkok during my two month visit to Thailand, but I spent ten glorious days on the beautiful island of Koh Phangan, in the Gulf of Thailand, part of the Southern Province of Surat Thani. I’ve been here many times, and plan to return as often as possible. The island is most famous for the monthly Full Moon Party, but it’s far, far more than a venue to get drunk and act crazy. Eighty percent of the island is protected, filled with forests, jungles, waterfalls, and of course, beaches. It’s all low rise, few buildings above two stories, and I don’t know of a single elevator. No airport, so one must take the train to the city of Surat Thani, then a ferry, or fly to nearby Koh Samui and then a boat. The scenery is spectacular, the food incredible, the pace of life addictive.
I know I’m a writer and work with words, but in this case, I’ve decide to let the island speak for itself through the photos I took.
Dear Stephen,
I’ve been meaning to send you a note after reading your latest novel, “Bangkok Blues.” Having missed a trip or two overseas courtesy of the pandemic restrictions, I appreciate more than ever the effort involved in transporting viewers/readers to other worlds. You’ve done just that–again–and may I offer my thanks and appreciation for your latest ticket to Thailand. The above post–thusly my nod to both viewers and readers–is another restorative tonic to my pandemic and winter-beaten soul. My wife and I have tickets in hand for a November journey to Viet Nam, Laos and Thailand and your creative efforts have been a part of what pulled me through from our last travels in now-distant-other-world that is 2018. Thank you again for taking me along for the ride[s]. Safe travels and looking forward to your future work.
Cheers!
Michael
Thanks so much. Words like yours make writing a pleasure. Enjoy your well-deserved journey this November!