12th Nov – Koi Samui, Thailand
Koi Samui is Thailand’s second largest island and is on the east coast. It has a population of around 250,000 and is a huge holiday spot. It was settled about 1500 years ago, by fisherman from the Malay Peninsular.
It didn’t have a road until well into the 1970’s, then development was rapid.
Everyone seemed really happy. It’s 90% Buddhist so has a lovely vibe and stunning temples.
Yes, it was hot.
Our pre booked driver was there waiting with a really comfortable van. Another couple, Michael and Ruth (from Texas), joined us so that was fun.
Coconuts are one of the main industries. Many families have a pet monkey who is trained to climb up the trees and chew the coconuts off and drop them down. How awesome.
The streets were fun – like many any other places with chaotic traffic and so many motor bikes. And the electrical wires in Thailand! Kids must learn early not to touch them – as they are often at ground level!
Everywhere you see small personal shrines. Houses, parks etc. These are where people place personal offerings to Buddha. What may look like rubbish is really food and small gifts.
One of the big tourist attractions here in shooting ranges. You can go and shoot ANY kind of gun. Huge guns, mainly military types. We didn’t.
We went and had some really good Thai massages. In really fancy places for around $15US each. The guide showed us how to pick a regular massage place from a “happy ending” massage place. LOL.
Of course we visiting the many temples. And Koi Samui has a lot.
This Monk gave his life to service then decided he wanted to give after his life. This mummified body is 40 years old. He wears glasses as his eyes haven’t lasted as well as his body. He died in the meditating positing and remains this way today.
Big Buddha – is visible from several kilometres away and even from the air when arriving on or leaving the island. 12 metres high.
Fat Chinese Buddha represents wealth and prosperity.
Wat Plai Laem (the 18 Armed Buddha) – sits out on an island in a small lake. The whol e area was stunning with many temples and great building. This impressive statue is 30 meters high.
We had a lovely lunch. Thai food is so good! The back to the ship after a bit more driving.
