When we arrived in Phuket it was 25C at 11:30pm! It took a long time to get through customs but eventually we made it and the man from the hotel we were booked at met us outside. It was a quick drive to Panpen Bungalows and by about 1am we were tucked into bed. Then Ryan asked me "Is there any food in this house?" and we ended up watching a movie and eating Tim's homemade oatmeal cookies until 2. Finally we got to sleep only to awake again at 7. We were pretty tired but the kids were eager to get going to our house with the pool. The Bungalows were nice enough and clean, but there was nothing to do there. While we waited for our taxi we sat at the hotel restaurant and played Go Fish!
Since we couldn't get into the house until 2pm we had the taxi driver take us to the car rental company nearby to the house. It took over an hour to drive about 50km, from the north end of the island to the south. This island is definitely busier than Koh Samui where we visited last year. It made me start to question whether or not driving here would be a good idea. They drive on the left and the steering wheel is on the right. Anyway, we got the car and took off for Tesco to get some groceries. In the first 24 hours Tim only had to remind me what side I was supposed to be driving on once. That's not so bad. We made our way to the supermarket but before getting groceries found a little pizza place for lunch. It was pretty tasty but we had to eat quick to get back to meet the homeowners at 2pm.
We met up with the homeowner and he had us follow him to our villa. It's beautiful! I haven't gotten a lot of pictures yet, but I will post what I do have. I will get more over the next few days. Once the owner of the house gave us details and left, we all got in the pool. It was so refreshing! At first, Ryan, who wouldn't get in the pool at all when we were in Florida, would only get in this time with Tim holding him. He didn't want to get his head or face wet at all. Eventually we got armbands on him and before the day was done he was swimming around by himself. Today he started jumping in the water and having a great time. Unfortunately, after he came out to eat supper, I told him he could go back in the pool and he jumped right in without his armbands, forgetting that he wasn't wearing them. I didn't notice because I had my back to him but Tim did and he yelled to me since I was closer. Ryan was trying to swim to the edge but was going under when I grabbed him. He wasn't too shaken up but it did scare him a little. I don't think he'll make that mistake again.
This morning we had a swim in the pool before heading out for a little tour. We wanted to get a little more familiar with our surroundings and found ourselves at Cape Promthep. It's supposed to be very beautiful for viewing the sunset so hopefully we can get back there some evening. It was still very nice in the morning and we were able to do a little shopping as well.
From the cape we made our way to Nai Harn Beach to have lunch at a cute restaurant. It was a very interesting drive on narrow road and even under a hotel. We had to walk down some stairs on the side of a hill to get to it but it was worth it. The food was delicious. Nicholas loved his hotdog while the rest of us dined on Thai food. Ryan and I played on the beach for a few minutes while we waited for the food but Nick had no interest in getting into the sand. He's definitely a pool kid and I know we made the right choice in accommodations by getting a house. Anyway, we enjoyed our lunch and even ordered extra for supper then left. After a bit more driving around we finally made our way back home. I had a nice nap while the boys swam then we spent the better part of the evening in the pool again.
So that's our trip so far. Tomorrow we plan on going for some Dinosaur Mini Golf then who knows what else! Phuket is our oyster:).
What beautiful photos Jan, looks like you have a wonderful place to stay with lots to see and do. So glad you have a pool to enjoy and a car to drive makes it great to get around on your own and you know how frustrating it can be depending on someone else.
ReplyDeleteThe sunshine is so refreshing. We have a beautiful day here today with lots of sunshine. Ellery said it is like a March day. I haven't been out yet so I can't comment. I am going for a walk with Jerry though when I finish lunch.
Stefan got home for the weekend. He has a long weekend cause it is PEI Day or something over there so it will give him a nice break.
Not really much news here but keep the vacation tidbits coming. Have lots of fun!
Wonderful photos Jan, and sounds like your house is a dream come true. I can imagine that Nick loves the pool, he is a little fish and I am sure Ryan will be as well by the end of the week. I think your little car is cute, just big enough for you all. It must seem strange driving on the left, certainly wouldn't be something I could master.
ReplyDeleteAs Sheryl said there isn't much going on around here. We have had a couple of really nice days, mild and some sunshine.
Carl and I went to The Choirs for Comfort concert at our church on Saturday, it was wonderful. There certainly is an abundance of singing talent around this area. We really enjoyed the concert. After the concert we went out to supper with Stevie, Tracy and the boys plus Hayden's girlfriend Lauren. I was home and into my pj's by 7:00.
Today we are supposed to get some snow, freezing rain, heavy rain and high winds. I am staying home and doing laundry and some computer work for income tax. Real exciting...not! Might get some reading in along the way. I am also going to try and get caught up in printing your blog for Viv to read, I know she misses it and I haven't done it since August.
Must go and get to work, have a wonderful week and keep us posted (when you have time).
Take care