Thailand!

I arrived in Phuket last night, which is the major touristy town in the south of the country. i didnt get into a hotel until about 830pm, so there wasnt a lot of time for exploring. I did manage to find a cafe close by and get a late dinner. i can tell ill be exploring the cuisine of thailand quite extensively (meaning: ill be eating a lot). I ordered rice with shrimp and basil, brothy soup and a beer and its came to a grand total of 55 BHT. Or under $2 Canadian. Magical. Air conditioning is a luxury that costs, so most choose to go without. it makes for uncomfortable days, but suring the night its not too bad.

This morning i took an early bus to Krabi, about 2 hours south, and a jumping off point to Ko Phi Phi ( or pee pee island as they call it) a really beautiful snorkeling island. im staying in a guesthouse (hostels arent a big thing here). i have a room to myself, 2 beds, a fan (the most important), hot water shower (another thing that costs extra, but why someone would ever want hot water in this country i dont know) for 15$ a night. The cheapy places cost 3-4$ a night, but tis the high season and im not booking aheda, just showing up and begging for rooms.

i took a bus (which is a pickup truck with a cage over the bed and benches installed) to Ao Nang beach (at least i think thats where i was...). The first thing i noticed was that everyone swims fully clothed. not a bathing suit in sight. I waded in to my knees for a bit of a cool down. i look behind me, and see 15 children following me. or course they all start yelling outall the english words they know "hello!" "thank you!". i was completely charmed. A bit later, i was walking down the street and a lady asked if she could take a picture with me. I feel like Paris hilton. the people in general are incredible friendly, one lady offered my an apple while i was sitting waiting for the bus. they also ask really personal questions like how much you weigh (hasnt happened to me yet, but ive heard stories) or if you have a boyfriend (almost every thai ive talked to has asked me this). they dont mean to be intrusive, im told tourists of any kind are just a facination. there are, however, the people (men) who ask if you have a boyfriend, and then offer to stop by your hotel later. they probably mean to be intrusive. (dont worry mom i said no)