Contemplating a visit to Koh Chang Island, I had anticipated finding a quiet tropical place to stay near the beach with a hammock. I’d read, write in my journal, listen to some of the Abraham and Theo materials on my iPod and savor some reflection time before heading to Bangkok and my flight back to the US.
Once I arrived, I discovered that the prices have really gone up from the rates in the guide books, the budget area is a party town, and I apparently forgot that in hot muggy and humid environments, bungalows without AC all have a musty air about them. I found a nice enough place to stay but never felt comfortable there. Moments after showering, I felt the salty air laying a coating of oil on my skin that thickened until my next shower. My first day, I did find a lovely restaurant with not only a wonderful cappuccino but AC as well! That was my retreat.
My guest house showed evening movies which I joined the first night. Apparently, that day was a Buddhist holiday so, in deference to the tradition, the bars were quiet. Well, quiet until 12:01 am when the huge speakers and thumping woofers kicked in. Fortunately, that only lasted until 5:00 am. Whew!
I rented a motor bike my second day and had a lovely exploration of the island, it’s beaches, the other communities and such. I never did find a place in all that exploring that appealed to me Back in my bungalow, the music once again cranked up and lasted until the wee hours of the morning. When I went out for breakfast shortly after 8:00, the streets were empty. I guess two nights in a row tuckered people out!
I didn’t feel comfortable staying but didn’t have a feeling for a plan so had coffee and breakfast. Leaving the restaurant, it suddenly dawned on me that I had my motor bike until noon. Off I went to the South end of the island, to the pier where shops line both sides of the narrow walk and had a bite to eat at a Greek Restaurant. On my way back, I felt clear finally that I was going to leave and head back to Trat. A sense of peace settled in for me.
Packed, checked out of my room and having returned my motor bike, I awaited the “taxi” to take me to the ferry. I bought a ferry ticket, then another taxi ticket and made it back to Pop Guest House in Trat about three hours after returning my motor bike. They had a room for me and the backpack I had stored with them when I left here.
With AC and a hot shower, I felt revived and my energy shifted considerably. Tonight is the beginning of a three day festival taking place on the street immediately in front of Pop’s. I’m so full from grazing on all the wonderful street food out there! I finally found authentic Thai coconut ice cream, twice, and out of fairness, decided to sample both. I’m undecided about which is best so may have more tomorrow.
Glad I listened, nice being here, and I’m looking forward to a good nights sleep!