Greetings from the Gulf of Thailand! We flew from Bangkok to Koh Samui this morning, happy to have a respite from a very busy city. We toured the Jim Thompson House yesterday. He was a soldier in WWII who ended up stationed in SE Asia and spent the rest of his life helping the indigenous people of Thailand to revitalize the silk industry that had been languishing here. His big breakthrough was the design of costumes for “The King and I”. He built quite a home for himself and his community! I’m posting a picture of one of his silk looms.
After arriving in Koh Samui, we hopped a transit ferry for a 2 hour ride to Koh Tao, often called “The Rock” by the intrepid divers who frequent this island. The ferry was full of 20 and 30 somethings who were headed for the first stop: Koh Pha-Ngan, for the Full Moon Party! Most sporting tattoos that would set our bank accounts back a bit, they looked ready for the occasion!
I’m posting a photo of Koh Tao as our ferry arrived. It is quite low key, our room is gorgeous for $50/night, and we’re getting our refresher course to go diving tomorrow. More to come!
Teresa Van Haalen Ventures 