Aloha Everyone,
Ko Samui is located on the southeast in the Gulf of Thailand. It is part of 80 islands that makes up Ang Thong National Marine Park. The island’s known history traces back to circa 500 A.D. with the arrival of fishermen from Southern China and the Malay Peninsula.
After a leisurely breakfast on board, J.J. and I took a ship’s tender, about a 45 minutes ride, to the island of Ko Samui. Our attitude was noncommittal. Not expecting to see or have a one-of-a-kind experience, we decided to let things happen as they were meant to occur.
Under the searing tropical heat and humidity, passengers were immediately mobbed by locals who were shouting “taxi” as they pushed tattered cardboard with photos showing points of interest to entice possible riders. J.J. estimated that there must be about 60 taxis and drivers on the quay. Mobbed by the humanity of eager islanders who were focused on grabbing your business was astonishing, overwhelming and even intimidating. Today’s experience reminded me of the aggressive tactics employed by Gypsies in Rome.
Ice coffee break at Rabika Coffee before we hopped on a local cruiser which took us back to Sapphire Princess.
We exchange experiences with John and Linda from Perth, Australia. Sapphire Princess is inviting passengers to pre-book for forthcoming tours in exchange for discounts, on-board perks such as unlimited WiFi access, free laundry and cash credits. John and Linda are among the many who have already booked their next cruises for 2020 & 2021.
Aloha -- Cathi