It's Pouring in Koh Phi Phi

After Koh Tao, I took an hour ferry ride south to the island of Koh Phan Nang, home of the world famous full moon parties where 10,000 people gather every month on the beach of Had Rin.

It seems that although there was not a full moon, there was always an excuse to have a party. There were signs for half moon parties, black moon parties and even if those weren't happening, the music on the beach went until about 6am. I know this because I was up at this hour yesterday to catch the ferry (then bus and another ferry) to Koh Phi Phi. You would have think I would have been one of the people partying but I wasn't really into it. I honestly didn't care too much for Koh Phan Nang. I think it was the combination of really liking the atmosphere of Koh Tao and enjoying Rachel and Darren's company and because it was so commercialized and crowded. I had stopped in Koh Samui prior to Koh Tao and also found it commercialized, the only difference being that it wasn't a constant party and if for some weird reason you are craving McDonald's you can find one there.

Yesterday was a long day of travel and on my way I met this really cool Irish couple, Brian and Karen. I was so exhausted last night after we had dinner and wanted to go home but they persuaded me to stay out (as you know how the Irish can be) and I am glad they did. Did you know St. Patrick's Day is a national drinking holiday in Ireland and nobody has to go to work? It is absolutely pouring as I write and it looks like there is no chance of the rain letting up. Here is a picture of the beauty of Koh Phi Phi (pronounced pee-pee) despite the rain.

Koh Phi Phi was one of the places hit by the tsunami and from what I can tell, rebuilding is going well. I really can't tell that there was a disaster nearly two years ago. It is also one of the more expensive places in Thailand but well worth the surrounding beauty. There are no cars allowed on the island and you have to get everywhere by your feet or by a longtail boat. It is also known for great diving and snorkeling as well as the water is incredibly clear. Right when I got off the ferry landing, I looked over the side and saw tons of tropical fish milling about with really good visibility.

So that is all I really have for now as when it is raining, it is hard to get out and do things!