A Day in the Jungle

Exploring Northern Phi Phi by foot

We slept for 12 hours - it was amazing. We woke up feeling like two new people, and the weather was perfect, so we decided to explore the island by foot instead of getting a scooter taxi to the other side. When you walk towards the left of Ba Kao Bay Resort you enter an alley with a few Thai restaurants, bars, and Spas. If you walk through the alley, you will reach a bridge that stretches over a river in a Mangrove forest. In about three minutes you are away from civilization - it is magical.

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We did not have a map or any directions expect for what we received from Rut at the Buffalo Head Bar who told us to turn right at the bridge. There is a concrete pathway that leads you to the Holiday Inn Resort and a beautiful white beach. Don't worry if you do not consider yourself an avid hiker, the walk one way is only about 2.5 kilometers. Also, the beautiful tropical surroundings make for a good distraction. Yesterday was quite hot (about 32 degrees with 66% humidity) so we were in dire need of a cold refreshment. We opted for lunch at the Holiday Inn, however, was later informed about local restaurants further down the beach.

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The Holiday Inn is much more expensive than the other local restaurants, so if your traveling on a budget try to go local first before opting for international resorts. We had two cocktails at THB200 each (about THB50 more than the Buffalo Head). They were very tasty but will not return for everyday sundowners. @stephb had the spicy Papaya salad for lunch which he really enjoyed. Everything was fresh, and the level of spicy was up to standard if that is what your tastebuds are into. I was not feeling too great yesterday, so I opted for a simple yet tasty trio of Thai appetisers which was served with three different sauces and an edible serving bowl. The dishes were the perfect size for a light lunch before walking back to Ba Kao Bay. Just a heads up, the shop at the Holiday Inn is extremely expensive. We paid THB60 for a 500ml bottle of water whereas at the shop close to our resort we paid around THB20. Rather take water with you - you will save money you can spend on other things.

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It was all in all a successful day of exploring. We wanted to explore the other side today, but unfortunately the rain is coming down in buckets so we are taking it easy.

"We have nothing to lose and a world to see"