So this is how booking stuff on the internet goes. You have no idea what you’re gonna get! In this case, we got lucky. For 1,500 baht (~$43/night) we are at this fancy-ass resort on Thong Nai Pan Noi beach: Thongtapan Resort. We have air conditioning(!) and beach towels and free beach chairs(!) and breakfast(!) at the restaurant that serves BBQ fresh seafood every night. After staying in a dirty little beach shack bungalow (Haad Chao Phao Resort for 500 baht ~$15/night) with bugs and cold showers and no light or sheets we got here and were like “wow!” at everything the guy said checking us in. Lol.
Our little bungalow at Thongtapan Resort
The last place had its charm for sure–the magnificent beach views and whimsical beachfront bar made up for the grainy texture of ants mounting dead grubs on the mattress. Sammy might have even been more grossed out that Sofia for once…
Hammock at Chao Phao “Resort” beachfront bar
We took a walk from there yesterday to Zen Beach which was truly amazing and seriously out of a movie. The water is super shallow so you can walk out forever, but watch out for some big ass sea urchins. Luckily we got a heads up and snorkeled far out instead of swimming and could see them, as well as the fattest sea slugs ever and some fishies. Didn’t bring the GoPro so you’ll have to see for yourself, no pics for you.
Zen on Zen Beach
We had a great time at Art Cafe down the street from Chao Phao, which has delicious coconut milk cappuccinos and cute old books to read while you chill out forever.
Art Cafe
Sofia finally relaxing at Art Cafe
Coconut milk cappuccino
Taxi to Thong Nai Pan Noi beach
We explored the town here today, lay on the beach, Sammy snorkeled, Sofia washed her hair (shower! soap!), and we are barbecued red snapper with coconut rice and grilled corn for dinner. Is this our honeymoon #2?