March 23, 2018 – Koh Samui (Nathon), Thailand

A paradise of long sand beaches, spectacular coral reefs and swaying coconut trees, Koh Samui is Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket. By some accounts, the island’s name derives from the Malay word for “safe haven.” Surely, few havens are as soothing and idyllic, as evidenced by the sun-loving beachcombers from Thailand and beyond who wade, swim and lounge in the lapping tides. Until the early 1970s, this self-sufficient community had no roadways; crossing the island required a full-day trek across nine miles of mountainous jungle. Today, Koh Samui retains the slower pace of simpler times. The cherished traditions of old Siamese fishing villages, too, are preserved as tiny boats gently bob on turquoise waters. 

Koh Samui was a tender port; however, we did not use our tenders but used local tenders. They were big and they were airy.

Our journey began on a 4x4 vehicle to local rubber plantation.

Our guide at the plantation explained how they tap the rubber trip and collect the sap in a cup. It takes a rubber tree five years to produce sap. They plant the coconut seeds to produce the coconuts. They use the milk of the coconut to produce curry.

Once they gather 35 cups of the sap they have enough to produce one mat. They mix the sap with water and acid to form a rubbers substance. They then roll this out by hand and then with a simple press. It must then dry for five days to form the mat. They can sell the mat for $1.50. The then export them to China who uses them for Nike shoes. He explained this low price is why everyone is getting out of the rubber business.

We then went to the elephant camp where we first were introduced to some elephants so we could feed them.

Then we enjoyed an entertaining performance that showcases the elephants’ intelligence and grace.

Then they showed us a demonstration on how they train monkeys to harvest coconuts. It takes about three months to train them. The monkeys in the demonstration had obviously already been trained.

The last thing before the elephant ride was to enjoy a Thai cooking demonstration, with tips on Thai cuisine and ingredients. I was chosen to help with the demonstration and we had a great salad and they gave us the recipe. It really was delicious.

We then went for the elephant ride. It was amazing. You are on a platform to get on to the elephant and you are sitting on a seat. But, it did not feel that sturdy, you felt like you were slipping, but all worked out great. It was a tremendous experience and I recommend it to anyone that gets to this area.

Our last stop was just up the road to the Na Muang Waterfall. Nestled amongst the island's central mountains, the falls comprise a two-tier cascade of water that tumbles down a rocky cliff face. Also, there was a market there where we could purchase more stuff.

We now have a sea day. Then two days in Singapore where we will go on our own, no buses, no anyone tell you where to get off and get on. Then two ports in Malaysia and one in Thailand before we get another rest.