Phuket, Ty does Thailand

I really like Thailand. Even Phuket, the insanely over-touristed island on Thai's west coast, provides good fun for singles or the entire family. It had been 6 years since our last trip to Koh Samui/Koh Tao (see 2009 post), and this one was quite a different experience.

It was great to travel with 3 other families, and Ty had constant play companions. The Moros and Wus like to run and workout, so Meg and I had running and gym partners also.

I managed 7 runs and 4-5 gym sessions in 10 days. Runs were slower pace, requiring more effort in the heat. Not too shabby. I felt a little stronger when back in cool Tokyo.

Koh Phi Phi is famous for films "The Beach" and "The Man With The Golden Gun". It has pristine deep aquamarine lagoons and amazing rock formations. We managed one day-trip there. 

                                                      Deep sand playground.

Stayed at the Centara Karon Hotel in Phuket. Other than the false promises of full-on day care, it was a pretty decent hotel with 3 large pools and large breakfast buffet selection.

Peace in Phi Phi.

                                          Sunsets from the Karon hotel are PEACEFUL.

                                          Day naps are nice too.

Managed 1 track session up north at the Thanyapura Triathlon Hotel. Worth a visit if you are in Phuket.

                                The boy in the plastic bubble. Lots of opportunities to drop spare change around the hotel.

                                  Our favorite restaurant away from the hotel...in Kata Beach.

Koh Phi Phi.

                                            view from Kata.

                                        Time for a cocktail at Kata.

                              All I want for Christmas is my 2 front teeth...

Got to meet up with Danai, his son Hal, and family. Of course we went for a run along Kata and Karon....

                              X-mas party at the hotel.

                            Getting in a last Maitai before the plane ride...