Day 3 - Friday 27 November 2015

Still searching........Like everyone else I’m still searching for paradise and south Thailand’s islands and beaches often provide it. However successful, travelling is an art because it is a balancing act. What’s the point of sitting on a deserted golden sand beach lined with coconut palms if you can’t get a cold beer? At Pakarang Villa it’s as peaceful as you could wish. I’ve enough supplies for breakfast. There’s no immediate rush to do anything which is just as well as I need to complete my blog. Out on the bar stand near the swimming pool I manage to connect to the internet and by 10am I’m up to date. There are still issues with the room however as the toilet won’t flush properly. OK that’s it, time to leave.
I head back to the main road and continue south, aware that I’m already in the general area of Khao Lak. I cross swords with Katoon yet again as our heads don’t seem to be working entirely in sync. I would prefer to stay in Khao Lak at least another night. However Katoon has registered in her memory, a resort which was recommended. Last night we couldn’t find it, we simply hadn’t driven far enough. Then, after less than 15 minutes driving she spots it on the right-hand side of the road.
Sangsawan Resort........The rating of Sangsawan Resort is hard to judge from the road and somewhat confusing. It seems to be two resorts side by side. We’re told that the new resort has just opened the very day we arrive but the rooms are out of range for my budget. When we are shown the older resort it’s still in a pleasing location with bungalows and chalets leading to a small swimming pool. The chalets are 700 baht excluding breakfast the same as I paid last night. I’m ok with it but I need consensus. When I get the nod I’m utterly relieved to take a break from travelling. There are days when I’ve felt totally burnt out. The resort is more compact than the last one but still well landscaped and peaceful: The pool looks really inviting and it’s still not midday. I mentioned the balancing act and it soon becomes clear that there is one blemish as I try to connect to the internet in the room: No joy. But I manage to get a weak signal out in the porch. It may be enough. Although Sangsawan Resort as on the main highway 4 which can get busy at times there’s not too much road noise. On the plus side there are plenty of places to eat along this road. After I take lunch just 200 metres from the resort it’s quite cheap yet offers an amazing selection of dishes to order. Now I’m as close to Paradise as I may ever be.

Siesta........Not surprisingly back at the room I’m dead to the world. It’s well after 4pm before I wake up. I mentioned the new resort which has just opened. I’m welcome to use its bigger pool. I may even be the first paying customer to use it. Like the rest of the resort it’s beautifully laid out. I just can’t resist it and hang around till dark.
Tarn Restaurant........I rarely if ever manage to name a restaurant I use but I was so happy with lunch that I return to Tarn Restaurant for dinner. It’s really good value again. You have to appreciate that touring as I do means I get to eat at some odd places sometimes but here it’s as near as you’re likely to get for good value with a wide range of foods for tourists and definitely foreigner friendly. Back at the resort I complete my blog before 9pm. Well really, there wasn’t too much to write about and you know sometimes the simple things give you a better sense of well being than some of the complex touring I often do! Next Page.