Phuket

Blackpool withsun
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I got off the ferry fully intending to go and stay in Phuket town. On a whim I decided to go to Patong instead.Because I can.

The minibus stopped on route to take us to an accommodation  booking office. I am wise to these touts and don't believe " There's nothing for under 1000 baht " or " You won't find anywhere. It's reservations only."

I started to make my way along the road and was approached by a British guy on a moped who runs a guesthouse.His place sounded ok and cheaper , so went to have a look.The 'Golden Buddha' is a  really nice clean place with a coffee shop next door , so dropped my bags and went to explore.

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In a way it's like Ko Phi Phi in that it's very much a mass tourist destination . The streets are an endless proliferation of souvenir stalls and bars. There's also a seedy side with gogo bars aplenty. Lot's of elderly Western guys with young Thai girlfriends too, which takes a little getting used to.

A walk down the road is not complete without " Hello. Massaaage?" ringing in your ears. It's quite amusing the first few times but after a while...  I did smile when I saw a T- shirt with

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" No , I don't want a f**king tuktuk, massage or a suit, thank you very much."

It's not a bad spot to spend a few days tho' so that's what i'm doing.It gives me a chance to relax and try not to spend any money. Having checked my bank balance I'm not at all sure i'll be able to make it a round journey. I think i've underestimated how much i would need.It's a truly horrible thought that I may have to return early.

I've had a look at working visas for Australia and  they're only for 18 - 30 yr olds! Scandalous. What are we old codgers meant to do to ?

Great to see Hawkers with traditional baskets
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A glimmer of hope is that it should be cheaper as I head North into less touristy spots , and as it comes to the end of ' peak season'  in a month or so.

Needless to say , I won't be back before I really have to.

I've spent some time trying to learn a little Thai. Well,  at least enough to say ' Hello' and 'thanks' and ' thanks very much' It  takes a bit of nerve to try tho' and it's easy to chicken out. I do my best ; no ones laughed at my attempts yet! Once i'm confident i've got those right , i'll try some more.   Thai for the inept.