Arriving Phuket

From Singapore we took the luxurious SS Virgo, through the historical Strait of Malacca and arrived at Phuket island where Potung beach - scene of destruction during the disastrous 2004 tsunami - lies at its west shore. This is my second time to Thailand and first time to Phuket.

Sunset at the Strait of Malacca

Our ship didn't dock until 3pm at the south end of the island. By the time we hired an SUV, things were closing, so sadly we didn't get to see much. But we still got to see Wat Chalong, a traditional Thai temple.

Please direct your attention away from my disco green shorts to the dragon head, party party

I love Thailand's unique art style. Those golden pointy temple roofs are distinctively different from the rest of southeast and east Asian architectures (Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese on the other hand all have Chinese roots). The crafty home deco items they produce are reasonably priced and absolutely beautiful. Modern Thailand also produces many outstanding designers (like Chaiyuk Plypetch). It is surprising that the country hasn't taken on a more prominent position in the world of arts and designs.