Samui

 Ok, it is a little embarrassing to have two beach vacations posted back to back.  However, because of the current COVID situation, travel is low cost and highly encouraged, in Thailand.  Also, I had a couple of opportunities, which meant my biggest expense for the travel was my meals.  So, after that disclaimer, here are my photos of another island beach trip.

On the way there, I realized my friend and I wore the same type of shirt.  Then, I looked over to see our other friend enjoying her Krispy Kreme.  They don't have a Krispy Kreme in Chiang Mai, but we had a plane change in Bangkok and it is the most popular shop in the airport.  I always bring Krispy Kreme back to the office when I fly through Bangkok.

We listened to a sales pitch for four hours and received vouchers to go on a snorkeling day trip.  I had never been snorkeling before, so it was a real treat.  The water was beautiful, as were the fish.  It also included a small hike to this picturesque island.  Then, we stopped at this fancy restaurant, which I am told is normally full of people.

There were some great restaurants.  One offered a fire show on the beach, in the evening.

A friend of a friend had a sailboat.  This is my first time on a sailboat and the first time fishing.

The hotel we stayed at had a paddle board and kayak that we could use free of charge.  I had never done either, and I had varying success.

I thought the airport was pretty cool, too.  In the top photo, you can see our plane taxiing in.

Phuket

A friend invited me to join her in Phuket for a few days.  It was a great opportunity to go and relax.  Covid almost non existent, in Thailand, and the government is encouraging local tourism.

Day 1 was spent throwing the coconuts into the waves.  Unfortunately the water was too rough to swim in.

The beach was empty

The hotel was empty

We went to watch the turtle feeding.  They had three turtles being rehabilitated.  One is completely blind and will likely never be able to make it on his own.

In the heat of the day, the lizards would hide in the shade of the lanterns.

Mostly, I stayed in the shade and read, as I listened to the sound of the waves.

One day I got a scratch.  It was probably the only thing the lifeguard did that day.  The little kids in the pool came to watch.  I am pretty sure that is the most attention my leg has ever received.

The sunsets were gorgeous everyday, but on this day we went to the city and it was probably my favorite sunset.

 

My Classroom

This is actually my room last school year.

 

Drive to English Class

 

Prague for the New Year’s

Outside the city

Sedlec Ossuary/Bone Church - from the outside it looks normal.  Surrounding cemetery, bell tower... though an unusual weather vane... When you step inside, you realize the 14th century church is not like the others. 

Some inside construction

What has been preserved

Not far down the road is St Barbara's Cathedral. I enjoyed the statues.

Other views from Kutna Hora.

Prague Christmas market and downtown stroll

Astronomical clock from 1410

St Charles Bridge from 1300's

Same bridge from a distance

St Charles Bridge gate

Views from the bridge

City art by David Cerny

Prague Castle
St Vitus Cathedral

St George Basilica 

The castle - starting with the room where the families' land ownership was recorded.

Historical houses within castle's walls preserved to show the way of life.

City lighting up with fireworks set by the city's residence.

Miscellaneous fun