Well, a few days on and I’ve finally ventured a bit further afield and done some actual exploring around the rest of Koh Samui.

First up was a whistle-stop tour of the island’s greatest hits from the back of a jeep, accompanied by a motley crew of Germans, Russians and Norwegians. Together, we were uncomfortably bounced around the island, stopping at Na Muang waterfall (more of a dribble, really), paying our respects to the Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram (sporting sunglasses only because his eyeballs have since fallen out), and taking in a sporting array of golden temples – plus enduring the obligatory ‘elephant sanctuary’ detour on the way.

Not forgetting the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations – of interest only because of their resemblance to certain, ahem, anatomical parts. I’m not convinced, personally.

All told, not exactly in Seven Wonders of the World territory here, but still nice to get out and about!

Still, I did enjoy the Ta Nim Magic Garden up in the mountains of Koh Samui. This was apparently the brainchild of an eccentric local durian grower named Khun Nim Thongsuk, who in retirement began building the garden in 1976 – as far as anyone can tell just for shits and giggles (it wasn’t opened to tourists till after the chap’s death). The place put me slightly in mind of Angkor Wat, only infinitesimally smaller, the best part of a millennium newer, and born entirely of one random old man’s unfettered whimsy.

I also stumbled upon a second, decidedly grislier local market – trigger warning for those of delicate sensibilities! One stall was selling rabbits and guinea pigs, though whether for cuddles or casseroles I couldn’t quite tell.

So that’s it for now. With temples ticked off, markets braved and whimsy duly appreciated, I feel I’ve earned myself something a bit more hedonistic.

I’ll be off shortly to visit Koh Samui’s famous Fisherman’s Village Friday night market – where hopefully the fare will prove rather more palatable! If nothing else, there will be cocktails… Bottoms up for now! 🙂