In my last post, “Island of Smiles”, I not only told you what made ‘magical beach’ special, I showed you. Now, I will wholeheartedly strive to articulate the scenery and views, which give rise to the beauty of ‘magical beach’.
Each morning, my internal clock would wake me shortly before sunrise. I initially attributed this to jet lag, the time difference, and being in a new place. I didn’t mind because I took pleasure in an occurrence that I had taken for granted in the past.

I would lay in the hammock facing east, dozing, having the sun kiss me awake, suggesting I turn and face west. While stationary, I would admire the clear blue sky, the deep green jungle, and the ocean that contained shades of both. I never grew tired of the view nor the musical arrangement produced by the waves rolling onto the beach. It was amazingly peaceful. I guess one can never tire of peace.
I would later be driven by the desire to see the breathtaking views this island had to offer.

Dan, who so graciously volunteered his time, agreed to take a few of us on a hike to a view point he believed to be one of the best on the island. Dan, Frode, and I trekked the not so visible path, being infrequently directed by signs that were either painted on rock or made out of sticks.

My excitement was initiated by the thought of seeing a most wondrous site. The fact that I couldn’t turn back, there was no distinguishable path, after getting halfway there kept me going. I was hot, drenched from sweat, and just plain out of breath. This was no walk in the park.

My look at the beginning of the hike

My look halfway there….glasses off, shirt wet, face red, no more smile

After an hour and a half of ‘are we there yet’, beyond the overgrown shrubbery, this is what I was blessed to see.

Sitting on top of Koh Phangan

I’m staying riiiiiight here

The viewpoint, that rock peeking out in the middle, from across the beach.

Me and the boys

Dan did not lie about this view point. Actually, as I would come to find out, if Dan said it, believe it.

Can all experiences be put into words? I’m starting to believe otherwise. As I lay in my hotel room in Bangkok, reflecting on my time spent on a “magical beach”, I had a hard time summarizing my Koh Phangan experience. I arrived on this island with no expectation, but somehow it exceeded in every way.
I had the opportunity to become acquainted with a place where the sane, insane, happy, sad, or indifferent co-existed seamlessly. Well, at least while I was there. Everyone did what they wanted, how they wanted, without being intrusive. I now understand why people come back to this anomaly, year after year. This beach is beautiful because of the exceptional scenery and unbelievable views, but this beach is made special by the people. While on Koh Phangan, I crossed paths with some fascinating people.

If you know me, you know that I thoroughly enjoy conversing with people; trying to visualize their unique journey. I find myself in constant amazement when our lives intersect. To know the paths we’ve taken in our respective lives have led us to a place where we meet is pretty awesome. Especially, when it is half way around the world! I know my steps; I want to know theirs. It deepens my understanding of the human experience. It is a blessing to realize that essentially, we are all the same.

Me and the girls

Frode is a cool, cool guy

Piña colada time

One of the many funny moments with James

Charlie and his Angels

Dan was an unexpected surprise. He became my unofficial guide to exploring the island of Koh Phangan.

Nic made that lovely bikini top for Catherine for her birthday. Beautiful.

Lou, oh Lou. One of the most thoughtful people I have met. Such a sweet spirit (until she gets hungry!).

Massimo and I sharing a moment

Piña colada time again

Catherine, oh Catherine. I shall see you again, same place same time.