Touring around

Today (Monday), John took us around in air conditioned comfort to the key touristy spots in and around Phuket. Seriously, if you are ever in Phuket, you have to get John to drive you around. We have his card! He has been spot on with his recommendations and he is just great at getting us from here to there.
Firstly we went to Phuket view point which had great views of the coast line and then on to the Big Buddha where we wrote a message on a tile that will be incorporated into the wall of the temple as construction is finished. We were all then blessed by a Monk. Truly very spiritual.
We then went on an elephant walk. Not sure what to make of that really but still enjoyable as a family thing to do. Mabel and I had an elephant that was 30 years old and her name was Pingy.
John recommended we go to lunch at the After Beach Bar which had great views (again) and I had a delicious Larb, which I'll be attempting to make when I get home.
We were then going to go back to Kata beach for a swim but John suggested Paradise beach. It's name gives it away. Just beautiful. We had a storm coming in as we swam but it was still so warm.
We stayed in for dinner where a "chef" came in to cook for us. It was actually the lady who cleans the villa (Tong) and her son who cleans the pool. I know that sounds weird but it was the most amazing traditional Thai meal ever. Curry, satays, dim sims, cold rolls etc. Everything was cooked from scratch and they even stayed back and did the dishes. We felt very spoilt and were very grateful.
Obviously we are having a great time!

J
xx