(Daniel) The trip to Bangkok was well worth the trouble.  I needed a haircut badly, and the information and printing services need to apply for an American visa for Nii were readily available.  I paid a membership to the Embassy website about $18, and using this, booked an appointment in a weeks time.

Nii and I drove from Bangkok to Koh Chang, Thailands second largest Island behind Phuket.  Koh Chang has always been an untamed island, with only the outer parts inhabited, the inner areas left to the forest.  After a long drive to the Island and managing to catch the last ferry across rough water, Nii for the first time complained of feeling ill.  I should say now that Nii has proven to be the toughest and most innovative travelling partner of the expedition.  She never fails come up with an idea or suggestion, when the going gets tough, she gets her head down and pushes through a problem without complaint.  I found myself feeling incredibly bad for not showing more appreciation for her qualities and decided that tonight, I would check us into the nicest place I could find.

This turned out to be the Amari Hotel, a Five star luxury resort, with fabulous rooms and an amazing setting.  Nii waited in the Wolf as I went in to negotiate the price.  I managed to get 30% off, returning to the vehicle and Nii’s pained expression.  At the news that I had booked us in to this opulent palace of comfort, Nii’s face lit up.  Within ten minutes we were in the room, and her illness had magically disappeared.  I must admit, the room was fantastic, we spent the evening in the bars, drinking cognac and smoking fine cigars.  We both knew that tomorrow would be different!  It was time to get back to camping and Expedition life.

The next day, after a long lie in, Nii and I checked out of the Amari Hotel telling them that we may be back to use the fax machine!  I bought a diving Knife, weights and a weight belt for spearfishing, then Nii and I had breakfast before exploring the island.  The developers had been busy, but here they have built houses rather than bars and restaurants.  Koh Chang property is in high demand.

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