Yes, that’s a reference to a certain daughter of mine and a certain childhood favourite of mine. You know, the show whose characters go on a three hour tour and the seas start getting rough and the Minnow would be lost?? 
After the hustle and bustle of most of our trip, what I really want when we get to Thailand is to go directly to a beach. One far away from cities and people and boardwalk hustlers. This is apparently harder than it used to be, and is only getting harder. (I have nothing to compare to, having never been anywhere near SE Asia — unless you count the pavilions at Caravan which I don’t, or the kiosks at Disney’s Epcot which I definitely don’t!)
I’ve been looking at beach options in Thailand, ostensibly because ” it’s a dirty, dirty job, but somebody has to do it!” a la the late great Uncle Dwight. I think, really, I’ve been looking at Thai beaches as an escape from the cold to freezing, rainy to snowy weather outside! Rather than repeat myself, I’ll insert a link to the thread I started at Fodor’s Forums recently:
http://www.fodors.com/community/asia/cheap-quiet-beach-in-se-asia-easy-to-reach-from-bangkok.cfm
It’s that last link — the one I placed at 9:23pm tonight — which inspired me to write in the blog tonight:
http://wheresidewalksend.com/thailand-deserted-island-koh-pu/
That, my friends, is the kind of nearly deserted island experience I’m looking for.
I think it might be a perfect fit: air-conditioned modern bus would suit everyone, a cheap overnight train would be especially “for” C & me, the beach “for” C&J & me, and the no-one-around bit “for” Julian! (He isn’t fond of crowds of strangers. He isn’t fond of crowds OR strangers. I guess you could ask “Who is?”, but really, it’s one of Julian’s least favourite things. Right up there with Walt Disney World.) I think a few days in Koh Pu might be perfect.
Have to go tuck the girls in bed, so I can’t hang out here and daydream/write about all the fabulous SE Asian beaches and train routes I’ve been reading about. Maybe another time….
Jillian
Feb 23rd, 2013Why did you call this post Jilligan’s island????
Ian Ord - Where Sidewalks End
Mar 8th, 2013Hello Barbara
Thank you so much for linking back to my site. I’m glad it brought you some travel inspiration!! It sounds like my goals are being achieved, in that respect.
Koh Pu was absolutely incredible, and though I make it sound like a mission and a half to get there, I know there’s certainly easier ways – but where’s the adventure in that for my readers? hehe Koh Jum (attached to Koh Pu – same island, different half) is much more easily accessed, and has many more resorts/hotels. I believe there’s even regular ferries from Krabi, if I’m not mistaken.
Also – if you’re just looking for a very quiet beach, perhaps a little easier to get to, certainly check out my post on Bang Saphan Noi (in the middle of Thailand’s coastal region – and almost no tourists to be found around this ocean side bed and breakfast! Hundreds of kilometers of unspoiled beaches!
I hope this helps, and that you have a wonderful vacation!!
Barbara
Mar 19th, 2013Sorry it took so long to get your comment approved. With so much going on, I just noticed it now.
I really appreciate your taking the time to reply, and of course for your suggestions. We are currently debating whether to go north to Chiang Mai, or south to an island (after our 5 days in Bangkok and our sidetrip to Siem Riep). I have been reminded by my family that doing nothing on an empty beach for days, may be a bit much to ask of our energetic 10 year olds. But, hopefully we can integrate an island visit into our trip somehow. Good travels to you…B.
Clara
Apr 10th, 2013Jilligan’s island would be New Zealand:)