Ko Phi Phi

When the tsunami slammed into the Andaman Islands of Southern Thailand just over two years ago, Ko Phi Phi was particularly hard hit. This is due in large part to the fact that the main town - Tonsai - is situated on a sandy isthmus about three feet above sea level. When the wave came, it hit the town from both sides, obliterating the thatch huts and many lives.

As Erin and I prepared to spend some time in Thailand's islands, our progressive sensibilities (read: Liberal guilt) suggested we visit Phi Phi to help jump start the economy. Much as I wanted to locate my bachelor party in New Orleans to help rebuild it one beer at a time, we were now hoping to show our support for Phi Phi by leaving a few big bad baht behind.

In reality, I am not sure Phi Phi really needs our baht.

In the intervening time since December 26, 2004, the island has managed to wipe out almost all evidence of the cataclysm. The bungalows are back up and running full steam ahead, except concrete is replacing the thatch and people seem inclined to build higher off the ground. And the crowds are thick at the beaches during the day and bars at night.

As we selected our lodging, Erin and I had two criteria: A/C and hillside location. Applying my innate talent for bungalow selection, I found us a gem that met both criteria - and very little else. In almost five months of travel, I managed to find the smallest room I could ever imagine - literally the size of a double bed.

And if price is a sign of demand, it is safe to say demand for Ko Phi Phi is as high as ever. Prices here are higher than many other Thai resort locations and most places (although curiously, not ours) seem full of tourists quaffing buckets of mixed drinks (seriously) and watching "lady boy kick-boxing" on nightly basis. Ah, Thailand.