13 December 2104 - Bound for Phuket, Thailand

13 December 2014

The shuttle bus ferried us to Jetstar and we checked in without trouble.  Luke was finding his load a bit taxing and we have to remember he is only little and it has all been a very new experience for him.  My dear parents took public transport to the airport and met us as planned.  We handed the keys over to them as they kindly offered to care for our car for the year and drive it back. 

My mum with us in the departure lounge.  As Jetstar is want to do, our direct Melbourne to Phuket flight was changed to go via Sydney…..which meant re-checking in our luggage, taking the shuttle bus (no longer free!) between the domestic and international terminals and dragging our gear around AGAIN.  It was finally happening!!  We were actually leaving Australia for a YEAR!!!!

Some hours later we landed in balmy Phuket and were relieved to see a sign for “Mrs Helen Keesman” and a taxi driver waiting for us.  The rather groovy and air-conditioned minivan brought us safely to Bel Air Panwa – our first ever Airbnb accommodation, which thankfully was accurately depicted in the photos!  Once the air-con kicked in and we were rehydrated and showered we tumbled into the comfy beds at approx. 0240hrs Melbourne time. I was feeling very responsible as I had done all the booking and researching. So I was relieved to see it had all worked to this point.

For those interested, Bel Air Panwa was formally a hotel resort which by the look of things, didn’t take off.  To our advantage this area is quiet, non touristy and the few local shops (including 7-11) and stall keepers are friendly.  The complex has two magnificent swimming pools where it seems we are the sole occupants – the choice is hard: the roof top pools or the 150 metre pool which goes under a bridge!  We have also got the hang of the local bus which costs 30 Baht each (approx. A$1.20) and takes us directly to the bus stop at the Phuket Old Town market.  The bus ride is breezy and pleasant and the locals are gentle and smiley. Our apartment is quite palatial with two bedrooms.  Tim has the raw end of the deal sleeping on a sofa bed but the rest of us are really comfortable.  The large balcony with table and couch is great for meals and relaxing. Aaaah!