STRONG ISLAND CONTRIBUTOR CHANTELLE ON HER TRAVELS

See part 1 of Chantelle’s stop in Thailand and all of the Strong Islander Abroad articles including Nepal & India.

Out of the crazy areas and onto the more laid back Thailand the next stop was Koh Lanta for some beach lounging and to visit some old friends who have recently set up a new business here called, ‘Lanta Paintball and Bouldering Wall‘. Sarah and Andre, owners of this cool activity centre were keen to join in on the Strong Island fun and sported our lovely local Tee both in the middle of their paintball arena and on their custom built climbing wall! Strong island stopped at their comfy evening cafe and bar for a freshly made mango shake and a hello.

Out of the crazy areas and onto the more laid back Thailand the next stop was Koh Lanta…

Sarah Ramsay on the bouldering wall

Drinks in the cafe

As a dive instructor of course I was here in Thailand for some diving…

As a dive instructor of course I was here in Thailand for some diving and Colona Livaboards offered up one of the most prestigious trips in the infamous Similan Islands. The crew were fantastic and the diving was epic! Being more than happy to pose for some Strong Island shots above and below the water the guys were great fun!

Penny Yim-Barbieri diving in a SI tee

Ricardo Trabulo on deck

Lanta Divers on Koh Lanta were my next stop and it didn’t take much persuading to get the crew involved with my little project. Sporting our anchor the guys were a total joy to hang out with and didn’t hesitate to join in. The boat crew loved the cup and nautical theme and Narcosis Nick, resident professional photographer, captured these wonderful pics at Koh Ha dive site.

Sporting our anchor the guys were a total joy to hang out with and didn’t hesitate to join in

A quick stop at Aqua Master in Chalong to visit another friend, allowed for some more cheeky tee snapping opportunities with Darren Moss (D Mo) and his gorgeous daughters.

Darren Moss (D Mo)

Namwan

Koh Tao was my last Thailand stop and a past home back in 2008-10 so this little trip was all about catching up with old friends  and re visiting the white sandy beaches of this stunning dive Mecca island in southern Thailand. Dive trips, drinks in Sairee, sunsets at Karma Bar and many a willing Strong Island model made this island too much fun! 

Next stop, Singapore!

Alex Hegarty

Helen Thimbleby

Jordan Walden