VIP bus to Bangkok

Our trip from Koh Mook to Bangkok began with a longboat ride to the mainland and then a transfer to Trang, where we had some time for lunch and a quick internet session. We'd tried to get sleeper train tickets but they were sold out, so we decided to spoil ourselves with tickets on the 24 seater VIP bus. With aircon, a steward handing out drinks, peanuts and cakes, and more than enough space to stretch out, the trip began really well. Along with the confusing bundle of tickets handed to us at the station was a meal voucher and at around 8pm its purpose became clear. Our bus pulled up to a Thai One-stop and we (us and the other 15 Thai passengers) were herded into a dining hall. The 8 dishes brought to the table were so spicy that the iced water sitting in jugs on the tables should rather have been sprayed over us with a hose. A whistle blew and as we were marched back to the bus I glanced into the kitchen and noticed a big smile on the chef's face. Another 9 hours on the bus, after a meal that brought a tear to even the locals eyes, would require immense bowel control or a stomach of steel. The evening movie, 'The League of Extraordinary Gentleman' (in Thai), started as we pulled off and half way in the only people awake (and watching) were Jacks and myself.

The bus had either snagged a couple of dead rats or the dinner was starting to work it's magic on the crowd. Morning arrived and we'd managed a couple of hours of sleep, without being traumatised by any toilet visits. We had a great cup of coffee and hopped off the bus and into a defensive line of taxi drivers that even Jake White would have been impressed by.