A view of the beach
Koh Phi Phi is a beautiful island without a doubt. The mountains, limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, clear water. But it’s unsettling. Although the island is "back in business" it has by no means recovered from the effects of the tsunami. Palm trees stripped of their branches. Debris everywhere you look. Tiled surfaces on the ground where buildings once stood. Such destruction. When we saw the sign posted on a palm tree asking for volunteers to help clear the beaches of debris, we immediately made arrangements for the next day. Ali and I helped remove rubbish and construction debris from the beach but it will take a long time before the island is fully restored to it’s former glory. One man who had set up a restaurant by the beach beneath one of the few original structures still remaining showed me some beautiful pictures of a luxurious pool at a 5-star resort. I said “that place looks incredible, where is it?” He pointed to an empty concrete structure just a few meters away and said “follow me.” I walked up the stairs behind him to the top where the pool area was. I looked at the picture and then back at the pool which had been ruined by the tidal wave. It must have been paradise. Swimming up to the poolside bar and looking out at the amazing views. The natural views still exist of course but the once bustling life on this heavenly island has now been replaced with rubble. I’m pleased we came though as tourism is the only source of income on this island. The high spirited locals really appreciate our business and show it with friendly smiles everywhere you look. I feel happier knowing we helped even if it was in a very small way.
