PHUKET, THAILAND, Monday, March 17

Phuket is one of the premier travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Travelers from around the world are drawn to it's stunning beaches, crystalline waters and dramatic limestone peaks. Its mountainous interior is densley forested with mahogany, rubber trees, tropical evergreen, royal palm, ficus and

bamboo. Located on Thailand's long, thin southern coast and bordering Malaysia, Phuket island boasts a rich cultural mix of Thai, Malay, Chinese & western influences. We hired an open-air taxi for 3 hours and drove all around the island. Although it was decimated by the Tsunami 3 years ago, we saw little evidence of the devistation. We then went to a beautiful hotel near the ship, had a great lunch and went swimming in the Andaman Sea. Friends were able to get $3 - $5 manicures & pedicures. We took the hotel shuttle back to the ship. It was our first time in Phuket. Our next stop is India.