Sure Travel Journey Vol 5.1 Summer 2019 | Page 64
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B
ucket List
Phi Phi Islands
KRABI PROVINCE, THAILAND
When Christopher Columbus first sailed
the coast of Bermuda in 1492, he was
captivated by a faint, shimmering light
in the water, “like the light of a wax
candle”. Sailors called it “the burning of
the sea” – an unexplained phenomenon
that had been known for centuries. The
Greeks attributed the eerie twinkles to
the god Poseidon or one of his nymphs.
With the advent of microscopes in
the 18th century, scientists were able
to identify the true source as tiny
planktonic creatures that shimmer with
the same bioluminescent enzymes that
give fireflies their glow. In the depths of
the ocean, these “dinoflagellates” use
light to communicate, hunt for food and
warn off predators. They flare brightly
when disturbed, creating a glittery
blue-green halo effect.
One of the best places to see this
glowing natural wonder is Thailand’s Phi
Phi Islands. Visitors can swim or snorkel
with the bioluminescent plankton under
a starry nighttime sky and discover
the magic of the Andaman Sea for
themselves.
Of course, there is far more to these
incredible islands and their enchanting
bays and beaches, from the bustling
hub of Ko Phi Phi Don to the tranquil
waters of Tonsai Bay. All you need to do
is choose your slice of paradise, then go
lose yourself under the stars.
GO HERE WITH SURE TRAVEL
Sure Travel offers a number of packages
to the Phi Phi Islands or can customise
any itinerary for Thailand. Contact your
nearest Sure Travel consultant or visit
www.suretravel.co.za / call 0861 47 48 49.
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