Idle on Koh Lanta

We are very content with our little villa amongst the trees. Sitting on our veranda is nice and relaxing, perfect to sit and read a book, play some cards or write on the blog and avoid the heat of the afternoon.
Yesterday we power walked our beach in the morning, stopping every so often to dip in the crystal clear sea. No harsh waves here, just a gentle lapping at the sand. We started early to avoid get blasted by the hot sun, temperatures reaching to the mid thirties and beyond. After our walk it was breakfast on the veranda, then time to read. The thing about getting lost in a good book is that time has no consequence, leaving the reader oblivious to the passing minutes, hours, words, and chapters.
We aren't sure what brought us back to reality, but a quick glance at Marie's watch confirmed we had been reading most of the day. Time for another beach walk and dip. With the sun easing its way to the horizon we decided to sit. Perched on the sand, about 10 meters from the waters edge, in front of a beachfront pub, it was only natural to order up a pint for me and juice for Marie.
Refreshments in hand we sat in awe of the paradise around us. We spotted an eagle above us, riding the spiral of the thermals, exposing the reddish brown underside of the expanse of its wings. A beautiful bird, still close enough to display his white hooded head and curved bill, floating effortlessly above the sea. Rising higher and higher eventually just a silhouette against the bright blue sky spotted with wispy thin vapours of cloud. We lay back on he beach staring upwards at the vast blue expanse, lost in the tranquility of the moment. Sitting up we embraced the colours of the setting sun sliding down over the horizon a canvas of yellows, oranges and reds with a slight brownish hue. A pair of swallows were flitting about, catching bugs in mid flight. Truly a spectacular setting!
With empty drinks and a retired sun our thoughts were brought back to one of our true passions, FOOD. Where to eat? What do you/I feel like having tonight? These have become seemingly difficult questions. There are a multitude of restaurants, but not all have equally gifted chefs. We have found our "favourite spots" which we frequent however our taste buds still seem to crave trying something. Strangely enough, and against logic, we have experienced the best food from the small, out of the way, cheap restaurant. The fancier, beachfront locals have not impressed our palates. Number one on our list so far is "The Hut", a restaurant off the main road and associated to low budget accommodations. A simple menu but fantastic food!
Another favourite is Monkey Bizness. I'm sure I've mentioned this one before. The only negative is its on the main road so the traffic buzzes by the tables. Even though we go for our cappuccinos , and recently tried something called "Dukkah". An Egyptian delight, a mixture of spices and nuts accompanied by a variety of toasted bread and olive oil. Dip the bread in the oil and dab the spice, Yum Yum.