We were really looking forward to today cause our first stop was Samui Elephant Home, and it was both amazing and heartbreaking. We were ushered to a table and greeted by the owner, as the remainder of the guests arrived. The owner, a woman deeply invested in their care, spoke to us about the elephants’ pasts. Her voice caught as she explained how they never forget, especially Dow, who still bears the star branded into her skin from her circus days. Hearing that, and seeing her up close, was gut‑wrenching. We prepared treats and got to feed them, and the way they reached out with their trunks was gentle, curious, and unforgettable. The staff were incredible too, guiding us with warmth and care, clearly devoted to giving these elephants the life they deserve. We didn’t get to see them roaming in the wild, but knowing they have acres of land to spend most of their day in made the experience feel hopeful, even if tinged with sadness.

Though their pasts were heartbreaking, the joy we experienced and the kindness we showed felt like small steps toward replacing some of those scars with better memories.

From there we headed to Na Muang Waterfall, hoping for a swim, but the lack of rain meant it was more of a trickle than a cascade. A quick stop, a few photos, and we moved on, sometimes nature just doesn’t deliver the Instagram moment you expect, even for the well planned ‘Hannah’s Travel Services’.

Lunch at Baobao was the perfect reset. Lounge chairs, good food, and dips in the beach gave us back that holiday rhythm. The afternoon melted away in sunshine and salt water, everyone finding their own version of relaxation. White sand and bright blue sea certainly helped with that. There was a moment when the skies opened and with some already in the water, and the rest of us under beach umbrellas we were well sorted, while we finished our lunch and cocktails.

After spending the couple of hours enjoying the view and the food we set off back to the villa for a few hours of relaxation, and some dinner planning for me. I’d found a place that provided delicious food (also nearby a Macca’s in case Harper couldn’t find something she liked on the menu), as well as some shopping and bars for those who might be interested.

Dinner at The Kitchen brought the energy back up. We played Fake It again, laughed out loud, and met Nico, the French‑Italian owner, who insisted on shouting us a round of limoncello. He’d lived on Koh Samui for the past 5 years and now owned 2 restaurants on the island. I really do love hearing people’s stories of how they end up where they are. Another successful selection.

From there the group scattered into shops while I parked myself at Bondi Australian Restaurant and Bar, chatting away with my new friend Jason over cocktails. By the time I was told to head home (apparently “too many cocktails” is a thing), I couldn’t help but smile, it was one of those days that swung between awe, disappointment, indulgence, and connection.