What is your Phangan story?
Many years ago the island was just a party zone for me until I really discovered that it's not just a place to have great parties! It's a place far far far away from the daily crap we are all hooked in so much.
What do you think about the party scene here?
It has one of the best party scenes in the world which does not include routine show offs. Everybody is so equal and down to earth here when it comes to having good times and dancing
Which communities do you like to get involved with?
My favorite people to get involved with are the locals and foreigners who have stayed here for some period of time, nevertheless I also enjoy chilling and chatting with newcomers and backpackers too.
Where is your favourite place here?
My favorite spot for meditation and spiritual experiences are always the fine Thai or Chinese temples around the island, I enjoy talking to monks about their philosophy in life - monks always have time to talk! They are so not obligated to what we are, they told me they live life without expectations and that is what gives them freedom in this life.
I respect the tourist facilities on the island such as tours and snorkeling companies but after a while I feel like for me, it's better to just walk to a beach, talk and negotiate with one of the boat owners to go snorkeling and I ask them every time to take me to a new spot.
(Don's favourite dish at Green Gallery!)
What have you seen change over the years?
I have been coming to this island for over six years now and I have seen changes, some good and some bad.
I have seen many honest people who came here and have stayed for years now, some started their own business and make an honest living but also I have seen a few groups here who started misusing spirituality, and love seeking tourists or residences of this island by charging too much money for the little they have to offer.
What is it about Phangan that you can't live without?
The thing is, I love all of Koh Phangan with all my heart even the bad bits, there is always loads of good to cover over the bad here. I have to say: the tasty fruits of this island, oxygen, friendly and caring locals, the temples and of course the original parties with the most positive vibes are always a big kick to come back.
Just the simple joy of riding a bike between the trees on these tiny roads makes me happy enough to come back, the idea that I can leave the world behind is gold.
I live in one of main business districts of the world, Dubai, I do trades and Real estate professionally there and I love the scene but nothing beats the nature and originality of Koh Phangan period.
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