On A Song Taew

18.00-18.20 Hours
20-minute ride to Suratthani town proper

Joanne hopped in as René loaded his backpack on the roof of the song taew. He was helping other travelers load their stuff. Upon climbing the small Thai vehicle, René bumped his head and acted as if nothing happened. Joanne saw but didn't react.

One female traveler, an American, came in last. She sat at the rear end. She looked a bit troubled about her sitting position, afraid that she might fall. She asked, "is this headed for the terminal going to Bangkok?" Suddenly, Joanne answered, "THIS is going to Bangkok." Her eyes went wide, in total shock. The other passengers started to giggle, and she got the joke. "Sooo NOT funny" was her reply. Then she smiled.