Setting Sail from An Thoi

As the first light of dawn began to paint the sky with hues of pink and orange, I found myself being whisked away from my hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The destination was An Thoi, a bustling port on the southern tip of Phu Quoc Island. The anticipation of the day ahead was palpable, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the many journeys I’ve embarked upon in my life. The gentle hum of the engine and the rhythmic sway of the vehicle reminded me of the countless train rides across Europe, where time seemed to slow down, allowing me to savor every moment.

Upon arrival at An Thoi, the sight of the wooden fishing boat waiting at the dock filled me with excitement. The boat, sturdy and inviting, promised an adventure on the open sea. As we set sail, the cool morning breeze and the gentle rocking of the boat transported me back to the days of leisurely train travel, where the journey itself was as enchanting as the destination.

The Art of Fishing at Kim Quy Island

Our first stop was Kim Quy Island, where the captain, a seasoned fishing expert, offered a short training session on the art of deep-sea fishing. His passion for the craft was infectious, and I found myself eagerly absorbing every tip and trick he shared. The camaraderie among the guests was reminiscent of the shared experiences on long train journeys, where strangers become friends over shared stories and laughter.

As we anchored at the fishing spot, the thrill of the catch took over. The sea was generous that day, and I was fortunate enough to reel in a magnificent 6kg barracuda. The sense of accomplishment was akin to the feeling of arriving at a long-awaited destination after a scenic train ride through the European countryside. The barracuda, along with other catches of the day, would later become the highlight of our lunch.

A Feast and Farewell at Fingernail Island

With our fishing adventure complete, we made our way to Fingernail Island. Here, the crew prepared a sumptuous lunch featuring the freshest sashimi made from our catch, complemented by an array of traditional Vietnamese dishes. The flavors were as vibrant and diverse as the landscapes I had traversed on my train journeys, each bite a reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures and experiences that travel brings.

After lunch, there was time to relax on the boat or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. As I floated in the gentle embrace of the sea, I reflected on the day’s adventure. It was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where every moment is savored, and every experience is cherished. As we made our way back to the pier, the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the horizon. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable day, one that would linger in my memory like the echo of a train whistle in the distance.