Living, Working and Breathing on Koh Tao
After Bangkok and Koh Samui, it was time for the next step: Koh Tao. This island isn’t just famous for diving. It’s famous for the people who never leave. Within weeks, we felt like part of the community. We dived, we learned, we moved into a jungle hideaway, and had an underwater encounter we’ll never forget.
From Rescue Diver to aspiring Divemaster
A few weeks in, we hit a milestone we are both proud of: we are now Certified Rescue Divers. And yes, of course, Thessa had a dramatic moment. During a rescue drill, she jumped off the boat and her mask shattered into a thousand pieces. I got to put my brand new rescue skills to the test. Luckily, just a few scratches and zero lasting injuries. Miracle: no glass in her eye.
In early August, we started the Divemaster course. Seven participants, two amazing instructors, and a jam-packed schedule full of skills, rescue drills, and learning how to guide other divers. It’s intense, challenging, sometimes frustrating and also addictively fun.
Then came the highlight. During a fun dive at Southwest Pinnacle, we saw our first whale shark! In one minute, I used forty bars of air. And yes, I had tears in my mask. Completely indescribable.
Let’s enjoy the Jungle life
Our Mae Haad apartment was central, but after two weeks of sore throats and lingering colds, we realized it wasn’t helping our health.
Through a connection, we met Thom. At first it was just to buy a scooter, but soon we were standing in the jungle, checking out a new place. Now we have a view over the bay, sunsets from our balcony, peace all around and it’s cheaper than our old apartment. The scooter came with it. Sometimes an unexpected move is exactly what you need.
We haven’t forgotten Momo and Murphy, but a new kitten has stolen our hearts. “Noisy”, as we call him because he talks a lot, was skinny and neglected. One bag of cat food later and he refuses to leave our side.
Working and Diving: our Yin and Yang
Diving and running an online business might seem worlds apart, but on Koh Tao they feel like our personal Yin and Yang. Mornings are spent on incredible dives. Afternoons are behind laptops. Somehow, Thessa even manages to land a new client, and Koh Tao turns out to be perfect for promoting Kangen water.
Finding balance is still a challenge. Long training days, theory sessions, and homework can drain us completely. Blogging or Polarsteps updates sometimes fall behind. But we’ve learned that rhythm and rest are as important as adventure. By intentionally planning days for work and days for rest, balance keeps improving.
And honestly, it’s a luxury problem. If the hardest decision of your day is whether to write a blog or swim with a school of fish, you’re doing alright.
