October is the month of changing weather in Phuket, Thailand – the Rain season is changing, fading, and sometimes striking back with a vengeance. The weather last week has been rain, rain and more rain. This usually means less divers on daytrips.

And sometimes it means a lot more fish for those that decide to rough it and go diving anyway. Yesterday the  two Open Water students that decided to brave the elements and finish their education despite some rain and rough waves were rewarded with lots of fish at Racha Yai.

We saw a turtle, giant groupers, titan triggerfish and all the usual reef suspects. Nothing to impress the seasoned pro, but I guess you just had to be there to feel it. Something about being a lone group on the reef with other divers far away from you just makes any dive more special.

When we saw the turtle, he was in a position so beloved by hawkbills – lying down for a snack. We tried not to bother him too much, but our curiosity got the best of us and the turtle decided to put some distance between the bubble making divers and himself.

The fish comes out in the rain. Or maybe its the fact that you are alone with them that just helps them stay where they are.

We are certainly glad we are diving in the rain in Thailand.