Buzz
Just a 1.5-hour flight from Bangkok, Krabi is a serene sanctuary brimming with unexpected wonders waiting for eager explorers.
Far from the crowds of Phuket, without the hefty price tag of Koh Samui, and requiring less travel time than Koh Tao, Krabi is an effortlessly accessible destination.
This is the tranquil haven suitable for those seeking a gentle seaside escape, with long stretches of coastline for leisurely sunset strolls, pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a variety of seaside eateries to indulge in.
Krabi, a coastal province in the scenic south, boasts numerous enchanting azure beaches in the Land of Smiles.
From Bangkok, you can opt for a train, bus, or the quickest route – a 1.5-hour flight. Despite its proximity to Phuket, most travelers flock to the famed island, leaving Krabi with a more serene ambiance.
Thus, Ao Nang, though bustling with shops and eateries close to each other, still exudes tranquility and carries the charm of a peaceful resort rather than a vibrant entertainment spot like Phuket, just a few hours away.
From Ao Nang, numerous destinations await for your relaxing days: canoeing to secluded islands, immersing yourself in the crystal-clear sea, snorkeling to witness schools of vibrant fish, or lounging under the cool shade of swaying trees on the smooth white sandy beaches. You can also lose yourself in captivating books or venture up the mountains, ride elephants, indulge in hot spring baths, or join cooking classes to master famous Thai dishes like som tum, pad Thai, and curry.
In just over 30 minutes by high-speed train from Ao Nang pier, you'll reach beautiful islands with stretches of pristine white sand and stunningly clear water, tempting anyone to plunge in for an immediate swim.
Thais excel in hospitality, and their commitment to environmental conservation is commendable.
The island's beaches are immaculately clean, free of debris, and the lush greenery on the islands is a testament to the locals' excellent environmental stewardship. Underwater, fish gracefully swim in abundance. It seems they understand that humans here don't fish or catch them, allowing them to playfully approach tourists, creating an enjoyable connection with nature.
Krabi is not as expensive as Phuket or Samui. The prices at roadside restaurants and eateries are quite reasonable, offering a variety of choices for visitors, including traditional Thai dishes and especially delightful Western options like pizza and pasta. Although seafood is abundant, I found it not as tasty and affordable as in the coastal provinces of Vietnam.
For an unforgettable Krabi experience, plan a minimum of two full days here. Spend one day exploring the islands and the other renting a motorbike to cruise from Ao Nang to Krabi Town and surrounding areas, capturing scenic moments, taking photos, or visiting local outlets.
Alternatively, dedicate both days to island hopping. If you've already visited Phi Phi from Phuket, opt for Hong Island this time. Use the extra day to rent a motorbike and explore the charming corners of Krabi - a fantastic choice for a leisurely day.
Krabi locals, like most Thais, are cheerful, gentle, and friendly. Feel free to ask for help if needed; they are always ready with a smile. The warmth of their hospitality makes every visitor want to return. My two days in Krabi were truly fulfilling, enjoying the serene atmosphere of Ao Nang and the gentle evenings by the beach. I'm already scouting for cheap tickets to come back and explore more with the locals, having made friends with a genuine Thai in Ao Nang who promised to show us hidden gems off the beaten path.
I had an amazing two days in Krabi, falling in love with the peaceful ambiance of Ao Nang and the laid-back charm as dusk falls on the beach. I'm definitely keeping an eye out for affordable tickets to return, and next time, I plan to hang out with the locals. On our recent trip, we befriended a local Thai in Ao Nang who assured us a tour to lesser-known spots, such as pristine secluded islands that will leave us breathless, visits to crystal-clear mountain lakes, or a boat ride upstream the Krabi River to marvel at the scenic landscapes.
Oh my, just hearing about Krabi makes me want to go back there in a heartbeat.
Some tips for your Krabi adventure:
To reach Krabi, you can opt for a bus, train, or flight from Bangkok. Snagging budget-friendly AirAsia flights like I did saved a significant amount; my round-trip fare was under 50 USD.
Upon landing at Krabi Airport, grab a bus ticket to Krabi Town or Ao Nang depending on your location. For Ao Nang enthusiasts, the airport bus ticket costs 150 baht per person, dropping you off right at your resort/hotel. If you're in a group of four or more, consider a taxi for convenience at 600 baht per trip. Returning to the airport, you can purchase bus tickets from various agents along the street or opt for a taxi. Bus travel takes nearly an hour, while a taxi whizzes you there in just 30-40 minutes.
When heading to the islands, buying a tour is the norm. Prices here are more reasonable than in Phuket, and you get what you pay for. Cheaper tours may compromise on meal quality and have more crowded boats.
Indulge in local street food along the roadside; vendors set up shop from 4-5 pm until nightfall. Prices are wallet-friendly, and the flavors are delightful. Try som tum for only 40 baht per plate, or indulge in fried rice or tom yum for 50-60 baht. If you prefer restaurants, those tucked away in alleys are generally more affordable than street-front ones.
For those craving familiar tastes, Krabi offers Starbucks Coffee, Hagen Dazs ice cream, and Movempic to satisfy your cravings.
If you're feeling indulgent, consider dining at the 'best view in Ao Nang' - Lae Lay Grill. While a bit pricey, the food is delectable, and the location is stunning.
There's an abundance of motorbikes for rent; take one for a scenic ride, grab an extra plastic mat, and whenever you feel like it, stretch out for a seaside nap. Taxis here are unique, painted red with blaring music for an entertaining ride. A spin around Ao Nang costs just 20 baht per person. Consider trying a tricycle for a fun experience, similar to those in the Philippines.
Opt for the Hong Island tour over the 4 Islands tour for more beautiful beaches. Prices range from 1100 to 1300 baht per person, inclusive of lunch.
Indulge in a foot or head/back massage at Full Moon Massage; the services are excellent, and the staff is delightfully cheerful.
From Krabi, if you wish to visit Phi Phi Don, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, etc., you can purchase tickets for buses or ferries from numerous agencies.
For couples, consider buying a sky lantern in the evening at the Ao Nang beachfront. Lighting it up is believed to bring tranquility and eternal togetherness.
Stay in the Ao Nang area, the hub of tourists, offering various hotels/resorts to fit your budget. I stayed at Ananta Burin, a decent resort with a price around 50 USD per night, including breakfast.
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Source: Travel guide by Mytour – Courtesy of: Ngoisao.net
MytourNovember 25, 2015
