beach Thailand

Where to stay in Krabi 2024-25

Krabi province in Thailand, is a world surrounded by natural beauty. That’s why its popularity has exploded in the last decade and accounts for the large number of accommodation and restaurant options you have available now. There are small hotels, large chain hotels, dorms, guest houses, private vacation villas, luxury resorts, and simple bungalow’s available to suit all budgets. So the choice can be a bit overwhelming and so many ask where to stay in krabi 2024-25?

The choice you make for your stay should take several factors into consideration when deciding where to stay in Krabi. Of course for many people the first thing they look at is the price. If you are planning an active holiday with many excursions, there is not much point to staying at an expensive resort. In the end it’s a bed where you sleep. If you are planning a relaxing holiday at the pool with only a few activities, it’s good to stay at a nice resort.

I have been living in Ao Nang for the better part of the last 11 years and have seen the town grow. Also I have been working with tourist here during this time. So from my experience here, I have complied a list of the best places to stay in different locations, budgets and itineraries. Apart from Ao Nang, you can stay in Klong Mang, Ralay, Tonsai, Longeach, Tubkaek Beach, Ao Nammao, or Krabi Town.

AVANI Ao Nang Cliff Resort, just the pool is worth staying here!!!!

Ao NangTown

It is not the most beautiful town, and has gotten busy in the last years. Yet if you want live central and have access to many restaurants, nightlife and shopping options, it’s the place to stay. From here you can reach Tonsai, Railay Beach, and Poda Island just by hopping on to a local longtail boat from the beach. Also you can rent a bike here and explore the area or join one of the many tours offered to visit the natural wonders.

Careful when booking a place here, they may say they are close to the beach, yet they are quite far out of town and you will require a taxi every time you want to go somewhere. You can visit this area all year round, though best avoid 15th of December until the 10th of January if you can, this is when it is busiest and accommodation is most expensive. Here there are many choice of where to stay in Krabi 2024-25.

Best places on the beach

Krabi Resort

The oldest resort in Ao Nang. It has the largest property with a lush garden right on the beach and in the center of town. A very beautiful place to stay if you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

$46-$96 per night incl. breakfast

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Golden Beach Resort

A beautiful resort right next to the beach promenade. Very close to the center of town, yet quiet and away from the main road. This is also a stunning spot to watch sunset, get a massage, or enjoy a drink right on the beach without having to move far at all. This is one of my top choices of where to stay in Krabi 2024-25.

$65-$81 per night incl. breakfast

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Best places near the beach

Cliff Beach Resort

The place with the most spectacular views in town. Beautiful rooms and great service, well worth the money. Its infinity pool alone makes it worth it to stay here (scroll up for photo).

$78-$146 per night incl. breakfast

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Aonang Lodge

Small and cozy place in the back of town, with a beautiful view of the mountain. A very friendly family run property, with home cooking, and stunning 2 story studios. Highly praised by its guests.

$55-$78 per night incl. breakfast

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The Krabi Forest Homestayt

If you are looking for stylish, clean, and comfortable bungalows situated right in the heart of Ao Nang, then we highly recommend the Krabi Forest Homestay. It is very close to the taxi boat pick-up point, and it is also a short walk from the landmark night market and the Beautiful Ao Nang Beach. As a relatively low-budget option, you really do get a lot for your money at the Krabi Forest Homestay.

$25-$40 per night

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Groovy Bungalows

A simple but peaceful place to stay right in the middle of town, great value for money. The holiday home offers a year-round outdoor pool. Guests can also relax in the garden.

$30-40 per night

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view between Railay and Tonsai looking towards Railay West

Railay & Tonsai Beach

These beaches are on a small peninsula easiest accessed by boat. It is possible to come here on low tide from Ao Nammao bay. However this is a bit of an adventure and definitely shouldn’t be undertaken with your luggage…hahaha. So basically the peninsula is like an island because it is cut off from the mainland by 300m high cliffs and mountains.

This is a climber paradise, but also great for chilling and kayaking. Here you can find all kinds of accommodation, from simple palm huts in the jungle, to one of the most expensive resorts in Thailand. This is defenetly the top choice of where to stay in Krabi 2024-25.

Railay Phutawan Resort

Beautifully set in an idyllic and quiet garden. The rooms are very comfy, the pool has great views, the staff is friendly, and the food is simply delicious. What more can one want.

$42-$125 per night incl. breakfast

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Railay Viewpoint Resort

A nice and quiet resort on the backside of Railay East. The rooms are spacious and great value for money here. Many rooms have lovely balcones to chill & relax.

$17-$37 per night incl. breakfast

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Tonsai Bay Resort

This is one of Tonsai’s classic places to stay. The location in near perfect. Right where longtail boats arrive at Tonsai and almost right beneath some of the best climbing spots around with lots of walls in walking distance.

$40-$70 per night

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Dream Valley Resort Tonsai

The most beautiful and modern property on Tonsai. When swimming in the pool you are surrounded by an amphitheater of cliff’s. Their restaurant is also very good.

$43-$75 per night incl. breakfast

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aerial view, on the far right is the end of Long beach

Klong Muang, Tubkaek & Long Beach

These beaches are to the north of Ao Nang, about 20-40min away by car. Long beach is very quiet, there is not much here except a few basic small resorts powered by generator. Its a bit of a journey in time, because most of Thailand was like this 15 years ago. This a perfect place to escape the crowds. Though if you stay here, best if you know how to drive a motorbike, since you are far away from everything, even 7/11 shops, which is hard to believe in Thailand.

Klong Muang and Tubkaek beaches are still in development and are slowly growing. In this area you have some of the best beaches on the mainland. Often clear water, no people, and not so many noisy longtail boats disturbing the idyllic silence. Here there are a few accommodation options, though most of them are 3-5 star resorts. This area is definitely one of the best choice when deciding where to stay in Krabi 2024-25.

Long Beach

P.A.N. Beach Bungalow

This is an idyllic and very quiet beach away from the hustle and bustle of Ao Nang. The staff is friendly and have a simple but good restaurant. A perfect place to chill, look at the horizon, and read a book while enjoying a shake.

$17-$25 per night

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Sand Beach Bungalow

Not far from the above property. A little bit more upscale, but still simple and reasonably priced. The owner\’s are very friendly and helpful, and will organize anything you might need.

$31 per night (may be closed in off-season)

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Klong Muang & Tubkaek

Anyavee Tubkaek Beach Resort

All resorts on this beach are upscale. Though of the choice here, this is the most beautiful one. Also for what you get, it\’s very reasonably priced 4 star resort. Perfect for a romantic weekend on the best beach in the area.

$109-$140 per night incl. breakfast

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Bliss Resort

A simple, laid-back and modern resort. Very tastefully decorated. Some rooms have fantastic balconies right on the beach, which is rare around here. There is even an Irish pub in walking distance.

$40-$62 per night incl. breakfast

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Beyond Resort Krabi

A well established 4 star resort in this area. They have an amazing pool with amazing surroundings. The staff are phenomenal. I have friends that swear by this resort and stay here every year since 8 years!!!!.

$100-$200 per night incl. breakfast

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Ao Nammao Bay

Ao Nammao bay is between Ao Nang and Krabi town, on the other side of the Railay peninsula. A very laid back spot with only a few accommodation options. There are some wild quiet beaches, and you can easily get to Railay from here by boat or Kayak. Also a very nice choice when deciding where to stay in Krabi 2024-25.

Arawan Beach Resort

The resort has been recently renovated and everything is new. The resort has a private beach and they have free kayaks for the guests. From here you can paddle to Railay in an hour. Also the restaurant here makes amazing food.

$40-$62 per night incl. breakfast

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Dawn of Happiness

A traditional bamboo/palm bungalow resort right on the beach. The perfect place to chill. The restaurant and bungalows are set amid a beautiful tropical garden. This was one of the first resorts established in this area.

$19 per night incl. breakfast

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where to stay in Krabi Town

Krabi town is a very laid back town. There is almost no night life here or much for the tourist. The center of town is very small where you can find a few dorms, guest houses and hotels. There is a small shopping mall, a daily morning and night market for food, and a weekend night market with some handicrafts and lots of great food. Though other than that there is not much. So if you are looking for a more authentic Thai experience, or have a tight budget, or planning to do a lot of exploring, then this is the place to stay. Food, renting a bike and accommodation is much cheaper than anywhere else. The perfect choice for proper travelers and backpackers when deciding where to stay in Krabi 2024-25.

Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel Krabi Town

It has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, a garden and terrace in Krabi town. This 4-star hotel offers luggage storage space. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a tour desk and free WiFi throughout the property.

$40-60 per night

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Krabi Cozy Place Hotel

A new and modern Hotel in the center of town. They have big rooms and a great swimming pool. Staff are friendly and there are many food options near by.

$30-$40 per night (some deals incl. breakfast)

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Krabi Grand Hotel

This is a standard 2-3 star hotel. The rooms are big and spacious. Also it is in the center of town at a great location and great value for money. Many restaurants and markets nearby.

$10-$14 per night

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to conclude

These are some of the best places to where to stay in Krabi 2024-25. Of course there are many more choices, this was a rundown of the most noteworthy. I know there are just as many restaurants as there are accommodation options, so please check out our blog about the best restaurants in Krabi. If you in the area and are interested in diving, check out our blog about diving in Krabi. If would like to see an amazing places away from the crowds, visit Crystal Lagoon Krabi. Also have a look at our page about discovering a different Thailand for some inspirational tips.

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Best islands to visit in Thailand

The best islands in Thailand to visit are some of the most forgotten ones. Yes of course everyone has heard of Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi. These are the 3 big tourist giants among Thailand’s 1420 Islands. Though if you visit one of these islands you will be very disappointed. They are overrun, overpriced and crowded.

When you have flown 10-35 hours to come to Thailand dreaming of tranquil tropical islands with spectacular scenery. Hoping to lie in a hammock between two trees sipping from your fruit-shake or beer listening to your favorite tunes. Then you need to look a little further and travel a little longer. Found out more in which places to avoid in our blog 7 places to avoid in Thailand.

Among the Islands I will discuss are Koh Kradan, Koh Adang, Koh Mak, Koh Phayam, Koh Libong and a few others. They are all unique in their own respect, some more laid back than others, some have development but stil have island charm and remain wonderful places to visit.

Koh Phayam & Koh Chang

These 2 islands on the border to Mynmar are 2 jewls standing stil in time despite their popularity. Of the two, Koh Phayam is the most “developed”. However this is stil minor compared to most of Thailand. The island has a small population of about 800 people. I have known this place for 14 years, and Im glad to say it has maintained its original flare. Its still as relaxed and welcoming as it has always been. The island has a strong community, a community which has chosen to set itself apart. They don’t want to be another Koh Samui.

In a way it’s like traveling back in time. There are no cars (only a golf kart, 1 tuk tuk and a few tractor’s to move goods), also you will find no ATM or bank, and most astoundingly no 7/11 mini-marts. Also there is no power plant here. Everything is run by generator or solar power. Though a few resorts now offer power 24h per day (but most run on only 12h per day). Koh Chang is even less developed than this. The road network consists of single tracks through the jungle, connecting the beaches and resorts. A great place to escape it all and go back to the basics. Definitely one of best islands to visit in Thailand and chill.

There are many nice walks around Koh Phayam or along its untamed shoreline, where you can find many secluded “secret” beaches. Inland the island is covered by cashew nut trees, giving a distinct sweet smell to the breeze. However, as lovely as the island is, this is not an island for snorkeling, the waters are not clear turquoise with colorful coral reefs.

Read more in our blog: Journey to Thailands North Andaman

Getting there: By Bus from Phuket to Ranong, Bus from Chumphon to Ranong, or Airplane from BKK to Ranong. Then boat from Ranong. Book or search with 12GO.

Koh Kradan

It is described by many as one of the most beautiful islands in the province. Though I must say many of the islands in this province are simply stunning. Each one is more beautiful than the next. The island has many wonderful white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. Most beaches except Ao Pai beach, you can snorkel directly from the beach. In the distance you can see many of the neighbouring islands with their sheer limestone cliffs popping out of the sea.

The islands has a very relax feel, one of these places you could spend the whole week just lying in your hammock and enjoying the view. There are a few nice walks you can take like to sunset beach through the jungle.

There are only a few accommodation possibilities, so best book before you show up on the island. From here also you can explore the neighbouring islands by hiring a longtail boat for the day. Like visiting Emerald cave on Koh Muk or the stunning reefs of Koh Rok.

During high season ferries connect all the islands and you can go real islands hopping, staying a few nights on all the islands. You could also stay on Koh Nagai, Koh Muk, and Koh Libong.

Getting there: Flight or Bus to Trang, then minibus to Hat Pak Meng Pier or Hat Chao Pier. Book or search with 12GO.

Koh Taorutao

This is on the best islands to visit in Thailand if you like wild places and you are looking for adventure. The National Park also includes Koh Adang, Koh Rawai, and Koh Khai. Nearby is also Koh Lipe which has become very developed, like a little Koh Tao. Because of all these islands nearby it is another great destination to do some real island hopping and spend a few days on each island if you have the time.

Koh Tarotao is a huge National Park and therefore protected from development. It is truly a forgotten land. Long ago in the 30’s it was a prison. So when exploring the island you may stumble upon relics of the past, buildings and temples overgrown by the jungle.

If you want to stay on the island you can rent a bungalow or tent from the National Park. If you have your own tent you can bring that too and only pay 1$ per night to use the facilities.

Ao Son is by far the most beautiful place there. It is remote and secluded beach, so you will need to bring supplies. Though there are basic facilities provided by the National Park.

To explore the island you can walk or rent a bike. There are a few wonderful hikes, like the one which will take you to Lu Du waterfall or up to a viewpoint on the 400m high Tob-Bob cliff. Though one of the highlights here is kayaking through the endless mangrove forests to the famous Crocodile Cave(don’t worry its just a name).

Getting there: Take a Bus or plane to Satun, then a Local Bus or Van to Pakbara Pier. Book or search with 12GO.

Koh Mak, Koh Kut & Koh Wai

They are part of the Koh Chang archipelago close to the border of Cambodia. Most people stay on nearby Koh Chang, Thailand’s second largest island. However this island has been overrun by tourism, cars, and 7/11’s now.

These 3 islands are simply stunning, with fine white sand beaches, beautiful jungles, streams and waterfalls. On some of the islands you can find sandbanks coming out from the shore which makes you feel like you are in Maldives. There are also plenty of great jungle walks here and many places left to be explored that have been rarely visited.

You can snorkel straight of the beach or take a boat tour to visit some of the many uninhabited islands not to far away. One of these is Koh Kradat, home to a herd of deer that first arrived by order of King Chulalongkorn more than a century ago. West of Koh Mak, is Koh Rang with its powdery white sand and beautiful reefs in crystal clear water, protected by the Marine Park.

Getting there: Take a plane or bus to Trat, from here you take a van to Laem Ngop, then jump on a ferry to the island of your choice. In high season you can take a boat from Koh Chang. Book or search with 12GO.

Koh Libong, Koh Lao Liang, & Koh Bulon Lae

Now we are getting closer to the Malaysian border where we have these jewels which rank among the best islands to visit in Thailand. Of these 3 Koh Libong is the most developed, however this isn’t much and it is centres around Lang Kao Beach. Koh Libong is another stunning island with natural wild beauty, however when its low tide it can become difficult to swim. The landscape consits of farmland, jungle, savannah, mangroves and limestone karst.

The jewel of Koh Libong are its endangered Dugong, a relative of the manatee. You can find them amid mangroves and sea grass of the Wildlife Sanctuary. If you go kayaking you might have a close encounter with one of these amazing creatures.

Koh Laoiang is actually two islands. One has a simple but beautiful resort and tents for climbers wishing to scale the awesome bolted cliffs. The other has no development other than shacks used by the mafia who harvest the swallow nests from the cliffs. Since accommodation is very limited, be sure to book in advance. It’s like a mini-Railay far away from civilization. The same actually goes for Koh Bulon Lae, though there is a tiny but more infrastructures compared to Lao Liang.

Getting there: Travel by bus or plane to Satun or Trang then take a bus to Hat Yao or Koh Sukorn, then take a boat from there. Book or search with 12GO.

Koh Jum

A very easy going island between Krabi, Koh Lanta and Phi Phi. If you want to unwind but not travel to far like the islands mentioned above, then this is a great alternative. You will find kilometers of undeveloped beach here, plenty of places to hang your hammock and enjoy a shake or a beer. If you are feeling adventurous you can climb the islands conical 420m high mountain.

On Luboa beach you can find relax reggae bars and cheap bungalows, though there are also mid-range to luxury resorts to be found. This is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand if you dont want to travel far from Krabi and looking for the authentic feel.

Getting there: Bus or plane to Krabi, the bus to Laem Kruat, from here take a boat. During the high season, ferries running between Krabi town and Koh Lanta stop at Koh Jum. Book or search with 12GO.

Just Climb Thailand

I’d like to invite you to enjoy the climbs around Thailand, particularly the Pha-Nang peninsula. Our limestone walls accommodate all levels of climbers. Maybe you’ve never climbed anything more difficult than a ladder, but still want to try outdoor sport climbing; we have something for you. Likewise, if you are a professional (or wannabe) there are world class difficult projects awaiting your attention. Just Climb Thailand.

If you are a beginner there are many easy routs and courses to teach you the basics. You can ‘learn the ropes” at One-Two-Three Wall, Diamond Cave, and Escher Wall. These spots have many 5’s, 6a’s, and 6b graded routes. If you are a more experienced climber and looking for something more challenging there are many options. You can go to the Tyrolean Wall, Fire Wall, Melting Wall, and Cobra Wall. They all have climbs in the 6b, 6c, and 7a range as well as multi-pitch climbing. If you are looking for something more slabby and ballancy? Check out The Keep and Cat Wall. For those in search of some seriously powerful projects on overhanging walls, Ton Sai Beach Wall and Dum’s Kitchen will make you grin from ear to ear. The hardest climb in Thailand is “Greed” at Tyrolean wall. It is a 30m long boulder’y with no rest and only finger pockets.

climbing at Tonsai

Glamourus Ethnic

climb Thailand guide book

Over the years I have compiled a guide book for the Pha-Nang peninsula and some of the other crags around Thailand. It has had several editions already. Though this is a route guide and it is not intended to be a comprehensive guide on tourism in Thailand. On that note, it is not a children’s sketchbook or a copied book. I’m not looking to “win” any awards or write the “best” book around; this is simply my attempt to help you find the routes that interest you. However it is probably the most accurate and update guide book around for this area. It provides some of the clearest and accurate crag topo’s.

Please be advised I’ve included some information about walls that I do not recommend climbing. I did this so you will be able to make educated, responsible choices about where you are climbing and to avoid confusion about which wall you are on. So please, read the information about the walls, routes, and safety issues before you climb. Don’t be foooolissshhh!

climbing at Tonsai

pushing the limits

the groove tube 6a+

re-bolting at Eagle Wall

Some of the information regarding bolts, sling positions, etc. can change quickly due to re-bolting efforts. However, I’ve done my best to put in as much information as possible to help you find the routes you want. Overall, regardless of how good topo’s are, or how much information I’ve included on accessing the crag, it can still be difficult to navigate such a unique and large area. If you have any questions just stop in to any local climbing shops and ask!

the Rock Shop

learning to climb

relaxing at the Rock Shop

Local climbing guides can be one of your best resources, so don’t be afraid to ask about directions, route conditions or even that hold you can’t seem to stick. We are all here to help. But as always, consider the source of your information. There are dedicated, trained and passionate professionals and amateurs hitting the rocks everyday, as well as those more interested in scoring another notch in their harness. Take the time to get to know the individual shop’s style and experience. This little effort in the beginning can make a world of difference.

No matter who you choose to climb with in the end,

we hope to see you at these amazing crag’s

….just climb Thailand !!!!

by Sirichai Pongsopon

Owner of The Rock Shop (Tonsai Beach )

Author of The pocket Guide (Thailands Sports Climbing)

Traveling to the astonishing deep South

“a motorbike weekend escape, traveling to Trang”

When traveling to Asia, many destinations come to mind, but by far one of the most popular is Thailand. This has many reasons, but for sure its diversity and the charm of its people being on the top of the list. One of its unique and unspoiled regions is the province of Trang.

Often I meet travelers who are disappointed of how developed Thailand is. It seems that they are expecting a wild jungle country, when this is far from the reality. Especially if you choose any of the main tourist hubs as the place to spend your holiday. If you want to go to a really wild jungle country (an undeveloped country) in SE Asia, then you need to travel to Papua New Guinea, the Solomon islands or the remoter corners of Indonesia. However to do this you need a lot of time, and travel is a lot more complicated.

The great thing about Thailand is that you can stil find places that are wild and relatively untouched by tourism, but you need to have the courage to go places that are not on the main tourist map. Also have a little sense for adventure and little more time than just a 1 or 2 week to escape (to be further discussed in later blogs).

tree tunnel on the way to Hat Pak Meng

deserted Hat Pak Meng beach

enjoying the empty beach

sleepy beach front town

Trang rice fields

rice field in Trang

I have been living, traveling & working in Asia for 15 years now, and even after all this time I surprise myself by some of the jewels I find just a few arms lengths away from the main tourist traps. The problem is people often lack imagination and want everything arranged for them, and then are disappointed because they thought they were going on some wild adventure….

…it doesn’t work that way ……

In the past people were glued to their lonely planet guide book’s on their travels; nowadays it is the smart phone. If it is not be found on the web or a forum, these places are invisible, and your journey will not be much more different the next travelers.

traveling to Trang

This weekend I have chosen to make an escape from my Base Camp Krabi to the next southern province Trang. Travel in Thailand is very easy and there are many transport options. You can take minibuses, local buses, budget airlines, bicycle, or by motorbike.

We have chosen the latter. For me one of the best methods of getting around but also for longer distances. Our destination was about 150 km away, so not too far. The goal of our weekend escape was to take part in the cities mini marathon among its beautiful rice paddies. When traveling, the destination isn’t the most important part of a journey, what one finds in between is just as important.

So on the way to Trang, we took a small detour to follow the coast line and visit its beach town, Hat Pak Meng. It was a beautiful drive down winding roads passing through smaller villages, plantations and tree tunnels covering the road. Much to our surprise the beach town wasn’t much of a town at all: a few sparse establishments, a fishing village and an untouched coastline with endless clean beaches. It felt like traveling back in time, to what Ao Nang and Krabi must have been like more than 20 years ago. There were only a few longtail boats that offered to take you to its nearby islands. A small fraction of what you would see in Ao Nang. …..Truly stunning. … and peaceful

Continuing down the coastline we found many stunning beaches, perfect places for a picnic or a weekend camping trip. Eventually after another hour of winding roads we reached our destination in Trang. A lovely little Motel on the outskirts of town, Nata Resort. Set among the rice paddies and close to where the race would start the next morning.

Look Lom southern tradition

Look Lom wind chimes

Cultural heritage of Trang

ancient tradition unique to this province

Trang's unique culture

an annual tradition to protect the rice fields from birds

annual festival wind chimes

Look Lom is an ancient "scarecrow"

southern Traditions

When exploring the immediate area, we came upon a curios festival. A unique tradition to the Trang province, Look Lom wind chimes(or turbines). Ive never heard of them before, but this is an annual festival where these traditional wind chimes made from bamboo get built in large numbers. The locals gather and celebrate with delicious food and local music. They are curious contraptions with small windmills that make a whistling sound carried across the idyllic rice paddies.

Digging a bit further into their purpose and origins, little can be found in English, and seems to be a tradition unique to the Trang province. However their purpose is that similar to that of a scare crow (though in their case the sound that the turbines make keep the birds away). They are raised at the time of rice harvest. It is considered a local wisdom unique to Na Muang district. To celebrate this time it has become a local folk game during January – March every year.

For the local people they are more than just “scare crows”, through these wind sculptures they show their respect for nature and its divine representation. Their origins go back hundreds of years and relate to an old tale “the legend of Pie”( a story originating in Hinduism, something about gods of nature who protect the rice fields from all the birds…especially Pie, a species of bird)

This is the area of Klong Nang Noi, which is the largest agricultural area in Trang Province. Their ancestors chose this location because of the fertile lands and made a settlement here. So it has become the heritage of many cultures…….

warm-up for the race

warm-up entertainment team

6am race start

sun rice over the rice fields

Look Lom wind chimes during sunrise

beautiful place to run

the race

…beep..beep….4:30am!!!!….beep…beep………..time to get ready for the mini marathon….!!!!

We got there at 5:30am, there were some +1000 contestants at this small event. There was a great atmosphere and lots of anticipation in the air. Before the race there was music and some lively/funny aerobics to warmup the contestants for the race.

The race started just before sunrise at 6am. The horn was blown and everyone huddled through the narrow start. In these races it is important to go fast in the beginning to leave the main group behind. This way you can run with a clear path and maintain a good rhythm. It was a very enjoyable scenic run on very flat terrain. As the sun began to rise one could appreciate the idyllic scenery among the rice paddies and all the Look Lom on the sides of the road…..it was an awesome run….but competition was fierce……but neither am I a professional……..47min later….finishhhhh

Our son also joins us on our adventures and took part of the 5km fun run. In this group there were many characters all dressed up for the occasion, fancy runners. They run in full costume, looks funny but at the same time very hot!!!!

My partner, Boom, did a great job and finished 1st in her age/gender group. I was 10min behind the 3rd place in my group, but for me a new best time for 10.5km. Then there was a small celebration and the prizes were given away.

"fancy" runner

running through rice fields and wind chimes

another very "fancy" runner

trophies for the winners

Now all that was left to do, was to embark on our motorbike ride back to our BaseCamp, Krabi. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed the final leg of our weekend adventure. Also we stopped for some mouthwatering food on the way. Trang province is famous for its pork, its prepared in the oven with the 5 chines spices and hoisin sauce…..very crispy and delicious……a must when you are in the region.

Until the next weekend escape……

Journey to Thailands North Andaman

There are still many beautiful corners along Thailands coast. These places are more or less standing still in time compared to some of the main holiday destinations in the country. If you have known these places for a long time, you can see their endless expansion and development. If you have not been there for a year or even just a few months, sometimes find it hard to orientate yourself. Maybe you cant find the places you once knew, that great little restaurant. A place that has not been affected by this wave of development is Ranong province. There are 2 near the capital, Koh Phayam and Koh Chang(small one, not near Trat!!!). They are Thailand’s last islands in the Andaman sea before the Myanmar border.

Koh Phayam pier

The province of Ranong itself is also a jewel of nature, with an amazing 80% forest cover(%67 mountains). In the north you have a huge UNESCO Biosphere reserve, which was declared in 1997. It is the fourth biosphere reserve of Thailand, and the only one along the coast to protect the mangrove forests. It’s also one of the most diverse mangrove forests in the world. There are about 75 species in the world and 25 of these can be found here.

For this journey we have chosen the island Koh Phayam. The most “developed” of the two. However this is minor compared too most of Thailand. The island has a small population of about 800 people. I have known this place for 13 years, and I’m glad to say it has maintained its original flare. Its still as relaxed and welcoming as it has always been. The island has a strong community, a community which has chosen to set itself apart. They don’t want to be another Koh Samui or Koh Tao.

To get to the island u have two options, by speed boat or by slow boat.

http://ranongferry.com/

Aow Yai, Koh Phayam

Aow Kwai, Koh Phayam

Surfing at Ao Yai

Hornbill on the trees above our bungalow

Bodyboarding at Aow Yai

island stay

Upon arriving on the island, we chose to rent a motorbike rather than take a motorbike taxi . However if you have no experience riding, I don’t suggest this as a place to learn. The roads are narrow, hilly, and there are plenty of potholes.

We stayed at Ao Yai, the islands largest bay, nearly 3km long. It’s also best spot for admiring the Andaman sunsets. In the distance you can see silhouettes of endless islands of the mysterious Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar.

We chose to stay at Aow Yai Bungalows, , a long established bungalow resort on the island. It has various sized bungalows to choose from, set amongst a beautiful garden right up on the beach. The place is one of the few that offer 24h electricity. The staff was very helpful and friendly…..though for me the biggest plus were the free Body Boards available for its guests…….There are some other establishments along the beach where you can rent proper surf boards and SUP’s.

Aow Yai Bungalows, Koh Phayam

The waves rip along the length of the beach, a perfect place for beginner’s up to intermediate levels. Also the bottom is only sand, so no danger of scratching yourself up on corals or rocks!!!.

However be wary, depending on the tides and waves, sometimes there is a light riptide and undertow. If you are into kite surfing, Ao Kwai(buffalo bay) is a perfect spot for this too.

Another great highlight of the island, is it’s nature and wildlife. There are numerous species of birds and even monkeys. If the island had a mascot, it would be the bizarre Hornbill bird. You can observe them along the length of Ao Yai, and most of the island. We saw them just sitting and relaxing on our bungalow balcony, they were sitting up in the branches of the nearby trees chatting and socializing.

There are many nice walks around the island or along its untamed shoreline, where you can find many secluded “secret” beaches. Inland, the island is covered by cashew nut trees, giving a distinct sweet smell to the breeze. However, as lovely as the island is, this is not an island for snorkeling. The waters are not clear turquoise with colorful coral reefs. Though if you are looking for this, you can reach the Surin islands from here by day trips. (Or travel a bit further south to Kao Lak and spend a few days on a liveaboard exploring these wonderful islands.)

the Race

On this weekend there was another sporty event which we attended. A mini marathon over some difficult terrain (trail running almost). This is a great way to combine holiday with some physical activity (and not feel guilty of some extra holiday munchies…hahahah)…..also a good brake from lazing around in the sun…….

There were around 600 contestants at this race. The 5km fun run went along the beach, and the 10.5km run went inland from the beach to the other side of the island and back again following the undulating terrain. A short, but tough course.

mini-marathon race start at Aow Yai

half way through the race

island ambulance

Unfortunately for Boom, this race didn’t end so well, the April heat and a race run in the afternoon, was too much for her. Just 2km from the finish line she had a heat cramp, passed out and injured her arm. She then had to evacuated by speed boat to Ranong Hospital……luckily it all ended well…..but in the spirit of adventure…..our limits need to be pushed sometimes to find our boundaries….

Nevertheless take care if you are attending a running race in Thailand, especially if you are coming from the winter in your home country. Rest before the race and make sure you are hydrated (water with electrolytes) and be in an optimal condition.

travel south

Once you get settled-in on an island like this, it becomes hard to leave. No matter how many days you spend here, they never seem enough. The longer you stay the more relaxed you become, sinking into the simple and tranquil island life……..but now unfortunately it’s time to pack up………departing physically and mentally….(eventually!!!!)

Now we are heading south by bus following the coast line of Ranong province. We will look back with great memories of this lovely place and looking forward to further explore the province in the future…..hopefully too return, complete the race, and ride the islands waves once more…..

……as Ranong is left far behind us in the distance the limestone mountains of Phang Nga province begin to appear, opening opportunities of countless new adventures….!!!!