For an intimate Thai experience, the town of Krabi on the west coast of the peninsula, offers authenticity, relaxation and the perfect launch pad for a variety of water-based activities. This is largely unaffected Thailand, where the locals generously welcome visitors to the region.
Situated 1000km south of Bangkok, Krabi was elevated to town status by King Chulalongkorn in 1872. Today tourism remains an important industry, with the region being immortalised by Leonardo Di Caprio when he starred in the film, The Beach, which was filmed on a nearby Island. Activities are focused around the waterways, with numerous tropical islands just beckoning for exploration.
Krabi essentially has two seasons – the hot and the wet. The wet season lasts from May to November and is typified with sustained heavy rain. The hot season is the preferred time to visit the region, ideally between January and February. The mercury rarely drops below 27 degrees year round and rises to an average of 32 degrees.
Flights from New Zealand to Krabi generally fly via Bangkok. Airlines that fly from New Zealand to Krabi include:
Flights from Auckland to Krabi take about thirteen and a half hours.
Krabi offers numerous luxury style resort accommodation. For unsurpassed elegance consider the Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort with a unique colonial feel and a beautiful 7000 square metre swimming pool.
To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.
The symbol of Krabi, Khao Khanap Nam, is two stone outcrops jutting 100 metres out of the water. To appreciate this natural wonder, take a long tail boat from the Chao Fah Bridge. Combine the trip with a visit to the nearby mangroves and a local fishing village. Also just outside Krabi town is the Tiger Temple, Wat Tham Sua. Perched on top of a mountain, the temple boasts a tiger paw print preserved in stone. The maze of natural caves and surrounding jungle make this a fascinating temple to explore and the views from the top are incredible.
Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh, made famous by the Leonardo Di Caprio movie The Beach, are only 45 minutes away from Krabi by speed boat and are definitely worth the trip. Alternatively consider an island hopping adventure around the numerous other tropical islands situated just off the coast. Popular excursions include Phra Namn Cave, Tup Island, Chicken Island and Poda Island where swimming, snorkelling and general relaxation are the orders of the day.
There are numerous other outdoor activities to keep enthusiasts entertained. Enjoy a majestic Elephant trek through shaded forest, experience the exhilaration of white water rafting or discover the Thai countryside on a bicycle tour. Other options include kayaking, scuba diving and fishing.
Sunscreen and insect repellent are essential. While you can purchase these on the island, they will be pricier than bringing them from home.
Wai is a traditional Thai greeting that involves holding your palms together in a prayer and bow towards one another. The wai is also used when saying sorry or saying goodbye.
Family and respect are of the utmost most importance to Thai society and way of life. Thais avoid confrontation and criticism at all costs, believing that hostility attracts the wrath of spirits and may result in violence and tragedy.
The Thai King is held in high esteem, so always show respect towards His Highness.
Thai people are generally quiet and consider loudness to be impolite. Don’t raise your voice or laugh loudly unless in a bar or tourist resort.
Touching a Thai person on the head is perceived as an insult and should be avoided. Also remember to remove your shoes before entering a temple.
Stick to bottled water, as the tap water isn’t drinkable. Avoid drinks with ice, as the ice may be made from tap water.
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