Krabi Guide

Krabi is located some 814 kilometers south of Bangkok. The most outstanding characteristic of Krabi’s landscape is that it is a province that features diverse natural resources-agricultural plateaus, mountains, wetlands and around 130 tropical islands. Krabi has a long history of human settlement. It was first officially named as one of Siam’s independent cities in the reign of King Rama V in the year 1875. The name was changed from Pakasai to Krabi, meaning ‘sword’ in Thai. This name was derived from an old myth. The local people dug down in the earth and found two ancient swords, which they gave to the city’s ruler. He thought that was an omen meaning good fortune. Thos swords were kept, and later on they became the symbol of the province. Because of its long coastline, Krabi definitely is home to some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches. Apart from the beauty of the seashores, however, Krabi is also a place that is rich in wetland areas and rare mangrove forests, which provide a fertile anctuary for many kinds of animals. On the farmlands of Krabi, some of the country’s important economic. Crops are produced, such as rubber, palm oil, mangoes, coconuts and coffee. That’s why agricultural tourism is also promoted in this province along with the well-reputed eco-tourism. As a tropical monsoon province, Krabi has only two seasons: summer from January to April and rainy season from May to December. However, even during the rainy season, the constant weather changes in the South bring Krabi many surprisingly lovely and sunny days too. It’s a good idea to check the most recent weather forecast before visiting krabi in the rainy season. The city’s average temperature is about 20-30 degrees Celsius. Major events held in Krabi include “Krabi Berk Fah Andaman Festival,” the fiesta celebrated every year in November to mark the beginning of the tourism season in order to welcome all tourists to Krabi, many water sport competitions, cultural events and other fun activities. The ‘Chao Lay Setting Boats Adrift Ceremony’ is a religious ceremony of the Sea Gypsies, locally called ‘Chao Lay’ held in Koh Lanta during the full moon nights of the sixth and eleventh lunar months. People gather at the beach to dance and sing around the ceremonial beats, which are then set adrift, aiming for future happiness and prosperity of the people in the community.

Phang Nga Guide

As most people in the colder areas of the world are huddling indoors to avoid the chilly weather outside in November, December, January, February and March the people in Thailand’s coastal provinces such as Phang Nga, Krabi, and the sought-after Phuket are living their lives in a completely opposite way. It’s the high season for tourism in those provinces. Discerning travelers are being welcomed to have a whale of a time sunbathing along the white sand beach one. It’s great to have a vacation by the azure sea; warm sun, warm sea and white sand are all you can feel. It’s so wonderful that people in the temperate zone might well be envious of you.
Starting on Highway Number 4 (Takua Pa-Thai Muang), you will see beautiful Bang Sak Beach, the first beach of Phang Nga that is a continuation of the beach from neighboring Ranong Province. You can fully enjoy you bathing here with no fear because Bang Sak Beach has a very gradual slope into the sea with a large shallow area.

Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga is a southern Thai province best known for its land and sea attractions, as it is home to a diverse selection of naturally magnificent sites. The most famous of its offerings is located offshore between Phuket and Krabi, Phang Nga Bay National Marine Park, which s comprised of an area of more than 400 square kilometers of turquoise water dotted by over 40 islets, sunken caverns and starting rock formations rising sheer out of the sea.
Apart from the Permain limestone karsts, Phang Nga Bay also features abundant mangrove swamps, while visitors can witness local traditions on Panyee island, a small Muslim community often described as the floating village of Thailand. It is this diverse composition of attractions that makes Phang Nga Bay one of the most spectacular settings of its kind in South East Asia.

There are several islands in the bay, with one of the most popular having appeared on the silver screen of the James Bond series – The Man with the Golden Gun – some 30 years ago. Khao Tapu’s striking limestone rock formation has become the symbol of the bay since the film was released and continues to attract visitors from all around the world today.
Phang Nga Bay is easily accessed by long-tail boat services from many piers on the mainland of Phang Nga province and Phuket. Buying a one-day long-tail tour package is a good way to explore the bay and it’s many wonders. Another option for nature lovers liking to get close to the hidden mangrove forests and limestone caves is to view them from a sea canoe; many major travel companies in Phuket offer a one-day canoe exploration excursion in Phang Nga

Must-do in Phang Nga Bay
- Visit James Bond Island (Khao Tapu)
- Explore caves and mangrove swamps by sea canoe
- Visit Panyee island to experience the local way of life, enjoy lunch at a seafood restaurant and shop for local products.

Similan Island
The Similan complex or islands is located in the Andaman Sea, 70 kilometers off the mainland of Phang-Nga Province. “Similan” means “nine” in Malay as the archipelago consists of nine islands, but Sumilan is also the name given to the eighth island in th group. All nine islands have official name: Koh Hu Yong, Koh Payang, Koh Payan, Koh Miang, Koh Ha, Koh Bayu, Koh Hin Pousar, Koh Similan, and Koh Ba Ngu accordingly. Instead of the Malay names, most sailors prefer to call these islands by numbers one to nine from south up to north.
Besides many white sandy beaches that surround every island, beneath the prisitine seawater of Similan lies the complex of colorful marine creatures and coral reefs. The beautiful underwater scenes mark Similan one of the exceptional diving spots on earth.The best way to access the island is to fly to Phuket international Airport. From Phuket, there are plenty of tour agencies that offer tour packages to Similan islands.

Going to Similan Island
There is an overnight public bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Tublamu Pier, the nearest point to the island, It is available daily, From the pier, you may rent a boat or buy an island package from a local tour agent.Similan National Marine Park is closed during the monsoon season on 16 May to 15 November each year. The best time to visit the islands is during 16 November to 15 May every year.

Phuket Guide

Phuket, Thailand largest island has been dubbed ‘the pearl of the Andaman’ or ‘the pearl of the south’. Its natural resources rocky peninsulas, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in land forests contribute to making it southern Thailand’s wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the southern past of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, Phuket borders Phang-nga Province to the north. The other sides are encircles by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge. Phuket is divided in to 3 administrative districts, namely Mueang District, Thalang District and Kathu District.

Besides its enchanting natural heritage of sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world-renowned diving sites, Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell, delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world-class resorts to topical-style bungalows warmly cater to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample besides Phuket’s famous lobster Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.

Phuket beaches let to know all beaches in phuket

Mai Khao Beach
Also know as the Airport Beach, the beach is located at the northern end of Phuket Island. As Phuket’s longest beach, Hat Mai Khao is famous for its tranquil beach set in a relaxing ambience, Camping grounds are provided. The beach is not recommended for swimming as it slopes steeply. Mai Khao Beach is home to wonderful creatures such as sea cicadas and turtles. In addition, it is an egg-lying ground for sea turtles.



Nai Yang Beach
Located to the south of Mai Khao Beach, Beach Nai Yang is a serene and isolated bay ideal for swimming and family picnics. The beach itself is impressive, as shady pine trees fringe it, Nearby coral reefs make explorations in to the underwater world worthwhile. In addition, sea turtles are inhabitants in the area. The Sirinart Marine National Park headquarters is located hear.

Nai Thon Beach

Nestled on the edge of a secluded bay south of Sirinart Marine National Park is another popular tourist attraction, especially for day-trippers. Nai Thon Beach has a unique natural setting with both ends of the beach being protected by granite outcrops that serve as a natural shield making the bay a perfect nursery for both marine life and corals. The beach is suitable for swimming.

Bang Thao Beach
A large open bay that is the location of one of Phuket’s longest beaches, Ao Bang Thao has a long history related to the economy of the island. Previously a tin mining area, the location has been transformed into a neighborhood of luxurious resorts and golf coursed, especially the all-inclusive Laguna Complex, Additional accommodations outside Laguna at the bay’s south end are also available.

Kamala Beach

Located approximately 26 kilometers from Phuket City, Kamala Beach is a relatively secluded 2-kilometer beach that is suitable for total relaxation. Accommodations are available.

Surin Beach
Located approximately 24 kilometers from town and only a short distance north of Laem Sing is an enchanting beach lined with casuarinas trees. Isolated and secluded, the beach is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. In addition, there is a golf course which was established in the reign of King Rama VLL.
Several Muslim fishing communities are located nearby and mosques are situated to the west of the beach. The local mosque, Matsayit Mukaram, is worth visiting as it is an elegant whitewashed structure with lacquered wooden doors.

Patong Beach
This beach is the most developed, most vibrant, and most visited beach of Phuket that never fails to impress visitors, located approximately 15 kilometers from the city, the beach has a wide range of accommodations and shopping arcades, and provides magnificent leisure activities and energetic night-time entertainment, especially on Bangla Lane, which is turned into a walking street after 6.00 pm. It is a picture-perfect postcard view of a 3-kilometer long white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, lazing, and enjoying challenging water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, sailing, and parasailing,

3 Beaches View Point
The most famous observation point of the 3 beaches, Kata Noi, Kata and Karon, is located on the road half way between Nai Harn Beach and Kata Noi Beach. From this spot, an intriguing view of the 3 beaches and Ko Pu Island has constantly impresses visitors.

Karon Beach
Located south o Patong Beach, Karon Beach is a curving beach that lies beautifully in the sun with small sand dunes, casuarinas and palm trees. The crescent bay is the beach’s signature that draws traveler’s attention. During the high season, the beach is ideal for relaxation, swimming or sunbathing. A wide range of accommodations, from top-end to budget and mid-range, are available. Other facilities such as nightclubs, restaurants and other evening entertainment venues are located along the beachfront road.

Kata Beach
Located approximately 17 kilometers from Phuket City are Kata Noi (Small Kata) and Kata Yai (Big Kata) Beaches. Both are renowned for snorkeling to see the coral, tropical fishes and the sea’s eco-system. Beach activities are available on both beaches. Accommodations on Kata Beach are set amidst tropical and cliff setting. Visitors can choose to stay in budget to top-end accommodations according to their preference.

Nai Han Beach
Located a few kilometers from Kate Beach, next to Phromthep Cape, approximately 18 kilometers from town, is Nai Han Beach, an extraordinary beach that has white powdery sand and crystal clear water. The beach borders on two charming landscaped lagoons surrounded by rubber trees and other tropical plants. As the beach has not yet been fully developed to its full potential, it is less crowded, more peaceful, and ideal for people seeking solitude.

Phromthep Cape
Phromthep Cape is perhaps one of Phuket’s most important landmarks. There is a saying that you haven’t been to Phuket unless you visit Laem Phromthep. It is here that visitors soak up the sun and savor the beath taking panoramic view of the Andaman Sea from the island’s southern-most tip. The cape is often crowded, especially in the evening, as it is a popular observation point at sunset. Laem Phromthep is lacated approximately 2 kilometers from Ravai Beach.

Rawai Beach
Located approximately 17 kilometers from twon is a less crowded, more peaceful and less commercial beach with a second-to-none pristine shoreline. Rawai Beach is home to a well-established community of Phuket’s sea gypsies. Fresh seafood is available hear directly from fishermen. From this beach visitors can charter boats to explore other offshore islands.

Chalong Bay
This bay, which has the island’s largest and most visited pier, is located 11 kilometers south of town. From this pier, holidaymakers can get chartered boats to some nearby islands south of Phuket. The bay area is dotted with dive shops, a few travel agencies and superb seafood restaurants. Although the bay has a stunning setting and relaxing ambience, swimming is not recommended here. Accommodations are available at the Phuket Youth Hostel.

Bang pae Waterfall
A relatively small waterfall located amidst dense woods, Bang Pae Waterfall is also home to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center. To get there from the town, follow the route to the Two Heroines Monument, then turn right to Pa Khlok and proceed for approximately 7 kilometers. For nature enthusiasts, the sanctuary has mapped out some walking trails. Further information may be obtained from the Nature Study Center.

Ton Sai Waterfall

The waterfall is located approximately 22 kilometers from the town. A relatively small waterfall that looks its best in the rainy season, Ton Sai Waterfall is shaded by big and small trees, which make it ideal for relaxation. To get there from Thep-kasattri Road, turn left at Thalang District Intersection and proceed for approximately 3 kilometers.

Andaman guide

After the tsunami in 2004, former Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) president said that Thailand lost almost two million visitors in the aftermath o the disaster, Although tourism dipped significantly, the Andaman region has bounced back and tourism is now as strong s ever, The post-tsunami rebound happened a lot faster than many had anticipated, In a little more than three years, the Andaman region has surpassed its former self in terms of visitor numbers and revenue produced.
Business operators in the Andaman region are looking further a field to attract new visitors to the area. Top priority for tourism in the region has been attendance by operators at tourism road shows around the world in places such as India and the Middle East.
So what is it that attracts people to the Andaman region? Krabi, Phuket and Phang Nga are staple additions to most Thailand visitors’ itineraries, although people come for a variety of reasons. Honeymooners, package tourists, gap year students, divers-the broad cross-section of visitors to the region is testimony to the diverse nature of the different destinations that people can choose from.

Getting To Andaman Provinces
By car: Highway No.4 is the main road to reach most of the southern provinces of Thailand. Starting from Nakhon Prathom and ending at the Thai-Malaysian border in Songkhla Province, the highway runs past Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khirikhan, Chumphon, Ranong, Phang-Nga, Krabi Trang, Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Satun. Total distance is 1,285 kilometers.
Separating from Highway No.4 Highway No.41 starts from Chumphon to southern provinces along the coast of the Gulf of Thailand: Surat Thani, Kakhon Sri Thammarat, and Pattalung, Then, it connects with Highway No.4 again in Amphoe Mueng, Song khla. To Phuket, take highway No.4 and proceed to Highway No.402.

By bus: Government and private companies provide air conditioned and regular buses to all of the southern provinces, The buses leave daily from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal, For more info, call Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal at +662434 5557 to 8.

By Air: Several domestic and international airlines operate daily flights to Phuket and Krabi. For more indo, contact the following airlines:
- Thai Airways International: call 1566, +66 2535 208 to 2, +66 2628 2000 or visit http://www.thaiairways.com/
- Bangkok Airways: call +66 2265 5555 or visit http://www.babgjijaur.com/
- Nok Air: call 1318 or visit http://www.nokair.com/
- Destination Air (shuttle) operates flight from Phuket to several destinations along the Andaman seashore; call +66 2261 5323 or visit http://www.destinationair.com/

Tourist Information
Phuket:
TAT Southern office Region 4: +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036
Tourist Police: +66 7621 9878
Phuket International Airport: +66 7632 7230-7
Immigration Office: +66 7321 2108

Phang-Nga:
TAT Southern office Region 4: +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036
Tourist Information Center: +66 7341 2140
Post Office: +66 7641 2172
Highway Police: +66 7632 7220

Krabi:
TAT Southern office Region 4: +66 7621 2213, +66 7621 1036
Post Office: +66 7561 1050
Bus Terminal: +66 7561 1804
Immigration Office: +66 7561 1097
Tourist Police: 1155