Vacation in Thailand is considered one of the most fun and enjoyable things that many of us dream of. whether we Backpackers traveling in the countryside, a couple in love who wants to vacation in one of the most romantic destinations in the world or A family with little ones - Thailand has everything from everything, attractions and activities For adults and children and countless hiking trails and day trips that will make your time enjoyable throughout the whole year.
What makes the holiday in Thailand unique is that it is different From an urban vacation in Europe For example - where you focus on one destination (usually the capital city of the country we flew to) - a vacation in Thailand usually lasts at least two weeks, during which you move from destination to destination and visit the beautiful traditional cities, towns and villages of the Kingdom of Siam.
For the most part, the itinerary is more or less fixed and includes the The famous islands, The capital city is Bangkok And many times also a short foray into the area Northern Thailand It has the most beautiful views in the entire country. In accordance with the fixed route, the list of attractions that are defined as "mandatory" is also similar for most travelers with the exception of minor changes.
At the top of this list are some attractions and activities that are considered the most recommended over others, where among the most popular is a trip whose name precedes it, he he "The 42 Islands Trip" the famous Indeed, if you ask those close to you who have already traveled to the exotic country, you will argue that most (if not all) of them have participated in the popular trip.
First, a brief clarification: the trip is indeed called the "42 Islands Trip", but despite the misleading name, it is not at all a trip that goes between 42 islands, but rather a fun cruise in the spectacular nature reserve Ang Thong National Park where you can, among other things, enjoy beautiful views, snorkel among spectacular corals and marine animals. Since there are indeed 42 islands in the reserve itself, this is the origin of the name of the trip, which passes through a total of five of them.
What does the 42 islands trip include?
There are several companies that offer a trip to the beautiful reserve and despite the price range, they mostly offer a day trip with a similar route which includes:
- Pickup from the hotel early in the morning (usually 07:00-08:00 a.m.) and drive to the pier
- Boarding a fast boat or a slow boat that will be used for the duration of the trip. The type of boat depends on the tour you chose and the company issuing it and it is recommended to check this before purchasing the tickets since a slow boat means about two hours of sailing until reaching the reserve, twice as much as the fast boat
- A tour between 5 magical islands including activities such as snorkeling in a beautiful coral reserve, kayaking between beaches with spectacular rock formations and observing some of the most beautiful places in the world such as the Emerald Pool
- Return to the pier and from there transfer to the hotel (around 17:00-18:00 in the evening)
If so, it sounds like everything is included in the payment. What should you take anyway? Although all the equipment is included, it is recommended to take a camera with you on the trip that will record the special moments (plus a waterproof cover), a bathing suit, a towel, sunscreen and also some money that will be used in case you want to buy some souvenir made by the locals.
And what must be verified? Although the payment includes insurance, make sure you have it Appropriate travel insurance Just in case that might happen. And as for the payment itself, it is important to check that it also includes the entrance fee to the nature reserve.
What will you see on the 42 islands trip?
Had Yao Beach
A pristine beach of spectacular beauty that stretches over 7 km, from which there is a beautiful view of Krabi area, high cliffs and impressive mountains. Unlike other beaches in the area, this beach is not particularly rocky, so bathing in the water is particularly pleasant, and since this is usually the first stop on the trip, introduce immersion in the water with a traditional jump from the boat deck.
Than Sadet Beach
A magical beach located in the east Copenhagen Island And although the island itself is considered the center of the night life of the entire region, this beach is considered one of the quietest and most peaceful beaches you can find among the beaches of Thailand and is known for its waterfalls and the fact that Thai kings used to visit them. The waterfalls, bays and views from the beach make it a real paradise, just be aware - many tourists report the lack of cell phone reception (among us, the main thing is that the camera works).
Bottle Beach
At this beautiful beach, there is usually a slightly longer stop that will allow you to rest, sunbathe, snorkel, walk around or take a short lunch break, and that's a good thing! - The beach which is located in the north of the island of Kopenhagen is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
Haad Khom Beach
This beach is famous mainly for its beautiful coral reef, so a stop in this area is entirely dedicated to snorkeling in one of the most beautiful and special snorkeling and diving sites in Thailand. During the snorkeling you can enjoy a fairly close observation of a variety of magical corals in bright colors, among which a variety of marine creatures swim in harmony.
For those of you who don't want to snorkel or will exhaust the experience quickly, you'll be happy to hear that the beach itself is very pleasant - after all, with white sands and clear turquoise water it's a bit hard to miss...
Koh Ma Beach
Another beach known for its beautiful coral reef and it's also the last stop usually dedicated to snorkeling, so if you haven't taken a peek during this journey into the underwater world - now is the time. In addition to corals of many sizes and colors, you can see on this site special forms of marine life and an abundance of animals and creatures that will leave you amazed.
Chaloklum fishing village
Last stop for this trip, from there we return to the dispersal point towards the hotels and end the fun "42 Islands" trip. In the Chaloklum fishing village you can tour the dock area and enjoy the view from it, eat at the local stalls (a great experience especially for those who love seafood), drink a cold beer or relax on the pleasant beach.
In addition to these stops, during the cruise itself you will enjoy breathtaking views and if you are lucky you will encounter wild animals such as the monkeys living on the islands.
As for snorkeling and observing the underwater world - you will be provided with all the equipment you need to make the most of this enjoyable part of the trip, and of course you will also receive a good lunch, soft drinks and even appropriate insurance included in the package price.
