There is hardly a person who does not dream of a pampering vacation in the tropical islands of the magical Kingdom of Thailand. indeed, although Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and as its name suggests, the western islands of Thailand are probably the most recognizable feature associated with the exotic country.
Each of the islands has its own character and none of them are similar to anything, but what they have in common is that all the islands are endowed with spectacular landscapes where every sunset is especially photogenic, wild nature with spectacular vegetation and impressive wildlife and an atmosphere of boundless freedom.
During your visit to the islands you can enjoy many attractions and activities, mainly water sports and diving sites, but not only - in some Vibrant nightlife while in others Pampering resorts With a relaxed atmosphere so that you can adjust the itinerary of visiting the islands according to the group of travelers and your favorite vacation destination. For sure, it won't be boring and if you want it to be - this is the perfect place to be bored.
Central islands and recommended attractions
Phuket
Phuket It is probably the most visited island in Thailand and as such it is visited by millions of tourists every year and at the peak of the tourist season the congestion is definitely noticeable, so if you intend to visit it during this period it is recommended at least Reserve the accommodation in advance.
This is an excellent destination for any type of vacation - for "abdominal" enthusiasts there are quite a few beautiful bays and bathing beaches with golden sands And clear turquoise water to wade in on a hot day. Families and young people will be able to enjoy from many attractions and activities Such as museums, sailing and various types of water sports, markets, shopping centers and many options in the culinary field.
It is a lively place with a lively nightlife, mainly centered on Patong Beach, which becomes particularly lively after dark, when the lights of the local bars and clubs turn on and music can be heard in the distance, but even those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere will not have difficulty finding secluded corners and pampering resorts that are suitable for this type of vacation.
What to do?
The Great Buddha Temple, Phang Nga Bay, the night market, the old city, Rehabilitation elephant farm.
ways of getting there
The most convenient way to get to Phuket is by domestic flight which departs from the main airports in Thailand, but there is also an option to arrive by bus, although it is a very long journey.
Crabby
Crabby It is perhaps the area with the most beautiful beaches in the entire kingdom of Siam, with coconut trees swaying with the caressing breeze, ivory sands and breathtaking views.
This is a great vacation spot for those who are tired of the hectic nightlife scene that characterizes the neighboring islands and want to enjoy a calm and relaxing vacation on the beach. If this sounds like the type of freedom that speaks to you - you will be happy to hear that the amazing beaches of Krabi have quite a few quiet corners and that in general the atmosphere in this area is much lighter and so are the travelers you will meet there.
If you are traveling with little ones, or are there on your honeymoon You can indulge yourself In the pleasant resorts scattered throughout bathing beaches - These will meet all your needs... and if you still want to enjoy the activities in the area - diving and snorkeling sites, hiking trails, national parks and many other attractions are at your disposal.
What to do?
The Emerald Pool, The Diamond Cave, Tiger Cave Temple, hot Springs.
ways of getting there
If you want to visit Krabi, there are several convenient options at your disposal - a flight departing from Bangkok, Ferries leaving from nearby islands Or a night train where there are also comfortable sleeping cars.
Similan Islands
The beautiful islands (in total 11 in number) have been attracting more and more tourists every year for the past decades, thanks to their declaration as a national park and thanks to the spectacular diving sites they have, which are considered among the most beautiful and recommended in the world.
Another thing that brought the islands into the headlines was the severe tsunami that hit them in 2004 and left behind destruction and devastation, although with the exception of local museums it is evident that the area has recovered and returned to the warm welcome that characterizes it towards tourists.
This is a place where you will not stay overnight but will visit it as part of a day trip and as such the attractions there are concentrated around the coastline or the sea cliffs. Among the main attractions in the area: snorkeling, diving and various types of water sports.
What to do?
Tank diving, free diving and snorkeling.
ways of getting there
Ships that can be used to reach the area as part of a day trip are the most common way. Please note that entrance to the park involves a fee of 500 baht (plus an additional fee for diving on site).
Khao Lak
On their surface no less than 30 km stretch The spectacular beaches of Khao Lak Known for private landscapes of wild nature that look as if they were painted by an artist - tangled jungles, high mountains, exotic vegetation and wild animals that make their voices far away.
Indeed the nature and landscapes of Kao Lek They are also the ones who provide the The main attractions in the area, aka the national parks where you can spend long hours with your loved ones, stroll through the pleasant walking paths and be impressed by the many animals and plants that will come across your way.
In addition to these, you can enjoy clean and well-maintained bathing beaches with extensive marine activities, pampering resorts and hotels and restaurants in a wide price range that will suit both those looking for luxury and luxury and for a trip on a lower budget.
What to do?
Khao Sok National Park, Ton Chong Fe Falls, Tam temple, The Tsunami Museum.
ways of getting there
The fastest way to get to Khao Lak is to take a taxi, bus or one of the vans that depart from Phuket Airport. The journey takes about an hour and a quarter to two hours.
Coffeey
Some argue that Coffeey It is the most beautiful island in the kingdom of Siam and even those who disagree about it agree that it is undoubtedly in the "top 5" list.
These are actually two nearby islands - Kopipi Don and Kopipi La, the first and larger of the two is also the inhabited and touristic one, while the second one, which is not inhabited, offers beautiful and secluded coves where you can find relaxation, enjoy the view and the atmosphere or just reflect on the essence of life.
If the place looks familiar to you, it's because the island made headlines in 1999, when the movie "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed right on Maya Beach, which is located on the island and attracts many tourists who want to enjoy the struggle of the stars left behind by the cuties.
What to do?
Maya Bay, monkey beach, diving sites, shark watching, hiking trails.
ways of getting there
Arriving at Kofifi is By sea using boats coming from the nearby islands.
Lanta line
Similar to Kopipi, Koh Lanta actually consists of two adjacent islands, one of which is inhabited and touristic (Ko Lanta Yai) while the other is uninhabited (Ko Lanta Noi). The first of the two is known for its white sands and this is also the area where the local hotels and restaurants are located.
In the less touristed area there are traditional fishing villages which are a must visit and even if you think there are better ways to spend your time in the area, it is an authentic experience that will allow you to get to know the real Thailand so you won't want to miss it. If the local tradition in itself does not interest you, you will be happy to hear that in the fishing villages there are excellent restaurants that offer fresh food (mainly fish and seafood) at ridiculous prices.
In addition to these, there are several good diving sites in the area, and if you are not among the diving enthusiasts, you can enjoy the colorful sea creatures swimming near the shore even during an innocent snorkel.
What to do?
Beaches (Klong Dao, Ba Kan Tieng, Klong Jark), Mai Kaew Cave, Klong Jark Waterfalls, Ban Ko Lanta Old Town
ways of getting there
In order to get to Koh Lanta you have to go to Krabi and get on a ferry there. If you are not visiting the place during the tourist season you will have to travel to a more distant dock that takes out cruises to the area. The duration of the cruise is one to two and a half hours depending on the pier from which you left.
