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There are islands a plenty in the Gulf of Thailand. Which are the best and which are those that can be de-prioritized if limited by time and money? Read on as we discuss those that are of most benefit for your next Thailand tour.  The Sensational Gulf of Thailand Islands One thing we know for sure is that Thailand doesn’t lack gorgeous islands. Since there are many islands in Thailand, how do you choose the best islands in Gulf of Thailand for your next vacation… an island that will suit your needs? Well, here are some of the stunning islands that you can comfortably and confidently add to your bucket list for your next Thailand holiday… Koh Samui If there is an island that has stepped up and matured, its Koh Samui. Before, it used to famous with ravers and backpackers because it was a party hub, hosting full-moon parties and had a lot of cheap huts for accommodation. These days, Koh Samui boasts itself of having some of the best luxury beach resorts and with first-class spas the world over. Just like most of the islands of Thailand, this island also boasts of its crystal-clear water, fresh green forests, ever increasing marine life and its beautiful coral reefs. Besides all that luxury and beauty, this island makes it to this list of Gulf of Thailand Islands to visit because it is second largest island well versed with lots of activities to partake in. Koh Tao First off, the beaches on Koh Tao Island are breath-taking and are perfect for swimming and lounging under the sun. That said though, one thing that gives this island its true beauty and worth the visit is what surrounds the waters. If you are not here for swimming or sandbathing, there is plenty to indulge in.  Also known as the “Turtle Island”, this is the perfect place for explorers who want to explore what is under its crystalline waters. There are plenty of colourful marine life making this island perfect and popular with divers and snorkelers alike. The marine life you will find here include sea turtles, whale sharks, scorpionfish, clownfish, eels, coral, barracuda and grouper. With its warm-shallow waters even first-timers can enjoy the colourful marine life This is also a place where you can just come and just pose. It’s a place you can spend a whole weekend at. So, if are the one that is looking for a party getaway, then this is the best islands in Gulf of Thailand for you. The nightlife is perfect and hosts full-moon parties. This place is very charming and when you get here, it’s the kind of island that you might not want to leave sooner.  Koh Phangan Now this one is fully perfect for party animals. So, if your perfect vacation involves beach parties that run from Friday through to Sunday, Koh Phangan is the Gulf Island that you need to be heading to for your next Thai vacation. It is famous for its vibrant full moon parties. It is the island that is popular with dreadlocked visitors to Thailand and hardcore party animals. Every night of the week has got some beach party action and enough cocktail bars to cater for the island drinkers. Of all the Gulf of Thailand Islands, this one is for sure Thai’s main party island. It can even host up to 20,000 wild visitors during the peak seasons, dancing away under the starry bright full mooned sky. Now much as it’s an infamous for its full moon parties does men ‘mean that it doesn’t have natural sites to see. It does have beautiful natural spots which most people who go there solely to party miss out on. If you want a break from the beach party hotspots and cocktail bars you will find unadulterated beaches, waterfalls, green forests and some picturesque coastal rocks to fix your eyes on. So even if you are here to party, don’t miss out on the abundance beauty that Koh Phangan is. With waterfalls and secluded jungle trails, even those seeking some solitude will enjoy their peace. Now you know.  Koh Samet IF you are looking for a place to escape away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok town Koh Samet is one of the best islands in Gulf of Thailand to consider and its normally busy on weekends and long holidays. It has a stretch of turquoise blue sea that looks endless and is packed with curved in bays with smooth white sand and coral reefs that are in perfect condition which attracts a wide variety of aquatic life. The waters here are perfectly clear for snorkelling and diving with lovely beaches for people who just want to swim, soak up the sun or windsurf. The nightlife is also promising with plenty of bars and restaurant. To liven up the nights are the evening fire shows. What we are saying about this island is that there is something for everyone.  Koh Chang  Koh Chang is the third largest island in Thailand which located near the Cambodian border. Compared to the other islands that I have mentioned above, it is a more polite and modest island. This is one of the Gulf of Thailand Islands that has both beautiful beaches and rugged mountains at the centre of the island. Much as it’s also covered with thick jungles of rain forests, it has charming moonlit waterfalls that are great for postcard-worthy selfies. Let me not forget the long white sandy beaches. In case you plan to spend the night, they have a wide variety of accommodation and entertainment options to choose from. With all this in one place, it makes this a very versatile island. So, whether you are going for the beach life, a bohemian beach bar experience, more local vibe or some romantic experience, you will find it all lumped up here. Now that you are all caught up, choose the gulf island that will give you the experience

Top 5 Islands near Phuket Let’s face it – even the most relaxing holiday can require restrictions in relation to how best to utilize your time. This is no more evident than in relation to island hopping in Phuket. It can be quite unrealistic to expect to spend all your time visiting all the uber-attractive islands in the Phuket region. So… If you’re limited during your Thai holiday, chances are you need to make the most of your time and selecting Islands near Phuket worth seeing might be the best use of this time you have available. So to help you make the most of your trip, we’ll outline the 5 best islands to visit so that you make it all worthwhile. Koh Phi Phi Island Located between the Krabi and Phuket provinces, Phi Phi is a popular choice for many visitors to the region. This is because it is the home to one of the most famous  beaches within the whole of Asia – Maya Bay. Maya Bay came to the public’s notice after the worldwide release of the popular movie, The Beach in 2000. Headlined by Leonardo DiCaprio, the premise of the movie revolves around three young tourists discovering, what they think at the time, is a secluded, uninhabited island. The beauty of the Maya Bay setting used in the movie immediately drove tens of thousands of locals to the region. In fact, Such was the volume of visitors many visited, that the Maya Bay beach was closed recently for reparation work. While sad news, there is still very much for tourists to see at Koh Phi Phi on one of the many boat tours that ferry tourists to the location. Locations include: Pileh Bay Monkey Beach Viking Caves Ao Lo Dalam Mosquito Island These glorious locations are no less spectacular and well worth visiting. A Simba Phi Phi Island Tour travels to the above locations and in much more comfort than rival companies. Phang Nga Bay Within 90 minutes of Phuket lies Phang Nga Bay. A glorious location with plenty to see and do and its easily one of our favourite locations near Phuket. The star attraction of Phang Nga Bay is undoubtedly James Bond Island. Much like Phi Phi’s Maya Bay, James Bond Island’s popularity has also been aided by the release of a major motion picture. This time, the 1974 Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun. The location is a great destination for Instagrammers with the very distinguishable limestone karst rising out of the middle of the sea, one of the favourite photo opportunities. The other major talking point within the Phang Nga region is Ko Hong Lagoon. The crystal clear water in the lagoon draws many people in look for quality snorkeling conditions while the limited access (it can only be accessed by boat) means that the crowds are limited somewhat. Ao Phang Nga National Park is another popular destination within the Phang Nga Bay region and provides the perfect backdrop for a kayaking adventure. All three outlined Phang Nga Bay destinations (Ao Phang Nga, Ho Kong Lagoon and James Bond Island) are included in a Simba Sea Tours Phang Nga Bay boat tour. The tours operate all year around but sell out fast during the high season so get in quick! Similan Islands Located approximately 80 kilometres to the northwest Phuket Town sits one of the most spectacular islands near Phuket – The Similan Islands. It is a set of 9 island groups and is a major tourist attraction thanks to the bevy of crystal clear waters that surround it. It is widely considered to be one of the most interesting diving sites in the world for avid explorers while also being a top destination for yachts and tour boats. The island groups are as follows: Hu Yong Payang Payan Miang Payu Similan Ba Ngu The region is not open at all times of the year, with the area usually open from the 7 months between the 15th of October and the 15th of May. However, the seasonal open dates can differ from year to year. As you may be hard-pressed for time, you’ll likely want to take your pick of the most popular activities available on the island. Below are just a few of the exciting things you can do when visiting this sensational Thai region. Diving a wide variety of locations – The region is considered one of the finest diving regions worldwide with ample locations to explore. Head underwater and you are likely to come across some spectacular fish species and be afforded the opportunity to follow them through many underwater caves and tunnels that are ripe for exploring. Snorkeling the islands – If diving is not your thing then we’d highly recommend heading into the water with some snorkeling gear. Considered slightly more relaxing and requiring nowhere near the same level of expertise, snorkeling is relaxing, and suitable for the whole family. Laze around on the beach – Obviously with 9 islands to choose from, the choice of beaches is plentiful and the Similan islands have some wonderful options available. Some of the more popular picks include Khao Lak and PhraNang Cave Beach in Ao. National Park Trekking – Another must see when you visit the region is getting off the beach and undertaking some hiking and bird-watching in the lush greenery that sits upon several of the islands. It is a wonderful way to burn some calories and to get away from the beach for a few hours in order to mix things up. The Similan Islands is definitely an area worthy of your time if you have visited Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay and are looking for even more adventure off the coast of Phuket. Coral Island Perhaps the closest of the islands situated off the coast of Phuket is Coral Island. It is an ideal option for those looking to avoid a longer boat trip and for those looking for something a

Where is Phang Nga Bay 2023 Update! Along with the Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Bay remains the most popular destination for Phuket visitors in the post-covid era for those looking for a boat tour of Phuket. What is it about Phang Nga that makes it so appealing for tourists, and why do so many add it to their travel itinerary. The Phang Nga Bay Region Phang Nga Bay is located next to the Andaman Sea which in turn forms part of the Indian Ocean.  It’s on the west coast of Thailand and lies to the east of Phuket Island. Phuket is its nearest city. It is easily accessed by all forms of transport with an international airport and cruise ship port.  Three major towns surround Phang Nga Bay. Phuket town to the west, Krabi town to the east and Phang Nga town to the North, of which the bay is named after. The bay covers an area of 400 square kilometers and comprises of 42 islands. In 1981, the Ao Phang Nga National park was formed. The area was later classified as a Ramsar protected (World heritage) site # 1185 of significant ecological importance in 2002.  It is quite a shallow bay and protects one of the largest native mangrove forests left in South East Asia. Hence, increasing its importance and the need to take care of its environment. Coral reefs are less frequent in the northern parts than they are the south of Phang Nga Bay as the floor of the bay to the north is mainly mud. The water levels have risen in relatively recent times.  Only 10,000 years ago, we would have been able to walk from Phuket to Krabi. A local fishing industry has existed in these waters for hundreds of years and they today co-exist alongside National Parks and the tourism they bring.  Phang Nga Bay was thrown into the international spotlight in the late seventies which led to massive growth in Tourism in the 1980s. The area struggled to handle the volume of visitors.  It went through a period of being littered quite badly but has since been managed to international standards after the formation of the National Park and formal management has taken place. How to get to Phang Nga Bay from Phuket? One of the most asked questions is ‘How to get to Phang Nga Bay from Phuket’ since many Phuket visitors are eager to visit one of the most famous bays in Phuket. There are numerous marinas to catch a boat from Phuket out onto the bay.  These are all located on the east coast of Phuket, the opposite side to the majority of the touristic areas and its beaches. Phuket is quite a large island, approximately 40 Km from North to South, and traffic can be quite heavy during the day. So this is important to consider when planning your visit out onto Phang Nga Bay. Some of the departure points could be over a one hour drive from your accommodation. Two of these marinas, Ao Po and Yacht haven are at least 1-hour drive from the main tourist area of Patong. How to get there earlier The best advice I can give to mitigate this problem is to focus on one of two marina’s that are centrally located on the east coast, Boat Lagoon Marina and the Royal Phuket Marina. These are next door to each other and are no longer than a 35-minute drive from anywhere within Phuket. Royal Phuket Marina is a picturesque 5-star marina with beautiful boats and property on display, whilst Boat Lagoon also has plenty of beautiful boats, but it is also an active ship repair yard and this is the first impression you get of the place on arrival. At the Boat Lagoon Marina, you will find many tour boat companies offering many tours to famous bays in Phuket including Simba’s Phang Nga Bay Boat Tour. Simba provides the earliest departure which is highly attractive to travelers. This is because some of the key hotspots can become quite crowded with tour boats which will detract from the experience. We suggest a 7 am departure. Why is Phang Nga Bay so famous? Undoubtedly, it is the spectacular limestone karst rock formations that jut up out of the sea that makes this area so famous and picturesque. Approximately 200,000,000 years ago, scientists have proven the earth’s land mass was all connected as one piece. As this land mass separated into plates and drifted apart, the clashing of converging plates together is what formed most of the  world’s mountain ranges, other than the classic round volcanic type of mountain such as Mount Fuji we’re all familiar with (which of course is formed by hot, molten lava having been dispersed). The rock formations we see at Phang Nga Bay were pushed upwards as these plates have clashed together. This area was previously under the sea and contained many coral reefs.  The resulting type of topography that is so fascinating actually covers quite a large area to the north of Phang Nga Bay, over 100 km’s into the Phang Nga province mainland, and also 100 km’s to the south around the Phi Phi Islands. Famous Bays Interestingly, the same type of geological formation is also seen at the World Heritage listed site of Halong Bay in Vietnam, and also Yangshuo, near Guilin in Southern China.  This indicates they are perhaps the same plate with the resultant topography formed by the same collision. Mother Nature can be truly fascinating! The limestone we are viewing here in Phang Nga has a high calcium content which contributes to its coloring process.  Over millions of years of erosion, the chemical weathering process of carbonic acid creation has little, by little eroded these rock formations into an amazing collection of cliffs, hidden caves and hongs, sinkholes and underground streams, creating a truly fascinating place to explore. What to do in Phang Nga? A trip out to Phang Nga Bay with any reputable tour

We give you the tips on where to stay in Phuket Updated 2023! With the tourists flooding back to Phuket following the Covid pandemic outbreak, it is a hotly contested accommodation landscape in the peak seasons. So where should you focus your attention on staying? We will try to make it easier for you to decide which Phuket hotel is best for your situation. Best places to stay in Phuket Phuket Town If it is your first time traveling to Phuket, we suggest you stay at a place in Phuket town. Phuket town is the capital of the Phuket province and it has most of the things you will expect from your journey. Since most people go there for the first time, there are plenty of things to do and plenty of things to see, while it is at the center of hundreds of activities you can join. You will find many restaurants and places of interest while also being in an urban environment different than what you were used to. You can find plenty of accommodation options and family-friendly places all around the town. The Phuket Town area is perfect for travelers that want to learn about the culture and history of Phuket since there are plenty of places that you can visit and learn about the heritage. Phuket has an interesting history and a colorful culture, perfect for first-time visitors. You will be able to find things such as the Phuket Culture Museum, an amazing experience with still scenes and magnificent pictures to learn about the past of Phuket, you will find the Old Phuket Town, a place everyone visiting Phuket should visit and other places that scream history. In addition to those places, you will find numerous temples and cultural places of interest. Some of the highlights are: Khao Rang climb – this is where you can see the southern part of the island and the whole city in only one glance. Monkey Hill climb – a fun experience for kids and adults alike where you can see monkeys in their natural habitat Chalong Temple – set foot on one of the most visited, respected and the largest temple in Phuket, and feel the awe Phuket city hotels are some of the best hotels you will find around the province since there are huge numbers of tourists that visit Phuket every year. If you are wondering where to stay in Phuket and you are looking for a 5 or 4 star hotels in Phuket, you will be able to find plenty of them right here at the Phuket town. Phuket town is a safe choice and one of the best places to stay in Phuket since you don’t compromise anything. Not only are you close to the center of everything, but you are also able to have sea views from different spots in the town. You are close to a lot of beaches in Phuket and in the epicenter of glorious temples and hubs of history scattered all around the narrow roads of the town. Patong Beach Phuket If you are looking for something more vibrant then you should consider finding Phuket Accommodation Patong Style! Patong Beach Thailand is one of the most famous places to visit for Nightlife and exciting holidays. The area of Central Patong has plenty of beach clubs and it also has the world famous Bangla Road, home of some of the best beach clubs and bars in Thailand. Patong beach is an amazing place to go for a relaxing day under the sun. It’s a white sand beach that has plenty of space for everyone and you can lay there (with sunscreen) until you take in all the beauty and the warm breeze. It’s an amazing beach but it can sometimes get a bit crowded and loud. In that case, just walk a little bit further down the stretch of the beach. Besides the Patong Beach, you should also consider finding a place in Patong Beach for the amazing Soi Bangla! If you are looking for one of the most exciting streets of the area, Phuket accommodation Patong is one of your best choices. This is where to stay in Phuket if you like partying. Find a place not only in Patong Phuket but also near Soi Bangla, especially if you are planning to have one, two or more drinks at the amazing bars of the area. Some of the highlights are: Patong Beach Thailand – a white sand beach that is welcoming whoever likes a warm breeze and cool waters Soi Bangla – a street for whoever likes to party, have amazing street food, fresh entertainment, eat authentic Thai food Boxing Matches – Watch Muay Thai matches at the Bangla Boxing Stadium Visit nearby beaches and explore the island – there are plenty of places you can visit when in Patong area, and it is also very close to amazing destinations, with a short ride The atmosphere at Patong is urban, but without the busy lifestyle and the noise of the city, especially if you are staying at the Northern or Southern side of Patong. There is plenty of places to stay, including some of the best 5 and 4 star hotels in Phuket, where you will have amenities such as air conditioning free wi-fi and every comfort you might expect. During your day in the area you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy and awesome places to visit and admire. If you want something noisier, then you should consider finding a place in Central Patong. Karon Beach Phuket Karon Beach is for the people that are looking for something more chill. If you are looking for a serene place where you can enjoy the beach and the sun, then Karon Beach is probably the best option for your time in Phuket. Unlike Patong, this is not a Tourist Party destination. Karon and Kata Beach are 2 locations where you can find more peace and quiet than partying

If you are planning a trip to Thailand or move there you might be wondering what the cost of living in Thailand is. Well according to those who have been there, most of them say that life in this country can be pretty affordable. But just like most places around the world, it all depends on where you choose to stay on the Island or where you choose to live. There is a dramatic difference in prices between west coast multi-ethnic resort areas, the capital city and the east coast rural towns. Since the end of the 90s, Phuket has had speedy developments, hence making the cost of living in Phuket a bit higher. That said though, compared to the cost of living in the western countries in the US, Australia and European countries, living in Phuket is relatively affordable. That is what makes Phuket one of the most preferred travel destinations by foreign visitors from all over the world. Well, here is a rough idea of what it might cost you, from dining, accommodating, clubbing as well as hoping around Phuket. Phuket cost of living 2023 Update! Prices are rising globally but Thailand continues to be ultra-affordable compared to other desirable destinations in the region.  Food Speaking of the cost of living in Thailand if there is one thing we can say about Thailand is how their delicious local cuisine still remains pretty affordable. When it comes to eating you can live on a budget. When I tell you it’s affordable, to enjoy some delicious cuisine at a simple local restaurant in Phuket town, it will cost you about 50–70 baht. Some of the dishes in this range are rice served with fried chicken with basil leaves. In Patong beach, at tourist spots, the same meal will go for between 80 and 180 baht In high end restaurants, the same dish will be charged as high as even 700 baht. As for international cuisines in cosmopolitan towns like say Phuket, the food is slightly pricier compared to Thai food. That said, tourists can still get their preferred international food at affordable rates. But since we are talking about the cost of living in Phuket, depending on the type and class of restaurant, the difference in prices might vary rapidly. For example, the cheapest it will cost you for a dish like a club sandwich with French fries is between 80–100 baht. At a 4- or 5-star restaurant, this will dent you a whooping 400–600 baht. Hotels Being an Island that receives about 35 million visitors annually, having lots of rooms and enough accommodation to host such a massive crowd is necessary. The island has about 85,000 rooms ready for its visitors. There is a wide selection and variety of hotels. So, don’t let the Phuket cost of living worry you too much because when it comes to accommodation whether you are a mogul with loads of cash to your name a just a simple backpacker on a tight budget, you will always find accommodation that suits your holiday needs. Budget hotels in Phuket town range from around 300 baht to 1,300-baht, midrange hotels charge between 1,500 to 3,000 baht whereas the high-end ones charge between 5,000 to up to 500,000 baht per night. Plus, if you want to blow it all, you can also get 7-villa complex at much higher prices, for instance Trisara, Banyan Tree Phuket, or Sri Panwa Phuket. So, when we tell you there is accommodation for every budget, trust me, there is. Night clubs, Partying and Beer When speaking of Cost of living in Phuket you definitely need to know the cost of a cold beer because you will during and after sunbathing at the beach or exploring Phuket. The place can get pretty hot! They have their local beer as well as international ones such as Heineken, Carlsberg, Asahi, Tiger, plus you will also get a great variety of genuine Belgian beers. For cheaper beer, buy them at the local grocery stores, 40 baht for local beers and 50 baht for the likes of Heineken. In high end joints they can go up to 280 baht. As for the Phuket cost of living nightspots, most have no entrance fee. You might also get a free drink in places where they charge entry fee. You can get special offers like happy hour or open bars for some hours for an entry of 700 baht. Drinks are cheaper at bars as opposed to nightclubs. Cocktails on the other hand can range from 100 baht to 450 baht depending on the spot. Trips to Islands You could visit islands closest to Phuket using long-tail boats at 1,200–1,500 baht. A speed boat to say Phi Phi Islands will cost 1,400 and 3,000 baht inclusive of lunch and snorkelling equipment. If you are in no hurry, take a ferry which will cost you 500 baht. Or better yet, splash out and get your money’s worth with a private charter boat trip with the team from Simba Sea Trips. I bet you now have a rough idea of the cost of living in Thailand so start planning that trip bearing all that in mind.

The Spectacular Promthep Cape Updated 2023 – Is the Cape still accessible? Yes! and due to the unfortunate Covid period, the Cape is currently experienced regrowth to a degree it has not experienced for decades. Promthep Cape is one of the most irresistible spots if you are looking for a unique vacation spot and the best sunsets in Thailand. It is also known as ‘God’s Cape’ or ‘Laem Promthep’. Located near Nai Harn Beach on your way to Rawai, this cape is at the most Southern part of Phuket. This rocky piece of land empties into the Andaman Sea. Because of that iconic status, this makes it one of the most popular spots in Phuket. Hundreds of tourists flock to this place, facing west with their cameras, ready to enjoy the sunsets. On a normal day, all you will see is colorful buses ferrying tourists, who are yearning for those perfect sunset views. The place is usually abuzz with flashing lights from the cameras. It’s weird how people have never gotten over this place. Why Promthep Cape has the best sunsets in Thailand First off, as I mentioned earlier, because of its elevated location and just a few islands near it is the best spot to admire the sunset. . The location and southern facing views, offers tourists a picturesque view of the Andaman Sea. That said, what really makes it more entertaining thought is watching the massive crowds eagerly waiting to get ready for the photo moments at six o’clock. The sunsets are magazine and Instagram ready. If you gather enough courage, you can walk all the way down to the lower end of the cape. Much as it’s easy to go all the way down, it’s the coming back up that gets a bit challenging because of dirt path inclines and gradients. What to do at Promthep The main thing that brings people here all year round is to capture some of the finest pictures of sunsets. You will find both artists and nature lovers. They all come here to get engrossed and enjoy being at the most southern part of Phuket – the Pearl of the Andaman Sea. It is infamous for being best spot in the whole of Thailand for spectacular sunsets. The sunset viewing platform From Promthep cape viewpoint you will be able to see islands such as Koh Racha Yai, Noi Islands and Phi Phi Islands from a distance. While spotting the Phi Phi Islands from one of the best viewpoints in Phuket is spectacular, it is even moreso when travelling as part of a boat tour. Simba Sea Trips offer early departures to the region as part of their Phi Phi Sunrise tour and it’s highly recommended you give it a try! The main attractions here are the lighthouse and the Buddhist shrine. If you want better views, then it’s better to climb up the lighthouse. Usually, the Andaman Sea is calm so tour boats and fishing boats are a common scene. This is also because of the number of Islands around Phuket. Promthep Lighthouse The lighthouse that is about 200ft above sea level. Here you will have excellent all round views. There are usually less people at the bottom since more people usually rush to the top as expected as they sit there awaiting the sunset. The lighthouse is a historical part of the Cape. As the story goes, it used to guide mariners sailing to Phuket from Malay. Here you will find a small nautical museum with full air conditioning and some historical artefacts for display. At the top, there is a balcony that offers better views of surrounding islands. Promthep Shrine The shrine is more interesting here. It sits upon the top of the Cape. It is a Buddhists Altar surrounded by hundreds of brass elephant statues and carvings and this makes it more colorful. It also has a traditional feel to it. You can stop here and say a little prayer. They say the bigger Elephants symbolize more wealth, and the smaller ones symbolize prosperity and wishes. The shrine is another focal point where tourists gather to take selfies and group pictures. Once in a while, you will find monks here. Shopping At the opposite of the car park, Promthep Cape Phuket has some nice tourist shops set out in a row. There is also a mini mart, souvenir shops, and beach kind of shops. These shops sell a wide range of stuff you can use at the beach as well as clothing. Souvenir shops sell T-shirts, Promthep branded hats, wallets and much more… There are also local street vendors lined up on the stretch that leads up to the carpark. They sell a wide range of street foods such as finger food, and drinks like fruit shakes, coconuts and Ice cream. There are shops that offer day expeditions to the nearby locations like Rawai beach, Banana Beach, Banana Island, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, and the Koh Phi Phi Islands. It’s better to schedule these trips online before you get to the cape. The thing is, you will enjoy shopping and exploring stuff sold at these shops as you test your negotiating skills. Where to eat Promthep Cape Restaurant This is a fantastic restaurant located right next to the Cape. It offers fabulous views of the sea and the Nai Harn and Ya Nui beach. This is the perfect way to end the day under the evening stars after enjoying the sunsets. The scenic view is spectacular and romantic. You can enjoy the tantalizing Thai food and super fresh sea food. You can wash this down with their wide range of beverages like beer, tropical cocktails, fruit shakes and tropical fruit juices. There is enough seating for 200 people. During high seasons, it can be hard to get a place to seat during high season. How to get to Promthep Cape Phuket Promthep is easily accessible. To get there you can either access it from

Swimming Thailand Destinations are abundant! Updated 2023: With the tourists returning in droves after the covid era, the waters are in spectacular conditions and ideal for a swimming holiday. We list our favourite spots to take a dip in the Phuket region. There are thousands of dreamy Thailand Destinations to go for a swim. Thailand has some of the most amazing waters to swim in, and most of the waters have the most amazing bright blue color. The turquoise waters of Thailand are super inviting to everyone that lays eyes them. They are enticing and welcoming, inviting you to float atop of clear waters and lay on a white sand beach for whole days! A simple day trip can turn into the best experience of your life. And these swimming Thailand destinations are usually located at awesome little places that make Thailand that more interesting. Thailand Destinations for unforgettable swimming experiences Top Destinations in Thailand – Phuket Phuket is undoubtedly one of the best Thailand Destinations one can visit when on a trip. Phuket is perfectly situated, allowing you to visit plenty of places around the country. Not only that but Phuket hosts some of the most amazing white sand beach resort destinations and breathtaking beaches. It is super close to Krabi and it can offer everything! From amazing hotels to high-end dining, to simpler experiences such as scuba diving, a night bazaar, and activities. Karon Beach – Phuket, Thailand This long stretch of a beach is one of the most famous ones. This section of crystal clear waters and glorious sand is not as busy as Patong Beach for example. Patong Beach is a beautiful beach, don’t get us wrong, and it’s close to amazing places you can visit, but Karon Beach is a far more quiet beach with fewer people visiting. At Karon, you can spend your day relaxing. When swimming with kids, Thailand can offer you good options, and Karon is one of them. Since there are fewer people and you are not at one of the swimming pools Thailand Karon has available then this beach is a good choice. There are not as many people and you will be able to monitor your kids on the beach more easily. Karon Town is an awesome place to visit as well! If you are looking for a place that still has some good nightlife, but not as seedy as Patong, then Karon might be the choice for you. Kata Beach – Phuket, Thailand If you are not looking for a vibrant nightlife destination, then Kata may as well be the best option for you to stay. One of the perks of staying at Kata, which is a few minutes further than Karon Beach is that you will be close to the mesmerizing Kata Beach. Kata beach is a palm-tree lined beach that hosts some of the most serene waves and gentle waters in the area of Phuket. Families tend to love the kata beach since it is a quiet place to go, especially when you have swimming kids Thailand can have special places like this where parents can go, with their kids, and have a great time without the stress of too many people being around. This is one of the Thailand Destinations you can go where you will also find plenty of restaurants around the beach. At Kata, you will also find a range of restaurants, from affordable amazing street food to spectacular fine dining experiences, plenty of shopping destinations and amazing resorts. The only thing that is different is the nightlife, which is more subtle than other places like Bangla and Patong. Railay Beach – Krabi, Thailand If you are looking for a beach that is away from all the hassle of the towns and cities, then Railay beach is perfect for you. Most of the people that visit the amazing Railay Beach say that it becomes the best place that they visit on their trip to Thailand. It’s a beautiful stretch of beach submerged in chill vibes and relaxation for everyone who visits it. It’s probably the most beautiful beach in the Krabi province and it is visited by thousands of people every year. Nevertheless, it is not a crowded beach and you can have a relaxing time on the white sand and a dive in the amazing waters. There is no road because of the limestone cliffs and you will have to get there by a boat tour, and that’s why the beach feels so secluded and even more beautiful. This memorable swimming destination is easily reached thanks to Simba Sea Trips. Book a Krabi Island tour to one of the most wonderful swimming destinations on the Island today! The beach itself is surrounded by amazing vistas of limestone cliffs and vegetation, engulfing the beach in a spectacular pocket of earth. All these may sound outstanding, and you might be mistaken for thinking that going to this Thailand destination may end up costing a fortune, but that is not the case. Visit this must-see beach when in Phuket or Krabi Town. Railay is not only for swimming though! If you are into rock climbing, Railay Beach is an awesome destination for rock climbers in Ton Sai. Swimming in the waters of Railay Beach with all that amazing nature surrounding you will make you feel amazing! Cheow Lan Lake – Khao Sok, Phuket, Thailand Close to the national park of Khao Sok, you will be able to find the Cheow Lan Lake. This amazing remote place of Phuket is picking up popularity with both locals and tourists, and it is slowly becoming one of the hottest Thailand Destinations for tourists. Cheow Lan Lake has become super popular among visitors of the country and it is located a bit further from Khao Sok National Park. The National Park is constantly visited by tourists that want to explore some of the wilderness of Phuket. The Cheow Lan Lake is a bit further from there but there is still

Ko Tapu (James Bond Island) UPDATED 2023! In a post-pandemic world, we are all striving for the greatest of experiences given the lost years and a lack of visual stimulation since the March 2020 explosion of covid-19. If you’re lucky enough to be traveling through this beautiful part of the world and find yourself researching what to do while you’re here, then you’ll come across a countless number of tour options to visit Ko Tapu (James Bond Island). This Island is also sometimes referred to as James Bond Beach and the vista has appeared in the James Bond Movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. If you’re a James Bond fan and find yourself asking the question, where was The Man with the Golden Gun filmed? …then here’s your answer. More on this later.  Also, Star Wars III- Revenge of the Sith used this local scenery as a landscape for the planet Kashyyyk. Similar to the Leonardo Dicaprio film, The Beach, pop-culture references of Phi Phi islands’ Maya Bay, there’s a lot more to Phang Nga Bay’s James Bond Island than a step back in cinematic time. Its main drawcard is obviously its stunning natural beauty. The merge of green of the nature and the crystal waters of the beach mix to create a spectacular memory with one of the world’s most beautiful destinations on the planet! The region Phang Nga, named by King Rama III post the Siamese-Burmese war in 1824 is also known for its’ archaeological significance with paintings dating back over 1000 years, and a very interesting anthropological history with a diverse range of inhabitants from Muslim Malay fisherman to traditional local Thai settlers in more recent years. The name itself Phang Nga is an adaptation of the Malay language indicating the area was likely inhabited by Orang Asli or other aboriginal people in centuries gone by.  These people were known to heathen, primitive and pagan like people. Book your seat on one of next available Phuket boat tours! Why is it called James Bond Beach? The short answer is….   It’s not!  Ko Tapu, or more commonly known as James Bond Island, is actually a limestone tower that juts up out of the water and is viewed from the island of Khao Phing Kan. This island has a beach on it which may be referred to as James Bond Beach, as this is the island where thousands of tourists will view the famous Ko Tapu (James Bond Island) each and every day. Nevertheless, the world knows this specific beach as James Bond Beach, Thailand, and that is how it is mainly remembered. Where is James Bond Island? James Bond island is at the northern end of Phang Nga Bay. A large area of the northern end of Phang Nga Bay is designated as part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park. If you’re looking at a map of the region around Phuket, the body of water to the right of Phuket Island is Phang Nga Bay. It’s a bay that’s protected from the elements all year round as it is bordered by land on 3 sides.  Phuket to the west, Phang Nga province to the north, (the nearest town Phang Nga shares its name), and the Krabi province to the east.  This is one reason, boat tours to the James Bond island are so popular, as the water conditions are benign year round, especialy at the popular James Bond Beach Once you visit this amazing location you will be able to capture the most impressive photos of your life at one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet. Swimming in the smooth clear waters of the bay you will enjoy the gentle sun and become one with the nature surrounding the bay and the James Bond Beach What is there to do on James Bond island? This is a commonly asked question, and the most straightforward answer is…sightseeing. Here we are, at the epicentre of one of the most picturesque waterways in the world.  It is actually part of the same limestone reef that features in the famous regions of Halong Bay in Vietnam, and the area in China near Guilin, Yangshuo.  Unlike Vietnam and China where both areas are designated as UNESCO world heritage sites, this region carries the title of a Ramsar protected site.  This is also overseen by UNESCO and is designed to protect wetland sites designated to be of international importance.  More info on this can be found here. So apart from world class scenery in the area, there is a very interesting natural diagonal wall for some great photo opportunities, an opportunity to shop at some stalls and buy souvenirs and trinkets from local vendors, and last but not least… the bragging rights to say “I’ve been there!!”, next time you’re watching The Man with the Golden Gun. Once you visit this amazing location you will be able to capture the most impressive photos of your life at one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet. Swimming in the smooth clear waters of the James Bond Beach you will enjoy the gentle sun and become one with the nature surrounding the bay. Have fun with your family, friends or significant other in a destination beloved by all the tourists that have visited it. Enjoy the merge of the blue and the green, while admiring the amazing limestone tower that has been naturally formed over thousands of years and experience the jaw dropping sunsets and sunrises over the islands. How to get to James Bond island The only way to get here is by boat.  Whether it be by speed boat on a tour such as the Phang Nga Bay tour, a long-tail boat from the nearest land-based jetty (which there are numerous in the Phang Nga province), a private charter from nearby Phuket, or by a larger boat tour also departing from Phuket. A word of warning on the large boat tours often touted as ‘safer than speedboats’.   These are

Updated 2022 While the Covid pandemic has caused much devastation and pain worldwide over the past few years, one of the few advantages of the restrictions placed upon travelers was the chance for nature to experience regrowth and regeneration. The Phi Phi Islands is no different and an area that has long been overflowing with tourists was given the chance to rehabilitate. This gives visitors to the region the opportunity to pull themselves away from the beach and journey through the lush greenery up the viewpoint. The pay off is a return to nature and a view to saviour. In this article, we will look at some of the things you can enjoy and what this viewpoint has to offer. All you need to know about the Phiphi viewpoint How to get to the Phi Phi viewpoints One thing I will have you know is that it doesn’t take much work to get to these amazing viewpoints. All you need is to take that steep hike that starts with a few concrete stairs, which is not too challenging, and you will be on your way to the highest point on the Phi Phi island. The trail is about 20 kilometres and will take you about 20 to 25 minutes each way. (P.S. Sometimes it gets pretty hot. Plus, there are mosquitoes waiting to take a crack at you so bring a repellent.) If you want to skip the hike, the other option is to take dirt bike (motor bike) taxis which ferry visitors up and down the steep hills where beautiful viewpoints that offer great photo-ops await. Some of these taxis charge a round trip price so they will wait for you when you reach at the top to finish enjoying your view to bring you down the hill. While at the Phi Phi Viewpoint visitors take 2-bays-view pictures of Koh Phi Phi – One of the Tonsai Bay and the other of the Dalum beach. The limestone cliffs offer a majestic backdrop. Viewpoint charges In recent years there is a charge for visiting the viewpoints. So, if you are planning on taking the hike to the viewpoints, you need to have some cash on you. When you reach the first viewpoint, you will be asked for a small entrance fee. It is about 30 baht. There is no escaping this one as there is no alternative route to the top. The fee at the Phiphi viewpoint is not fixed. It keeps varying. And if you are lucky, this fee will come with a bottle of water to help you quench your thirst in the hot weather as you continue with the hike up. So, with such fluctuations in the charges, you better have enough cash on you because it could be more or less… Usually after getting their tickets, visitors rest as some selfies. But to be honest, on this level, this isn’t the Phi Phi Viewpoint you were taking the hike for. So, you keep moving… What to expect when you reach the top! After about a 10 to 15 minutes climb, you will have gotten to the top at the second viewpoint. If you arrive late, the place can get pretty crowded so its better to take the hike much earlier. There are huge boulders on which people climb to take photos and selfies. So, if you find the place crowded, you might have to wait a while for that selfie. Remember I told you about how it gets hot and how you need to have cash on you, well, lucky for you, there is a small store that sells drinks and ice creams that will cool you off as you enjoy your view. Then there is that beautiful panoramic view of Phi Phi you broke a sweat for while taking that hike up to Phi Phi Viewpoint. Trust me, that sweat is worth the while. You can just hang out here and soak in this magnificent view. Plus, if you come in the evenings, you can catch… The Koh Phi Phi sunset at the viewpoint Both Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints face west into the island. Can you imagine how beautiful the sunsets the sunsets can be if you manage to catch them? Best time to visit the PhiPhi viewpoints One secret I will share with you for free is that the best time to visit is at sunrise. This is mainly because the temperatures during this time of morning are much lower. Plus, the place is less crowded. Want to know why? I am guessing it’s because most people are still asleep after the hard partying, they did the previous night. So, if you really want to enjoy the views, take the hike up the Phiphi viewpoint early. Sunset is also a great time if you are one that loves the sunset view. Remember to carry a head touch or flashlight when hiking at these times as its normally considerably dark. Have a lovely hike!

UPDATED 2022 Now that the Pandemic is behind us, the tourists are returning steadily but slowly to the Thailand region. With the influx of new visitors, the interest in Phi Phi Island is growing larger by the day. So if you are in the area and wondering how to get to the most incredible of sightseeing locations then here is how…  From the clear turquoise water, to white sandy topical beaches to the amazing rock formations, there is a lot that Koh Phi Phi has to offer. And tourists from all over the world want a piece of what this island has to offer. This place is breath taking and what you see in lots of movies about it is exactly what you will get in real life. So, where is Phi Phi island and how does one get there? Getting to Phi Phi Island Much as this place is beautiful and breath taking, one would assume that getting there would be straightforward. Well, the island is only accessible by boat. If you are a first-time visitor, it can be quite confusing. Well, this is why we have come up with this guide on How to get to Phi Phi Island so that you can plan your trip well and book your travel tickets in good time. Let’s start with the basics…. Where is Phi Phi Island? Phi Phi island can be found 740 km south of Bangkok. The island is between the bigger Phuket island and the Straits of Malacca. It is part of Krabi Province. The island can easily be accessed from both Krabi and Phuket. You might have to combine multiple travel options. To make things easier, it is usually better to book these tickets early enough. The best and most convenient way is to get the single ticket (or joint ticket as they call it), which takes care of the entire trip. In this article, we will detail your options for transportation so that you know how to get in and around the Phi Phi islands. Getting to Phi Phi Island When talking about how to get to Phi Phi Island, one thing you have to know is that you cannot stay away from being on the water.  It is the only way you will get there. So, you can either use a ferry or a speedboat. The ferry is more popular with tourists than the boats. Ferry option Ferries are the most popular option because they are bigger and more comfortable. For those looking for a good tan, the top deck is perfect for this. Getting to Phi Phi from Phuket takes about 2 hours. From Krabi, it takes 90 minutes. The ferries can get too crowded during high season, so if you want great seats, you need to get there early. There are great air-conditioned rooms on the lower floor and you will get snacks, food and drinks. You can also get a VIP ticket and enjoy a more comfortable ride with better air conditioning on the middle deck. Speedboat option The speedboat option is more expensive. You can either do a private one or a scheduled one. They are faster and take like 45 minutes. If you are in a group it can become a bit affordable as you can split the cost. Now if you go the private way, you get dropped at your hotel, saving you much more time. Simba Sea Trips offers both Phi Phi island sunrise tours and private charter boat tours to the region daily, and can be booked directly through the Phuket boat tour page section of the website.  Getting around Phi Phi Island While there, the best way to get around the island is by using a boat. This way, you get to explore different parts of the island. Walking is also another way to get by. The cheapest is hiring a kayak. Much as bicycles are not very common, you will still find a few people using them. The thing is whether you are getting to Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi, the distance is quite similar. Now that you know how to get to Phi Phi Island, remember to share widely with your friends once you get back home.