KRABI
Area: Thailand


Location:
In the province of Krabi on the W coast of the mainland peninsula on the Andaman Sea. 500 miles S of Bangkok, 110 miles E of Phuket by road. Most transfers are from Phuket airport.

Telephone code from UK:
66 75

Position:
Set in a region of outstanding natural beauty, many fine beaches and over 130 offshore islands. Close to the mouth of the Krabi River.

Description:
Krabi is one of the most attractive destinations in the whole of Thailand. The town is the focal point of the region's tourism and a popular port of call for independent travellers. Most tourist outlets are concentrated by the quayside with lot of travel agents offering trips to nearby islands. Few visitors stay in the town for more than a few days, preferring instead local beaches such as Ao Nang and Phra Nang, situated between 8 and 10 miles W of the town. Development at the beaches has been gradual, yet they remain largely undisturbed and enjoy a gentle, laid-back feel which reflects the atmosphere throughout the region.

Suitability:
An established retreat for backpackers, more adventurous package tourists are slowly beginning to discover the delights of the region.

Accommodation:
Most accommodation in town is geared towards backpackers. By the local beaches several good-quality hotels serve the needs of package tourists. Whatever the class of traveller the underlying theme is a relaxing, hassle-free holiday.

Shopping:
Mainly limited to beachside stalls offering usual Thai trinkets. Hotel shops provide a good choice of gifts, though more expensive. Krabi town presents a good opportunity to sample the style and trends of the locals.

Beach:
Ao Nang is a long white sand beach stretching to the foot of a prominent limestone range. Phra Nang comprises 3 beautiful beaches on a remote headland accessible only by boat. Numerous other secluded beaches along the coast and on nearby islands.

Entertainments:
Daytime: many fine coral reefs for snorkelling and diving; the National Park for walking; at low tide a 75 million-year-old fossilized shell bed can be viewed at The Shell Cemetery. Nightlife: generally quiet with hotels offering little live entertainment.

Eating:
Some pleasant beachside eateries offering a choice of Thai and Western fare. Seafood in the region is particularly good. Krabi town has a few simple restaurants catering mainly for backpackers.

Public-transport:
Buses and boat taxis serve most of the local beaches.

Local-excursions:
Boat trips to various islands and secluded beaches are numerous. Botanical Gardens close to Ao Luk make a pleasant change from sand and sea. Kho Phanom Bencha National Park is a pleasant day trip.