Picture this: you are relaxing to the sound of waves crashing to the shore of Railay Beach while laying on your hammock and drinking coconut juice. As the wind rustles your hair, you tell yourself that you can stay where you are forever.
As tempting as it can be to spend your entire vacation relaxing on the sand, let’s face it: you need to do other things to make the most out of your stay in Krabi. Fortunately, this island paradise offers much more than just rock climbing and beach swimming!
Here’s how you can get the most of your visit:
Don’t miss out on Ao Nang
Start your Krabi experience by taking a walk down Ao Nang beach and inquiring about the fun activities available. Though the town is relatively small, there is an abundance of travel agencies that you can consult. Private tour prices are fair, given the competition among the agencies. That said, you can save more by going on group tours. You can also rent a motorcycle for about USD 10 a day to explore at your own speed.
Drop by the local markets
Visit one of these markets to get that authentic Thai experience. From early afternoon until early evening, you can purchase from their wide array of fruits, vegetables, and Thai dishes. Klong Haeng market is one of the best to experience, located near a big yellow mosque. The residents will know where this landmark is in case you are at a loss for directions.
This market is also the place to go if you want to enjoy Tom Yam, Pad Thai, and sticky rice just like the locals do. You will also enjoy more food for less money as compared to dining at a fancy restaurant downtown.
Aside from Klong Haeng, you can also drop by Klong Muang Market every Friday. This bazaar is just a stone’s throw away from the beach of the same name and Baan Klong Muang School. It is normal for most of the ladies around Khlong Muang to be dressed in headscarves because most shops in the area are owned by Muslims.
Another great market to visit is the Ao Nang Market near Lai Thai Resort, open on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from 3:00 to 7:30 pm. If you want to visit a market during the middle of the week, head to the Ao Num Mao Market instead as it is open on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Visit the surrounding islands
You can complete a day tour from Krabi’s mainland coast to Phi Phi Hong, Four, and James Bond islands for USD 30. That amount is negotiable, depending on your haggling skills. The fee covers the use of snorkeling equipment, but there’s a USD 50 fine if you lose it. This island-hopping adventure often starts at 8 am and ends before sunset.
While the breath-taking scenery is constant as you transfer from one island to another, the weather is not. That’s why you have to bring equipment that will shield you from both intense heat and heavy rain.
Dip into hot springs
Go to the Klong Thom district in Southern Krabi and take a dip at the hot springs. Make the most of your stay by visiting either the Emerald Pool, Blue Pool, or the Crystal Pool. Klong Thom is located about 70 kilometers from Krabi’s center, near the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve.
Buy presents for your folks
Do not forget to buy souvenirs for your friends and loved ones back home. While you can get these from shops fronting the beach, your money will stretch much further if you visit Krabi’s night markets. These flea markets will complete your hunt for handicrafts, keychains, shirts, local snacks, and other items that serve as a remembrance for your trip. Enjoy the performances of students from local music schools as you roam around to find the best deal.
Find a good place to stay
Going around is just one part of the equation. Rather, you must also devote some time to look for good accommodation. After a long day of shopping, eating, and island hopping, it’s nice to go back to a place that will let you chill down. A hotel with a spa is a big plus if you want some quiet downtime.
When in Krabi, don’t spend all your days lounging around in a hammock. Get out and explore all that this vibrant island has to offer! At the end of the day, however, you should have a warm, comfortable place to sleep at night. Book a room at Bluesotel Krabi for a terrific vacation experience!
Bluesotel Krabi is rated as one of the best hotels in Ao Nang, Krabi. Contact us today to book
your stay!
