Inflight Magazine of Tiger Airways - Tiger Tales

Krabi January-February 2008

■ Population: 405,000
■ Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
■ Country and city code: +66, +75
■ Tourist info: Tourist Authority of Thailand (Southern Branch), Utarakit Road, Krabi Town
■ tel: +66 (0)75 622163

FUN FACT

One of the rarest birds in the world, Gurney’s Pitta can be found in Krabi. Perhaps the only remaining population of this critically endangered species lives in Khao Nor Chu Chi forest in Klong Thom district.

Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Seua)
Hike through the Khiriwong valley to the forest temple, where monks are found in meditation. The very fit and healthy may want to attempt a gruelling 1,237-step trek to a mountaintop shrine for a view of the famous Krabi rocks.

Cliff-jumping
Experience Krabi’s dramatic scenery by leaping off one of the famous rocks into the waters below. Choose from jumps up to 20m above the sea’s surface. One-day tours, including snorkelling and DVD video of your day, are available. Ask for details at your hotel’s info desk.

Sri Krabi (Sai Thai Village, tel: +66 (0)75 623549)
Sri Krabi specialises in locally produced souvenirs, unlike the generic goods peddled on the beachfront. You’ll find dry food items such as nam prik (a tasty chilli shrimp concoction) and woven handbags, pearls, and batik clothing at reasonable prices – perfect as gifts to bring home.

The Beach House (Klong Muang main road, tel: +66 (0)75 600027)
For spectacular sunset romance, enjoy unimpeded views across the Hong Islands and quality seafood at this beachfront restaurant. The lack of the package tourist crowd here means intimacy is guaranteed. $$

Bernie’s Place (Ao Nang Beach Road, tel: +66 (0)75 637093)
While this all-you-can-eat buffet is far from gourmet fare, it is tasty and filling, with a good variety of dishes to choose from. Thai cuisine, meats, potatoes, salads, pasta, fruit and ice cream can be had for THB220 (SGD10). $

The Last Fisherman (Ao Nang Beach, at the end of Soi 17)
There is no finer spot to sip your martini than at this laid-back beach bar. As the sun goes down over the islands, this place fills up, so come early. Small beers cost THB80 (SGD3.20) and cocktails go for THB140 (SGD5.60).

Andaman Beach Resort (Ton Sai Beach, Koh Phi Phi Don, Krabi 81140)

A reliable resort that offers basic but spotless bungalows by the edge of town, where the crowds start to thin out. Family accommodation is also available. Room rates start from THB1,250 (SGD59). $

Maritime Park and Spa Resort (1 Tungfah Road, Muang)
Set in a beautiful landscaped garden with natural forest and overlooking a lagoon, most rooms have a balcony attached and offer garden, pool or lagoon views. Room rates start from THB6,000 (SGD276.50). $$$

BY SEEMA PRABHU

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