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Krabi February-April 2006

Population: 345,000 Currency: Thai Baht Country and city code: +66, +75 l Tourist Info: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Southern Office – Region 4, 73-75 Phuket Road, Amphoe Muang, Phuket l tel: +66 (75) 211 036 and 217 138
email: tathkt@phuket.ksc.co.th
website: www.tourismthailand.org

MUST SEE

Than Bokkharani National Park – Just 30 kilometres north of Krabi town in ao luk district, this park is popular for swimming and picnics at its scenic pools and waterfalls nestled within its luscious rainforest. see also some of the most spectacular limestone karsts that jut out vertically from the sea.

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park – another picturesque venue is this park located in the Khao Phanom district, 20 kilometres north of Krabi town. attractions include its three waterfalls and the tham Khao Ping cave which features huge stalactites and stalagmites.

The Footprint of Buddha – located at the peak of Wat tham sua (tiger Cave temple), named after a rock formation resembling a tiger paw, a 300 metre-high staircase leads to a large Buddha image and Buddha footprint atop the cliff.

SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Night Market, Krabi Town (Sukhon Road, Maharat Soi 10) – the Krabi night markets are a great place to hunt down clothing, meat and local delicacies. Chestnuts are popular, as are fried baby crabs and prawns. open daily until 9pm, but food stalls run until 11pm at Chao Fah Pier.

Ao Nang Beach Road – While it’s no Bangkok in terms of shopping, Krabi still offers plenty – thai silk scarves, carved ornaments, silver jewellery, sarongs and leather goods.

BEST BITES

Carnivore (Haeng Road) Grilled steaks and australian meats are the highlight at this charming little restaurant in ao nang, opposite thai Village resort. Meals come with an overflowing bowl of salad and a potato any way you like it. Great desserts too!

Pum Thai (Ton Sai Village Plaza, Phi Phi Don) Have a truly unique dining experience at this hip DiY restaurant. Enjoy a free cooking lesson with each meal, or just sit back and tuck into their delicious menu.

Sala Thai (Ao Nang beachfront) Experience thai seafood on the ao nang beachfront. slightly more expensive than others, it does serve up the freshest seafood. Have it grilled and eat with delicious sauces.

BY NIGHT

Phi Phi Island this is the party island – there is no police here. if you like your red Bull mixed with all forms of liquor, this is your spot. Beach bar fun is a regular affair, with all elements upsized in Phi Phi. Clubs in the village also offer wild partying, fireshows, even thai boxing. Most bars stay open all night long – or until the last customer leaves. Carlito’s (first corner of ton sai Village) and reggae Bar (in ton sai Village) are two of the best bars in Phi Phi.

The Last Fisherman located near the Golden Beach resort is this classy bar with tables on the sand. Enjoy great cocktails with a beautiful view. this bar was hit by the tsunami last year but sustained minimal damage to remain a cool chill-out night spot.

Opium over in Ko lanta, this popular bar in Phrae ae is a fave with locals and tourists alike. it serves up great cocktails and cool grooves.

SLEEPOVER

Krabi LaPlaya Resort (143 Moo 3, T Ao Nang A Muang) spread over two acres and just 150 metres from ao nang Bay and nopparat thara Beach, this 79-room resort offers great views, fantastic comfort, restaurants and a luscious pool. room rates start from tHB3,500 (sGD142).

Pavilion Queen’s Bay * (56/3 Moo 3, T Ao Nang) this four-star hotel offers a gem of a holiday. step out onto huge balconies with great views, each equipped with swinging day beds. the three-tiered pool is a highlight. room rates start from tHB5,429 (sGD220).

Pimalai Resort and Spa * (99 Moo 5, Ba Kantiang Beach, Lanta Yai) over in Koh lanta lies this five-star resort that boasts exquisite villas and guestrooms. superior rooms are two-storey thai style houses while Bayfront Deluxe is above sea level. their newly launched Pool Villas offer unobscured sea views. room rates start at tHB10,648 (sGD431.50).