Island Paradise: 15 Must-Visit Gems Surrounding Phuket

When thinking of visiting Thailand for your vacation, there are many world class destinations for you to choose. Just when you arrived in Bangkok and spend a few days in the city, there are various activities to do. However, there are many other cities which are world class destinations, and Phuket is one of them. The largest island in Thailand, sometime so-called Islandphuketwhich is directly translated as (เกาะภูเก็ต) in Thai, this place is known as the Pearl of the Andaman. By coming here, you will enjoy superb clear water, beautiful sea and nature, and white sand beach as well as rich local history and culture. Today, if you’re planning in itinerary for spending time at the pearl of the Andaman, we’d like to recommend you some nearby islands to make your trip more enjoyable.

1. Koh Phi Phi (Phi Phi Island)

Although this group of islands located in Krabi, it’s not too far to visit. There is some unseen area that you shouldn’t miss such as Maya Bay which is a famous marine national park in Thailand. There are many resorts and restaurants for you to choose as well as many other activities to spend your greatest moment.

2. Similan Islands

Let’s end our today’s list with another marine national park. It is best known for being popular diving spot among many professional divers around the world. We recommend you spend at least one day trip, because there are many activities and beautiful nature scenes for you to enjoy.

3. Koh Racha (Racha Island)

Not far from Koh He, it is where Koh Racha located. There are two islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi; both are famous for diving spot that you shouldn’t miss. Besides its popular diving spots, Koh Racha also has a romantic sunset spot, Patok Bay, which everyone also shouldn’t miss.

4. Koh Bon

Next in our list of is another peaceful place for relaxing and playing in the water. Traveling to Koh Bon is easy. Only 2 kilometers from Rawai Beach, you can go there by local service long-tailed boat. However, this place only for relaxing during your day and there is no place to get an overnight.

5. Koh Maiton (Maiton Island)

Koh Maiton is paradise for tourists who want to relax in quiet atmosphere. Its nickname is “Maldives of Thailand”. You can enjoy crystal clear water and abundant coral reefs. Whether you’d like to come here for swimming, fishing, or diving, there is surely something for you.

6. Koh Rang Yai (Rang Yai Island)

For any adventurers, this island Thailand is your paradise! You can enjoy camping or kayaking. Highlight of this place is to take an overnight in bamboo bungalows which will make you feel like have a slow life escaping from chaos.

7. Koh Khai Islands

It is a group of 3 islands joined together and being a part of both Phuket and Phangnga. Only around 30 minutes by speedboat, this is the perfect place both for diving, fishing, playing in the water, or just sunbathing on the peaceful pure white sand beach.

8. Koh He or CoralIsland

Located in the southern part of the main area, about 10 kilometers from the coast and can be reached by speedboat in only 10-15 minutes or by long-tailed boat for about 45 minutes. This is the nearest you can visit. There are many activities to enjoy such as jet skis, parasailing, banana boats, and diving to see the fertile shallow coral reefs which are home to many fish. Due to the shortest route to visit from the main city, this place is sometime very crowded.

9. Koh Panyi

Koh Panyi is a Muslim community. The special is: the whole village is built on stilts. You can learn more about local way of life as well as enjoying authentic fresh seafood because main occupation of local people depend on traditional fishery and people here are always ready to welcome tourists. 

10. Koh James Bond (James Bond Island)

Besides Koh Panyi, You shouldn’t miss to visit Khao Phing Kan or best known as Koh James Bond. It is a part of Ao Phang Nga Marine National Park and turns into one of the popular tourist destinations among foreigners since 1974 when it was chosen to be filming location for the movie “James Bond: The Man with the Golden Gun”.

11.Koh Hong

Although there is no resort on Koh Hong where you can take an overnight trip, it is one of the most beautiful islands where many tourists would like to visit at least once. Koh Hong is also famous for its clear turquoise color water. Whether you want to relax by the sea, snorkel or even come here for kayaking or just enjoying beautiful nature scene, there is something waiting for you at Koh Hong.

12. Koh Yao Noi

It’s a perfect place to have an overnight. There are many types of accommodation to choose, from luxury resorts to homestays. Speaking of the atmosphere, it’s considered as a peaceful place suitable for relaxation. Moreover, many people even say that this place is perfect for couples who are on their honeymoon.

13. Koh Kaeo

Located on the northern part of the city, on the main highway from the airport, this is where many people call it “lifestyle destination”. It is the place where you can visit Royal Phuket Marina, as well as stay in the classic and luxurious resort “Boat Lagoon”.

14. Koh Maphrao

Located in the eastern part of the main city, this is a perfect place for relax. “Maphrao” is Thai word for coconut, and coconut plantation is the main occupation for people living there. Koh Maphrao has abundant natural marine and coastal resources. By visiting here, you can learn about traditional fishery village which is hard to find anywhere else. You can enjoy swimming, walking on a nature trail or visiting the pearl farm which is a very popular activity among tourists.

15. Koh Sirey

Among all islands in our list, this one is the closest route to the main city. You can go there by driving across the bridge over the Tha Chin Canal. It is best for tourists who’d like to know more about local people.

If you are visiting the pearl of Andaman, you shouldn’t miss almost all islands in our lists together with other nearby areas. However, if you come to Thailand for the first time, you would like to spend some days in Bangkok and you need professional luggage storage and delivery service, let Airportels help you. Visit https://th.airportels.asia/ for more information regarding our services.

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Thailand’s Rainy Season: 10 Hotspots Worth Beating

Though the heat still lingers boiling in some areas and moderate in others, Thailand comes rainy season is still one charming sightseeing spot for visitors. Even in shade or muggy rainfall, you can still imbibe that misty air and the smell of the lush landscape after the rain.

These are 10 top visiting sites that you can unwind and should not pass up even if it rains made in Thailand.

1. Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province

Doi Inthanon
A bright sky day up on the Doi Inthanon National Park

Of all the mountains in Thailand, Doi Inthanon reaches the furthest up. The air is chilly all year round, a bit warmed up in summer. Bikers and rovers alike love starting their adventure up the mountain in the cool breeze, cruising gradually along the road with windows rolled down and feeling the misty air in the serenity of nature most untouched. The fog gathers thicker in the rainy season than it does in winter.

The is formed in the woods and is pushed out to the plain by the wind rendering the dreamiest landscape nature could ever offer. Going high up and paying respect to the miracle of nature that lasts only a few hours since dawn: the sea of fog.

Entrance fee:
Adult 300 THB | Children 150 THB

Operating Hours: 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily

Contact: +66 53 286 729

2. Phu Langka Forest Park, Phayao Province

Thailand's Rainy Season at Phu Langka Forest Park, Phayao Province
The dawn view from Phu Langka Forest Park

Phu Langka is another park where visitors blithely come time and time again to admire the sea of fog even in the rainy season for those who miss out in the winter.  When the fog is formed over the fields of blooming colorful wildflowers just before dissipating into the wind, it is an unforgettable sight seared into one’s memory forever.

Entrance fee:
Adult 200 THB | Children 100 THB

Operation Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily

Contact: +66 54 415 748

3. Chiang Khan District, Loei Province

Chiang Khan District, Lei Province
The walking street of Chiang Khan District

Indulge in one of the best preserved Thai traditional way-of-life of the northeast area. Experience uniquely charming landmarks of Thai folk-style wooden houses. Then, take a raft down the Mekong River and check out all the colorful pebbles at Kaeng Khut Khu that spans almost fully across from side to side of the river. 

And don’t forget to catch the sea of fog on Phu Tok (the Lonely Mountain) that stands in the emblem of the provincial seal. Take as many as selfies you like to let others see. Tag the special someone along, and double the fun. Or visiting alone, but the joy never seems any less.

4. Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Chaiyaphum Province

Siam Tulip Field, Chaiyaphum Province
Siam Tulip Field in the Pa Hin Ngam National Park

From Pa Hin Ngam National Park, the scent of Siam Tulips Field will leave visitors breathless. During the rainy season from June to August, Siam Tulips are in bloom revealing their pinkish purple petals that simply match the color of the green field that extends for miles from Pa Hin Ngam National Park to Pha Sud Phandin (Earth’s Peak.)

The best time of the year you should visit the Siam Tulip Field starts in June and end in August. There will be a festival and you can see many Thai locals who also waiting for this event to happen.

Entrance fee:
Adult 200 THB | Children 100 THB

Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily

Contact: +66 44 890 105

5. Hellfire Pass, Kanchanaburi Province

One of the renowned spots in Kanchanaburi, this is the place where you can breathe deeply to embrace the true nature around you. Moreover, you can have a little walk to the end of the path and see the breathtaking view of the wood. There is also a Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum of the background of the Death Railway and the people who sacrifice their life for this valley.

No entrance fee

Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Daily

Contact: +66 34 531 347

6. Khao Krachom, Ratchaburi Province

The sea fog up in the Khao Krachom Mountain

For those who’re looking for a place where you can walk into real nature without pollution, Khao Krachom is going to be the place where you belong. You can walk through natural spots such as Namtok Pha Daeng (waterfall). You can also find many rare wildflowers around the mountaintop.

Entrance fee:
50 THB for one car

Operating Hours: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM Daily *Close on holiday

Contact: +66 871 358 623

7. Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2cnWrU59tE
The video of a foreigner who came to visit Khao Yai Nation Park

This Thailand’s first national park is blessed with bountiful ecology of wild animals, perennial woods, and flowers most sprung to life in the rainy season – perfect for true nature lovers.  

The air feels as light as a whisper perfect to visit some of the most frequent spots such as Hew Narok Waterfall, Hew Su Wat Waterfall, and Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall. Then relax at Palio and feel at home, for their array of European-style shops is screaming for you to take some snaps.

Entrance fee:
Adult 200 THB | Children 100 THB

Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily

Contact: +66 60 926 529

8. Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani Province

Thailand's Rainy Season
Khao Sok National Park

Choew Lan Dam or Khao Sok National Park is the top scenic spot for visitors to wake up in cool morning fog and burbling clear streams. Feel free to go in. Take a plunge or simply lay afloat all day. For those who don’t wish to get wet, rent a raft. There is nothing better than being surrounded by nature and sipping cold beers.

Entrance fee:
Adult 300 THB | Children 150 THB

Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily *Close on holiday

Contact: +66 77 395 154

9. Tee Lor Su Waterfall, Tak Province

Thailand's Rainy Season
Railay beach

Asides from being the largest waterfall in Thailand, Tee Lor Su’s second-to-none grandeur is best experienced in the rainy season. The sound of plunging water onto the rocks below can be heard throughout the forest, so you know you are far from a raucous car engine in the city. And, most wildflowers are in full bloom just when the rainy season is ending.  That’s a tip for you, nature hunters.

Entrance fee:
No information provided

Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Daily

Contact: +66 55 508 780

10. Krung Ching Waterfall, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Thailand's Rainy Season
Krung Ching Waterfall

Originating in Khao Luang National Park, all 7 tiers of Krung Ching Waterfall are named Mud Pae, Fon San Ha, Plew, Jon, Joan, Ton Toh, and Wang Rua Bin. The second tier is the largest and most beautiful for its gradual, almost artistic, trickling water, a perfect spot for a family picnic and relaxation.

Asides from the above top 10, many other sites await you to explore and make a visit to remember for life!  Thais are known to be very friendly to foreigners.  They are polite and care very much for others’ well-being.  Your visit to Thailand will be so endearing once you get to see Thai smile; there is nothing like it.

Entrance fee:
Adult 200 THB | Children 100 THB

Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Contact: +66 75 300 494-5

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7 tourist attractions in Thailand that never fall out of style

Trendy tourist attractions are everywhere, but Thailand is one perfect spot for travelers that even under tight budget, you can go in style!

1. Phu Tub berk, Phetchabun Province

Phu Tubberk is so well known among Thais that many wish to go there once in their life.  Most go for sea of fog, chilly atmosphere, and nice communities. 

This mountain stands the tallest in Phetchabun Province with many rest stops along the trail for friends and family to stay outdoor picnic and camping overnight, and if desired, wait for dawn when the majestic sea of fog reveals for the world to see. [Map]

Phu Tubberk, Phetchabun Province

2. Pine forest in Wat Chan Royal Project, Chiang Mai Province

Ease off the busy schedule, and unwind at pine forest in Wat Chan Royal Project.

Whoever come here shall be enticed by the charm of Thailand’s largest pine forest, the morning haze over the reservoir, the colorful leave shedding Oak trees, and night time twinkling stars, all of which every city dweller strives for. [Map]

Pine forest,Wat Chan Royal

3. Prasat Phanom Rung, Buriram Province

Prasat Phanom Rung receives its magical power from Shiva lingam as the first ray of dawn runs straight through all 15 portals across the sanctuary.

It is an auspicious belief to start everyday with such awesome power from Shiva and the nature.  Be there by 6:30 in the morning or 5:30 in the evening, and wait for the sunlight to pass through all 15 portals, and be blessed by Shiva himself. [Map]

Prasat Phanom Rung,Buriram Province

4. Phu Kradueng, Lei Province

Thai couples hold their hands going up Phu Kradueng not just for kicks but to prove their love to one another for they must endure hardship together along the way.  Some past the uphill test, but broke up on the way downhill.  Some went up not as a couple, but returned with their romantic tale that withstood the test of time. 

But not just for romance that travelers go for at Phu Kradueng, they journey uphill to see for themselves how the air feels like, how the wind sounds like, how the fog looks like, and as the sun shines bright, how the lifelong experience of true nature empowers them to take each step forward. [Map]

Phu Kradueng,Lei Province,Tourist attractions in Thailand

5. Khao Chang Phueak, Kanchanaburi Province

For those adventurous some, seeking life on the edge, Khao Chang Phueak is a great destination. Its summit, some twelve hundred meters above sea level, reveals the elephant-like ridges along the trail.

Going up there requires booking for only 60 thrill seekers can enter in a day.

To make it more mysteriously exciting, the park is open for reservation from October to February of the following year. [Map]

Khao Chang Phueak, Kanchanaburi Province,Tourist attractions in Thailand

6. Chalerm Burapa Chollathit Road, Chonburi – Rayong – Chantaburi – Trad Province

Chalerm Burapa Chollathit Road is a scenic route that extends the distance of the beach in Chantaburi Province.  The road is 80 kilometers long full of exquisite sites and tourist attractions easy to drive or bike from one to the other.

Indulge into the beauty of the shoreline, rippling wave, fresh produce, and local communities that will impress you with their generosity. [Map]

Chalerm Burapa Chollathit Road, Chonburi,Rayong,Chantaburi.Trad Province,Tourist attractions in Thailand

7. Koh Lipe, Satun Province

Speaking of islands, Koh Lipe is Thailand’s paradise island, hands down.  The clear blue sea meets with the white fine sandy shore rendering a clean perfect image of great nature comparable to Maldives islands.

So, go ahead and dive deep, then wield the wind, strike the shining sun, and finally, call it a day [Map]

Koh Lipe, Satun Province,Tourist attractions in Thailand

So you have it; 7 tourist attractions in Thailand that if you are not thinking of paying a visit, you’re out!  Better stay in trend, get up and ask your friends and family to go there with.

Tourist attractions in Thailand more information

Thai-Malaysia Border Its History, Importance and Tourist Attractions

The Thai-Malaysia border

The Thai-Malaysia border is where the two countries, Thailand and Malaysia, converge. Thailand (called Siam back then) has shared this border with England since 1909. Around that time, the latter started to have an influence over part of the northern area of Malaysia covering Kedah, Kelantan, Terangganu and Perlis, the states that used to be part of Thailand.

Thai-Malaysia border cultures and lifestyles

This border is where the Thai and Malaysian cultures and lifestyles are mixed. It reminds us of how Thailand was affected by the colonization. The provinces that are located near the Thai-Malaysia border are Songkhla, Narathiwat, Yala and Satun. This article will give you a brief tour of some of the places you can visit near these border areas.

In Songkhla , one of the major tourist attractions is Khao Nam Khang National Park. It is located in the districts of Nathawee and Sadao. This is where you can enjoy viewing trees and waterfalls. In this place, natural resources are abundant and the weather is cold the whole year. The animals you might see here include boars, bears, gibbons, panthers, turtles, hornbills and peacocks.

Samila Beach,Thai-Malaysia border

Samila Beach

Samila Beach can’t be missed if you go to Songkhla. It is located in the Mueang district. The beach has white sands. It has a famous symbol: the hair-combing mermaid statue which portrays the mermaid in Khun Wijitmatra’s tale.

Songkhla has a night market called Greenway. It is located in the district of Hat Yai. In this place, you can buy clothes, accessories and food. In Narathiwat, there’s a park called Aomanao Beach National Park. and this place, you can enjoy the peace as there aren’t usually many visitors.

The same province, you can find a waterfall called Sipo Waterfall. It is located in the district of Ra-ngae. This is also a place where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere because it’s not crowded with people.

Banglang National Park,Thai-Malaysia border

Banglang National Park

If you go to Yala, don’t miss Banglang National Park to enjoy the natural scenery. It has Thanto Waterfall. This park is where Banglang Dam was built. If you like rafting, this dam should please you.

Another place to visit in Yala is the Betong district, located in the southernmost area of Thailand. Betong is surrounded with mountains. The weather here is cool. Usually, it’s foggy in the morning. Because of this romantic atmosphere, couples should come visit this place.

stegodonseacave,Thai-Malaysia border

Stegodon Cave

In Satun, travelers can visit a cave called Tham Le Stegodon, located in the district of Thung Wa. In this cave, there’re fossils of ancient elephants, Stegodons. This cave is often studied by geologists.

Wood bridge with sunset,Koh lipe,Thai-Malaysia border

Koh Lipe

Satun has a famous island called Lipe. It’s located south of Adang Island. You ’re encouraged to go diving to enjoy watching coral reefs and observe the sunrise and sunset.

Thung Bu Lang is where sunflowers are planted. If you want to take some photos of yourself standing in the middle of sunflowers. This is the right place for you.

Another place you should visit in Satun is Wang Prachan Market which is located so close to the border. In this market, they sell products from both Thailand and Malaysia. Many of these products are accessories.

However, the Thai-Malaysia border covers the areas that can sometimes be dangerous for travelers due to terrorism. That’s right but if you have a chance to visit any of them, you’ll be impressed and want to visit them again and again.