Krabi Magazine December 2013

krabi dec 2013

cliffdiving in krabi red bull comes to town

inspector gadget new toys for xmas

dining out gastronomic delights

Dining - Travel - lifestyle - leisure - Reviews - wellness

krabi December 2013 – Issue 93 EDITOR: Paul Stretton paul@krabi-magazine.com - 087 266 4876 DIRECTOR: Pamela Huxley krabimagazinemarketing@gmail.com - 088 451 2178 SALES & MARKETING: Joe Alonzo joe@krabi-magazine.com - 085 069 4752 DESIGN & LAYOUT: KitDee Media & Design Co. Ltd CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS: Paul Stretton, Emily Huang Ramirez, Suzi Hall, Richard James, Maeve Henry, Joe Alonzo, Zina Docto, Railay Dive Center DISTRIBUTION AO NANG – KOH LANTA KOH PHI PHI – KRABI TOWN - KOH JUM KitDee Media & Design Co. Ltd. KitDee Media & Design Company Limited 335 Moo 5, Tambon Sai Thai, Amphur Muang, Krabi 81000 Tel: 093 658 4415 E-mail: info@krabi-magazine.com www.krabi-magazine.com Krabi Magazine is published and produced by KitDee Media & Design Company Limited and is protected by Copyright. No parts of this publication can be used or reproduced in any form – printed, electronic, photocopy or otherwise – without the written permission of the publishers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse to publish adverts, texts or advertising features.

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DISCLAIMER

While great care has been taken in the receipt and handling of material, production and accuracy in this magazine, the publisher will not accept any responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions which may occur. The information and stories published are those of the writers and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or the editor. The description of properties, the contents, whereabouts and price are given in this magazine as a guide only. Please request further details from the advertiser and seek legal advice before entering into any contract to purchase. All information and prices were correct at the time of going to press.

Cover photo © Red Bull Media House

editorial December is a month of contradictions here in Krabi as we end the year with as much festive cheer that we can muster in this sunny, warm climate!

Sure, it may not look like your average Christmas scene, but we still like to raise our glasses and break out the Perry Como CDs as it’s a great excuse for a party.

If you are in Krabi during the Christmas period then you are in for a great time. There are always plenty of things going on to make you feel at home, even if you are a long way from it. We take a look at the Thai/Christmas phenomenon inside this month’s issue, as well as a slew of other goodies….

Fasting may not sound like the most Christmassy of topics, but it’s one that is gaining popularity in health and fitness circles all over the world. After the end-of-year celebrations, it may well be something to consider! Our resident personal trainer and fitness guru on Koh Lanta takes us through what’s called “intermittent fasting” and is quite the eye-opener.

This month we introduce our new Phi Phi section, giving you info on what to do, where to go and how to do it on the paradise islands. Beaches, dining spots, entertainment and more all await and we guide you through it.

If spending some Baht on clothes is one of your objectives while in Thailand, you have come to the right place. Shopping in Krabi is getting a leg-up in terms of quality and we take you to one of the more prominent places to catch a real bargain.

Without a doubt, the highlight of last month was the Red Bull World Cliff Diving Championship that culminated right here on our very doorstep. The Koh Hong Archipelago saw the world’s best divers converge - along with hundreds of spectators - along it’s shores to compete for the World title. It was an incredible spectacle and one of the most exciting and entertaining events of the year.

As well as this, we have sections of real estate, Thai customs, new tech and gadgets and Thai cookery that will have your mouth watering in preparation for the “big day”!

From all of us here at Krabi Magazine, have a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.

Cheers!

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dining spas shopping culture activities

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

We take a peek through the doors of the new

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Italian dining experience in town, “La Luna”

OFFSHORE

Scuba diving at its finest in one of the most

beautiful spots on the planet

SHOPPING

Where to buy original, designer clothes in Krabi

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ARTIST OF INSPIRATION

An interview with a local painter TRENDING TECH

Some new and trending technology - right in

time for Christmas.

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krabi the beaches AO NANG BEACH at 20km from Krabi Town, is the most developed of Krabi’s beaches, a long stretch of white sandy beach with limestone mountains as a backdrop. It has a wide range of accommodation and services and the main shopping street features restaurants, bars, pubs, souvenir shops, dive centers and tour agencies, massage centers and spas. This is the hub from which to plan your trip at sea and to the nearby islands on a typical longtail boat.

Noppharat Thara beach, just around the corner from Ao Nang, is 3km long yet still undeveloped, with only a few resorts and bars. Attractive because of its natural setting, this is where local youngsters and families gather at sunset and at weekends. Savour some local Muslim snacks at the beach stalls, or fill yourself with seafood in the local restaurants at the very end of the beach, near the Noppharat Thara National Park headquarters. At low tide, walk out together with millions of small crabs on the sandy pathways to the small islands near the beach.

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Klong Muang beach is a further 20km away from Ao Nang; it is the up-market side of Krabi, the place to be if you are after a peaceful holiday. Catering to families and couples, it is here that you really get the so deserved repose, surrounded by pristine nature.

beaches islands hot springs tours national parks temples

Railay beaches are split and separated from Krabi and Ao Nang by monumental limestone mountains. Railay has two sides, east and west, and its settings are simply marvellous: crystal clear waters, pure sandy beaches, lush mountains, rocky islands emerging from the sea.

Railay can only be reached by boat, a 15 minutes ride from Ao Nang or 30 minutes from Krabi Town. Enjoy a cocktail in one of the beach bars, visit the Phranang Cave, challenge yourself on a rock climbing course, hike the limestone massif to a lagoon and a viewpoint, or simply chill out. Neighbouring Tonsai lies at the base of a cliff that divides it form Railay West. Tonsai has a shallow beach with slow gradients out to sea which is profoundly affected by the tide.

Koh Lanta beaches have a wide selection of resorts for all tastes and pockets. Lanta Yai island has long stretches of gleaming white sandy beaches and shallow emerald waters.

Lined with tropical vegetation, a private spot is never more than a short walk away on a southern beach at Lanta Yai. Tubkaek beach is another real place to hide away; long, clean and peaceful, the area has breathtaking views over Koh Hong islands archipelago, and charming sunsets. From there you can venture inside the National Park and try a walking trail to a viewpoint and a waterfall.

The lookout point on Phi Phi Island has to be seen to be believed. A stunning vista over the azure waters of the Andaman Sea is the reward for the hike up.

The shallow waters of the bays are alive with life and are the true image of Paradise.

the islands Koh Poda is the iconic island of Krabi and the first one you can see from the beach in Ao Nang. Hop on or hire a longtail, the local wooden boats with their picturesque prows and sail away surrounded by turquoise waters.

Chicken Island should be next on your list as it’s right next to Poda. From the right angle it looks like a chicken you’ll know it when you see it! From where a walk on a sandy pathway that connects it to Koh Tub - which can only be accessed when the tide is low.

The Koh Hong Islands demand to be explored by longtail boat or speedboat. The archipelago, a group of limestone islands with hidden caves and lagoons, is perfect for kayaking or snorkeling.

Koh Phi Phi - This is a MUST! Private bays, limestone cliffs, waters rich in marine life, caves where swallow’s nests are harvested are all here on the sand that Leonardo de Caprio stepped on while filming “The Beach” at the now iconic Maya Bay Koh Jum & Koh Siboya are small, unspoiled tropical hideaways that have a unique atmosphere. These islands give visitors the time to relax and re-charge their batteries.

Koh Lanta, the developing island at the southern end of the province home to sea gypsies communities, where you will meet nature and tradition. A National Park area that comprises many different islands surrounded by coral reefs, such as Koh Ngai and remote Koh Rok.

the nature Limestone mountains or karsts characterise most of the inland Krabi area, the most spectacular being the massifs of Sai Tai. Susaan Hoi is a 40 million year-old seashell cemetery; once a large swamp where freshwater crustaceans proliferated, today home to 40 centimeter thick, shell encrusted limestone slabs, a geological uniqueness not far from Ao Nang.

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park at 20km from Krabi Town, comprises waterfalls, streams, lush forests and caves. It is home to all kind of flora and wildlife and to the highest mountain in the region from which it takes the name. One of the features of the park is Huay Toh Waterfall where water runs down onto several huge pools.

Tarnbok Khoranee National Park, in the north of the region, consists of limestone mountains, verdant tropical forest, caves and beautiful islands. It is well known for its different species of trees growing around a large natural crystal clear pool, and for the hundreds of birds’ species.

Sa Morakot, the Emerald Pool, is a natural wonder: a pond of turquoise water with an average temperature of 3040C, fed by a hot spring in the middle of the jungle.

Hot Springs of Klong Thom, natural Jacuzzis in which to lift away tensions and relieve body and mind with the mineral enriched waters falling into rocky ponds.

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The Krabi region has some of the finest scuba diving in the world with an incredible array of marine life beneath the waves.

Colourful reef fish, turtles, rays, seahorses and even the giant whale shark are all visitors here.

Kayaking is a hugely popular activity in Krabi.

The mangroves, caves & beaches provide plenty of great opportunities for paddling.

The beaches of Kong Hong never cease to amaze with their crystal clear water and stunning white sand. With two glorious beaches, a lagoon and national park land, this is a real island paradise.

A hike to Wat Tham Seua, otherwise known as Tiger Cave Temple is exhausting, exhilarating and ultimately hugely rewarding. Once you’ve climbed the 1,257 steps that lead to the hilltop temple, you’ll be met by stunning views over the surrounding Thai countryside having been transformed into swathes of lush greenery by the monsoon rain. Combine the temple with trips to other destinations like Sa Morakot or visit as a separate Krabi Town day trip and combine with trips to the market.

krabi Krabi is among the World’s best destinations for climbing. The Railay peninsula is home to the local climbing scene and is considered a Mecca for the sport.

There are hundreds of bolted routes in the Railay area as well as rock-climbing schools that can provide guides and equipment.

Railay, once the sole preserve of backpackers, has become a favourite holiday destination, combining 2 world class beaches, excellent dining and some stunning scenery.

Krabi and Ao Nang are blessed with some great markets, with Krabi town boasting the largest covered market in southern Thailand.

There’s a market somewhere every day of the week .

The so called ‘Emerald Pool’ is fed by a natural spring and gets its name from the glorious colour of its water.

Perfect for swimming, there are also hot springs for soaking in.

Luxury Wine Evening at Pimalai Resort & Spa

Sofitel Wins Prestigious Award

Are you booked into the resort on January 24th, 2014???... If so, then don’t miss an exclusive dinner - Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou – 2nd Grand Cru Classé du Médoc - in the presence of the Owner Mr Bruno Borie, the producer of many of France’s most famous red wines. Mr Borie’s vineyard is set in one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world, located in the very fine Medoc terroir of Saint Julien – Bordeaux. This may be a once-in-the-lifetime opportunity to taste five exceptional wines – Chateau Lalande Borie 2010, Croix de Beaucaillou 2009, Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou 2008, 2005 & 2000 all served in the ambiance of the Seven Seas restaurant and paired with superb cuisine prepared by our Executive Chef & his brigade.

Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is awarded by World Luxury hotel Awards 2013. Robin Deb proudly received the award for the Best Luxury Family All inclusive Resort in all Asia.

Held on 1st November 2013, this year’s World Luxury Hotel Awards welcomed 300 guests to witness the recognition of hotels and spas that have excelled in their fields, surpassing all others in delivering extraordinary service. Regarded as the Oscars of the global hotel industry, the World Luxury Hotel Awards is known as the highest accolade a property can receive.

Peace, Serenity, Solitude….. These are the words that come to mind for the awards winning Pimalai; add to that elegance, stunning natural surroundings and genuine friendly service. Be it for a honeymoon or a break from it all, Pimalai nestled in a lush tropical forest, is the destination to set your sights on. The resort combines all the right ingredients – subtle five star comfort, natural beauty, far from the crowds, with no noise except the sound of the waves sliding in and out and slowly breaking onto a pristine sandy shore.

For more information, visit www.pimalai.com

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The World Luxury Hotel Awards was established in 2006 to recognize the worldwide luxury hotel industry and legendary hotels with respect to overall service excellence. Award winners raised the bar of service delivery within the industry ever since as some of the world’s top hotels compete annually to receive top honours. Over 1,000 hotels from 87 countries were nominated to participate in the world’s most prestigious Awards initiative for luxury hotels in 2013.

Winners are judged on service excellence and effective management.

You can discover Sofitel at www.sofitel.com

Layana Resort & Spa wins Two Leading Luxury Hotel Awards in Asia

Layana Resort & Spa received the distinction of winning two major prestigious hotel and travel awards in Asia, bolstering the resort’s reputation for luxury and exclusive services. Receiving recognition as Asia’s Leading Spa Resort during the World Travel Awards 2013 and Asia’s Luxury Boutique Resort during the 2013 World Luxury Hotel Awards.

“These awards encourage the entire team at Layana Resort & Spa,” says Stefan Heintze General Manager of Layana Resort & Spa. “Having worked so hard for this success the awards exemplify their commitment to providing a luxurious experience and an exceptional level of service to discerning guests.”

In the words of Marinique de Wet, Director of the World Luxury Hotel Awards, “service excellence is the most critical factor in a hotel’s measure as a luxury hotel and winning a World Luxury Hotel Award would enhance performance levels if industry peers can be judged against other major players in the field. We can always be inspired to greater levels of excellence meaning exceeding customer’s expectations and paying attention to detail”.

Graham E. Cooke, President and Founder, World Travel Awards says that the “winners continue to serve as an example of the most luxurious and innovative brands with unique hospitality products and services. Recipients strive to set the highest possible bar to raise the standards of excellence in travel and tourism.”

MBK Hotel and Tourism, and the MBK Group, not only recently completed their 83 million Thai Baht (2.7 million USD) renovation and enhancement of Layana Resort and Spa, located on Koh Lanta Island in Krabi Province of Thailand, but also received two two major prestigious hotel and travel awards in Asia, bolstering the resort’s reputation for luxury and exclusive services.

It starts with a promise as a once in a lifetime memory for guests, but the ultimate vacation experience at Layana soon inspires guests to return year after year. The 51-room adults-only resort emphasizes a delicate combination of unique Thai culture and modern luxury, with warm hospitality and special attention to personalized services from gracious staff.

With public areas now upgraded, including the glamourous Lobby, with it sculpture by artist Pongsatat Uaiklang (Dong) the result is fresh new enhanced arrival experience; while for this privileged guests who arrive by speedboat, the Sundowner Bar and Tides Restaurant is a welcome haven.

Layana Resort & Spa’s Stunning Renovation Complete

“The renovation enhances the timeless elegance of Layana Resort and Spa, with design elements that embody pure luxury,” adds Stefan Heintze, General Manager. “Along with the refined experience awaiting guests, additional luxurious facilities that include a Salt Spa and twobedroom Private Pool Villa, ensure that we are even further able to attend to the selective needs of every guest.”

“Earlier this year the six ocean deluxe and beach front suites were extensively refurbished”, continues Stefan, “while the Sands Bar, located on the edge of the stunning Long Beach was launched offering guests an exclusive enclave to bask under the sun, or the shade of a casuarina tree overhead with feet in the sand.”

The luxurious La Maison, 2-bedroom private villa, impresses the most discerning travellers; with its soaring timber roof, expansive windows, wrap-around balcony, open-air en-suites and sweeping private pool. The Salt Spa with fibre-optic lighting offers guests a special environment to breath in minerals and salts and relax with various therapeutic salt massage treatments.”

Last month Layana Resort & Spa received the distinction of winning two major prestigious hotel and travel awards in Asia, bolstering the resort’s reputation for luxury and exclusive services. Receiving recognition as Asia’s Leading Spa Resort during the World Travel Awards 2013 and Asia’s Luxury Boutique Resort during the 2013 World Luxury Hotel Awards.

“These awards encourage the entire team at Layana Resort & Spa,” says Stefan Heintze General Manager of Layana Resort & Spa. “Having worked so hard for this success the awards exemplify their commitment to providing a luxurious experience and an exceptional level of service to discerning guests.”

In the words of Marinique de Wet, Director of the World Luxury Hotel Awards, “service excellence is the most critical factor in a hotel’s measure as a luxury hotel and winning a World Luxury Hotel Award would enhance performance levels if industry peers can be judged against other major players in the field. We can always be inspired to greater levels of excellence meaning exceeding customer’s expectations and paying attention to detail”.

Spoil yourself and indulge in the luxury of Layana Resort & Spa.

www.layanaresort.com Tel: + 66(0) 75 607 100

Fax: + 66(0) 75 607 199

Email: resa@layanaresort.com

kissing Public displays of affection are a big no-no all over Thailand, and should be avoided. No snogging in the restaurant please - or you will be faced with a sea of red-faced Thais all avoiding you.

dress It’s one of the great ironies of life that the one place in Thailand that has the best beaches, ocean and blazing hot sun, is also one of the most conservative when it comes to dressing. The predominantly Muslim population here in the South can take real offense to any tourist wandering into their shop with just a bikini on, or tiny shorts for the guys.

customs

I know, you’re on holiday and you deserve that tan - I understand. But here, bikinis are for the beach and only the beach.

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shoes Easy this one - take your shoes or flip flops off at the entrance to any indoor space. If in any doubt, look for other flip flops at the doorway and leave yours there with them.

Resorts are the exception to this, as are most restaurants - but absolutely take them off if entering a Wat (temple) or a Thai’s home.

head & feet In Buddhism, the feet are seen as the lowest part of the body and the head the highest - both literally as well as figuratively. This means that you should never point your feet at a Thai, a monk or a statue of Buddha. Instead, sit with your feet under your knees or cross-legged.

The head is seen as the most “holy” part of the body and as such, should not be touched. This means no playful ruffling of that cheeky boy’s hair or patting of kids heads.

I know, to us it’s a gesture of affection. To Buddhist Thais, it’s very offensive.

royalty The Thai Royal Family is revered and there can be no worse “faux pas” than joke about the King. Some have actually been thrown in jail for making “uncivil remarks” about their beloved leader. It’s serious business and you should take note.

You’ll see his image absolutely everywhere, which should give you a good idea of the respect and love he has from the Thai population.

Just use common sense and you’ll be fine. If in doubt about what you should do in any given situation - just do what the Thais around you are doing and you can’t go wrong.

the

king

haggling Thailand is an excellent place to pick up some bargains, and haggling is expected amongst customers and vendors.

Remember to take the “softly-softly” approach and don’t be aggressive.

Smile and ask what their best price is and take it from there. Keep your voice calm and quiet and never, ever lose your temper.

buddha Sacred and revered. Even if it’s a ruined, half destroyed statue of the deity - treat it with the utmost respect and you’ll shine in the eyes of the Thais. Common sense again - don’t clamber up onto one and make bunny ears behind it for a photo.

If you want to take a picture of a statue, please do so respectfully and, if possible, ask a monk if it’s ok to do so.

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243 Moo 2, Ao Nang Beach, A. Muang, Krabi 81000 Tel: (66) 075-637152/3, 075-637730 Fax: 075-637153 60/57 Moo 3, T. Rassada, A. Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel: (66) 076-353211-2 Fax: 76-353212

www.aonangtravel.co.th

ENERGY EXPERTS OUT OVER KRABI COAL PLANT

PHANG-NGA BAY TOPS TRIP ADVISOR LIST

INSTEAD of putting aside Bt30 billion to build a new coal-power plant in Krabi, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) should make energy consumption more efficient in the near future, experts say.

Phang Nga Bay in South Thailand heads the top 10 national parks in the country, according to TripAdvisor’s latest assessment based on opinions posted on its global site.

“There is no need to build a new coal-power plant or any other kind of power plant for the next 10 or 15 years, because Thailand already has an oversupply of electricity, especially for the industrial sector,” Witoon Permpongsacharoen, director of the Mekong Energy and Ecology Network, said.

Egat decided to build a 700-800 megawatt plant after it estimated that consumption of electricity would rise from 26,355MW in 2013 to 52,256MW in 2030. It also decided to choose coal as one of the main fuels to generate power because it is the cheapest.

The agency recently hired consultants to conduct an environmental and health impact assessment (EHIA) for this project. The assessment will be submitted to the National Environmental Board’s expert panel to seek additional recommendations before it is forwarded to other relevant agencies for approval. An EHIA is required under the Constitution’s Article 67 (2) as the project can be classified as harmful to the environment and people’s health. The EHIA is about 80 per cent complete.

However, Witoon said Egat’s estimate was based on the period of peak demand, which only occurs a few days in April, adding that this figure did not reflect demand in the future.

Released late last week, the list indicated that Phang Nga Bay National Park, in Phang Nga province, was the most popular, for the obvious reason it is the main day trip destination for visitors to Phuket island.

The findings were exactly what the travel industry would have concluded based on the number of sightseeing trips that originate in Phuket and include a visit to Phang Nga bay.

Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai province came in second. The mountain is Thailand’s highest at 2,565 metres above sea level but is more than 100 km from Chiang Mai or around 50 km from the main highway linking Chiang Mai and Mae Sariang.

Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani was the third most impressive national park according to Trip Advisor.

TripAdvisor spokesperson, Jean Ow-Yeon claimed national parks in Thailand provide variety from climbing, white water rafting, trekking or enjoying a natural beach environment.

The survey reflects the opinions of TripAdvisor followers and fails to recognise that in terms of popularity, Khao Yai National Park is by far the most popular park based on gate fees, while in the TripAdvisor assessment it came in ninth. Khao Yai is closest national park to Bangkok and attracts Thai holiday makers resident in the capital.

news

NEW NDONESIAN LOW-COST AIRLINE Lion Air, Indonesia’s largest low-cost carrier, yesterday announced it was ready to play an aggressive role in the Thai market, with the introduction of “truly low airfares” to attract big numbers of passengers.

The Jakarta-based carrier will launch its inaugural flight from Don Mueang to Chiang Mai on December 4, with twice-daily service. Excluding airport tax and other costs, it offers a starting price of Bt400 on the Bangkok-Chiang Mai route for a one-way trip. On international routes, air fares from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur start at Bt200, while the Bangkok-Jakarta flight starts at Bt1,500.

These low prices will be offered until next March, when they may be adjusted slightly. What is offered to passengers right now is not a promotional campaign, Lion Air says. In fact, the firm will adopt a year-around pricing strategy, which will be cheaper than other carriers offer.

The firm will distribute its tickets via various distribution channels such as online, counters in department stores and Skytrain stations, and also travel agents Some agents were pleased with Thai Lion Air’s arrival on the scene, saying it is another airline option for their incentive tour businesses. However, some said it was not providing enough information for tour agents on its flight schedules and services.

Currently, Thai Lion Air has two aircraft in its fleet, both new 215-seat 737-900ERs. Next year, it hopes to add eight to 10 new aircraft, and its fleet will reach 50 planes within five years.

Next year, new cities will be added to its network. It will launch flights from Bangkok to Hat Yai and from Chiang Mai to Krabi, while regional destinations will include Singapore, southern China, and India.

30-DAY VISA RULES FOR SOME COUNTRIES The Royal Thai Immigration Bureau is now giving some nationalities a 30-day stay when they pass through an overland checkpoint rather than the previous 15 days.

A bureau’s Immigration Division 1 Bureau source confirmed that citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Italy, Germany and Japan have been eligible for 30 days at overland checkpoints since 28 October.

Officials said the new ruling would help to improve tourism in provinces bordering neighbouring countries.

According to the bureau, there are 48 countries that get tourist visa exemption for 30 days, but only if they enter the country at an airport.

But all tourists, with the exception of Malaysians, who got 30 days, were only given 15 days if they crossed at overland checkpoint.

SAFETY CONCERNS POSE THREAT TO RUSSIAN TOURISM Pressure on Thailand’s government to improve tourist safety increased this week after the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RUTI) said it was prepared to call for a boycott if security was not improved.

RUTI represents more than 5,000 travel companies and state agencies related to tourism so it has the clout to call a boycott that could be very damaging for Thai tourism. It urged Thai authorities to improve safety for visiting Russians, or face a boycott from union members that could extend through the peak season ending March 2014.

The initial news was reported by Khaosod English News online, quoting Tourism Authority of Thailand Moscow office director, Narin Tijayung, who said the Union, had submitted a letter to the TAT Moscow office.

The TAT head office has not responded with a press statement on its website, despite being informed by its Moscow’s office of the RUTI threat much earlier.

The RUTI letter followed a road accident, which injured more than 30 Russian tourists in Pattaya,, 15 November. Four of them remain in serious condition. The double-deck bus was carrying 51 Russian tourists when it overturned on the highway. Police believe the driver of the bus dozed at the wheel.

However, there is strong evidence to indicate that double-deck buses hired by travel firms to transfer tourists are not built to international safety standards. They look cool, but are unstable and prone to accidents and fail to comply with Ministry of Transport specifications.

RUTI also quoted the case last month of a Russian tourist who was killed and more than 30 other Russian passengers injured when their tour bus flipped over in Kanchanaburi province.

None of the reports identify the tour companies handling the tours, but in many cases they are joint ventures that are controlled by Russians who have Thai partners who have very little operational control.

The TAT director in Moscow said the RUTI letter was addressed to Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports. It called for concise, practical measures to ensure safety for Russian tourists in the kingdom.

“The letter specifically names road safety in Thailand as the main concern for the RUTI and its members… the training of drivers, the condition of vehicles and traffic regulations which have been lightly enforced.”

These are widespread faults that blight the travel business across-the-board whatever the nationality of the injured tourists.

As the security forum pointed out, last week, the Thai government does need to urgently tighten road and water safety and ensure that it delivers a quality experience for tourists beyond the basics of hotel accommodation and airline travel.

RUTI apparently demanded that the Thai government solve these issues by the end of this month, an impossible deadline for even the most efficient and committed governments.

It is threatening to pull the plug on charter flights in December heading for Phuket and Pattaya for the festive season and says the boycott could extend to March 2014. www.ttrweekly.com

getting from krabi airport

air-con bus

Nice, clean, air-con cars are available to take you anywhere you want to go and can carry up to 4 people.

Or you can buy a seat in a minivan for less, but as it can take up to 10 people you may have to wait until they fill it.

There is now a regular shuttle bus that runs between the airport and popular destinations like those mentioned above. It also stops at piers where ferries leave for places like Railay and Tonsai. This can be a great option if you are on a budget, but can take a while to get to where you want to go.

Destination

Car

Minivan

Destination

Car

Krabi Town

350

600

Krabi Bus Station

80

Ao Nang

600

1050

Krabi Town

90

Klong Muang

700

1100

Lanta Pier

90

Tub Kaek

800

1200

Ao Nang

150

Railay Pier

150

Tonsai Pier

150

That’s Amore...

Ciao’….

This sweet, vibrant greeting that tantalizes most Westerners was the welcome when we received when we entered into this cozy Italian ‘open air’ menagerie. Although we were on a jaunt through Thailand and indulging in our fair share of Thai food we heard from some locals that there was a restaurant that was ‘must visit’ for superb Italian food.

La Luna Italian Bar & Restaurant is only a stone’s throw away from the lovely Ao Nang beach. Fitted in dressy casual beachwear we shuffled along with other holiday travelers to look through the souvenir shops and build up a hearty appetite. There were many Western, European and Thai food restaurants that lit up the sea front as the sun settled down for the evening.

Italy. He was proud to say that they only served fresh homemade pasta; prepared daily. The atmosphere was magical. Cool jazz music softly filling the air with an occasional Italian song to serenade us as we enjoyed our starter; Bruschetta al Pomodoro and Bruschetta Vegetarian. From my first few bites in to these delicious appetizers I knew that the locals were spot on with the recommendation. I continued to experience “heaven on my palate” as my husband and I shared a fresh La Mista salad; followed by Pizza Vegetariana and Spaghetti Salmone. We found ourselves reaching over to sample one another’s meal and could not decide which tasted better. We conclude that we had landed in Italy, right here in amazing Thailand.

As we sipped on soothing red wine we were greeted by a gentleman who introduced himself as Denis, the new owner of this fine eatery.

He began to share with us that he wanted to bring Italian culture to people from around the world who would visit Thailand. Bringing excellent ‘five star’ quality yet at an affordable price. He was quite the visionary as he shared with us how he and seven of his Italian friends had come together to create “Itaniano Experience”; bringing a taste of Italy to Thailand through food. They operate an Italian Delicatessen, food & wine distribution, a guest house and another Italian Restaurant on nearby Phi Phi Island.

He showed us true Italian hospitality as he gestured the waiter to refill our wine glasses; compliments of our new friend. He bid us an “Arrivederci”, as he strolled back to join his friends and associates around a large wooden table to continue in the echo of cheers and festivities that were taking place with genuine Italian gusto’.

As we approached La Luna Restaurant we saw a couple perusing the menu, held by a little sculpted Italian Chef. Customers from around the world were nestled in the restaurant chatting, laughing and enjoying what I was soon to discover, some of the best authentic Italian food I’ve ever eaten.

The waiter seated us in a romantic spot next to a large black oak wine rack; displaying imported Italian wines and other soothing spirits. He confidently ensured us that the major ingredients such as their salami, cheese and virgin olive oil were imported directly from

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Italiano Restaurant

located on Koh Phi Phi

Fine Italian Deli

in Ao Nang

A TOUCH OF ITALY IN THE LAND OF SMILES...

La Luna Restaurant and Bar located in the heart of Ao Nang

Italian Bar and Restaurant Serving since 1993 Taste of Italy Free Wi-Fi www.italianoexperience.com

Reservations: Â 075-656-356

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FESTIVITIES

Christmas in Thailand

T

here is one thing about Thai people and that is they love to celebrate. It doesn’t matter if the festival originated in a different country (like Halloween) or that it comes from a completely different religion (like Christian). Give them a good excuse to have fun and they will celebrate just about anything! In Thailand, Christmas isn’t a public holiday. However, many of the youngsters enjoy celebrating the “fun” side of the festive season.

To them, Christmas means, Santa Claus, little angels, Christmas carols and folk dancing. At this time of year, people are giving each other cards and presents, but this is mainly connected to the New Year holiday that is just around the corner. Only Christian families will give each other presents on Christmas Day. Unlike other countries, Thailand is very tolerant of other religions. Also, it is worth remembering that the Christmas celebration has ancient roots in the winter solstice, and revelries involving holly, mistletoe, candles, feasts and gift giving existed long before the Christian tradition.

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“

At this time of year, people are giving each other cards and presents, but this is mainly connected to the New Year holiday that is just around the corner.

Cerebrate your Christmas and New Year 2013 with Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort and be embraced by the warm welcome and the beautiful ambience of the Andaman Sea. Christmas Eve “Red Night” Party December 24, 2013, starts from 06.30PM. THB1,999net / Adult THB999net / Child (including soft drinks) Our Party Night includes: Blissful theme and Christmas novelties. Extensive International buffet with live cooking station and a wide seafood collection.

Entertainment throughout the night by International house band.

Santa Clause and Santarina delighting children with gifts

Carol singing.

Although the temperature outside will be peeking at 34˚C and the only snow you’ll find will be on the screen of a badly tuned in television set, you certainly won’t miss out on the festivities if you spend Christmas in Thailand. Most homes and businesses in Thailand have a miniature house outside of their property to offer shelter to the benevolent spirits who protect them - and come December time, they will also be decorated in tinsel, fairy lights and sometimes even tiny Santa hats!

Some Thai families will give their children gifts on Christmas morning and share a celebratory evening meal – although, this is more likely to be a Thai curry rather than the traditional Christmas fare of roast turkey. Just as in the rest of the world, Christmas means business. Although rather late by Western standards, some Thai stores and shopping malls will begin putting up their decorations as the end of December approaches. The beach roads will be beautifully illuminated with fairy lights, and bars and restaurant staffs will be wearing a Santa hut. Most hotels will offer a special Xmas dinner, lunch or package offer.

With the Thais love of festivities and good cheer, of giving presents and striving for peace and harmony it is easy to see the appeal of a Thai Christmas. Enjoy it.

Christmas Dinner Buffet December 25, 2013, starts from 06.30PM.  THB1,290net / Adult  THB600net / Child (including soft drinks) Reservations:+6675-628-000 or fb.krabi@sheraton.com

New Year Eve "Glowing Balloon Night" December 31, 2013, starts from 07.30PM. Marquee by the beach Regular tickets: THB7,000net per adult THB3,500net per child Premium tickets: THB8,500net per adult THB4,000net per person per child Reservations:+6675-628-000 or fb.krabi@sheraton.com

by Suzi Hall

Intermittent fasting lack of education and knowledge of the repercussions that a bad diet may have into adulthood is frightening!

So how should we eat, what should we eat and when? There are so many schools of thought now about the benefits of eating small meals, six times a day and not starving your body, to prevent stress hormones and retaining fat. I have never been sold on what appears to be eating more throughout the day, and seriously, who can be that organised? What I am sold on is the Thai-style mealtimes. You are served a portion of rice and share the main dishes of, for example. curry, omelette or soup, spooning a small portion onto your rice. Not overloading your plate. Most of the desserts they eat are squidgy rice-based dishes and they also have a tendency not to snack.

Now we have progressed from the 90’s Atkins diet, the new kid on the block is Intermittent Fasting, which, simply put, lowers blood sugar levels and insulin production and in-turn, reverses metabolic syndrome and burns fat. Currently The Fast Diet: The Secret of Intermittent Fasting - Lose Weight, Stay Healthy, Live Longer ranks number 1 on Amazon’s bestseller list (June 2013) with 4.5 out of 5 stars according to 1,609 customers. That is a lot of happy fasters.

As a Personal Trainer I have been educated in nutrition. Not extensively but enough to advise on what can help or hinder your body from being in tiptop condition. I frequently get asked about food and the million-dollar question - weight loss. With the wealth of information available we all have some understanding of what a healthy ‘good’ diet entails.

Fasting exists in every corner of spiritualism as a way to reach purity or test your body and faith. Commonly it is a process of spending a day without food and only water, but it has been modified for the modern world. Allowing fasters 500 calories a day could result in a lot of irate commuters on their way to office, which is no good for anyone.

My view has always centred on the 80/20 rule where 80% of your week you make an effort to eat well, with a focus on eating fresh, unprocessed food and less refined sugar. The other 20% gives you freedom not to worry and have a glass of wine or a piece of cake.

It is not being sold as a weight loss plan, although this could be an obvious side effect, but it focuses more on prolonging life-spans. This is scientifically unproven as yet, but proponents of the diet say it could reduce the chance of developing various cancers, and help manage a variety of conditions and illnesses wide enough to include diabetes and arthritis. Allegedly, it does this by forcing your body to move from “growth mode” stimulated by the IGF-1 hormone (insulin-like growth factor) into “repair mode” where, instead of creating new cells, the body attempts to repair damaged ones.

Here in Thailand the staple is rice (curry and eggs) and this is the reason, I believe, that Thai’s have strong bodies, constitutions and digestive systems. Interestingly when a Thai asks, “have you eaten Kin kĥāw mai?” ,the literal translation is “eat rice?”. The rice commonly eaten here is boiled and white*, there is nothing to it nutritionally, rather it is a filler, like edible cement, and there’s no denying here in Thailand it is powerful source of energy - ask any Muay Thai trainer. *Thankfully brown rice is now available in 7/11 - nutritionally superior and tastier to white.

Luckily, at present, it would appear, Thailand is unaffected by dieting fads, but they are creeping in and I am sure with the sudden increase in fizzy drinks and sugary snacks that they have the West to thank for, waistlines will start expanding. A

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To write an informed article, I needed experience, so I decided to try the 5:2 diet, fasting (restricting daily calories to 500) for 2 days a week.

The first day was pretty easy waking up late, but my coffee, toast and peanut butter resulted in me consuming half my calories by 11am- luckily I wasn’t hungry until about 5pm, which could be the result of two more coffees - I was extremely excited instead of hungry. As the evening drew in, I played the ‘how many green vegetables can I fit on my plate’ game and drank herbal teas.

Day two was a work day, I ate toast, but this time opted for egg whites hoping the protein would keep me fuller for longer. Apprehensive about lunch as I needed to consume practically nothing, I decided on tomato soup at 114 calories. Then the hunger set in and no amount of herbal tea helped.I had a horrible taste in my mouth all the way to the supermarket where I tortured myself shopping. The evening was fish and salad, then bedtime - no temptation when I sleep.

The day after I felt lighter and also really quite hungry, it was an amazing feeling to think I can eat what I want.

Not that I eat junk, it was just nice to not worry about having a yogurt when I felt hungry, especially as I was coaching football.

+66 (0) 75 638 098, +66 (0) 819-797-89-5 INFO@WEDDING-IN-THAILAND.COM INFO@KRABI-SPESIALISTEN.COM

Island Hopping

Hong Island by Luxury Thai Longtail Boat

So does it work? I am not one to advocate starving yourself, but I do know that to lose weight there needs to be a calorie deficit and that does lead to feelings of hunger. There are no scientific studies on fasting, but I agree that just taking the time to consider what you eat can only be a positive move. I always advise clients to keep a food diary; it can lead to an understanding of how much food they consume. There are also tips on the web on how to combat hunger with sensible snacks.

In conclusion, I believe the fasting ‘diet’ could be great if, for example, you need to fit into a wedding outfit (most common reason people want to lose weight) I am cautious of calorie-counting, as for example avocados, fish, oils, and nuts can be high in good calories. Another negative side effect for me was feeling more hungry the days after a fast, and a sense of imbalance in the week as a whole. It is not something I would return to, although there are at least 1,609 people reporting success.

Exercise has always been my fail-safe way of feeling good and confident about my body, eating porridge, vegetables and fruits, and if I need to trim down, then I cut out carbohydrates in the evenings. It is simple, which is handy for me, as I struggle following even a simple recipe. Imagine how I get looking at a diet book!

Please email us if you have done the intermittent fasting diet, I would enjoy hearing other people’s experiences. suzannehall1@hotmail.com

“Hong” in Thai means “room” and the literal translation of the Island’s Thai name is “the island with the room”, due to the gorgeous lagoon located at it’s centre.

During this relaxing day-long excursion, as well as exploring Hong Island’s exotic beaches and it’s lagoon, you will also get to visit the surrounding sister islands of Bak Bia & Paradise Island. You will have lots of time to snorkel, swim and enjoy the sights and sounds of life on these incredible beaches! The journey to the islands takes about an hour aboard our special longtail boat which has been specifically designed & built by Krabi-Spesialisten with your comfort in mind.

ITINERARY 09:00 – 09:15 09:15 – 09:30 09:30 10:30 11:30 13:00 15:00 16:00

Pick-up Klong Muang / Tub Kaek Hotels (on request at Sheraton beach) Pick-up Ao Nang Hotels Departure from Hat Nopparathara Pier Arrival at Paradise for relax, snorkeling & swimming the beach.

Leave Paradise island and cruise towards Bak Bia, where you can swim and relax while we set up a private, beautiful and delicious lunch.

Departure Bak Bia to Hong Island and visit lagoon on the way Departure Hong island back to Ao Nang Arrive at Ao Nang beach and return to hotel

* Program can be changed according to the water level and weather conditions

Krabi Spesialisten Co., Ltd.

126 Moo3, Ao Nang, Muang, Krabi 81000, Thailand Tel: +66 (0)75 638 098, Fax: +66 (0)7563 8089 Mobile: +66 (0)80 691 5119 www.krabi-spesialisten.com, info@krabi-spesialisten.com

dining [ steak & grill [

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Carnivore

krabi area

Soi Klong Haeng opposite Thai Village Resort, Ao Nang.

They say that the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and the same goes for steaks.

The quality of what this kitchen produces is extremely hard to beat - and the experience of the owner Gidi is evident as you walk into the elegant and pristine restaurant. Gidi worked for 15 years in the restaurant business before starting Carnivore back in 2003 and he has never looked back.

All main courses come with salad and a choice of six different potato dishes that include home-made french fries and mashed potato to die for.

Da Carla

[ italian & thai [

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As well as the 5-star meat selection, Carnivore also offers some of the finest salads, soups, crispy baguettes, grilled sandwiches and warm starters around - as well as no less than 60 beers from around the world. Yes, 60.

Average price: 400-900+THB What to Try: The “Carnivore” signature Steak Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Open daily from 3pm - 11pm.

(Kitchen open from 4pm - 10pm) Tel:+66 (0)75661061 Website: www.carnivore-thailand.com

Noppharathara Beach, inside Sabai Resort.

The Irish Rover

[ irish pub & restaurant [

Average price: 250+THB What to Try: The hand-filled ravioli Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30am - 2:30pm and 5:30pm - 9:30pm Tel: +66 (0)75637791 Website: www.sabairesort.com

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For some of the best Italian food you will find in Ao Nang and beyond, you should look no further than this place. Nestled just off Noppharathara Beach and next to Sabai Resort, Da Carla & Poan is a small, informal place owned and managed by an Italian couple who are long-time residents here.

As well as great Thai food, this is the place for some real-deal homemade pasta just like it should be made. The hand-filled ravioli and homemade desserts that are on the menu are very hard to argue with. Great meat selection too, with quality steak and the freshest seafood you could hope to find.

As you would expect, a good selection of imported wine is also available, as well as imported Belgian beers.

On the “Mc Donald’s Road”, look for the pint of Guinness...

The Irish Rover has one of the largest draught beer selections in Southern Thailand, including Kilkenny and a very nice pint of Guinness. Irish ciders Magners and Strongbow are also available for those hot days when nothing else will hit the spot.

The kitchen is open until 1am, serving excellent food in generous portions. Expect to see homemade pies, tender steaks, juicy chops, shepherd’s pie (made with Guinness) as well as ploughman’s lunches, bangers and mash and more.

TJ’s

[ sports bar & grill [

What to Try: The home-made pies Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 4pm - 1am Tel: +66 (0)75 637 607 Website: www.irishpubaonang.com.com

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Happy hours & drink specials are worth watching out for. The place is air-conditioned and live sports, pool table and a darts board all complete this little slice of Ireland right here in Ao Nang.

Average price: 250+THB

Located on the road to Ao Nang beach, just past Mc Donald’s TJ’s Sports Bar & Grill is the place to go when you want to be yourself for a while.

With live sport always running on their large projection wall and numerous big screen TVs, you will have the best experience you can without being on the playing field. They show pretty much any major sporting event that happens to be going on in the world at any time!

In the bar they serve all the classic cocktails by the book and a lot of new ones with that “TJ’s touch.” They also offer five different draught beers, English cider and 20+ different bottles of beer.

You can expect a classic “sports bar” menu with that little extra - everything from nachos and smaller dishes to big homemade hamburgers and juicy steaks. The portions are very generous and the quality is outstanding. Well worth a visit.

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Average price: 220+THB What to Try: The home made burgers & nachos Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from Noon - Late Tel: +66 (0)75 637 119 Website: www.tjs-krabi.com

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Venezia @ Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort [ italian [ 200 Moo.3 Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay, Muang, Krabi

Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort’s Ristorante Venezia serves up gourmet cuisine featuring traditional Italian recipes, pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven & a large selection of wines from all over the globe.

Located on the first floor of the resort & next to the grand lobby, tables are available for either indoor dining or on the outdoor terrace, al fresco style, with panoramic views of the ocean and tropical gardens. Specialties include the Albero di Antipasti, at THB++600, a delicious selection of 6 of your favourite anti pasti choices, perfect when you can’t decide from their extensive menu choices.

Another must try is the Ravioli Frutti di Mare at THB440++, delectable homemade ravioli stuffed with the freshest Andaman seafood and served in a mouthwatering creamy crab meat sauce!

Tattoo de Café

Average price: 400++THB What to Try: Antipasti & ravioli frutti di mare Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 6pm - 11pm Tel:+66 (0)75 627 800 Website: www.sofitel.com/6184

[ thai & european [

On Ao Nang Beach Road & Shell Cemetary Junction The Tattoo de Café is something of an institution in Ao Nang as they have been on the beach for over 9 years and counting. With a fairly unique combo of tattoos and food, you can get inked and drinked (!) at the same time, with top quality in both areas.

Forget instant “6-in-one” coffees here as only the freshest ground beans are used in their brews. For something sweet to accompany your cuppa, they offer some truly scrumptious homemade cheesecake and ice-creams that are becoming legendary.

If you are after something hot, they have some great house specials that include “Khao Pad Plaa Salit” - fried rice with salted fish & dried chillies, and spaghetti with bacon and black olives.

Diver’s Inn

[ german & steakhouse [

What to Try: Grilled chicken & club sandwich, cheesecake Free WiFi?: Yes Tel: +66 (0)81 929 4766 Email: mirorynut@hotmail.com

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American and English breakfasts, salads, chicken wings, cheesy fries, sandwiches and more all make this place a great - and handy - stop on your way down the beach road.

Average price: 100+THB

Ao Nang, opposite the Siam Commercial Bank, Near Mc Donalds.

The oldest German restaurant in Ao Nang focus on hearty meat dishes and offers an array of savoury items on its menu.

Enjoy one of the renowned juicy and tender Australian Angus steaks, duck and chicken breast or pork tenderloin, all accompanied by a selection of potato dishes and the famous salad buffet.

You can also enjoy traditional German wheat beers or a nice imported wine like a German Riesling as you munch on tasty appetizers such as tempura shrimps or maybe a full plate of steamy spare ribs.

For patrons who are not too much into meat dishes there is a selection of traditional Thai food and seafood as well as crispy and fresh salads.

Minty’s Folly

Average price: 150 – 900+ THB What to Try: The Angus steaks Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 11am - 11pm Tel (Th/En): + 66 (0)75-637 297 Tel (En/Ger): + 66 (0) 89 587 3533

[ northern thai & european [

On the road out of Ao Nang, towards Na Thai Once known as “The North Food Restaurant”, this place has been going from strength to strength as it refines it’s menu and offers more choice of dishes than ever before. Old movie posters adorn the walls and the love of antiques and all things wooden is evident here, with comfy armchairs and even a second-hand book shop to browse through.

The Khow Soy soup is still the jewel in it’s crown, but as well as this and the other authentic Northern Thai delicacies on the menu, there are now fresh pastas, home-made burgers and wraps, salads and sandwiches that use freshly baked Italian bread.

The portions are generous and all excellent value for money. Add an array of fresh juices and smoothies, as well as beers for 50 Baht and a selection of wine that is very impressive and affordable and you have yourself a great place for lunch or dinner.

Average price: 70-150THB What to Try: Noodle Soup, burgers, pasta, sandwiches.

Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-2pm & 5pm-10pm Tel (eng): +66 (0)89 469 2415 Tel (thai): +66 (0)87 455 7052

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[ thai & fusion [

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The Frog & Catfish

Din Daeng Noi, Nong Thale, Krabi Town 81000 Owned and ran by Gary and his wife, Bua, the Frog & Catfish is located in the Din Daeng Noi locality just a 10 minute drive from busy Ao Nang and is a gem of a place.

The food here is nothing short of spectacular, with people coming from as far as Railay Beach just to eat for the evening. Top resorts have been sending their head chefs here to see what all the fuss is about, and with good reason.

Think duck curries and freshwater fish. Lemongrass and mango fused with chilli and herbs. Sushi roll-style spring rolls with a 7-herb dip. You get the idea. They use locally sourced ingredients and organically grown fish from their own stocks.

Average price: 150+THB What to Try: Whole fried fish in Boraan Sauce Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 10am - 10pm Tel:+66 (0)84 773 0301

The Red Devil

[ italian & grill [

Website: www.frogandcatfishkrabi.com

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The location is stunning, the hospitality equally so and the food downright delicious. If you are looking to get away from the bustle of Krabi or Ao Nang for a while, this is the place to go.

Just outside Ao Nang at the Ao Nammao/Shell Cemetary junction.

With their focus set firmly on comfort and quality, the Red Devil offers a mouth-watering selection of gourmet steaks, burgers, salads, pizzas and pastas - all top quality and cooked to exacting standards by Italian chef and owner, Umberto.

The menu has been refined and expanded to offer exceptional quality Italian cuisine at very affordable prices. Think Beef Bourgiononne with truffle-oiled tagliatelle. Homefired pizza with parma ham. Buffalo mozzarella and tomato salads. Huge platters of authentic Italian appetisers. This is not your usual pizza takeout place - more fine Italian dining without the heart-stopping price tag at the end.

Gecko’s @ The Sheraton Resort & Spa

[ italian [

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The restaurant has undergone a major refurbishment and now has an upstairs terracce as well as a lounge area with seperate rooms that can be used for private parties and get-togethers. With an impressive array of quality wines and imported beers, this is fast becoming one of the premier eateries in the Krabi region.

Average price: 200+THB What to Try: Beef Bourgiononne with truffleoiled tagliatelle, pizzas.

Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily 8am - Late Tel: +66 (0)83 175 6938 Website: www.reddevilaonang.com

155 Moo 2, Nong Thale, Krabi The signature restaurant of Sheraton Krabi features fresh pastas, salads and delicious selections from authentic Italian home cooking to pizzas baked in a traditional wood burning oven.

Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and the Andaman Sea breeze while dining at this prestigious resort, known the world over for it’s top quality dining experiences.

With a mouth-watering array of choices on the menu, you are quite literally spoiled for choice when it comes down to it.

Great food in a 5-star location with meticulous attention to detail. What more could you ask for?

Average price: 400-900++THB What to Try: Pizzas Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 11am - 11pm Tel: +66 (0)75 628 000

Wanna’s Place @ The L Resort

[ swiss [

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Website: www.sheraton.com/krabi

North end of the Beach Road.

One of the very first restaurants in Ao Nang from 20 years ago, Wanna’s Place at the L Resort has hones it’s food and service to perfection. Owned and ran by A Swiss National, They offer an extensive range of Thai and Swiss food that is unsurpassed in the area.

As well as the usual Thai dished you want to see, they have dishes like the original “Zurich Geschnetzeltes”, Schnitzel with cream sauce and noodles, or a veal sausage with Rösti.

They serve “sizzling steaks” on hot stones for you to prepare just the way you like at your table. As a thank-you to the local community - as well as keeping their ingredients as topnotch as they can - Wanna’s Place has their own organic farm that employs local people to grow their own produce.

Perfectly located on the Beach road, the large, open restaurant is airy and roomy with great views of the ocean and an idyllic base for people-watching with a cool drink.

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Average price: 200+THB What to Try: Steak on hot stone.

Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily 7am - 10pm Tel: +66 (0)75 637 484

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Khao Thong Terrace [ fine thai [ Khao Thong, on the road towards Phuket.

This place is the restaurant equivalent of a pot of gold at the end of a particularly spectacular rainbow.

The food here matches the view - simply amazing. If you tire of the usual “Thai Tourist” fodder then imagine a herb salad consisting of ginger, lemongrass, carrot, lime, spring onion and chilli with a Thai sweet sauce relish, or “Laab Pla”, aka spicy, crispy fish salad and an amazing yellow curry with crab that has Thai locals honing in here from miles around.

Don’t be worried that this is exclusively a Thai place though, as they cater for both local and not-so local palates. Crunchy spring rolls, chicken satay sticks, fresh fish fried with turmeric, home-made fish cakes and chicken any way you like it are all possible, and all fresh from the water you gaze at while devouring.

Poppy’s

Average price: 120+THB What to Try: Crab curry Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 11am - 10pm Tel: +66 (0)83 107 4400 Email: khaothongterrace@gmail.com

[ minigolf & kebab [

Soi 13, Ao Nang, Krabi Poppy’s Special Offers...

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Chicken kebab with our famous garlic mayonnaise sauce and a Chang beer or Leo Draught beer: 159 Baht.

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5 Chang beers for 200 Baht

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Chang beer+ Chicken Kebab + MiniGolf....just 300 Baht....so that is the beer for free!

Average price: 150THB What to Try: The Kebabs & Dutch snacks Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Lunchtime until last one goes

We have free WiFi and if you want to make a Karaoke party, it is also possible and free.

home Tel: +66(0) 80 146 4977 & +66(0) 83 174 3639

Our Facebook page is Poppy’s MiniGolf & Kebab Cafe

Email: aonang_7@hotmail.com

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The Hilltop [ fine thai [ 99 Moo 3, Ao Nang, Krabi

Krabi Villa Café @ Krabi Villa Co. Ltd.

[ café [

Average price: 400-900+THB What to Try: Southern Crab Curry, Duck The Hilltop Style Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Daily from 11am - 12am Tel: +66 (0)75 637 195 Website: www.thehilltopaonang.com

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The Hilltop Restaurant & Bar is truly an idyllic dining spot. With the breath-taking views of Ao Nang and Noppharat Thara beaches, the Hilltop Restaurant is located on one of the most phenomenal settings for panoramic sunset.

Furnished with a stylish and spacious design, we are also perfect for hosting both romantic couples as well as big party groups.

Pamper yourselves with fresh Andaman lobsters. King prawns, crabs and giant oysters carefully chosen and prepared by our chefs. At The Hilltop, menus are always evolving in an effort to create new, mouth-watering dishes such as “Duck, the Hilltop Style”, “Southern Curry with Crabmeat & Local Herbs” & “Prawn Salad in Taro Pasty Basket”.

There is a wide range of local brews, wines and thirst-quenching cocktails to soothe your throat. Hilltop Sunset & 99 Aonang are among the list of signature cocktails available only at The Hilltop Restaurant & Bar. Chill out at The Hilltop Sky Lounge for an unforgettable experience of style and comfort!”

Klong Muang Beach Road Nestled next to the Krabi Villa Company Ltd. in Klong Muang, the Krabi Villa Café is a great little place to grab a bite to eat and some fresh coffee.

Comfortable sofas and chairs are available for lounging in with your drink and the staff are friendly and very welcoming. If you want to take a load off for a while, high-speed Internet access as well as a selection of newspapers and magazines make spending an hour or 2 here as easy as pie.

If you fancy more than a drink, there is an impressive array of sandwiches prepared with fresh bread, as well as cakes and muffins. Even breakfast is catered for, with a selection of pastries as well as eggs, bacon and toast to start your day in style.

Fresh coffee, home made food, WiFi, sofas and magazines. What more could you ask for?

Average price: 100THB What to Try: Sandwiches, organic coffee Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Tues - Sun from 9am - 5pm Tel: +66 (0)75 600 141 Website: www.krabivillacompany.com

31

offshore

scuba snorkelling watersports gear

Diving in Krabi: Something special

R

ailay Dive Center is a small dive center based in Railay west walking street. Being small is a good thing in diving- especially for divers. We like to dive in small groups and make sure you will see more fish than other divers under water. It also gives us flexibility to do special things such as underwater photography or technical diving. Small groups means more time to take that second, third or even tenth photo at your leisure.

Diving is about relaxing and enjoying the underwater wonderland, not about who swims around the island fastest. Relaxing is about having ample time to enjoy your dives without having to rush around as part of a large group.

To top off a wonderful day on the sea we will serve you a simple but delicious Thai lunch with the most beautiful sea-view anywhere on the planet.

Underwater photography Krabi and the surrounding waters are teeming with beautiful and colorful marine life and the clear, warm and lazy waters offer safe and easy dives that are just made for underwater photography.

There are many exotic and strange creatures, such as Tigertail Seahorses, Hawksbill Turtles, Clownfish (Nemo), Stingrays, and even Manta rays at certain divesites. Different kind of sharks from Bamboosharks, Blacktip reefsharks, Leopard sharks and even Whalesharks are encountered frequently. For those less experienced water enthusiasts none of these sharks are dangerous to humans but if you are lucky, you may see them. All these creatures combined with wonderful underwater scenery, such as the 85 meters long King Cruiser wreck covered in corals and marine life, provide awesome diving and underwater photography opportunities.

It is always best to own and get to know your own camera- a process that can take years to master but is rewarding in every step of the way. If you do not yet have your own underwater camera, you can rent one from the Railay Dive Center and take your first steps in to the fascinating world of Underwater photography. Whether you use a rental camera or your own camera does not matter, the main thing is that we have time under water for your photography.

Or maybe you don’t want to take photos but want to be in them.

Some people love to have their diving memories with them after the day and it is very popular to have your dive guide take your photos while you dive with the group.

32

Another popular option is to have your photos taken with professional underwater photography equipment by a photographer that will join you just for your photos. These photos may be used equally well

as your holiday memories, making your friends jealous via social media or printed easily up to 2-3 meters picture in the living room wall to bring that warm tropical feeling to your home.

If you have a special occasion or an idea that you would like to have photographed under water - such as your wedding photos - there is an option of arranging a specially tailored session where the photographer and assistants help you to take your photos under water.

Technical diving The waters surrounding Krabi area are an excellent place to start your technical diving adventures. Technical diving is considered the extreme form of diving but what most people do not know is that you can start tec diving just as easy as you did with your recreational diving - step by step and gaining experience before the next level. Even the first entry level tec diving course - PADI Tec 40- will open a door to a whole new world and extend your diving knowledge, skills, and of course, bottom time. As you proceed to PADI Tec 45 and 50 and start to use special decompression procedures and decompression gasses your skills, diving depths and bottom time increase dramatically- or how does a 20 minute bottom time at 30 meters in recreational diving versus a 30 minute (or more) bottom time at 50 meters sound like?

Side mount diving is rapidly gaining popularity in both recreational and technical diving. It is an easy and safe way to dive, not to mention the effortless entry and exit to and from the water. You will also notice how easy the buoyancy control is and how easily all the information and equipment is accessible while diving side mount.

For those of us who have had the pleasure of diving our popular local wreck, the King Cruiser, you can only imagine if you dive it with PADI Tec 40 (max 10 minutes of decompression allowed), two tanks filled with appropriate nitrox hanging in front of you and spending, say an hour, exploring the wreck or taking photos without having to worry about running out of air or bottom time.

Or maybe you would like to take a day out on the sea with just your loved ones and no-one else and decide your own dive/snorkeling sites. Railay Dive Center offers private trips just for you and your family where we can tailor the day of underwater adventures just

for you. Maybe you would like to take the exotic Thai long tail boat for the local islands or speedboat to King Cruiser wreck just for your group. Or maybe you would like to make an unforgettable diving day in Hin Daeng watching 4 meter wide Manta Rays playing around you.

For more information www.railaydivecenter.com or sami@railaydivecenter.com and for more photos FB/Railay dive center.

Tel: 075 819 417

33

Dive site

Max Depth

Snorkeling

Discovery dives

Beginner

Advanced

Underwater photography

Special features

Local Islands

20

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Macro

Small marine life

Phi Phi

30

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Macro/Wide angle

Sharks and Turtles

King Cruiser

32

No

No

No

Yes

Wide angle

The Wreck

Koh Haa Yai

40+

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Wide angle

Caves and caverns

Hin Daeng

50+

No

No

No

Yes

Wide angle

Manta Rays and Whalesharks

krabi tides

krabi diving info...

Great for: Small animals, all skill levels of diver, snorkelling Depth: 5 - 25m Visibility: 5 - 20m Currents: Easy Surface Conditions: Calm, but can be choppy in rainy season Water Temperature: 27 - 31°C Experience Level: Beginner to advanced. Tech diving possible.

Number of dive sites: >10

34

Distance: ~5-10 km west of Ao Nang (ž hour)

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Hidden gems in Krabi Outlet village:

A

s you sit in your chair reading this article I want you to think of the shirt you’re wearing, the pants or shorts that you’re wearing, do you like them? Are you satisfied with those pieces of cotton adorning you upper and lower sections or would you like something different. Today we’re here to tell you about a lesser known place for buying quality clothing from international brands right here in Krabi.

About 30 minutes from Ao Nang on the way to Tesco Lotus you’ll find this store of national origin. With everything from athletic footwear and wrangler jeans to Samsonite luggage and Devy bags and wallets there is no shortage of quality shopping here.

The outlet village in Krabi is one of the many outlet village locations owned by The Pena House Group and is home to over 100 different brand name products, names such as Puma, Lacoste, Nike, Columbia and Polo to name a few.

In business now for over 7 years the outlet village in Krabi has been steadily growing in the community, attracting the attention of those willing to spend a slight bit more then you would at an average local clothing shop but know that with this added price comes a massive difference in quality. If

36

you’re in the mood for a little shopping and have the time to head out to Krabi town, stop in at the outlet village, you can find nearly everything you’re looking for here and everything you thought you w would never need. They now also have a large baby and children’s section where you can find things such as children’s games and toys as well as shoes, shirts and everything in between.

Feel free to contact them directly on their office line at +66-75-70-1222-4 Office hours 11am-9pm daily In case you hire a taxi you can give him the direct address at: 888 Moo 11, Petchkasem Highway #4, Krabi Noi, Muang Krabi

by Richard James

Artist of Inspiration in the

Land of Smiles

Visitors to Krabi Province in Southern Thailand often seek authentic, home grown art in their search for local treasures.

Bancha Ma is one artist not to be missed for art that is inspiring, beautiful, and culturally significant. His work reflects the heart of Thai life in the Krabi region.

Bancha works out of his studio, the “Andaman Home Gallery”, in Ao Nang. Krabi Magazine interviewed Bancha to learn more about this influential artist.

KM: Greetings Bancha. You are a famous artist and the owner of the Andaman Gallery in Ao Nang here in Krabi, Thailand.

When did you first realize you are an artist and decide to engage with the arts?

Bancha: I started to experiment with art 18 years ago, but did not get too serious about it. Seven years ago, I moved to Krabi and became inspired by the people and natural beauty.

Around two to three years ago I became more serious with my art.

also inspired me to write a blog on the OK Nation blogsite.

Under the penname, SmileatAndaman, I have been sharing this inspiration with others all over Thailand.

KM: What inspires your artwork?

Bancha: I am mostly inspired by the smiles of people when travelling around Krabi Province. I want to share this feeling I get with others, and so my art provides the means to do that. My first water-colors were a collection of paintings on the theme, “Smiling from the Side View”. The local people

Bancha: Yes. I mostly favor nature, culture, and local life styles.

38

KM: Do you have a favorite subject matter?

KM: Did you learn water-color formally in an arts school?

Bancha: I am a self taught artist. But I did develop some of

my skill through internet learning, and with books. But mostly, it was just practice.

KM: Are there any artists that inspire you, or that you have a deep appreciation for their work?

Bancha: Yes. I appreciate Norman Rockwell. His artwork also exhibits the social life of people. He is famous for picking up on the social character of his subjects.

KM: Are all of your works in water-color? Did you ever paint or experiment with other mediums?

Bancha: Up to now, all of my work has been with water-color, but I am now making a few pieces in acrylic. I am also taking photographs.

KM: Your artwork I would call “award-winning”.

Bancha: Well, I have not submitted my art to any competitions.

But I do use my artwork in my OK Nation blog. My blog has just won first place in the “Life Style (Arts)” category at the Thailand Blog Awards-2013. Also, back in 2001, I did become 2nd Place Winner in a concept design competition held by the Association of Siamese Architects.

KM: Are all of the pieces in the gallery for sale?

I am planning to submit my art to some competitions in 2014.

Bancha: Between 10 to 5pm everyday is fine.

KM: You are an artist, an architect, a father of three children, and active in your community. Do you have time to paint?

KM: What are your thoughts about the arts community in this region? Do artists get good support from the community and government?

Bancha: I treat my artwork as a hobby, so after work, in the evenings, I find time to paint.

KM: How long has the Andaman Home Gallery in Ao Nang been open?

Bancha: 5 years…..

Bancha: Not all of them. Some pieces I want to keep for a future purpose.

KM: Is there a best time for visitors to visit the gallery?

Bancha: At this time, there is not a strong social affiliation among the artists. There is not an active leadership for this to happen. But, we hear that the Krabi Chamber of Commerce is planning to promote contemporary artists as part of the City’s development plan. This would be a good development.

I would like to see Government promote and communicate about Krabi artists to tourists, and help direct them to a place where artists and tourists can meet.

KM: Do you have any thoughts or suggestions for aspiring artists here in South East Asia? Can one make-a-living in the arts?

Bancha: Well, in Thailand, it is not easy to earn a living as an artist. I recommend that an artist have a more regular job until he/she becomes well known and then after that, one could maybe make it their full time work.

KM: You are currently exhibiting your work at the Andaman Festival. How is the response for works of art at this kind of festival?

Bancha: The festival brings very good exposure. Many people do not go to the Festival for visual arts, but many come to my exhibition after learning about it through the social networks.

KM: Any parting thoughts??

Bancha: Yes, my thought would be to encourage everyone to make art. Everyone can do it. Everyone should try. It is good for you.

Bancha’s work can be seen at the Andaman Home Gallery, just off Ao Nang Road in Ao Nang Krabi.

Translation by Suppawadee

39

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T O KRABI T OWN

Everyone likes to read a good book on holiday, so we take a look at 3 spankingly great reads this month that are perfect for whiling away your lazy days here in Krabi.

The Chessmen

By Peter May

Publisher: Quercus ISBN : 0857382233

Following The Blackhouse and The Lewis Man, The Chessmen draws together the fascinating elements of the earlier books. Fin MacLeod is finally attaining some kind of equilibrium in his troubled life, resettled in his childhood home of the Isle of Lewis – even though the dark Hebrides here seem to cry out for a soundtrack by Bernard Herrmann rather than Felix Mendelssohn.

The ex-detective inspector has been commissioned by a wealthy landowner to take charge of the security on his estate. It seems a straightforward job, but then Fin encounters poacher Whistler Macaskill, whom he has known since they were at school.

Memories of his teenage years are rekindled, but then the duo are present at a bizarre natural phenomenon, a “Blog Brust” in which all the water from one of the Lewis lochs is evacuated.

This freak occurrence reveals a light aircraft. Inside it is the body of a musician friend, Roddy McKenzie, whose flight ended in disaster nearly two decades before. As Fin begins to realise that Whistler knows more than he is telling, he encounters the tendency of secrets in the past to erupt into the present – with dangerous results.

The Third Bullet

By Stephen Hunter

Published by Little, Brown and Company ISBN : 0316219266

Marine sniper Bob Lee Swagger becomes interested in the events of November 22, 1963, and the third bullet that so decisively ended the life of John F. Kennedy and set the stage for one of the most enduring controversies of our time.

Swagger begins his slow night stalk through a much-traveled landscape. But he’s asking questions that few have asked before: Why did the third bullet explode? Why did Lee Harvey Oswald, about to become the most hunted man on earth, risk it all by returning to his rooming house to secure a pistol he easily could have brought with him? How could a conspiracy that went unpenetrated for fifty years have been thrown together in the two and a half days between the announcement of the president’s route and the assassination itself?

As Bob investigates, another voice enters the narrative: knowing, ironic, almost familiar, that of a gifted, Yale-educated veteran of the CIA Plans Division. Hugh Meachum has secrets and the means and the will to keep them buried. When weighed against his own legacy, Swagger’s life is an insignificant expense—but to blunt the threat, he’ll first have to ambush the sniper.

As each man hunts the other across today’s globe and through the thickets of history, The Third Bullet builds to an explosive climax that will finally prove what Bob Lee Swagger has always known: it’s never too late for justice.

42

Touch & Go

By Lisa Gardner

Publisher: Dutton Adult; 1 edition ISBN-10: 0525953078

KRABI INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI

The Russian oligarchs are the world’s new elite. They treat the world as their plaything, traveling without borders and living lives of unimaginable luxury without fear or restraint.

But when an assassin starts killing off some of the world’s richest men, an oligarch with friends in high places seeks the protection of MI5. And Spider Shepherd is placed in the firing line. But while Shepherd has to save the life of a man he neither likes nor respects, he has to deal with a face from his past. The Taliban sniper who put a bullet in his shoulder turns up alive and well and living in London.

And Shepherd is in no mood to forgive or forget.

The Everything Store

By Brad Stone

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

early learning center

ISBN : 0316219266

Amazon made its mark sending new books quickly in nice, smileembossed boxes. But its visionary founder, Jeff Bezos, wasn’t content with being a bookseller. He wanted Amazon to become the world’s store, where everything is available to everyone, usually in 24 hours. To do so, he developed a corporate culture of relentless ambition and drive and revolutionized retail the way Ford revolutionized manufacturing. Brad Stone has been given unprecedented access to Amazon employees, both current and former, to give readers the first fly-on-the-wall narrative account of the world’s largest online retailer. In a club of tech business innovators that includes Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg, Bezos stands out for his hyper-competitive business strategies, which are leading Amazon to current ventures from hardware like e-readers and tablet PCs, web hosting for some of the world’s most valuable companies, book publishing, and even a top secret space program. The Everything Store will be the revealing, definitive biography of the company and its genius creator.

กระบี่อินเตอร์เนชั่นแนล มอนเตสเซอรี่

0-908-700-905 www.krabimontessori.com krabimontessori@gmail.com 242 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Krabi

thai Hello (m)

Sawadee Krap

Hello (f)

Sawadee Kaa

How are you?

I’m fine How much is this?

What is this?

Yes No

Sabai Dee Mai? Sabai Dee A Nee Tao Rai? Nee a Rai? Chai Mai Chai

I can’t speak Thai

Poot Passa Thai Mai Dai

Sorry/Excuse me

Kor Toht

Can you speak English?

I don’t understand Do you understand?

Help!

Spicy Not spicy Is that tasty?

Hot (Temperature) Cold Water Where is the restroom/toilet?

Can I have the bill/check?

See you soon

Khun Poot Passa Angrit Dai Mai? Mai Khao Jai Khao Jai Mai? Chooey Dooey!

Pet Mai Pet A Roy Mai? Rawn Yen Naam Hong Naam Yoo Tee Nai? Kep Tang Pop Gan Mai

It doesn’t matter No big deal Don’t worry about it Never mind

Mai Pen Rai 1 2 3 4 5

Noong Song Sam See Haa

6 7 8 9 10

Hock Jet Ped Khao Sip

Where creativity and culture floW hand in hand

TATTOO de cafe’

Professional tattoo artist - 15 years of experience - bachelors degree in fine arts. Operating under the name ‘Nut Tattoo Studio’ since 1998. New sterilized needles are used for each tattoo.

Our Cafe has been open for 8 years and offers fresh coffee from our espresso machine.

Serving American/English breakfasts, salads, sandwiches and house specials including: • ‘Khao Pad Plaa Salit’ (fried rice with salted fish and dry chillies) • Spaghetti with bacon and black olives • Fresh mango Smoothies

Fresh homemade ice cream and cake to order

Open every day 8:00am-9:00pm 081-929-4766 juraluksri@hotmail.com mirorynut@hotmail.com 274 moo2, Ao Nang, Krabi www.facebook.com/NutTattooAonang www.facebook.com/TattooDeCafe

BUNGALOWS AND RESTAURANT BAR - GAMES ROOM - DIVING EUROPEAN MANAGEMENT 90mt from Noppharat Thara Beach

Noppharat Thara

tel 075-637791 - fax 075-695117 sabairesort@hotmail.com - www.sabairesort.com

RISTORANTE-TRATTORIA ITALIAN AND THAI FOOD

Trending Tech Google Nexus 5 Smartphone It’s a 5” phone, and so much more. Built with precision, Nexus 5 delivers an intelligently simple design and showcases a stunning full HD display.

Plus it comes in black and white.

All-new photo and video features help you capture moments in fresh new ways. And thanks to the latest from Android, Nexus 5 is fast, powerful and truly yours. www.google.com/nexus/5

iPad Air It’s just 7.5 millimeters thin and weighs just one pound. The stunning Retina display sits inside thinner bezels, so all you see is your content.

The new A7 chip in iPad Air was designed with 64-bit architecture. It delivers killer performance — up to two times faster CPU and graphics performance than its predecessor.

Using two antennas instead of one and MIMO technology, iPad Air delivers up to twice the Wi-Fi performance of the previous iPads www.apple.com/ipad-air

The Morpher Foldable Bike Helmet The Morpher is a new innovation in portable cycling helmet technology.

Would a bicycle helmet that you can fold flat persuade you to wear one?

Inventor Jeff Woolf is hoping so: after having his life saved by his headgear after a hit and run accident 20 years ago, Jeff has developed a compact Morpher helmet that’s easy to carry around with you. The new innovation could prove to be a lifesaver.

Whether or not it makes it into production depends on the success of the project’s Indiegogo campaign, which kicks off at the start of November in the search for funding. However, the prototype has already won three innovation awards.

The Morpher helmet is built from expanded polystyrene (EPS) with nylon hinges that help it to fold up. The headgear weighs in at 250g and has been developed with the cooperation of the British Standards Institution. For more news on the helmet, which is scheduled for a Spring 2014 release.

48

www.morpherhelmet.com/

Kindle Fire HDX

Exclusive 7” HDX display (1920x1200), high pixel density (323 PPI), and perfect color accuracy (100% sRGB) for vivid, lifelike images that go beyond standard HD This Kindle has the fastest processor on a 7” tablet—powerful 2.2GHz quadcore processor and 2GB of RAM for fast, fluid multi-tasking, gaming, and video.

A first for tablets, the HDX introduces the “Mayday” button—revolutionary, on-device tech support, exclusive to Kindle Fire HDX tablets. Connect for free to an Amazon expert 24x7, 365 days a year.

Stay productive on the go with ultra-fast web browsing, built-in OfficeSuite, and updated e-mail and calendar support for Gmail, Outlook, and more.

Immersive entertainment experience—see trivia and character backgrounds with X-Ray for Movies and TV, follow along with lyrics with new X-Ray for Music, fling videos to your TV with Second Screen, and more.

075-637-119 075-637-119

info@tjs-krabi.com www.tjs-krabi.com info@tjs-krabi.com www.tjs-krabi.com

OpenDaily Daily Open

From12:00 12:00totoLate Late From

www.amazon.com

Canon Legria Mini

Canon’s newest handheld cam is a compact box of tricks to tickle the fancy of any vlogger or narcissist. Its ultra-wide f/2.8 lens offers a 160-degree viewing angle and shoots in 1080p, with effects such as time lapse, slowmo and 4x fast motion. The 2.7-inch variable angle LCD and kickstand are perfect for self-recording, while Wi-Fi lets you upload the results to your YouTube empire at speed. www.canon.com

WWW.PUSH-KRABI.COM WWW.PUSH-KRABI.COM INFO@PUSH-KRABI.COM INFO@PUSH-KRABI.COM

075-637-118 075-637-118

OpenDaily Daily Open 7:00- -23:00 23:00 7:00

What a Folly!

nepO 00.41 - 00.01 00.22 - 00.71

If you are looking for a swimming pool, aircon, limo service from the airport then you are looking at the wrong place. Minty’s guesthouse is an all year round home used by a Thai/English family, but its a house with a difference. Full of antiques, curios and art from around the world the rooms are unique as well as eco friendly, clean and well maintained.

yadnuS no desolC

nepO Open 00.41 - 00.01

Open All Year 10.000-014.00 .22 - 00.71 ev17.00 ityaandr-ne22.00 utlSa nte oiu deqs,ololCoc A epO Closed on n Sunday Totally Unique atsa0p0.4h1se- 0rF0.01 00.22 - 00.71

Mre-etlm eveitdyaaand a oteHiuq ,looc A A cool, quiet sehcn ialternative wudSnnaoSdesolC Old-World at& sasprehgsreurBFLuxury Fresh sppasta arW e d a M evitaHome-Made nreetlm a oteHiuq ,looc A sehciwdnaS Sandwiches Traditional at& sasprehgsreurBFHospitality Burgers & rW edWraps aM-sepmao H sehciwdnaS & sregruB sparW elbaliava smoor delyts yleuqinU

Mint says “We are not looking for star ratings no more than we are looking to label the house “niche” or “boutique”, but it is unique. Stuffed with furniture, art and artifacts from all over the world this guesthouse is out of the ordinary as far as Krabi is concerned. If you are at all offended by images of the Lord Buddha then this is definitely not the place for you as the guesthouse contains more Buddha images and statues than the average temple”.

elbaliava smoor delyts yleuqinU Uniquely styled rooms available

Minty’s Folly “ The Restaurant” came out of the idea that North Food Restaurant was originally opened for fun but lacked a real name or image, with its first birthday on 12 October, Minty has finally branded her idea. With a unique restaurant design and an even more eclectic mix of styles and collectables in the guesthouse it could only be a folly.

elbaliava smoor delyts yleuqinU

ibarK ni yoS wohK 1.o N iahT

aN

ylloF s’ytniM

Minty’s Folly Restaurant & Guesthouse are located 1km outside Ao Nang on the Krabi Road.

Owned and run by the mother and daughter team Mint and Fong who we featured in our secret corner section of Krabi Magazine last year and who remain as enthusiastic and energetic as ever, the restaurant has gone from strength to strength throughout the first year.

na No A

daoR

ibarK ni yoS wohK 1.o N N o.1 Khow Soy in Krabi S 1 io

hc ae

Bg

2/

gnaN oA loohcS

ylloF s’ytniM

ibarK ni yoS wohK 1.o N S

N Ao

io 2/1

Minty’s Folly S

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Additions to the menu now include wonderful fresh pastas complimented by home made Italian Bruschetta and Ciabatta and they are now fast gaining a reputation as serving one of the best burgers around.

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A labyrinth of almost 20 wooden doors reveal quiet corners full of interesting items and images with endless pictures and carvings of Buddha and references to travel. Guests are free to wonder around the first and second floors of this house which concludes with its own library and TV lounge on the second floor.

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Minty says: “We have spent so much time looking for the right breads for our restaurant and are very happy with our new baker. They make our burgers and items like our smoked salmon bruschetta even better than ever!

Of course our famous Khow Soy is the dish the remains the most popular and we can’t express enough our gratitude to the long list of loyal customers who continue to come in for our Khow Soy.” “Our original principal of good quality but low cost food has stood the test of time so far and we still have nothing on the menu that exceeds 200 Baht, we will hold out on this principal as long as we can, hence we find our 10 tables under strain occasionally!”

Open Open All Day 10.00 14.00 Closed Sundays

While the restaurant already serves a selection of beers, wines and spinits, even more choice will soon be on offer with one important new addition.

December sees the opening of the brand new lounge bar that will effectively double the size of their restaurant and offer a stylish lounge and cocktail bar to further enhance the visitor experience to Minty’s Folly, Customers will soon be able to keep up with events, sport and the news on the large screen TV, have a relaxing game of pool and enjoy live music from the occasional blues band.

17.00 - 22.00

Closed on Sunday Restauraunt Lounge Cocktail Bar

A cool, quiet alternative Fresh pasta

The bar will take its own name “RICKS BAR” and have its own individual style despite being within Minty’s Folly.

Home-Made Sandwiches Burgers & Wraps

“You can expect an air of sophistication and class when you come to Rick’s Bar” says Minty. “We decided not to go down the road of many other bars in the area with loud music, cheap furniture and gaudy furnishings. With Minty’s Folly we created something totally unique and off-the-wall, and we thought that Rick’s Bar should bolster this image”

RICK’S BAR Uniquely styled rooms available Cocktails

Wines Pool Table TV “Unique and sophisticated, Ricks is a one-of-a-kind place in Ao Nang” N o.1 Khow Soy in Krabi

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MInty’s Folly and Rick’s Bar together are promising to become one of the most interesting, unusual, eclectic and quality places to eat, drink and be merry in the whole of Krabi.

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“Cocktails, good wines, ice-cold beers and imported spirits will be served as well as having the choice of taking them in the bar or at your table in the restaurant a few feet away. You can drink in the restaurant or eat in the bar - up to you!”

Moo2, Ao Nang to Na Thai Road Eng: 0894692415 Thai: 0874557052

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by Joe Alonzo

I

magine yourself 27 meters in the air, your toes are dangling off the edge of a platform, hundreds of spectators stand in silence watching in anticipating your choreographed leap. Then jumping off‌‌ twisting, turning and flipping as you plunge 85 kilometers per hour into the ocean below with no protection other than your skin and your experience. Sound thrilling?

It’s called Cliff diving. For the past 4 years Red Bull has sponsored the world series on the event traveling the globe hand-picking prime locations for these adrenaline seeking divers to hurl themselves off of.

This years competition has taken these elite group of individuals from the chilly waters of France and Denmark, to the dirty water of Boston and finally hosting the championship and final round in the pristine waters of Krabi. Spanning 5 amazing months, the world series has touched down in 8 countries, 4 continents and in both hemispheres; it is one of the most impressive and comprehensive competitions on the planet.

All this jumping started late in the 18th century on the island of Maui in Hawaii by King Kahekili. It was initiated as a rite of passage for his battling warriors, as he would challenge them to follow him as he jumped off soaring cliffs as a means to prove their loyalty to him. The sacred place where this initiation rite took place on Maui is now referred to as ‘Kahekili’s Leap’ and is regarded as the birthplace of this majestic, nerve wracking and adrenaline-pumping sport.

‘Mana’ and ‘pono’ in Hawaiian terms means “life-energy”.

Power and balance were applied to each dive as these ancient warriors took the plunge into the water below. These principles were essential to the activity and are still held as focal points in training and to each diver as they prepare for each death-defying dive. In ancient times cliff dives could be upwards of 45 meters but in modern times anything over 28 meters is disproportionate between the increased risk and

the added time for extra acrobatics, so the competitive cliff diving heights range between 26.5 and 28 meters.

To put it all in perspective, imagine jumping off an 8 story building, twisting, turning and flipping for 3 seconds in mid air, then plunging into the water at speeds of 85 Kilometers per hour and finally coming to a stop in approximately 3 meters of water, the force on the body at the time of impact is about 3 times that of gravity, which is enough to dent a car. The force on organs and bodily tissue at these speeds is dangerous; this is why the divers must be in perfect mental and physical health prior to any dive. Cliff diving is unlike any other sport on

the planet and tests each athletes ability every dive.

Joey Zuber, one of the coaches from Russia’s Artem Silchenko’s team tells us “The speed needs to be perfect, the jump has to be perfect, the mind has to be ready. You need to have that fear and control in check” The physiology on this sport is quite amazing, when a diver enters the water at speeds of 85kph the lower half of the body begins rapidly decelerating while the upper of half of the body is still rapidly accelerating, this is the point where there is most stress on the body and the highest risk of injury can occur. At his point of impact the diver must enter the water in perfect form in order to reduce the rate of deceleration and lessening the effects of contortion or compression of organs and parts of the body. If a diver is to make a mistake and does a belly-flop or a ‘horizontal entrance’ the effects on the body are like that of jumping from a 13 meter building onto raw concrete!

There are a number of injuries that can occur during cliff diving if the dive is not executed properly such as bruises, dislocated joints, broken bones, compressed spines, injured discs, paralysis and even death. It is for these reasons that professional cliff diving is reserved to only a handful of competitive individuals, currently there are between 3-4 dozen competitive cliff divers worldwide.

Seasoned cliff diver Orlando Duque gives us some perspective of the sensations a cliff diver feels during a dive; “Above water it’s really fast what happens, then you can hear a loud bang and all of a sudden you are underwater and everything is quiet, and all you hear is the bubbles all around you. It’s surreal. The impact, the adrenaline, everything that is happening to your body is a big rush that you feel. This contrast of being scared while jumping in the air, the speed and then in the water is what makes us completely happy. That’s what gets us divers into the sport more and more.”

After winning the 2009 Red Bull world series competition and continuing his passion for the past 15 years he has since racked up nine world championship titles and two Guinness world records, Orlando Duque doesn’t show any sign of stopping his love and passion for the sport. “I love this sport because it offers a sort of feeling that you don’t really find anywhere else. It’s so pure. It’s just you and your body and what you trained your body to do. That almost flying feeling captured me.”

Orlando Duque is the winner of the 2009 Red Bull cliff diving competition and has been in the top 4 rankings ever since.

This year Orlando took home the third place trophy back to his friends and family in Columbia, and is back to the practice pool getting ready for the 2014 games.

The champion of this year’s 2013 competition is up-andcoming athlete Artem Silchenko from Russia. The personal trainer residing in China has been training professionally for the past 6 years and has seen steady improvement in his ability on the platform. Since 2009 he has held company with the top athletes in the sport and has been revered for his work ethic and perfectionist’s attitude. Taking the crown from 3-time world champion Gary Hunt, the 29 year old Russian sees no end to his ability. He finished off this year’s competition with

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an impressive bank arm stand, two and a half twists and two and half somersault blind entry dive took only 9’s and 10’s from all judges, the single highest scoring dive for the day. On the platform Atrem was pure concentration as he prepared for his final dive of the competition, towering above the crowded boats below he balanced himself on 2 hands, took a minute to gather his thoughts and energy, then took his leap, 3 seconds later he emerged from the water to the roars of the ecstatic crowd, he knew he had done it, he was the new crowned champion of 2013.

The camaraderie between athletes in this sport is unlike any other in the world. All of the competitors were seen standing side by side on the beach and in the pre-diving area, giving advice, tips and general words of congratulations to each other. A tight knit group of individuals compete in this sport with many training together and all gathering for post-competition parties and talking amongst one another like old friends.

Strolling onto the Ladak island after the competition was over and the coronation was underway, it was like coming to a regular beach party, everyone was drinking a bottle of champagne, hugging one another, laughing and celebrating the moment. There was no backstabbing glares or resentment, no cross-armed tough guys - only friendly divers.

FINAL OVERALL STANDINGS: 1. Artem Silchenko | RUS | 1030pts 2. Gary Hunt | UK | 980 3. Orlando Duque | COL | 860 4. Jonathan Paredes | MEX | 600 5. David Colturi | USA | 520 5. Michal Navratil | CZE | 520 5. Steven LoBue | USA | 520 8. Blake Aldridge | UK | 380 9. Mat Cowen | UK | 236 10. Anatoliy Shabotenko | UKR | 200 Images © Red Bull Media House

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by Emily Huang-Ramirez

An Actor’s Lot And then there was that time I was a body double for a German film. No, not that kind of film. As universal entropy would have it, I found myself at a casting call for extras in Ao Nang one afternoon, thanks to a dear friend whom had a previous life in the biz. In survival mode, I can be bought baht pretty easily so long as it leaves my dignity intact, and being an extra was simple enough so I was game.

A few weeks later I met the director of the film so that he could inspect my hands. I was going to be cast as a hand double.

Be still my beating heart, our time has finally arrived for fame and body part specific insurance! But, he took one look at my hands though, and shunned them. They were too small, and not doctor-y enough. I was bummed not because my hands had botched their in into the body double business, but because it was going to pay big, like Thailand big, like three months rent big, like pints of Guinness for the whole bar (on a slow night) big. Instead, I was corralled into the group of extras (many of them lucky tourists just passing through), not a problem I would still have catering tent privileges. Fair enough.

So there I was, five in the morning being picked up to go to set in Ao Nammao, where I would spend a grueling elevenhour day mostly spent sitting, partly because it was our job as extras to just be there, and partly because it began to rain.

When it became apparent that the rain would not subside, an old wive’s tale was spurned into action. By sticking a piece of lemongrass upside down into the earth and having a virgin pray for the rain to stop, the rain actually did stop. Of course, none of the foreign girls were asked to do the praying, and afterward there was a lot of curiosity by the German male contention as to who did the praying.

As I was sitting/waiting/sleeping however, I was summoned to the costume trailer; I was being upgraded to body double.

Cut to a scene whereby my back right shoulder took spotlight in a rickety car. I was propped up by two pillows, as is the custom whenever short people ride in things with wheels. I was also filmed riding away on a motorbike in frame 54, so there’s that, too. Watch for my backside coming to a movie theater near you.

I thought the stint was up, but a few days later I was asked to return, again with the obnoxious crack of dawn morning call.

This time though, something was different. I went straight to make-up. For the next hour, I watched as a gash was painted into my thigh of which a bamboo stick would impale. Because I couldn’t walk for fear that the synthetic flesh would tear away from my skin, I was taken to set by wheelchair, carried over the muddy dirt road by two men. This made the villager extras think I was someone important but alas, I’m a plebian, too comrades.

Inside a makeshift clinic, I was laid upon a gurney, and greeted by a fellow American. Let’s call him Gary and keep his real identity private so I don’t get sued for slander. I’ll preface this by saying say Gary forgot that he’s not a real doctor, he just plays one on screen. A real nurse was on set to show him how to fake the beginning of stitching a wound. Gary was too busy being actor-y, what with his I-still-surf-at-forty-somethingyears-old bit and I-still-party-in-Koh-Samui gag. Good story,

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Dr. Gary. This is even more awkward by the twenty something or odd crew members silently watching our exchange, with Gary laying it on thick, ending each sentence with a wink.

Anyhow, the nurse shows him how to insert the needle laterally for the first stitch, and Gary takes a stab (a terrible pun) and begins to go vertically. I look at the clock: it’s amateur hour. I decide to water it down for Gary and say to insert the needle sideways, thinking I’m speaking Gary. He acknowledges and continues his verbal diarrhea to me but I have a bad feeling about this. Things escalated after this. Like, surprisingly fast.

The cameras were rolling and as dependable as Gary is, he begins to insert the needle downwards. As expected, it penetrated through the synthetic skin and into my succulent thigh flesh. I instinctively hit Stabs McGee on the back and screamed, “You broke skin!” Gary stops, covers his mouth in horror, apologizes profusely and exits right, never to be seen again. The Director runs out of the screening tent, onto the set and…hugs me. Hugs were on the house. Panic ensues from the crew, and all I do is laugh hysterically. I am worthless in these types of situations.

I wish I had been in the States at that moment. The consequences of said event would’ve funded me comfortably for the foreseeable future. Instead, they doubled my pay,

offered me another go at the catering tent (I’ll have my sixth banana muffin for the day, uhthankyou), and escorted me home stat in time for an afternoon siesta. What service! Of course, I never heard from them again. The puncture wound has downgraded to a tiny brown spot on my thigh, easily confused with a mosquito bite. Everything is well again.

All flesh impaling incidents aside, the cast and crew were wonderful. I’ll say that Gary was my least favorite for obvious reasons, but he’s human and I don’t hold it against him. I learned a lot about the filming industry in Thailand. Apparently there is no education for make-up artists, they just learn on the job. This is quite impressive considering how realistic my gash was, and from what I know this was going to be a blockbuster film. And for the Germans, the Thais are the most efficient at running a movie set, and thus they’re the top pick in the industry. In fact, they are said to be the best in the world to work with. That’s a pretty tall compliment coming from the Germans, I’d say.

So, would I do it again? Absolutely. If you’ve ever done this type of work, you know that it entails you being ovaries-deep in boredom. But, money talks when you have champagne tastes on a beer budget.

Thai Restaurant & Bar Sky Lounge & Lush Garden T: 075-637-088 M: 084-455-0096 Free shuttle service Open Hours: 11:00 - 24:00

Free shuttle service

Chill out with your friends or enjoy a romantic dinner at The Hilltop!

Open Hours: 11:00 - 24:00

T: 075-637-088 M: 084-455-0096

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As Krabi’s beach areas become more and more crowded, it’s a relief to know that one small corner of this province is still the postcard-picture image of paradise.

The unspoilt beach at Klong Muang is just a stones throw from Ao Nang and yet, the peace and serenity here is a million miles from the tourist traps and big brash resorts just down the road.

Places to stay in the area are located directly on the beach. Luxury rooms and bungalows look out over the waters of the Andaman Sea, giving you the perfect view of a spectacular sunset.

As the sun sets over the Andaman, the time has come to relax and sample some of the finest seafood you’ll ever taste. Krabi is known country-wide for the fresh produce from these waters.

While welcoming you with open arms, the small local community are also active in preserving the beauty of the area and encourage visitors to do the same.

This small piece of paradise will leave a long-lasting memory. Enjoy the beauty of Klong Muang and remember, don’t tell too many people - this is your secret hideaway!

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Frog & Catfish

Phone: +66 (0)75 644 436 Mobile: +66 (0)84 773 0301 www.frogandcatfishkrabi.com

AUTHENTIC WESTERN LUXURY Thai cuisine Menu Accomodation

Klong Muang

Hong Naak Cape

The princess’ Residence

Siew Bay

Natin Spicy Garden

Klong Son Temple

Pakasai Resort

Soi 1

Nathai Resort

Railay

Ao Nang Villa

Post Office Full Moon

Long Tail Boats to Railay

TUP ISLAND CHICKEN ISLAND

PODA ISLAND

Ao Nang

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Ban Chong Pli

Krabi Thai Village

Klong Heang

Long Tail Boats to Railay

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Cobra Show

Ban Chong Pli School

British International School

Villa Rattana

Nong Thale School

4203

Thip Residence

Tharue

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Kaew grovaram temple

Hemthanon Rd.

Ut ta ra kit

Krabi hospital

Ao Nammao Bay

Gastropod Fossil Susaan Hoi - Shell Cemetry

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TO: BigC, Tesco Lotus, Krabi Airport

Morning Market

Bus Station

Huay Toh Waterfall

Boats to Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Jum Passenger Port of Krabi

Treansport Department Labour Department Krabi Immigration

Ban Leam Pho

Saitai Canooeing

Ban Ao Nammao

Long Tail Boats to Railay

Mosque

Ban Nammao School

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town, Ao Nammao Long Tail Boats to Krabi to

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Ananda Pools

Sai Tai Temple Krabi Cart

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Passenger Por Port of Ao Nang o Phi Phi, Lan ta, Phuket Phuket Boats tto Lanta,

Long Beach

Elephant Camp

Ban Klong Son

Elephant Camp

Nong Thale River Residence

Ban Nong Thale

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Ban Klong Muang Klong Muang Plaza

@Sea Condo

Elephant Camp

Nakamanda Resort & Spa

The Krabi Sands Resort

Sofitel Phokeethra Resort & Spa

Ban Tup Kaek

Hong Nak Nature Reserve

Frog & Catfish Restaurant

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Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort

Krabi Villa Co. Krabi Villa Cafe

The Beach House Restaurant Sabai Ba Bar

Klong Muang Beach

Pong Cape

KOH HONG ISLAND

Tup Kaek Bay Beach Phulay A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Anyavee Tubkaek Beach Resort The Tup Kaak Tup Kaek Sunset Beach Resort

Hang Nak Nature Hike

Khao Thong

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kohlanta lanta old town It was once called Ban Si Raya and was the commercial port for Chinese and Arabic trading boats that sailed between the ports of Phuket, Penang and Singapore. Today it is a village with a few rows of stilted shop houses home to an ancient community that was established on the island long ago.

It is a picturesque place with Chinese timer shophouses dating back 100 years, from the old days of sea trading. Near the shacks along the coast, local fishermen dock their longtail boats giving the whole scene a very “Thai” look.

the lighthouse Located in Tanod Cape on the southernmost tip of the island, the lighthouse tower of Lanta is the perfect symbol of solitude. It is the place where immaculate nature still survives as it is rarely reached by tourists due to the rugged road conditions.

just arrived It consists of two islands, Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai. Koh Lanta Noi is the smaller of the two and does not have tourist facilities. Visitors travelling by road from the mainland pass through the smaller island on the way to Koh Lanta Yai - the center of the tourist operations.

Ban Sala Dan village on the north side of the island is Lanta Yai’s commercial center and the pier where visitors arrive on the island. It is a row of shops, seafood restaurants on stilts, dive shops, tour operators, banks and guest houses that cater for newcomers on the island.

The bulk of the Lanta beaches lie along the west coast of the island and can all be reached by road: Khao Kwang, Khlong Dao and Phra Ae all have long stretches of white sand facing the Andaman sea, while Khlong Khong, Khlong Nin and Ba Kan Tiang and other smaller bays are all nice to relax and swim.

ba kantiang bay Spectacular crystal–clear seawater and soft white sand, romantic sunsets in utmost privacy. This is why Ba Kantiang has come to symbolize a hideaway in Lanta for relaxing in natural surroundings.

national park The park covers a marine area dotted with several small sandy islands surrounded by coral reefs.

The headquarters are located on the island’s southern extremity.

fire shows This is definitely one interesting part of the Lanta beach culture. A fire dancing show is usually performed by young boys performing twisting acrobatics swinging burning torches and ropes lit on fire around their muscular bodies. A distinguishing show that sparkles in the dark.

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sea gypsies Known as Ban San Kau, this sea gypsy’s settlement is based on south-east Lanta Yai. It is there that an old clan of traditional Chao Ley try to preserve a disappearing way of life in this fast-developing island.

nature Because of its bio-diversity and richness of natural resources, Lanta is a good place for trekking. Explore limestone cave chambers and passageways in the Lanta caves, or walk upstream to the spring water waterfall where you can swim in cool rock pools.

Asia’s Leading Boutique Beach Resort

Asia’s Leading Spa Resort

World Luxury Suite Hotel

koh lanta scuba diving & snorkelling There are no fewer than 19 dive operators on Koh Lanta and most of them - if not all - will be qualified to take first-timers out for a fully supervised scuba dive.

Dive sites nearby include the world-famous Phi Phi islands as well as the Koh Haa archipelago - all of which are within easy reach. The price you pay will generally include all equipment rental, lunch, fruits and drinking water and as a bonus, the dive sites and boats will be much quieter at this time of the year.

A lot of the dive operators speak a variety of European languages, so there’s a good chance you can get an instructor that - quite literally speaks your language.

If you’re dead set on staying well and truly within reach of the water’s surface, then snorkelling is the way forward and many of the dive boats also welcome snorkellers on board as well as divers.

thai cooking classes Thai food in the west is generally quite expensive, creamy and “toned down” in comparison to what you find in this country. Here, in contrast, it’s very cheap, plentiful and packs much more of a punch. Learning to cook authentic Thai food in Thailand is about as good as it gets, and many of the kitchens are open-air or even on the beach front - just to add to the experience.

Classes are a great way to spend a morning or afternoon if the weather is a little wet for other outdoor activities, and you get to eat everything you make too - so you don’t have to worry about what’s for lunch!

rent a moped & explore Mopeds are everywhere in Thailand, and Lanta is no exception. They’re cheap, easy to operate and are hard wearing.

In Saladan you can hire them absolutely everywhere. You might have to leave your passport with the rental agency, but don’t worry - this is standard practice. Everyone does it. It’s an insurance for them that you’ll bring the bike back, is all.

Biking around Lanta is the best way to truly explore all it’s nooks and crannies, and you might even come across a few surprises along the way….

activities have a massage If the thought of even standing upright is just to much - congratulations: you have successfully integrated into the Lanta way of life. If you have reached this point in your stay here, then it’s time for a massage.

If you have never had a Thai massage, you’re in for a treat. Unlike the more traditional notion of a massage, the Thai version does not use soothing strokes as it rubs scented oils into your tired body. Oh no.

It uses a “pressure point” method that means lots of hard pressing, twisting and cracking of joints!

But it’s not anywhere as bad as it might sound - otherwise no one would do it. It’s invigorating and totally relaxing all at once, and after a hour of this, you feel like you’ve had a great workout and your body will be rid of any niggling aches and pains.

You can have it as hard or soft as you like - and your masseuse will usually ask you if the pressure she is using is ok for you, and will adjust accordingly.

Probably one of the best things about getting a Thai massage in Thailand is it’s availability to everyone on any budget. You can choose to luxuriate in one of the breathtaking spas that Lanta has on her shores, or you can find a small massage hut somewhere. While the surroundings will not be on par with the spa’s, you can still get a great massage for a couple of hundred Baht, which can’t be argued with.

help local animals Rated on TripAdvisor as the No.1 activity on Koh Lanta, Lanta Animal Welfare (LAW) is a non-profit organisation working to relieve the suffering of local animals through sterilization, vaccination and medical care.

Its’ sterilization and health centre, which currently cares for over 60 dogs and cats, is open daily to visitors who can tour the facility and meet the animals.

Whether you’re interested in taking a dog for a stroll on the beach (some of the dogs love to swim!) or are happier cuddling one of the many affectionate cats, LAW is the place where you can get your furry fix while contributing to a worthwhile cause.

www.lantaanimalwelfare.com

by Maeve Henry

Cooking for a cause

TIME FOR LIME, Koh Lanta an hour of theory. For me, this segment was fascinating, and having already taken several different cooking classes while travelling around Thailand, I was amazed by how much was covered in the theory element at Time for Lime – stuff I’d never been taught before!

We were told how to cut ingredients a certain way, why they are cut that way – and which bits of the meal you’re not actually supposed to eat, as they are purely there for flavour (I wish I’d known this the first time I tried to munch on a slice of galangal floating in my Thai soup!). We were then given advice on which brands of fish sauce and soy sauce were the best for flavour – I didn’t know there was such a difference in taste and quality

For all the travelling “foodies” out there, a visit to Time For Lime on the beautiful island of Koh Lanta is a must.

Opened in 2003 by Junie Kovacs, a Norwegian-American with an impressive knowledge of Thai cuisine, this creative Thai Cooking School and Restaurant (along with eight cozy bungalows) is located on Klong Dao beachfront on Koh Lanta, in the south west of Thailand. They offer quality, fresh ingredients, which can sometimes be surprisingly difficult to get in very touristy locations, where even the Thais themselves sometimes resort to shop bought curry pastes. Time for Lime is run on a different philosophy, and the passion for delivering a superior food experience is obvious.

I decided to try out the cooking class after several word of mouth recommendations. In particular, I was drawn to it on hearing that the profits from both the cooking class and the restaurant are donated to Lanta Animal Welfare, the only animal welfare organisation on the island (more on this later).

The menu for the cooking classes changes on a daily basis, meaning there is an option to take classes over several days or even the full complement of six classes in a week.

I chose the Thursday class, tempted as I was by the opportunity to master dishes such as pad thai and papaya salad, not to mention learning how to make red curry paste from scratch!

There were 10 of us in the class, everyone from a different country! It was fun to break the ice with introductions over a yummy lemongrass Margarita (Time for Lime’s signature cocktail – I was given the recipe for this too!) – and then the class kicked off with

among all the different brands out there. We were encouraged to take photos of the ‘good’ bottles, to have something to refer to when shopping for ingredients back home – a very helpful hint!

In that first hour, we were given so much useful information about Thai cuisine that I found myself writing pages and pages of notes to keep with my recipes. All of this took place as we sat facing directly on to the beach, with relaxing chill out music playing and our instructor’s jokes generating a lot of laughter.

Then it was time to get serious!

the time it ended, I was totally full – not just with the delicious food I’d created, but with so much more knowledge about Thai cuisine than I’d expected to learn from just one class.

I’ve used my recipes, my notes and the apron we got for free to take back home several times, always it brings back good memories and fantastic flavors.

If you’re travelling in the area and interested in a cooking class, make this your first stop. Not only will you be amazed by how much you will learn and the delicious food you’ll prepare, the money you pay for the experience will go to benefit one of the most important charities on the island. And if you need any more reason than that, then may I suggest the Lemongrass Margarita..?

- For more information visit their web sites: www.timeforlime.net, www.lantaanimalwelfare.com

We were all assigned our own cooking stations, woks and “killer” knives at the ready. The actual cooking part turned out to be just as much fun as the theory before it. We chopped, pounded and stir-fried and then, after a little lesson in food presentation, we were ready to eat! I was pretty amazed at how good everything tasted, and couldn’t believe my own hands had created it all!

While we ate, I took the chance to read a brochure about Lanta Animal Welfare. This organisation was founded by Junie with the primary aim of being a sterilisation centre for Koh Lanta, in order to keep the dog and cat population of the island under control. But also this is the only place that can help injured and abused animals. It receives no government funding and runs purely on donations (and the profits from Time for Lime); it is run mostly by volunteers, and has so far sterilised and treated over 6,000 animals, as well as helping over 30 homeless dogs and cats get adopted by new homes in Europe and North America, in only the last year.

My food (and my cocktails!) tasted even better when I realized where my money was going. In total, the class lasted about five hours, interspersed with a few eating and drinking breaks. By

Come visit our HAPPY ANIMAL CENTER! EVERY DAY: 9.30 am - 5 pm for Tours, Doggie Walking, Kitty Cuddles & Adoptions • Keeping the Island safe with sterilizations & rabies vaccinations.

• Treating sick, injured and abused animals.

• Please help us to continue this important work, as we don’t get any government support.

A non-profit Organization

We’re in Pra-Ae opposite the school.

Tel: 084 304 4331 If it wasn’t for Cooking School we wouldn’t be here.

They are 3 km north from us on Klong Dao Beach front.

DIID YOU KNOW....

We have built LANTA ANIMAL WELFARE’s Center & our profits support their daily cost?

So, come on join the fun Learn, Eat & Drink your hearts out! AND FEEL so GOOD

cooking school beach bar & food

The first on the Island.

QUALITY - FUNKY & FUN ATMOSPHERE FOR over 9 YEARS

HAPPY HOURS 4 - 6:30 pm on our famous cocktails.

Great hot Bar Snacks, and the “Special dish of the day” too!

Bungalows

8 cozy air-con & fan

Closed SUNDAYS starting from Nov. 1st.

KLONG DAO BEACH FRONT - KOH LANTA Tel: 075 684 590 www.timeforlime.net

main event with a

dining Seven Seas @ Pimalai Resort & Spa [ fine fusion [

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koh lanta

99 Moo 5, Ba Kan Tiang Beach.

Tides @ Layana Resort & Spa

[ fine fusion [

Average price: 400-900+THB What to Try: The Boeuf Charolais Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: 6:30am - 10:30am & 3pm - 11pm Tel:+66 (0)75 607 999 Website: www.pimalai.com

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A truly stunning place that demands you stand slack-jawed as you walk into it. Openplan everywhere - even the kitchen - with some of the best views you can hope to witness whilst enjoying your meal. Their chef is a talent to behold, and the food from the kitchens here is top-notch indeed.

The restaurant and its show kitchen offer a comprehensive “a la carte” fusion style dinner menu which means that superior ingredients from all over the globe are marinated, cooked and served together on the same plate - generating a symphony of flavours.

The presentation of the food is beautiful and it’s a feast for the eyes even before you pick up your fork.

A wide-ranging collection of international wines has been assembled from which you can select an ideal accompaniment to your meal.

272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach A formal restaurant perched on the very edge of the beach overlooking the sea and open to the cooling sea breezes. Guests have the choice of a cool interior venue or an al fresco beachside setting on the deck in front of the restaurant.

Serving a mouth-watering a la carte selection of international dishes, as well as traditional Thai fare and seafood specialties all made from the freshest of ingredients.

The chef, Khun Apichai, grows his own herbs in a beautiful garden right on the premises and the presentation of his food is straight out of a Monet.

The menu quality is matched by an extensive wine list to compliment the food perfectly.

Average price: 400-900+THB What to Try: Healthy Spa Cuisine Menu Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: 6:30am - 10:30am & 11:30am - 6pm Tel: +66 (0)75 607 100

Time for Lime

[ creative thai & fusion [

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Website: www.layanaresort.com

72/2 Mo 3, Klong Dao Beach, Saladan. Look for the “lime green” sign.

Beachcomber @ Lanta Castaway Resort [ tex mex & thai [

Average price: 490 THB for 6 dish Tasting menu What to Try: The lemongrass or chili Margarita Free WiFi?: Yes Opening Hours: Happy hour on cocktails 4 – 6.30pm Food served from 5pm – Closed Sundays Tel: +66 (0)75 684 590 Website: www.timeforlime.net

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A small, funky un-snobbish place with passion and soul, on the beachfront. It’s been going strong for over 10 years. Not only a famous professional Cooking School, but also now a well know restaurant that serves a high quality 6 dish Tasting Menu with an extremely good value. This is the place to go for those who want something more than the regular tourist norm. They serve great wine with low prices, and their cocktails are the talk of the town. In the tree top adult-zone you can you can relish the sea, while having a peek at what the cooking school “chefs” are creating down below. What also makes this place unique is that their profit goes to the charity Lanta Animal Welfare.

So, while you enjoy wining & dining, you support of great cause too.

Note: The Tasting Menu changes every day. If you prefer, you can also order just a main dish.

299 Moo 2 Phra Ae, Saladan, Koh Lanta.

If you’re searching for a laid-back, yet stylish beach-front dining experience , then Beachcomber is the place for you. The restaurant features a terrific menu selection and is best known for its authentic TEX-MEX dishes. You’ll also want to try the large selection of savory Thai, Western and Seafood BBQ dishes. The open-air restaurant is situated near the beach and there is also plenty of outdoor seating on the beach-front deck and in the garden.

The atmosphere is relaxed, the staff is friendly, and the setting is beautiful with a lovely garden and a terrific view of Long Beach and the Andaman Sea. You’ll also want to enjoy a before and/or after dinner drink at our beach bar which serves up a wide variety of cocktails and delicious frozen drinks.

Average price: 250 - 350THB What to Try: The Tex Mex food Free WiFi?: Bungalow guests only Opening Hours: Daily from 7am - 9pm Tel: +66 (0)75 684 851 Website: www.lantacastaway.com

spectacular view to boot.

Dive and Relax

The wonderfully titled “Dive & Relax” is the 5-star PADI dive center located on the premises of Lanta Castaway Resort.

Cameron, the owner of Dive and Relax, runs a tight ship - if you’ll excuse the pun - with strict standards of customer care, safety, cleanliness and expertise in his staff that are very impressive. The impeccable dive shop located next to the reception of Lanta Castaway Resort reflects this with neat rows of equipment, filed paperwork and not a speck of dirt anywhere.

Cameron has 16 years of experience in diving and prides himself on hiring only experienced Divemasters and Instructors that offer the best in customer service to his clients. Before the day’s diving, guests are greeted warmly and introduced to their dive guide or instructor for the day, before taking a seat at the restaurant and having their dive briefing over a cup of coffee and breakfast. This is a nice touch and one that instantly banishes any potential nerves as well as meeting the other divers.

preparation for the dives ahead.

The dives in and around Krabi are spectacular, with colourful soft corals, countless reef fish, warm waters and gentle currents that make diving accessible for any level of diver - even those who want to try it out for the first time. As the speedboats get to the dive sites ahead of the larger dive boats, the dive sites are much quieter and sometimes devoid of any other divers by the time the Dive & Relax boats arrive.

In-between the 2 dives, lunch is served that can include 4 different items along with rice - simple and delicious, and accompanied by cold soft drinks and water to quench the thirst.

Before, during and after each of the dives, the staff and boat crew of Dive & Relax are the epitome of professionalism. Kind, courteous and friendly without the over-inflated egos that can infect many a dive-professional. The dives are well organised according to weather and current conditions and the groups are sorted according to ability, so everyone has the best dive they could have.

Returning back to the beach outside the resort just after lunchtime leaves time for a well-deserved nap, massage or even another dip in the ocean before the sun begins to dip below the horizon.

Dive trips done the way they should be. Simple.  Dive and Relax are beginning their 5th season on Koh Lanta  Dive groups are strictly limited to 10 divers per boat

After all questions are answered, it’s a mere 10 meters down to the beach, where the speedboats await to take you off for your dives to nearby Phi Phi Islands, as well as other local dive spots.

As you are helped onto the sleek boats, the equipment is already set up onboard, the spotless dive gear strapped to shiny tanks and all secured neatly in rows, with no hanging hoses, errant masks on the floor or dripping wetsuits on seats, as can sometimes be the case with many other dive operators.

As the boats start their short trip to the dive sites, cold drinks and snacks are served to pass the time before kitting up, in

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With 2 speedboats, they can offer 2 different dive destinations each day - with enough interest  With a strict “No Classroom” policy for PADI learners, they give students portable DVD players so they can watch their instructional videos on the beach with a fruit shake!  The speedboat captains and boat crew for Dive & Relax are trained to PADI Rescue Diver standard  Dive & Relax are ranked Number 1 on Trip Advisor for tours on Koh Lanta

Lanta Castaway With a name like “Lanta Castaway”, you would be forgiven for thinking that this place is on a far-flung sandy knoll in the middle of nowhere. Indeed, it conjures up images of deserted sands, languid oceans and swaying coconut trees, perhaps with a mojito thrown in for good measure.

have loads of room inside, with king sized beds, cable TV, air-con, hot showers, personal safes, minibars and more.

We were each given WiFi passwords to access the Internet connection that spans the whole place here, meaning you can be at your “office” while sipping a beer and watching the horizon on your beach lounger.

The “Sea Breeze” name to some of the bungalows is well chosen, as they are just a few metres from the beach.

Lanta beaches are pretty spectacular by anyone’s standards, and this is no exception. Clean, soft sand and baby blue water at 30 degrees Celsius is literally right on the doorstep, and should be celebrated in appropriate fashion.

So when you see the sign for the resort nestled at the side of the road amidst a swathe of other brightly coloured notices, a 7-Eleven and the omnipresent bamboo bars and restaurants that make Koh Lanta what it is, you would again be forgiven for thinking that you had been duped. Castaway-ed is an impossibility with all this going on around - surely?

Surely not.

Taking the short road off the main drag is as close to a time-machine as you can get. As soon as you walk through the archway welcoming you to the place, you realise that this is probably not what you were expecting. If first impressions are anything to go by, the immaculately kept gardens tended by those always-happy workers score highly. The meandering pathway takes you under an enormous cashew tree and into the reception area, where more warm welcomes await.

After the gardens, the next thing that hits you is the layout of the place. You can’t help but stare all around you and take everything in - because it’s all there right in front of you. The reception desk, seating area with Internet computers for guest use, restaurant and dive shop are all situated under one huge wooden and palm-leafed roof. Very castawayesque and the open-plan layout meant you could wander at will throughout the whole place without going to the trouble of asking directions or opening doors.

The one door you were glad to have though, is to your deluxe bungalow.

These are a far cry from the bamboo shacks of backpacker days, let me assure you. With 19 luxury units, they come fitted with all you could possibly need for a stay in opulent comfort. They

The Mad Bull beach bar is right on the beach and demands to be lounged around in at any time of the day. Chairs, oversized mattresses, sun loungers and wooden bar stools are laid out for you to watch the breathtaking spectacle that is a Lanta sunset unfold - with icy beverages.

As well as the usual beers, shakes and spirits, the beach bar also offers a wide range of cocktails, expertly crafted and served in “proper” cocktail glasses. A nice touch and one that is only sweetened by the regular Happy Hour specials they have most evenings around sunset.

After a couple of sundowners, it’s time for the main event - the evening meal.

Lanta Castaway Resort has an Ace up it’s sleeve when it comes to food, as it does Tex Max food extremely well.

So well in fact, that it has become THE place on the island - and off it for lovers of the fusion cuisine.

With refried beans, mexican rice, shredded cheese, guacamole, fresh salsa, onions, peppers and more accompanying the dishes, it’s apparent that some form of “Texan influence” has made a mark here.

The owner, Darrin, hails from the U.S.A and spent several years in Texas. One of his friends, when visiting him at the resort, decided to train the cooks to prepare Tex-Mex food the way it was meant to be. This turned out to be one of the best decisions he has made, as he now has a product that no-one can come close to.

With exceptional cuisine, crafted cocktails, warm and friendly staff, sumptuous accommodations and a location to die for, you will be converted to the “Castaway” life and never want to leave…

Highlights  Real-deal Tex-Mex food properly made  Spotlessly clean rooms & manicured grounds  Individual bungalows for real privacy and luxury  A host of activities available for booking right at reception  Quiet and right on the beach  Expertly crafted cocktails at the bar  Super friendly staff  Massage and dive center on -site

Koh Lanta Ferry to Mainland

Boat

s to K Ao N oh Jum ,K ang, Raila rabi, Ph iP y, Ph uket hi

Koh Lanta Noi BAN SALADAN

Khaw Kwang Beach

Ferry to Mainland

Lanta Car Rental

Time for Lime

Klong Dao Beach

Layana Resort & Spa

Mangrove Forest Agrotourism Center longtail boat trips

Lanta Castaway Resort

Phra Ae

Thung Yee Pheng village

Long Beach Lanta Animal Welfare

Klong Khong Beach Koh Bubu

Jee Lee village

Klong Tob Beach Rawi Warin Resort

Lanta Old Town Mai Kaew Cave

Klong Nin Beach

Pier

Tham Seua Cave

Lanta Hospital

Klong Nui Beach

Klong Hin Beach

Koh Lanta Yai

The Houben Hotel & Villas Ba Kantiang Bay Pimalai Resort

Waterfall

& Spa

Ao Nui Bay Klong Jark Bay May Pai Bay

Tourist Police - 1155 Police - 075 668 192 Lanta Hospital - 075 697 176 Dr. Salarin - 075 684 522 Clinic in Saladan - 075 668 170

National Park Headquarters

Lighthouse

e

koh Jum

Long Beach

Laem Hin

Hat Yao

Ban Klong Toh Ban Koh Siboya

Koh Siboya

Pattanarak eco-tourism Ban Sai Tok Laem Kruat

Koh Hang Ban Koh Pu Piman Pu Villa 422 mt

Oon Lee Bungalows Koh Lanta Krabi Ao Nang 1hr Boat drop-off point

Koh Talang Ting Rai village

Koh Jum Lodge

The Urban Cafe’

Koh Jum Beach Villas Bluejuice Diving

Woodlands Bungalows Coco Bar

Koh Jum village

Koh Jum

Koh Jum Island is still the quintessential destination in Krabi province if you are looking for authentic Thai village life and development that is still a small footprint on this tranquil island.

Geography brought electricity to Koh Jum late in 2009 as the island was in the direct path of the new underwater electric cable connecting Koh Phi Phi from the mainland.

So now that Koh Jum is plugged in, has it lost its reputable unplugged character that has attracted intrepid travelers over the past couple of decades?

We are pleased to report that Koh Jum is as tranquil and laid back as it always has been. In fact, what is noticeable are the lack of noisy generators at most of the resorts.

Folks come to Koh Jum to unplug; the island’s nature and culture still dominates the minimal tourist infrastructure.

The existing resorts on Koh Jum all have their own family run character ranging from the back packers paradise Bo Deng run by two laughing souls, Dila and Rosa, all the way up to the stunningly beautiful Koh Jum Beach Villas, an eco villa resort with exquisite villas tucked in an incredible botanical garden.

Koh Pu Mountain is the dominant geological feature on the

island at over 400 meters. A great hike for the adventurous and a vital refuge of native habitat still harbouring Asian Pied Hornbills and Burmese Pythons. The three villages, Koh Pu, Ting Rai and Koh Jum are situated on the back side of the island amongst the mangroves. Resorts are located facing the open Andaman Sea. This division allows the villages to remain authentic without any significant tourist infrastructure while the resorts are all located on the beaches.

Access to the island is by longtail taxi boats located on the mainland port town of Laem Kruat. There is now a songthaew you can take direct from Krabi Town to Laem Kruat. During the high season most visitors come to Koh Jum using the Krabi – Koh Lanta Ferry that stops at two locations on Koh Jum out at sea where long tail boats come out to meet passengers to take them ashore.

The lack of any deep ports on the island keep the ferry boats out at sea and also prevent large masses of tourists from ever overcrowding the island. Getting here is an adventure and this ends up defining the interesting community of resorts and visitors that have made this island their home and the place they return to year after year.

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PHI PHI Paradise Thailand is seeing a rapid tourism boom with no signs of slowing down. With that comes an influx of visitors to one of the most beautiful and accessible island groups in the world, Koh Phi Phi. Despite what you’ve heard, there is still plenty to do and see in the archipelago that fits every style; from partygoing backpacker, to the relaxation-seeking travelers. While the concentration of shopping and restaurants reside on the isthmus of Koh Phi Phi Don, peace and indulgence can be found on secluded parts of Long Beach, Laem Thong, and other areas of the main island that are only accessible by private longtail boat. Even in the midst of the crowd, nothing outshines the translucent waters, pearl white sandy beaches, and panoramic views of the stunning limestone karsts. It is indeed, one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.

need not worry about low season shutdowns of businesses and activities as in other parts of Thailand.

Koh Phi Phi Don was nearly wiped out in the devastating tsunami of December 2004, but the redevelopment was swift, and new building regulations limit the height of infrastructure so as to not obstruct the stunning island views. Only two seasons exist on the archipelago: the hot season from January to April, and the rainy season from May to December. The latter season doesn’t completely halt island activities, so travelers

Koh Phi Phi Don remains an exotic escape, and can be customized to any travel style. Not to be forgotten is the plethora of activities available for the active visitors, or those with families, some of which are unique to the region. It is a hub of romance, excitement, liberation, and tranquility. Wherever you are on Koh Phi Phi, you will find what you are looking for.

While most of Thailand is of the Buddhist belief, Koh Phi Phi has its own eclectic mix of Thai-Chinese, Muslims and even traditional sea gypsies. The majority of the population is Muslim, but the entire community lives harmoniously. This melting pot of cultures and faith means there are abundant celebrations year round. Visitors can take part in traditional festivities such as the annual boat-launching ceremonies of the sea gypsies, or numerous longtail boat races. The island also heavily celebrates westernized holidays such as Christmas and Valentine’s Day, making it a perfect location for holiday getaways for people from all walks of life.

Stunning Koh Phi Phi There is a never-ending array of things to do on the Koh Phi Phi islands besides roll around in the same sand that DiCaprio’s hot bod once did without looking creepy.

Koh Phi Phi Don – the largest island - is the eating, sleeping, lodging center of the archipelago and although well developed, always as stunning as ever. Koh Phi Phi Leh is always teeming with visitors to Maya Bay thanks to that whatchamacallit movie , but there are two other islands to the north, worth the short boat ride. Ko Mai Phai is an islet that glistens with several tantalizing beaches, and Ko Yung has a beautiful stone beach on the east, a few small sandy beaches at the foot of the hills, and loads of vibrant coral reefs.

and plunge right back into the sea. This is sure to please any thrill seeker.

With beaches on all sides suitable to any wind directions, Phi Phi Don is an ideal place for Kiteboarding. Whether experienced or a newbie, wind seekers can head to the nearest kiteboarding shop for rental equipment, certified IKO courses, or arrange customized tours.

A breathtaking view of Phi Phi Don and its isthmus rewards the steep walk and small admission fee of the Viewpoint. Of course, it is especially magically at sunrise or sunset, but don’t forget your torch.

Surpass the daytime crowds and opt for a Maya Bay Overnight Sleep Aboard. See the infamous beach during sunset, swim with plankton blanketed under the stars (rumored to be one of the best spots to do so in the Andaman), and sleep in the wondrous bay blanketed by the cool night air.

Some of the most spectacular Diving sites in Thailand are found locally in Phi Phi. A myriad of macro and micro marine life, caves and swim-through’s, and even a wreck site await beginners to advanced divers. There’s no shortage of renowned dive operators available to suit all levels and desired itineraries, including day trips and multi-day liveaboard trips.

Forget the crowds on Railay and try your hand at rock climbing the limestone karsts of Phi Phi. Inch your way into tight-rope walking by venturing into a Slacklining, which can done on land or over water. Visit one of several climbing shops for more information.

Turn it up and join a Deep Water Soloing boat trip, whereby adrenaline junkies can swim to far-reaching climbing routes

Learn how Pineapple Paper or Batik is made. Even tap into your inner artist and create your own unique Thailand souvenir by painting your own Batik textile.

Go Caving. The humidity, the sea, and the porous nature of the limestone rock have collided over the centuries, forming a vast system of caves. There are many caves in the Phi Phi archipelago that can be explored, with some containing prehistortic paintings or bird’s nest swiftlets that can be partially visited.

Enjoy a cocktail on the beach and watch a Fireshow. Talented fire artists toss, flip and twirl great balls of fire, even eschewing gasoline from their mouths to create the ultimate human dragon. Phi Phi is known for some very famous fireshows, and even championship matches that are sure to dazzle.

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PHI PHI Activities Fancy a climb? Those towering limestone cliffs offer you a glimpse of what mother earth is capable of. Why get up close and personal with those beauties and go for a climb? There are many tour companies on the island that can assist you in your height seeking activities. Try deep water soloing where you climb upwards of 10 meters then jump backwards into the pearly ocean below! Pure bliss!

Fancy a beach? Well you’re on an island!!!! One of the best and most accessible beaches on Phi Phi Don is Long Beach, just a 10 minute long tail ride from Tonsai beach (100 THB) or a 45 minute stroll through the jungle and you’ll step down onto the picturesque white sand beaches that make this island world renowned. Just grab a cocktail and let the day float on by. Doing nothing never felt so good.

Fancy a trip to Maya Bay? Remember way back in 2000 that movie with young Mr. DiCaprio, well you’re there! Prior to this movie’s filming and international notoriety Koh PhiPhi was

Activities to do on Phi Phi: Phi Phi is home to some of the world most fun and thrilling things to do on earth. From the limestone cliffs to the translucent waters of the Andaman bay there are no shortages of things to do to keep you and your loved ones busy during your time on Koh Phi Phi. Fancy a dive? Well the waters surrounding Phi Phi are home to some of the most vibrant sea creatures around, from the small yet brilliantly colored nudibranches to the graceful leopard sharks and hawksbill turtles, there is always something to see.

Don’t think you have to be a seasoned professional scuba diver to get a glimpse of the wonders of the sea, much of what is worth seeing can be seen comfortably from the surface with nothing more hen a mask and a snorkel.

a much less visited place but still with the wave of visitors from all over the globe Maya Bay remains one of the most beautiful and pristine places on the island.

Fancy a little exercise and a nice view? Look no further then the viewpoint on middle of Koh PhiPhi Don. You cannot miss it, just walk away from the main section heading north and you’ll start to see some signs around, don’t worry if you don’t see anything you can always ask someone. The hike takes about 40 minutes from start to viewpoint two (which is where it’s all at!). Don’t forget your camera!

Fancy a fire show? Skinky bar is where you need to find your way to my friend, with some of the most intricate and mind blowing dances with that attractive flame, this is the place to see what everyone’s talking about. They even do a flaming jumprope that’s open to all that dare….

Fancy a tattoo? I’m sure you’ve seed a few shops around the island and I’m sure you’re thinking, hummm I would like to get one. Well my friend Koh Phi Phi is home to some of Thailand best tattoo artists around, just remember think before you ink.

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Long Beach

Long Beach Far enough away from the crowd yet close enough to the hustle of Tonsai Village, Long Beach lies facing southwest towards stunning views of Koh Phi Phi Leh. The tranquil stretch of beach boasts translucent, azure waters with some of the best direct beach to water snorkeling found on the island. You don’t have to venture far to see vibrant coral and marine life bustling about in their natural underwater habitat, and renting snorkeling equipment is quite easy and reasonable.

Just 200 meters out from the beach is a small rock barely breaking above the surface – Shark Point – where black tip reef sharks can be viewed. Not to worry, these sharks are

vegetarian! Since this is a popular stop amongst tour boats during the day, the sharks are much better spotted either mid morning or early evening.

From November to April the water is glassy and calm, but May to October sees rougher seas, so swimming is a bit more difficult at low tide due to the rocks and coral. The latter season also tends to have a stronger current, so swim with caution.

The majority of visitors come to Long Beach to stay, but it is

also an easy day trip. A quick five-minute longtail boat ride from the pier will deposit you on the finest and softest white sand on an island chock full of fine, soft white sand. If you prefer, you can take the more scenic route by foot, either by clamoring over the rocks between beaches, or hiking up the trail running through the Viewpoint.

There are only a handful of resorts and bungalows on the beach, ranging in price. Each offers deck chairs for sun soaking, with the more upmarket resorts boasting a beachside pool.

At present, there are no independent restaurants, but each of the resorts offer fresh seafood and Thai cuisine, as well as standard Western dishes.

As the sun goes down and night blankets the sky, visitors can park themselves on one of beachside resort bars to accompany the sunset with a cocktail. Phi Phi Don in general has a laidback attitude, but Long Beach turns it up a notch by turning down the noise. When the sun dips, the beach invites a mellow vibe from visitors in search of tranquility; a few drinks and cards or backgammon with friends is typically the way travelers close the chapter on yet another spectacular day.

And for that random wild hair, you can always head back to Tonsai.

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Viewpoint

The Viewpoint Some would call it an upward stroll while others would classify it as a life-threatening hike. Regardless of fitness level, we can all agree on one thing: the Viewpoint is a never ending Christmas of one of the most beautiful views in Thailand.

Reaching the viewpoint is fairly easy. From the main village on Koh Phi Phi Don, visitors can follow signs from the road heading east towards Ao Lo Dalam. There are also signs for ‘Tsunami Evacuation Route,’ which is the same path. The 300-meter

ascension includes steep steps along a narrow, twisting path.

The path is paved and well marked, allowing even the tiniest of visitors a chance to climb to an incredibly rewarding view.

There are actually three viewpoints (creatively named Viewpoints 1, 2 and 3) along the path, with Viewpoint 1 being the climax. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with an overlook of the sandy straight connecting the two large bodies of Koh Phi Phi Don. The birds-eye perspective is 360 degrees of jutting limestone karsts, which are just as majestic as when visitors arrive by boat under their towering presence. The view

is vibrant midday, albeit hot, but it’s well worth a trek up at sunrise or sunset.

Once at the top, visitors can continue on down one of four trails that lead to the remote, uninhabited east coast beaches of the island: Ao Tohko, Paknam (Relax Beach), Rantee and Lo Bakao.

The first three take approximately thirty minutes to reach, and about one hour to reach Lo Bakao, where hikers can continue onwards along the road to Laem Thong.

Maya Bay Sleepover

The Experience of a lifetime: Looking for something off the beaten path to do? Looking for an experience that’s like swimming in the stars at fantastic speeds? Want an experience where you can see the most internationally popular destination without the loads of crowds and speed boats? Well you’ve come to the right island, Koh Phi Phi; now an international hotspot for diving, sun bathing, and a plethora of other amazing activities. One of the featured and less known things to do is the new Maya bay sleep aboard trip that runs from Ton Sai pier and travels through the beautiful indigo waters to Phi Phi Lay. En route to the famous Maya Bay the large vessel stops at the famous Viking cave where you can see bamboo ladders dancing precariously along the cave walls and small makeshift docks floating at the cave entrances, the occasional worker comes to the cave entrance and lights up a cigarette, and if you’re lucky you might even get a wink.

After a quick explanation of Viking cave and it’s history the comfortable relaxing boat chugs onwards to Pileh bay where you can get your first experience being up close and personal with the underwater wonders of the Andaman sea. Snorkeling around the boat in shallow waters is a great way to see the life below without getting all bogged down with that diving gear and equipment. Keep your eyes open for the traveling parrotfish that graze the corals around the lagoon.

Next stop is what you’ve all been waiting for, the stop at the one, the only Maya Bay! There is one major thing different about it when you get there this time, everyone else is leaving! That’s right when you show up you’ve got about 1 hour then all the speed boats start leaving slowly one by one until the entire bay is all quiet and reserved to only those on the Maya bay sleep aboard trip.

Just you thought things couldn’t get any better a hot dinner of traditional Thai curries as well as sautéed vegetables are all presented before you, a late night BBQ of chicken wings and potent drinks keeps the spirits high and the demons away.

Topping everything off for the evening once back on the boat the captain trolls to where the plankton swarms are most dense, cuts the lights and lowers the ladders, it’s time to jump in and swim with the stars! This experience is unlike anything else there is, every movement of your body illuminates these wonderful creatures all around you.

If there is one experience not to miss oh Phi Phi island it is this one, don’t leave regretful.

For more information visit: www.mayabaytours.com Or just keep an eye out when walking the island and you’ll eventually see a sign.

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propertysection investments

real estate

legal

interior design

Some of the pitfalls of purchasing property in Thailand: 1. Not purchasing the correct land ownership title deed associated with you property you bought. Yes believe it or not some people have bought, or thought they bought a piece of land but in reality they actually have no rights to the land after the purchase. This is due to the fact that there are 7 different types of title deeds in Thailand, some only giving land usage rights to the person whose name is on the title and some types of titles can only be passed on inside of a particular family.

The solution, always always always have a professional look over a contract and title deed prior to transferring any money.

2. Purchasing the property not from the owner, only purchasing the property from a person who looks like the owner. This sounds so crazy but it does happen.

Title deeds are written in Thai and are very confusing the understand for foreigners and often foreigners get excited and are shown some beautiful land and a title in Thai, only to find out later that the title deed they actually bought was for some land 30 kilometers away.

The solution; always always always have a professional real estate office assist you when looking at any land and verifying the title deed in the land department.

3. Purchasing property still with a loan on it. This might sound elementary but in Thailand it is legal to sell property that still has an active loan on it and many foreigners end up purchasing a beautiful piece of land at a very reasonable price only to find that they must now pay an additional large sum of money to clear the land.

The solution; always do a due diligence survey on and land about to be purchased, this can be done at the land department, but we suggest you contract the help of a professional real estate agent.

4. Having the private road leading up to a newly bought property being sold to a different buyer and this new buyer doesn’t want to give access to the original buyer.

This does happen quite often in Thailand, the access road must be clearly surveyed and included in the land title deed prior to any purchase.

The solution; Make sure you have a qualified real estate agent look over any title deed and make sure the public road is included in it.

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5. You have been shown a house and land together and are interested to purchase both together, but the house is not included on the land title deed. This is also a common problem throughout Thailand where the owner of the house will not include the house on the land title most commonly to avoid paying withholding tax on the sale.

The solution; have the title deed checked by a real estate agent and make sure it contains all pieces of property intended to purchase.

6. Buying “off-plan”, this is very popular with condominium developments and small villa developments. It is a good system but you must make sure the contract states specific dates when payments are due and gives final completion date.

The solution; have a real estate agent or property lawyer look over any sales and purchase contract you are about to sign.

7. It’s easy to get over excited when you come to this free, open and lovely place and want to make it your new home. One must always be aware of the many things to consider when purchasing property in Thailand. There have been thousands of happy buyers from hundreds of countries who have all done their homework prior to making any purchases and now live comfortably but there are also a small group of head strong individuals who rushed into deals and got taken advantage of and now give purchasing property in Thailand a bad name.

The difference between both groups is that one group took their time, consulted many different agents and specialists and didn’t sign any contract or transfer any money until all questions were answered. The latter group didn’t.

The solution; always consult a real estate agent and real estate lawyer prior to making any final decisions.

sq.

Wah

land There can be a lot of confusion and even the odd legal battle from the mind-bending array of terms for land areas in Thailand.

It pays to know exactly what you are talking about if you are considering purchasing or building a property of your own here, so here is a table breaking down the Wahs, Ngans and Rais so you can see at a glance what’s what.

As a rule of thumb, the Rai - the most common unit of land in purchasing deals is just under 1/2 acre, or 17,222 sq feet Always make sure that both parties are crystal-clear in the amount of land being discussed, especially before any contract is drawn up and signed...

sq. ft.

sq. m.

Ngan

Rai

Acre

Hectare

1

43

4

100

4,305

400

1

0.25

0.10

0.04

400

17,222

1,600

4

1

0.40

0.16

800

34,444

3,200

8

2

0.80

0.32

1,200

51,667

4,800

12

3

1.20

0.48

1,600

68,888

6,400

16

4

1.60

0.64

2,000

86,111

8,000

20

5

2.00

0.80

2,400

103,333

9,600

24

6

2.40

0.96

2,800

120,555

11,200

28

7

2.80

1.12

3,200

137,777

12,800

32

8

3.20

1.28

3,600

155,000

14,400

36

9

3.60

1.44

4,000

172,222

16,000

40

10

4.00

1.60

32,000

80

20

8

3.20

48,000

120

30

12

4.80

64,000

160

40

16

6.40

80,000

200

50

20

8.00

96,000

240

60

24

9.60

112,000

280

70

28

11.20

128,000

320

80

32

12.80

144,000

360

90

36

14.40

100

40

16.00

160,000 400

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info@kamalot-ltd.com

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+66 (0) 818940675

Kamalot

Co. Ltd. Land & Development

บริษัท กมล๊อต จำกัด

Deciding to invest in Thailand can be a big decision, but then when faced with where in Thailand to ‘set up shop’, decisions can become trickier still. Where will I get the best returns? Which of the younger markets holds the most potential?

In my latest search for the most up-to-date information on the property market in Thailand’s hottest destinations, I met up with Nik Parker, founder of Koh Phangan Holiday Homes and MD of Krabi Land & Villas, to discuss what it is about this southern jewel that sets it apart from other well-established locations in the country.

So, Nik. Let’s start with what brought you to Thailand and how you have evolved as a real-estate professional. How did you get into this business?

I’ve been in the region for a number of years. The classic story really. I came on holiday and never went home. My start in the property business was nine years ago on Koh Phangan Island. I started a holiday villa rental company which then branched out into villa construction and villa maintenance. We started with one villa, and by the time I moved, we had 35, about 70 percent of which were built solely by us. We also had a lot of involvement in the planning of developments, overseeing layouts, masterplans and consulting on infrastructure.

And, I suppose, sitting where we are now, the obvious questions are, why Krabi, and what sets the area apart from other destinations in Thailand?

In recent years Koh Phangan has slowed down. After the global economic decline, many of the developers took a step back to wait for the recovery. The tourists still came, but investment on the island almost stalled. My wife and I are expecting a child, so we decided to leave island life and move to a place with better infrastructure. Fon is from Surrathanni Province originally, so Krabi seemed the obvious choice. With its stunning beaches and beautiful rock formations, Krabi ticked all the boxes. There’s excellent infrastructure throughout the whole province now, with an international airport connecting to several European cities, the new Nakarin hospital is due to open in November, as well as an international school with more to follow.

From an investor’s point of view, if I was considering buying in Krabi, what do the returns look like in comparison to Phuket, Koh Samui or Koh Phangan for example?

With saturated markets, Phuket and Samui now cater for the top-end buyer. I think Koh Phangan is still a long way from getting back on its feet. As for Krabi, it’s a young market growing fast. A 2 – 3 bedroom pool villa will have a steady rental income as the area is already well-known as a family destination. More and more families are hearing about the holiday villa and looking for it. The rental returns will invariably cover the running costs, allow the owners a low cost holiday, and of course provide them with the security of the increasing value of the property.

And with your current company, Krabi Land & Villas, what services do you provide for people interested in buying or developing in the area?

We have a full range of properties and services on our books, including a variety of sites for developing or building your dream holiday villa. We also have pre-built houses, condominiums or for the more adventurous investor, some turnkey resort and hotel options.

Along with full construction services, I can advise any savvy investor the best way to build their holiday villa and take them through the entire process from planning to the handing over the keys to their new dream property.

Well thanks very much for the insight Nik. To contact Nik Parker, you can reach him via his website www.krabilandandvillas.com

Путеводитель по

КРАБИ

ПЛЯЖИ Ао Нанг находится в 20-ти км от города Краби и является одним из самых развитых пляжей Краби, с белым песком и отвесными скалами. Ао Нанг предлагает широкий диапазон услуг для проживания и сервиса. На главной улице есть рестораны, бары, пабы, магазины сувениров, дайвингцентры, туристические агентства, массаж и СПА центры. Ао Нанг является отправной точкой для путешествий на лодке по морю на близлежащие острова. Пляж Ноппаратара протяженностью 3 км. находится за пляжем Ао Нанг. Этот пляж все еще мало развит и имеет всего лишь несколько ресторанов и баров. Привлекательный, естественный вид пляжа собирает по выходным местную молодежь и их семьи насладиться закатом. Попробуйте местные мусульманские сладости в “макашницах”, которые расположены в конце пляжа. Также, насладитесь морепродуктами в местных ресторанчиках, которые находятся у офиса национального парка Ноппаратара. Во время отлива, пройдитесь по набережной, вместе с миллионами маленьких крабов, по песчаной косе до ближайших островов. Пляжи Рэйлэй разделены от Краби и Ао Нанга большими известняковыми горами. У полуострова Рэйлэй есть 2 стороны, Восточная и Западная, которые просто восхитительны: кристально чистая вода, песчаные пляжи, дикие горы, скалистые

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острова выступающие из моря. Рэйлэй находится в 15-ти минутах от АоНанга и в 30-ти минутах от города Краби, вы сможете добраться до него только на лодке . Насладитесь коктейлем в одном из пляжных баров, посетите пещеру “Прананг” проверьте себя на курсах по скалолазанию, поднимитесь на вершину горы, и спуститесь в лагуну или просто расслабьтесь на пляже. Соседний пляж Тонсай “Tonsai” распалагается в основании скалы и разделяет Рэйлэй на Западную и Восточную часть. Это небольшой, красивый пляж с пологим дном. Пляж Клонг Муанг находится в 20-ти км. от Ао Нанга, и в 40 км от Краби. Это новое место с развивающейся инфраструктурой, в котором вы сможете провести великолепные выходные. Именно здесь вы получите незабываемый отдых, в окружении девственной природы.

пляжами переходящими в изумрудное море. Гуляя, по южной части острова, вы можете наткнуться на уединенный райский уголок с высаженной тропической растительностью.

Пляж Туб Каек (Tubkaek) - это еще один чистый, спокойный пляж, в котором можно оставаться в дали от цивилизации. С него открывается потрясающий вид на архипелаг островов Хонг (Koh Hong) и очаровательные закаты. С пляжа, вы можете дойти до национального парка и подняться на вершину горы и посмотреть водопад.

ПРИРОДНЫЕ ИСТОЧНИКИ Известняковые горы и отвесные скалы характеризуют местность Краби, а наиболее зрелищным и массивным является Сай Тай (Sai Tai). Не далеко от Ао Нанга (Ao Nang) есть уникальное геологическое место - Сюзан Хой (Susaan Hoi) “кладбище ракушек” . Плиты у побережья моря, напоминающие куски старого, потрескавшегося асфальта, на самом деле – плиты, спрессованные из остатков древних моллюсков, чей возраст более 40 млн. лет. Территория кладбища ракушек была в доисторические времена пресным болотом, на дне которого тысячелетиями накапливались ракушечные отложения. Впоследствии, болото пересохло, а останки его обитателей теперь виднеются на поверхности в виде песчаных плит 40-сантиметровой толщины. К кладбищу моллюсков примыкает живописный мангровый лес, в котором проложены специальные туристические тропы.

На пляжах Ко Ланты (Koh Lanta) огромное количество курортов на любой вкус и достаток. Остров Ланта Яй (Lаnta Yai) славится длинными, белыми, песчаными

Крупнейший природный парк провинции Краби Као Пханом Бенча (Khao Phanom Bencha), находится всего в 20 км. от города Краби. Этот Национальный парк является

следами доисторических поселений. Са Маракот (Sa Morakot) изумрудный бассейн. Это чудо природы, пруд с бирюзовой водой, питаемый горячими источниками в центре джунглей. Берега пруда представляют собой желтоватый камень, такой цвет ему придают отложения карбоната кальция. Вода в пруд поступает из горячих источников и имеет в разных местах разную температуру от 25°С до 49°С градусов. Здесь можно поплавать, полежать и отдохнуть душой и телом.

домом для множества редких растений и диких животных, среди которых леопарды, пантеры, тигры, тапиры и гиббоны. Гора Phanom Bencha (1350 м.) является территориальным и туристическим центром всего заповедника. С горы сбегает 5 водопадов, крупнейший из которых Хуай Тох (Huay Toh), расположен всего в 500 метрах от входа в парковую зону. Еще одной популярной туристической достопримечательностью заповедника является пещера Tham Khao Pheung, украшенная живописными сталактитами и сталагмитами. Национальный парк Тарнбок Корании (Tarnbok Khoranee) находится в северной части региона, состоит из известняковых гор, зеленых тропических лесов, пещер, и красивых островов. Хорошо известен различными видами деревьев, растущих вокруг большого природного кристально чистого бассейна, и более сотен видов птиц. Пещерный комплекс Пи Хуа Тох (Phi Hua Toh) расположенный в районе Бор Тора (Bor Thor), состоит из нескольких пещер, каждая из которых уникальна. В некоторые из них, вы можете попасть на лодке, только во время отлива. Здесь вы сможете полюбоваться потрясающей красоты сталактитами и сталагмитами, древнейшими наскальными рисунками и

Термальный источник Хот Спрингс в Клонг Том (Hot Springs of Klong Thom) представляет из себя смесь водопада с парной под открытым небом. Вулканические горячие ключи нагревают поток до 30°С – 40°С, превращая водопад в естественную сауну, вода в которой, к тому же, насыщенна полезными минералами. ОСТРОВА Отправьтесь на остров Ко Пода (Koh Poda), который покрыт пальмами и почти полностью окружен мягким белым песчаным пляжем. Коралловый риф находится примерно в 20 метрах от пляжа с богатым разнообразием морской жизни. Также, вы можете посетить соседний остров Ко Кай (Koh Kai) или “Куриный остров”, который получил свое название от необычной формы скалы с одного конца острова, которая выглядит как голова и шея страуса или курицы. Одна часть острова состоит из крутых скал, другая имеет красивые пляжи. Теплая и чистая вода острова с богатым миром кораллов является популярным местом среди любителей снорклинга и дайвинга. Оттуда можно прогуляться по песчаной косе до острова Ко Туб (Koh Tub). Можно взять тур на лодке или на катере до архипелага островов Ко Хонг. Это группа островов из известняка со скрытыми пещерами и лагунами, которая идеально подходит для каякинга и подводного плавания. Возьмите тур на острова Ко Пхи Пхи (Koh Phi Phi) с живописными морскими бухтами, окруженными потрясающими известняковыми скалами, устремленными в небо прямо из океанских глубин, в пещерах гнездятся ласточки, вокруг богатый подводный мир, насыщенный морской жизнью, и многое, многое другое. Посетите острова Ко Джам (Koh Jum) и Ко Сибойя (Koh Siboya) скрытые от глаз человека, наполненные тропической растительностью и уникальной природой. Эти острова дают посетителям возможность расслабиться и прекрасно провести время. Также посетите остров Ланта (Lanta) в южной части провинции, который сейчас активно развивается. Ланта также является домом для морских циган, где вы сможете увидеть их традиции и познакомиться с

Текс переведен и отредактирован: Шинарита Стоун

их укладом жизни. Национальный парк включает в себя много различных островов, окруженных коралловыми рифами, такие как Ко Нгай (Koh Ngai) и Ко Рок (Koh Rok). КУЛЬТУРА Бан Натин (Ban Natin) - это место находится по пути из Ао Нанга (Ao Nang) в Клонг Муанг (Klong Muang), где вы сможете увидеть мирную жизнь местной мусульманской общины. Вы можете приехать туда на несколько дней или просто остановиться и посмотреть на изделия ручной работы. Музей Ват Клонг Том (Wat Klong Thom) главный исторический музей провинции Краби. Доказательством того, что провинция Краби была одним из первых мест на карте современного Тайланда, где возникли человеческие поселения, служит этот музей. В нем выставлены различные артефакты, найденные во время археологических раскопок. Экспозиция музея включает в себя доисторические каменные и бронзовые орудия, образцы древней керамики, монеты, предметы прикладного искусства и старинные кровати, возраст которых превышает 5000 лет. Огненное шоу, это часть пляжной культуры и очень популярно в вечернее время суток на пляжах Ко Ланты (Koh Lanta) и Пхи Пхи (Phi Phi). Невероятная хореография, удивительный рисунок танца и множество завораживающих глаз моментов делают шоу с огнем просто незабываемым. Бан Санг-Ка-Ю (Ban Sang-Ka-U) место проживания “морских циган” на юговостоке острова Ланта Яй (Lanta Yai). Именно там живет старый клан В-Лей (v Ley) пытающийся сохранить исчезающий образ жизни в этой быстро развивающейся части острова. ГОРОД Очаровательный, маленький, тихий город. В Краби много старых зданий, баров, ресторанов и местных экзотических рынков с продуктовыми лавками на старой пристани Чао Фа (Chao Fa), там вы можете отведать блюда местной кухни. Девиз Краби: “Прекрасный город, Прекрасные люди” местные жители Краби гордятся своим городом и своим теплым и щедрым характером. С пирса Чао Фа (Chao Fa) можно отправиться на лодке до главного природного символа города Као Нам Канаб (Kho Nam Kanab) – 100-метровые скалы-близнецы расположены по обе стороны реки Краби и являются своеобразными водными воротами в Краби-таун. Также посетите остров Ко Кланг (Koh Klang) расположенный в устье реки, где вы сможете проникнуться жизнью местных рыболовных общин, и побывать в мангровых зарослях.

81

топ

10

Лучших мест

ДЛЯ ОТДЫХА

Провинция Краби является раем для тех, кто любит солнце и ищет удовольствие, а также это одно из лучших мест в мире для скалолазания, дайвинга и каякинга. Журнал Краби предлагает вам топ 10 видов отдыха, которые стоит попробовать здесь, в Краби: КАЯКИНГ Это очень популярное занятие в Краби. Мангровые леса, пещеры и, конечно же, пляжи, дают много возможностей для каякинга. Ао Нанг и Рэйлэй пользуются большей популярностью, так как находятся близко и до них удобно добраться. Если же вы хотите больше приключений и хотите познакомиться с красивейшими местами провинции, уголками девственной природы и их обитателями, то отправьтесь в тур в Ао Талэин (Ao Thalane) или в Бор Тор (Bor Thor), которые находятся в Национальном парке Тарн Бок Корани (Tarn Boke Koranee). Пещеры, гроты и лагуны, сделают ваш день незабываемым. ВАТ ТАМ СУА (WAT THAM SUEA) Храм «Тигровая Пещера» ВАТ ТАМ СУА (Wat Tham Suea) — одна из интереснейших достопримечательностей Краби. Храм расположен прямо под сводами пещеры. С вершины горы, в которой распалагается пещера с храмом, открывается потрясающая панорама на окрестности. Однако, чтобы попасть туда, вам предстоит преодолеть 1237 ступеней. В этой пещере археологами были найдены многочисленные древние артефакты, ныне хранящиеся в музее. А в пещере можно увидеть отпечаток ноги Будды и его величественную статую. Объедините поездку в Храм с другими достопримечательностями, например посетите еще Са Маракот (Sa Morakot) изумрудный бассейн или местный рынок. ЗАКАТЫ Основной достопримечательностью пляжа Ао Нанг (Ao Nang) и Ноппарат Тара (Noppharat Thara), конечно же, являются закаты . Муссонные дожди приносят тучи, которые зловеще нависают в небе над морем, создавая незабываемые закаты. Самая красота складывается из непостижимого и величественного “рисунка” подсвеченных облаков. Чем более “размазаны” облака по небу и чем более невероятны их формы, тем красивее закат. БАРЫ И МОРСКИЕ РЕСТОРАНЫ АО НАНГА И НОППАРАТ ТАРЫ

После вечерней прогулки, завершите день бокалом коктейля в одном из баров на пляже или порадуйте себя ужином с морепродуктами. С правой стороны пляжа Ао Нанг находится улочка с ресторанами, где блюда из морепродуктов представлены в большом разнообразии или вы можете попробывать местную рыбную кухню в самом конце пляжа Ноппарат Тара. СКАЛОЛАЗАНИЕ ПЛЯЖ РЭЙЛЭЙ (RAILAY BEACH) Пляжи Рэйлей (Railay), Тонсай (Tonsay) и Прананг (Phranang) находятся на полуострове в Railay Bay совсем рядом с Ао Нангом и по праву считаются одними из самых красивых мест в Таиланде. А первоклассные маршруты для скалолазания на многочисленных скалах делают это место настоящей “Меккой” для скалолазов со всего мира. Практически на всех пляжах острова есть богатый выбор вулканических скал, по которым проложены 700 маршрутов разной степени сложности. И профессионал, и новичок в скалолазании найдут здесь подходящую скалу, магазины альпинистского снаряжения с доступными ценами или пункты проката, а также опытных инструкторов, которые смогут гарантировать безопасность во время занятий. РЫНКИ Как и во многих восточных странах, в Тайланде особое место занимают рынки. На местных рынках можно купить свежие овощи и фрукты, живую рыбу и различные морепродукты, мясо, яйца, одежду и обувь. Любой человек, пришедший сюда, моментально попадает в пестрый круговорот ярких цветов и запахов, доносящихся с прилавков уличных торговцев едой. Обычно, рынки работают со второй половины дня, когда солнце уже не сильно печет, примерно с 3-х часов дня, и до часов 7 вечера. Посетите рынок в районе Клонг Хенг на Ао Нанге, который работает по четвергам и субботам.

за деревьями появляется Изумрудное озеро с целебной водой, насыщенной минералами и природными солями. Чуть дальше есть Голубое озеро, поражающее цветом своей воды, им можно только любоваться и наблюдать, как из-под земли бьют горячие источники. АРХИПЕЛАГ КО ХОНГ (KOH HONG) Ни одно посещение Краби или Ао Нанга не будет полным, без поездки на острова Ко Хонг (Koh Hong) - это потрясающая группа островов расположенных у побережья Краби (Хонг в переводе с тайского - “комната”) Пляжи Ко Хонг никогда не перестанут удивлять кристально чистой водой, большим количеством разнообразных рыб у берега, и белоснежным песком на пляже. В скалах можно обнаружить узкий проход в закрытую бухту, внутри которой, вы сможете увидеть мангровые деревья, уходящие своими корнями в воду.

МЕСТНАЯ НОЧНАЯ ЖИЗНЬ На Ао Нанге имеется большое количество баров, ресторанов и ночных клубов, рассчитанных на все вкусы. Однако Ао Нанг хорош и своей демократичностью: местные цены доступны практически всем, причем качество блюд, напитков и обслуживания от этого не страдает. Стильный бар «Last Fisherman» настоящий эталон пляжных баров. Бамбуковый навес, столики на песке, звезды, отличная музыка – что еще нужно для счастья? Барный комплекс Central Point распалагает несколькими залами, в которых звучит живая музыка и всемирно известные хиты прошлых лет. На Ао Нанге очень много пивных баров и ирландских пабов, где подается недорогое, но хорошее пиво и всевозможные закуски к нему. Стоит отметить, что, несмотря на то, что нравы в Ао Нанге более сдержанные, чем в Паттайе или Бангкоке, все же любители “клубнички” смогут побаловать себя, познакомившись с доступными девушками. Они работают в местных гоугоу барах, расположенных на улице Сой Салай (Soi Salai). Пляж Ноппарат Тара, порадует вас колоритнейшим баром «Хиппи» и ярким пляжным баром Luna, в котором имеется великолепный танцпол. ЛОДОЧНЫЕ ТУРЫ В МАНГРОВЫЕ ЗАРОСЛИ Это интересное путешествие для любителей экотуризма. Манговые заросли, которые окаймляют побережье различных островов, создают каналы с лабиринтами. Во время прогулки на лодке, можно увидеть и посетить множество интересных мест: удивительный лес мангровых зарослей, пальм и лиан; скалистые острова с гротами и пещерами; большие и маленькие каньоны, где обитают красивые тропические птицы. Отправиться в это незабываемое путешествие можно со старого причала Чаофа (Chaofa).

СА МАРАКОТ (SA MARAKOT) Изумрудное озеро Са Моракот по праву считается изюминкой Краби. Вода здесь прозрачна в любое время года и меняется в зависимости от времени суток и угла падения солнечных лучей. Дорога к Изумрудному озеру великолепна: тропинка ведет среди переплетающихся лиан, плутает в ровных зарослях бамбука, теряется между деревьями, радует порхающими разноцветными бабочками и юркими ящерками. И вот Текс переведен и отредактирован: Шинарита Стоун

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