Thailand is one of those destinations that truly captivates the hearts of all its visitors! I would actually go as far as saying that my first trip to Thailand completely changed my life, and I’m always telling people that they need to plan a trip in the future! I was fortunate enough to make a return visit this month, and it definitely reaffirmed my love for the country!
The timing could not have been more perfect too, because I recently asked to write a short blurb about visiting Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi — the legendary filming location of Leonardo Dicaprio’s hit movie “The Beach“.
While it may be heavily touristy these days, it’s still one of my favorite places to visit in the country!
**Listen to this song while browsing through the photos for the full-experience**
I only spent 8 days back in Thailand (because I extended my stay in Vietnam to attend EPIZODE Festival), but it was incredible island hopping around Krabi, Maya Bay, and Hong Island. I think this is the most photogenic part of the country, and really happy with all my photography during this trip!
WELCOME TO MAYA BAY
“This is where the hungry come to feed. For mine is a generation that circles the globe and searches for something we haven’t tried before. So never refuse an invitation, never resist the unfamiliar, never fail to be polite and never outstay the welcome. Just keep your mind open and suck in the experience”
― Alex Garland, The Beach
“”I still believe in paradise. But now at least I know it’s not some place you can look for. Because it’s not where you go. It’s how you feel for a moment in your life when you’re a part of something. And if you find that moment… It lasts forever.”
― Alex Garland, The Beach
“If I’d learnt one thing from traveling, it was that the way to get things done was to go ahead and do them. Don’t talk about going to Borneo. Book a ticket, get a vida, pack a bag, and it just happens.”
― Alex Garland, The Beach
Cruising Around Krabi & Railey Beach
After finishing the quick 30-minute longtail boat ride and stepping foot on Railey Beach, I immediately regretted booking a hotel in Krabi Town instead of this scenic paradise.
This area is stunning complete with gorgeous beaches to lay on, delicious Thai food to devour, and epic caves to explore.
Hong Island Hopping Tour
There’s tons of different island hopping tour companies around the Andaman Sea, and they all offer different attractions / activities. For this most recent visit, I decided to book the “Hong Island & Lagoon Tour”, and it was absolutely fantastic!
We lucked out with gorgeous blue skies the entire day, did some amazing snorkeling, and visited some truly spectacular islands.
LADING ISLAND
The final stop of the day was at the gorgeous yet small Lading Island, and I enjoyed my last swim in the warm turquoise waters of Thailand.
Planning a trip to thailand…?
I’ve written tons of posts about Thailand, so browse through some of the articles below to start planning your trip!
3 Weeks in Thailand | Best Travel Itinerary
25 Tips for Backpacking Thailand
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Thailand | Instagram Checklist
Top 10 Music Festivals in Thailand
Magic Mushrooms in Thailand | To Mellow Mountain & Beyond
Thanks so much for reading, and safe travels to the “land of smiles!”