Phi Phi Transportation

Posted on December 14, 2010 by Bare Travel

Traveling to Phi Phi by ferries is the most popular and best convenient way for all tourists. The ferries leave Phuket and Krabi daily. The ferries depart Krabi pier for 2 times in a day. The 1st round is 9.00 am and 2nd round is at 14.30 pm. If you depart the pier from Phuket to Phi Phi, there will be 3 rounds for boat schedule. The 1st round is 9.00 am, 2nd round is 11.00 am (this time is applicable for high season only), and the 3rd round is 14.30 pm. Ticket is easily purchase at the pier or via phiphiferry.com, tour agencies or from local hotels.

Ticket Prices:
The ticket price is 600 Baht for one way and 1,000 Baht for round trip if you by the ticket directly at the dock. Purchasing with hotels or agencies can possibly get cheaper rate which is 300 – 350 Baht for one way ticket.

From Phuket Airport to Rassada Pier, you can use meter taxi service. It costs around 500 Baht. It is about 30 km and takes about 45 minutes driving.

From Krabi Town is 450 Baht (this price is subjected to change without notice). The ferry does not leave from the center of Krabi Town anymore. The new passenger port is about 3 km outside Krabi Town. We call it “Klong Jilard Pier, Tel.0 7562 0052. Free taxi transfer to the pier should be included in the price of ferry ticket.

From Ko Lanta is 300 Baht (this price is subjected to change without notice).

Please note that not all ferries have equal quality. The Sea Angel ferries are nice option with big flat screen TVs and refreshments along the trip. Andaman wave master is the only one company which will take you for free to North of Phi Phi after stop at Tonsai Pier. Next is Chao Koh Ferries, this company is always fully booked and it is one of popular choice. Another is Phi Phi Cruiser, this may take a little longer than others. By the way, it has movie, complimentary breakfast and drink. They also have VI ticket option which also includes snorkeling and a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don.

There is more option to visit Phi Phi Island by using speedboat service form Phuket based resorts or Phuket based agencies.  The price for speed boat from Rawai beach in Phuket is about 15,000 Baht for return or one way trip for group of 6 people. There are many speedboats operating directly from Rawai beach to Phi Phi. By the way, it is better to book the speedboat one day in advance. Speedboat can also go nearby locations but of course that the price will be higher depending on destination.

By Plane
There is also air shuttle from and to Phuket Airport and other destinations of Andaman coast. The normally have a low season promotion for transfer from Phi Phi to Phuket Airport for only 2,000 Baht (high season rate is 6,000 Baht). The air shuttle will land at Laem Thong near Northen tip of the Island and transport to Tonsai Bay afterward if required. It takes 30 minutes for longtail boat to Tonsai Bay. This is also good deal comparing with taking ferries, as boat ticket is already 400 – 1000 Baht plus taxi 700 so it is already 1,100 – 1,800 Baht approximately.

Krabi Airport is about 15 km from town center, 40 km from Ao Nang. Thai Airways operate daily flights from and to Bangkok. Bangkok airway flies direct from and to Krabi and Ko Samui. Nok Air also operates daily flight from Don Muang, Bangkok from and to Krabi.

Limousine is available at the airport. In the other hand, Air-conditioned Airport Bus Service started in 2007. The fare is 90 Baht to Krabi Town. The bus service schedules meet all arriving flights and serve most of departure flights. Another option is local bus or “Songthaew”. This option costs 40 Baht from the road outside airport to the town.

By Bus
The bus will get you close to the destination but you need to take boat or plane anyway. Bus from Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok to Krabi will take 12 hours.

VIP bus: 07.20 am (1,055 Baht)

First class bus: 19.00 pm (680 Baht)

Second class bus: 7.30 am, 19.00 pm, 19.30 pm, 21.00 pm (378 Baht)

There are also other buses to Krabi from other provinces in South.

By Car
You can get close but need to take boat or plane to Phi Phi Island anyway.

From Bangkok, travel along highway no. 4 onto highway no. 41 at Chumporn passing Surat Thani towards Wiang Sa District then change to highway no. 4035 to Ao Luek and switch back to highway no. 4 again to Krabi. This route is 814 km.

From Phuket, drive along highway no. 402 and no.4. Total is 176 km.

By Train
The nearest train station is in Trang Province. From Trang, you have to take bus or drive to Krabi then take boat or plane to Phi Phi.

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The premier destionations of the South

Posted on December 14, 2010 by Bare Travel

The premier destionations of the South start with the town of Hua Hin, an upmarket and elegant beach destination favoured by Thai Royalty and homw to the weekend retreats of the Thai political and social elites. Moving further sourth, the Andaman coast is possibly the most beautiful region in the country with some of the most dramatic karst scenery in the world. Phuket is the jewel in the crown of this area of the coast,and with good reason. Other not-to-be-missed destinations include Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang and Krabi. Here, the world under the sea is as spectacular as the world above it,with corals and tropical shoals making these areas among some of the world’s most popular destinations for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

On the opposite coast of the lstmus of Kra in Gulf of Thailand lie the islands of Koh Samui, Phra-Ngan and Tao,each and island pearadise and packed with some of the world’s top resorts.Koh Samui possesses the most established beach resort scene,and here many award-winning resorts can be found, Koh Phra-Ngan is home to the famous full moon parties and is famed for its well being retreats offering detox programmes and massage course. koh Tao is known as a world famous diving destination,blessed with some of the best diving spots in Gulf.

Along with the region’s more established tourist destinations, other idyllic venues are emerging which are attracting some of the more adventurous visitors. The beaches of Trang and Pranburi are hotly tipped to become tomorrow’s top of the range beach havens,while Koh Lipe and the surin islands are now offering accommodation options that provide the perfect escape  from tourist crowds. Indeed, with so much to offer,it seems Thailand’s southern regions will never go out of fashion.

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The southern part of Thailand is one of the most important tourist destinations

Posted on December 13, 2010 by Bare Travel

The southern part of Thailand is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world at the beach with a wide range of options for sun and beach lovers happily accepted. Stretching from Bangkok to the border in Malaysia, Thailand has many beautiful beaches, idyllic islands and the mainland there are many good options for those who want a perfect beach holiday.

I thank the width of this part of the country, but travelers to avoid after the monsoon season, has an impact on the Andaman coast from May to October and the Gulf of Thailand, from November to April, as part of the Thai beach scene of enjoying on the hopping.Each beach island and the place to go a different character, so any discovery.

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Budget choice

Posted on December 12, 2010 by Bare Travel

Chao Koh Lodge offers good value accommodation in a central location in the village, with swimming pool. Fan bungalows 1000 baht, with a/c from 1800 baht. Phi Phi Hotel is a high-rise block, with pool. right next to the pier with newly refurbished rooms at 1800  baht. Upper floors have excellent views. Andaman Beach Resort, at the far end of the beach, offers basic but good value family accommodation (sleeps 3/4) in a fan bungalow, with pool, for 1950 baht.

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As a result of the melting pot of cultures in Phi Phi

Posted on December 12, 2010 by Bare Travel

Up until a few years ago it seemed that all you could buy on Phi Phi was beer and hippy jewellery, but in the recent past shopping opportunities have blossomed and grown on the island. It can be somewhat unorthodox at times, but shopping on Phi Phi can be a fun and original experience. The best place to shop on the island is central Tonsai. Check out P.P. Marijuana it may sound hippy-centric but this shop sells a broad and interesting range of quality hand-made jewellery and souvenirs. Kun Va is great for fashion items, sarongs,beach bags and other accessories. The quality of the goods sets this place apart, so expect slightly higher prices. Tonsai East is also a good place to go if you need to buy souvenirs.Halfway between the Chukit Resort and the end of Tonsai East there is an alley lined with stalls selling home-made beads, T-shirts, sarongs, shorts and lots of holiday knick-knacks.

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Top 5 Things in Koh Phi Phi

Posted on December 11, 2010 by Bare Travel

1 . Visit ‘The Beach’
Made famous by the classic film ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo Di Caprio, the extraordinary Maya Bay on the west side of Phi Phi Ley is world famous for its exquisite beach and truly picture postcard perfect scenery of jungle covered cliffs. The coral and the huge submerged boulders near the must of the bay are excellent for snorkeling and diving. Best to visit early though, befor it gets too crowded with sightseers.

2 . Enjoy the sunset at Phi Phi View Point
Some of Koh Phi Phi ‘s most memorable views can be seen at the View Point. The classic dumbbell shape of Phi Phi don Village, squeezed between Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum and framed by towering cliffs, is a picture taken and used on more postcards and posters of Thailand than any where else. Thus an early evening pilgrimage, leaving the valley from 4.30pm to slowly stroll the 25-50 minutes to the top, comes highly recommended. Also, if you are an early bird by nature, the trip can be made at dawn to watch the glorious sunrise bathe the cliffs in brilliant sunlight.

3 . Go fishing
Phi Phi is a greate place for those interested in deep sea fishing. Anglers should be aware though that they can’t take their catch home to cook as fishing around Phi Phi operates on a ‘catch-and-release’ policy. That said,it’s still a lot of fun to pitch your wits and strength against a black marlin or a sailfish and there’s no lack of them in the Andaman Sea. You can charter a boat with friends or hire a longtail. Sak Fishing half-day trips offer both morning and afternoon trips for anglers every day.

4 . Rock climbing
For a sport that combines a physical challenge with great views, rock climbing is hard to beat, especially on picturesque Phi Phi. For beginners and skilled climbers alike, Phi Phi offers plenty of places to enjoy this activity with over 20 routes to choose from in the Tonsai Tower area. Try the Cat Climbing Shop in Tonsai, where you can get all the equipment you need, as well as qualified guides and instructors.

5 . Take a Thai cooking class
Thai food is gaining popularity around the world but getting hold of the ingredients to cook to yourself is not always an easy task. Pum Cooking School in Central Tonsai will teach you how to cook authentic Thai favourites, as well as how to use and store the herbs and spices correctly. There are three daily sessions at 11:00am, 4.00pm and at 6.00pm and you can choose from 90-minute, three-hour and four-hour classes or longer.

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Whenever we travel to the Phi Phi

Posted on December 10, 2010 by Bare Travel

Koh Phi Phi is renowned for being home to some of the world’s most beautiful and famous beaches. Visitors can hire a longtail boat and visit Maya Bay – the ‘secret beach’ where the movie ‘The Beach’ was filmed. Visitors should also take a trip to the nearby Khao Tapoo Island, also know as ‘James Bond Island’ as it was used as a setting in the 007 film ‘The Man With The Gilden Gun’, and remains beautifully unspoiled to this day.

Koh Phi Phi has long been renowned as a top class destination for those seeking to explore the underwater world. There are two rocks within swimming distance of Long Beach known as ‘Shark Point’, where harmless blacktip reef sharks can be seen.The snorkeling off Bamboo and Mosquito Islands is also good, though the reefs can be a long way below you at hight tide.

For scuba diving enthusiasts, Phi Phi is most certainly paradise on earth. Even though the island was struck badly by the tsunami disaster in 2004, the dive sites were almost unaffected and divers are returning in their droves. There are many dive shops in Tonsai Bay within walking distance of each other,and they can organise all diving and accommodation for you. Prices are regulated, so expect to pay the same everywhere. When sea conditions are favourable, the Hin Daeng site is well worth visiting, with depths of 60m+ and a rich array of sea life, including Manta Rays and Whale Sharks.

The Beautiful Tonsai Bay is also worth visiting, not only for its scenery and diving but (for the adventurous) also for the cliff jumping there. There are cliffs from six to 16 metres in height that are ideal for this, given the depth of the water below. Organised tours can be found but please note that this is not a particularly regulated activity and you should choose with care.

Other activities you should try out are rock climbing on the stunning limestone cliffs around the coast. There are several climbing shops on Koh Phi Phi, where you can rent equipment. find a guide or take basic lessons. Phi Phi’s dramatic scenery makes it also an ideal location for kayaking. You can either go it alone or with an organised package.Kayaks can be hiredeither by the hour or the day.

Phi Phi is also a good place to go if you are interested in bird watching. The best time of the year for bird watching in during the period from January to April. Many rare birds are to be seen there, including gurneys, finfoots, brown kingfishers, egrets, bitterns and herons.

For sailing enthusiasts, anchorages in the Phi Phi region abound, are usually deserted and all very beautiful. There are many charter sailing boats available and some even offer ‘join-in’ day trips for two or more people. Longtailed boats can be hired for sunset tours and island excursions and would-be fishermen can enjoy fishing for marlin, sailfish, barracuda and tuna.

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Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort & Spa

Posted on December 7, 2010 by Bare Travel

Look
Set amidst a peaceful coconut plantation by the beach, Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort and Spa offers guests traditional bungalows that have been tastefully complemented with contemporary deco. The combination of rural architecture with 21st-century amenities provides for a perfect paradise-like setting.

East
The Village offers a number of restaurants and bars to satisfy a wide rang of tastes. The marine Restaurant specialises in superb Thai and international cuisine the Dolphin Reataurant, a lavish buffet breakfast and The coconut Grill and Bar, delicious BBQ seafood. Special private dinners can also be arranged on the beach or on the balcony of your room.

Sleep
There are 100 traditional Thai-style bungalows, as well as 12 Hillside Pool Villas. The Beachfront Junior Suites encompass a large en-suit and Jacuzzi with gorgeous panoramic views,while the Superior Bungalows are set among the tropical gardens. The exclusive Hillside Pool Villa features an infinity pool with nearby islands as its landscape

Play
The hotel offers many activities for their guests, ranging from the classic kayaking and snorkelling at the 5-star PADI Drive Centre, to tennis, beach volleyball, sunset cruises, Thai cooking classes and batik painting.The Wana Spa and Fitness Centre are also available.

Unforgettable Because
The combination of breathtaking views and warm hospitality helps to create a dream-like getaway for all.

Pay
Rates from USD 160 – USD 470

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My Wonderful Phi Phi Trip

Posted on December 6, 2010 by Bare Travel

I used to have chance to visit Phi Phi Island with my friend for last holiday and I would like to share this cool experience to everyone who may visit this site.

Our team combines of 5 people including me. We flew with Air Asia, a well-known low cost airline in Thailand with very reasonable ticket price as we booked it 2 months ago. From Bangkok to Phuket took only 1.20 hour. After arrived Phuket International airport, we took airport bus for getting to Phuket town for a local bus to the pier (Rassada Pier) where we could buy ferry boat ticket with fair price to Phi Phi Island. One way price is around 550 THB and roundtrip ticket is around 900 THB. There are 2 rounds for ferry boats schedule. The 1st round is morning time which is 8.30 am and 2nd round is 1.30 pm. The main reason to go by ferry boat is because it is the cheapest way for budgeted tourist like us.

There were so many tourists at the pier and this exited us a lot. Once the ferry boat departed the pier, we found out that our best place on ferry boat was the boat deck where we could enjoy sunshine and great scenery. We completely forgot the heat because the view along the boat trip was so brilliant. From Phuket pier to Phi Phi took not longer than 2 hours. By the way, another excellent thing for travelling by ferry boat is the boat took us around the Phi Phi Lay and we can also see Maya Bay from the boat as well. Once we saw Maya Bay, we promised with ourselves that snorkeling at Maya Bay is a must to do.

Finally, Ton Sai Village pier was right in front of us. It’s time to release our soul on this fabulous island or real paradise on earth. Once we stepped on the Phi Phi harbor, we found out that this place is not a big island. It is small town without big transport like car. People travel around the island by walking. There are so many shops, restaurants, pub & bar along the arcade. Shops with interesting beach accessories attracted me to lost money in my pocket easily. By the way, we would come back for some souvenir shopping later after check in the reserved resort and find some place for 1st meal on this island. After meal, we spent time with spa along the beach and swimming. Tomorrow, we will go out for Phi Phi Lay. We knew that it will be so fantastic.

Next day, we rent Longtail boat for 1 day trip. Maya is main place and we spend half day hear for snorkeling and kayaking. We also stop by Viking cave where prized birds’ nests are collected. We went to Bamboo Island later and then back to Ton Sai Village again. We spent our last memorable night in Phi Phi.

We are so sure that this won’t be our last trip to Phi Phi. There are so many more things to do here. I will be back to shared my experience about Phi Phi with you again. See you in the next episode, Bye Bye!

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