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Andaman Region
The
Andaman Coast of Thailand
The
Andaman coast of southern Thailand – from the border with Burma in the north
to that with Malaysia in the south - is a region of great environmental
diversity and outstanding natural beauty.
The full, registered name of PHUKET Magazine is in fact “The Greater Phuket
Magazine”, meaning we cover the entire Andaman coastline of Thailand. The
region can be divided geographically into several distinct entities, which
we offer here.
Phang Nga
Images
of this bay with a forest of stone mountains rising from calm waters travel
world-wide with the reputation of Phuket. It’s right next door to Phuket,
and most visitors here see Phang Nga when taking the ‘James Bond island
tour. But there are other ways of getting to Phang Nga. This is perhaps at
the top of Phuket’s ‘must see’ list.
Phi
Phi
These twin islands are famed for their stunning beauty. They rise
dramatically as rocky walls from crystal waters. There are lots of hotels
and bungalows here, and many day trips from Phuket. A little crowded, but
still stunningly beautiful.
Similans
Now
one of the most famous dive sites in the Asia, the Similan Islands are nine
small, granite islands well out into the sea. It’s a marine National Park,
and the only accommodation is simple park bungalows and tents. There are few
beaches and little else above water to see, so if you’re not a diver there’s
not much reason to go.
Khao
Lak
This quiet stretch of beach about an hour’s drive north of Phuket now has
about a dozen small bungalow resorts scattered over many kilometres of quiet
coastline. Some of a good standard, some are cheap and basic. It’s a new,
peaceful get-away.
Khao Sok National Park
This
is the largest remaining stand of rainforest in southern Thailand – and even
this is under threat. But it is of exceptional beauty, and is definitely
worth a trip for those with the time. A one day trip is just not enough. We
show some of the animals and birds that live here, too.
Trang Islands
The
islands off the southern province of Trang are south of Phuket. There are
several beautiful islands here with low-budget accommodation. Access is by
boat from points on the Trang coast.
Koh
Lanta
‘Koh’ means island in Thai. This large island to the south of Krabi is fast
developing into a quiet, budget hide-away. There are now over 100
bungalow resorts and up-market resorts here, but they are spread over many beaches and the island
is still tranquil
Krabi
It’s
fame is spreading fast – for two of the most amazingly beautiful beaches you
will find anywhere. But there is more to this province than beaches, and we
tell you how best to enjoy it.
Related Stories:
The Andaman Advantage – Why the Andaman Sea is perfect for sailing, fishing
and diving. Phuket Magazine Vol 8 No 9 Page 30
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