Author:
John Brent @johnbrenttravel and johnbrenttravel.com.
1. Ko Tao
This small island had to be my number 1. When you think of the perfect island you think of Ko Tao. Amazing beaches, great for snorkelling and scuba diving. I saw a whale shark here too! There are many food options and it’s easy to get around on a scooter to explore the great viewpoints.
2. Ao Nang, Krabi
Ao Nang in Krabi is one of my favourite places in Thailand, if not the world. There’s no shortage of things to do here including island hopping. There are some amazing beaches such as Railay and an abundance of food options. It has a relaxed, chill vibe to it but you also have the option to party into the night if you want.
3. Pai
Pai is 729 road bends from Chiang Mai. Pai is a small village full of charm and the perfect place to chill. It’s a great place to rent a scooter and visit the local attractions such as the big Buddha. Its one of the most laidback places I’ve visited.
4. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is located a few hours north of Bangkok. I was unsure if I would like it, as I’m normally happier by the sea. But Chiang Mai is FULL of adventure and temples. Time passes very quickly here with options to trek, zip line, cook at cookery schools and visit ethical elephant homes. There’s a huge street market and some of the best street food I’ve eaten.
5. Bangkok
Bangkok is humid and chaotic, but I love it. I’ve passed through Bangkok 3 times and every time I’ve made new discoveries. The city is full of amazing temples and great for shopping. Even taking a trip down the river is full of excitement. A night out on Khao San Road is not to be missed, however if you want to sleep, this is not the place to stay with music playing full volume until 6am!
6 Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi rose to fame after the movie The Beach. Maya Bay the location for the film is currently closed to tourists whilst the reef recovers. Despite this, Phi Phi is a fun island full of party, boat trips and stunning beaches. However, it is also expensive compared to other areas in Thailand. Beware, some prices triple that of Bangkok.
7. Khao Sok
Khao Sok is a National Park in the south. The lake and limestone cliffs were stunning! In fact it was like a location from the movie Avatar. However Khao Sok is tricky to get to and once you have seen the views there isn’t much to do. A few days here is ample.
8. Phuket
Phuket- the largest of the Thai islands, didn’t actually have an island feel to it. But Patong was fun for a crazy night out and there were some beautiful beaches and sunset views. It’s a good base for Phi Phi and Phang Nga.
9. Koh Phangnan
Koh Phangan- is famous for the full moon party, which, granted, was great fun. Apart from that, the island didn’t have much happening. The beaches were pretty average for Thailand and the locals unfriendly. It was almost as if they were tired of tourism.
10. Koh Samui
Koh Samui comes in in 10th place, it was the island that I least connected with in Thailand. It felt very touristy with little character. After visiting Ko Tao a week before, it felt a lot more commercial.
John:
My name is John I’m 34 years old and from the UK. I work as a flight attendant and am currently living in Palma, Mallorca, Spain. The last 3 years I’ve travelled a lot of Europe, South East Asia and touched on the USA. My goal is to give an account of my travels and at the same time help others to have an amazing experience or to avoid any potential mishaps.
“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine it’s lethal”