How can we go to Phi Phi island from Phuket?
Phi Phi islands can be reached by boat from both Krabi or Phuket
Q: Hello there, I will be travelling to Thailand in mid November and had planned to fly from Bangkok to Phuket, then catch a ferry to Phi Phi islands. Then I discovered that the islands are located in Krabi, not Phuket. Which airport is closer to Phi Phi: Krabi or Phuket? Thanks, Sarah
A: Phi Phi islands can be reached by boat from both Krabi or Phuket and each has certain advantages. Both airports are fine but Phuket has a greater frequency of both domestic and international flights.
The island is located about 42 kilometres from mainland Krabi. The airport in Krabi is not too far from the town centre, just 12 kilometres away, and there is a pier in the centre of town known as Chao Pa. There’s also a new pier at Khlong Jilad. Boats leave for Phi Phi from both piers and tickets are available at the pier or from travel agents in the town. The journey takes about two hours; a faster boat does the crossing in 90 minutes. Prices range from Bt150Bt350 per person. There are also boats leaving from Ao Nang, so you can stay inAo Nang or Railey before travelling to Phi Phi without having to return to Krabi town again.
Ferries from Phuket to Phi Phi usually depart from Rassada Pier, which is about an hour away from the airport. The ferry is quite large and tickets can be organised through tour operators. Most daytrippers from Phuket to Phi Phi use this pier too. The journey takes about two hours.
Q: We’re thinking of stopping in Trang for a night as we travel from Hat Yai to Donsak pier to catch the ferry to Koh Samui. Our plans are vague at the moment, as we haven’t decided where to stay and what else we can do in this town. What can we expect in Trang? Thanks in advance. TM Grey
A: Trang is a lovely. small and atmospheric town, featuring a neighbourhood of historic shophouses with arcades, many excellent eateries offering Trangstyle dim sum, roasted pork, chiffon cake and coffee shops. If you can stay only one day here, it's pleasant to enjoy all of these. One night is enough to enjoy the main highlight, which is having breakfast. Breakfast is a big deal here, so don’t order an American breakfast and leave town. Instead head to a good dim sum eatery with many dim sum selections. You can ask a local for the best one near your hotel. Also order the delicious roast pork and end the meal with its oldstyle hot coffee.
If you have more time to stay in this town, Trang has many superb beaches and islands to enjoy. Along its coastline is Pak Meng beach with white powdery sand, and Had Chao Mai and Had Chang Lang beaches, which are located within a national park area and offers some really stunning scenery.
Trang also has many islands you can visit on day trips operated by local tour companies. Some have simple bungalow accommodation and are perfect places to relax and get away from it all. The largest island here is Koh Libong and is part of the Petra Islands group. Also worth visiting are Koh Sukorn, Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, Koh Ngai and the Emerald Cave. There are all gorgeous and peaceful, and you may find yourselves staying for a week instead of a night!
