Escape to one of Thailand's most southern stars. WHY GO With striking limestone formations rising out of emerald-green waters, there are few seascapes as visually stunning as those in the southern Thai province of Krabi - renowned for its picturesque fishing villages, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. TO DO Krabi's stunning scenery and varying topography presents a myriad of activity options for the outdoor adventurer. Rock-climbing, hiking, cave exploring, kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, SCUBA diving, windsurfing and island-hopping by speedboat or traditional longtail boat are all possible. If you prefer something a little more relaxing, attend cooking classes or enjoy a Royal Thai massage. STAY Rayavadee (http://www.rayavadee.com/) has reigned as Krabi's "Land of the Princess" for the past 15 years and this gracious dame certainly occupies a prime position. Situated on a peninsula straddling three of Krabi's best known beaches - Railay, Phra Nang and Nam Mao - you're spoiled for choice when it comes to golden sands and clear waters. The only problem is, everyone else also wants a slice of paradise. While the resort itself is an oasis of serenity, the same cannot be said for the beaches, which - because of their location within national parkland - are open to the public. Thankfully the longtail boats ferrying tourists back and forth from Ao Nang and Phuket tend to depart around 4pm. But until then, your time is best spent poolside or kayaking to quieter bays if you want to avoid the crowds. Rayavadee is indeed luxurious. 98 private, two-storey pavilions are dotted throughout mature, landscaped gardens inter-connected by walkways lined with koi ponds. Each pavilion offers a spacious living area downstairs and a comfortable bedroom and bathroom - with oversized tub - upstairs. Some have a private hydro pool, but it's those with a Jacuzzi and outdoor shower that offer the most privacy for a romantic getaway. Family pavilions have a second bedroom with two connecting queen-size beds - creating one gigantic bed which could easily fit up to four children. Larger families or groups of friends can choose from a selection of two and three-bedroom villas. Facilities include four restaurants, a spa and tennis and squash courts. But the highlight of each day is afternoon tea served in the lounge, where you're invited to try your hand at local handicrafts while enjoying scones with jam and cream. SPECIAL OFFER Travel to Rayavadee with Fascinating Holidays and enjoy seven nights accommodation for the price of five, or two nights stay inclusive of flights, transfers, breakfast and late checkout from just $1,1318 per person. Tel: 6735 5511, www.fascinating.travel Pimalai Resort & Spa (http://www.pimalai.com/) is a peaceful retreat on Koh Lanta Yai - one of Krabi's most southern islands. An extended travelling time of 90 minutes from the mainland by speedboat may put it out of reach for stays of less than three nights. But this also ensures total seclusion and uninterrupted access to the azure waters of Mu Koh Lanta Marine National Park. Contact Aveson Travel for special offers. Tel: 61737 7677, www.aveson.com.sg Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas (www.centarahotelsresorts.com) is conveniently located just a short drive and speedboat ride away from Krabi airport. Opened in 2006, the well-sized rooms are superbly appointed - some with Jacuzzi's on the balcony - but a distinct lack of sun beds around the pool can lead to a mad scramble in the mornings. Situated on its own beach with palm-fringed views of a stunning rock formation, it's nonetheless an excellent accommodation option. Nakamanda (www.nakamanda.com) is one of the area's newest luxury boutique resorts and has been lauded for its contemporary style. Individual sala villas offer views of tropical gardens and the Andaman Sea. GETTING THERE The most convenient flight plan is direct to Krabi with Tiger Airways (http://www.tigerairways.com/). You can also travel to Phuket with Silk Air (http://www.silkair.com/) and JetStar (http://www.jetstar.com/) and journey a further two hours by car to Krabi. From Krabi airport a short car and boat transfer is usually required to reach a resort. 
Posted Dec 05, Dec 07
