‘I visited a tiny island with hardly any tourists and it’s paradise’

Thailand is a popular destination for tourists from all walks of life, and if you’ve ever stepped foot in the ‘Land of Smiles’ it’s easy to see why.

The Southeast Asian country is home to incredible cuisine, unforgettable scenery, and arguably the friendliest people in the world, making it a once-in-a-lifetime holiday destination.

From the northern magic of Chiang Mai to the central craziness of Bangkok, the country is as diverse as they come, but one region in particular captured my heart – the south.

Ko Lipe

Peacefully placed in the Andaman sea near Thailand’s border with Malaysia, Ko Lipe is the island that springs to mind when you close your eyes and imagine paradise.

Crystal clear waters, which are home to around 25 percent of the world’s tropical fish species, and unblemished sandy beaches make Ko Lipe a perfect destination to kick back and escape from reality.

READ MORE: Cheap and vibrant city is one of the best destinations for British expats

Incredibly manageable in size, measuring just over two miles in length, Lipe’s two most popular beaches (Pattaya and Sunrise) are connected by the Walking Street – a pedestrianised walkway flanked by restaurants, bars, and places to stay that cuts through the beating heart of the island.

With Ko Lipe’s tiny dimensions, there is a danger that the island may feel overcrowded, but that’s far from the truth – at times you feel like Lipe’s only visitor.

Although there is the option to scuba dive and snorkel for more adventurous tourists, Ko Lipe is the ideal island for visitors requiring a change in pace – but be warned, Lipe’s laid back atmosphere is infectious and addictive, leaving you longing for island life long after you’ve left.

Phuket

One of Thailand’s most well-known provinces, Phuket is an essential visit when exploring the south.

Although it has garnered a reputation for its wild nightlife scene, and that is an option if you are so inclined, Phuket is so much more than a 24/7 party destination.

Don’t miss…
The pretty village that you can only reach by boat is among world’s best[LATEST]
Pristine island with hardly any tourists has Europe’s most beautiful starry sky[INSIGHT]
Nicaragua island on sale for cheaper than a London flat[REPORT]

• Support fearless journalism
• Read The Daily Express online, advert free
• Get super-fast page loading

Calmly seated atop Nakkerd hill, the imperious Big Buddha watches over Phuket – with the beautifully crafted concrete and marble statue measuring 148 feet tall.

Not only is Big Buddha itself a remarkable site to behold, the panoramic views overlooking Ao Chalong Bay are breathtaking and more than worth the ascent.

Phuket’s Old Town is unlike the rest of the country, with the Western-inspired architecture of Thalang Road in particular having you question where you are.

However, with that being said, it is nonetheless charming. Soi Romanee is a particularly beautiful street, with its colourful buildings providing the perfect backdrop for photo opportunities.

Elsewhere in Phuket there are delicious and affordable street markets, selling incredibly flavourful food for less than a pound per portion, and an array of stunning beaches ideal for hours of relaxation.

Krabi

A trip to the south of Thailand would be incomplete without visiting the remarkable province of Krabi.

Home to more than 100 offshore islands, including the picture-perfect Phi Phi islands, Krabi has some of the best beaches in the country.

Railay Beach is quite simply stunning. A multi-purpose beach offering activities such as rock climbing for adrenaline seekers in the east, and the sunset views from the west part of the beach are awe-inspiring.

Another highlight of Krabi is the spectacular Tiger Cave Temple, or Wat Tham Suea, a beautiful Buddhist temple famed for having tiger paw prints inside its cave.

The walk up to the temple is strenuous, so bare that in mind before embarking – bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. However, the ethereal atmosphere of the cave and the mind-blowing views over Krabi are an experience you will never forget.

Source: Read Full Article