Pulau Weh

The Similan Islands are located approximately 60 kilometers west of the coast of Phang Nga and together form the Mu-Ko-Similan National Park. The name derives from the Malay word for “nine” and refers to the original nine main islands, which consist of rounded granite boulders and are fringed by white sandy coves.Underwater, the east side features shallow coral slopes, while the west sides consist of caves, swim-throughs, and rock formations like the Elephant Head Rock. Visibility is among the best in Thai waters, and between February and April, manta rays and occasionally whale sharks can be spotted. Many divers book multi-day trips on a liveaboard, while snorkelers visit as day guests.The National Park is closed during the monsoon months and generally reopens from mid-October to mid-May. Boats depart from Thap Lamu and Khao Lak. Overnight stays are only possible to a limited extent – in tents and simple park administration bungalows on two of the islands – and must be booked in advance. The number of visitors per day is limited.

The Andaman Coast makes up the western side of the Thai peninsula. Its defining characteristic is the limestone cliffs that rise from the sea and the plains – undercut, often sheer, and particularly densely clustered in Phang Nga Bay.Off the coast lie the famous island groups, from Phuket and the Phi-Phi Islands, via Koh Lanta, to the distant Similans. Underwater, one encounters coral slopes and rock formations; some of the country's most abundant diving areas are located here, and several coastal sections are protected as national parks.The season is clearly structured: From November to April, it's the dry season with calm seas, while from May to October, the Southwest Monsoon brings waves and rain. During the monsoon months, many island businesses close, marine national parks like the Similans remain closed, and strong rip currents develop on some beaches – pay attention to the red flags and do not enter the water when a flag is raised.

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and far more than just the beach resorts it's known for. The Old Town of Phuket Town, with its Sino-Portuguese shophouses, street art, and old coffee shops, tells of a time when tin was mined and traded with China here. In the south stand the Big Buddha on Nakkerd Hill and the temple Wat Chalong; along the west coast, bays line up – from lively Patong to the quieter Kata Noi and Nai Harn. Culinary-wise, the island is a destination in itself: Hokkien noodles and seafood from the night markets are part of a Southern Thai repertoire not found elsewhere. The best travel time is November to February.

Koh Yao Noi, a jewel in Phang Nga Bay, welcomes you with a relaxed atmosphere that stands in welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the larger islands. Here, you immerse yourself in the authentic island life of Thailand, surrounded by untouched nature, dramatic limestone cliffs, and sprawling rice fields. Let yourself be enchanted by the tranquility and discover a paradise that has preserved its authenticity.