I’ve been to Thailand a few years ago and totally fell in love with this country. The most breathtaking nature and landscapes, the most amazing food, the sweetest people – Thailand is known as the land of smiles for a reason! So I was more than happy to get the chance to enjoy some more of this lovely region and here comes my travel guide to the South of Thailand! I will include my tips from my first trip so that I can share most of the experience with you <3
PINK Stay
Khao Lak: The area of Khao Lak is about one hour north of the airport of Phuket and in the western part of the mainland. Actually I was a little afraid that there would be that big party scene Thailand is known for, so I was even more pleased when I arrived at my hotel (Eden Beach Resort – not outstanding, but nice and modern): A beautiful, wide stretch of beach, calm and quiet, but also a cute little bar and restaurant area within some minutes of walking distance – the perfect balance! Also, Khao Lak makes the most perfect starting point to explore some of the most beautiful parts of the country as everything is within one to two hours drive – but first:
Koh Lanta: When staying on one of the stunning islands of Thailand, of course you are a little more stuck to your location. You can get around by boat, but this takes a lot more time and money, as you can imagine 😉 On the other hand, the beaches are even more beautiful and the island life is the best life, right?! Also, here you can find one of my favorite hotels of all times (but beware, my stay is several years ago): the Pimalai Resort. Pure bliss, highly recommend it!
My tip would be: stay some days on one of the islands of the Andaman Sea, then move to the mainland to see some more of the country.
PINK Sights
Make sure to rent a car when staying on the mainland to be able to explore the country side on your own – much less expensive, and isn’t a private tour with the chance to see exactly what you want to see a thousand times better than those awful tourist bus tours? Btw, the most famous sight of Thailand, Koh Phi Phi (the island where The Beach was filmed) is closed right now as the mass tourism completely destroyed the nature. I think this is so sad! I visited this island on my first trip to Thailand and it was just crazy. Thousands of boats, tourists, leaving their dirt everywhere at one of the most beautiful places on this planet. Treat this world with some more respect everyone! And here come my absolute must dos (and I mean they are a must as I never seen more stunning landscapes, completely surreal):
Phang Nga Bay: When you think of Thailand, you probably think of this region – the stunning coastal area with its thousands of limestone karsts that jut vertically out of the emerald green water and also James Bond island with its famous landmark, the 20 meter rock, named Koh Ta-pu. Make sure to arrive in the early morning hours to witness the most breathtaking sunset of your life at the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint and then continue to the Ngop-Ko Tapu Pier for a private long tail boat rental to cruise through the spectacular scenery.
Khao Sok: This national park in the mainlands of Southern Thailand is covered by the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world and massive lakelands, with huge limestone mountains shooting straight up in the air and wild elephants crossing your way. Also best explored by long tail boat, just head to the Ratchaprapha Marina for a private rental. My tip: Make this your second trip after Phang Nga Bay, as the landscapes are quite similar (just ocean vs. lakes) and imho Khao Sok is even more stunning, it will blow you away!
PINK Looks
My perfect tropical essentials for a trip to Thailand next to a fresh coconut in my hand: A short and airy summer dress by my favorite designers Zimmermann or LOVESHACKFANCY, flowers in my hair (or a pretty sunhat to protect from the burning sun) and comfy slides you can just slip out and jump into the sea. The best thing: you can get amazing discounts on all of my favorite pieces right now at Shopbop with the code GOBIG19 – happy shopping!
But of course, no look is perfect without the perfect hair! I got a retouch for this trip at my favorite salon in Munich, KS Friseur, as I love some more highlights in the summer for a beachy look – how do you like it?
xoxo
Sarah
