Top 5 Thai Islands for the Adventurous Traveler
Koh Phi Phi
A beautiful oasis turned into a crazy party island, Koh Phi Phi is very popular with the twenty something partying backpacker set. The island is car free, and every destination is within walking distance to the other, so at least drunk driving isn’t a threat.
The small island caters to tourists, and Western style food is available on every corner. Fruit smoothie stands are ubiquitous, perfect for nursing that Slinky Bar-induced hangover that popped up upon waking. Shops selling sandwiches, slices of pizza, and the ever-available (toned down for tourists) Pad Thai make up the island’s own version of fast food, aimed directly at the taste buds of party animal quarter lifers. The restaurants run super late, available for every type of late night afterparty munchie, but if hunger strikes at 5am, there are also numerous 24 hour shops and 7/11s.
This island isn’t quite the choice for laidback vacationers or families, especially during high season. Party beats sound late into the night and wake you up early in the morning, though the more remote parts of the island (reachable only by boat or an extensive hike through the forest) offer peace and quiet.
Numerous tours run every day from the island (including to “The Beach,” Maya Bay, made famous by the movie of the same name), and open up your possibilities to see more of Thailand without leaving your comfortable home base in Phi Phi. The 3-in-1 tour by Ibex is especially popular, with cliff jumping, snorkeling, and more.
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