If you’re going to make the journey all the way to Thailand to see for your own eyes those insanely beautiful limestone cliffs cascading out of the clear blue water, it better be worth it, right?
I won’t lie- my bitter heart may have actually shed a tear when the plane landed in Krabi and I set eyes on those cliffs. So many places you see on the internet will let you down in real life, and I was scared that would happen in Thailand as well. But those cliffs, known as karsts, are certainly worth seeing in your life. Whether in Thailand or another country, I highly recommend seeking them out at least once in your life.
But, there are many places to go in Thailand, and when you’re doing your search of where to stay, Phi Phi Island, or Koh Phi Phi, will certainly come up high on the list. The appeal is there. An island that can only be reached by boat, and pictures that are certainly mouthwatering for any lover of tropical images.
The internet will warn you about Phi Phi. The nightlife will last until the wee hours and the noise from the clubs can be heard loud and clear, even from far away, so if you want a good night’s rest, bring ear plugs (no joke, I read that while researching for my trip).
After seeing the images online though, I had to check it out for myself- and luckily I only gave myself one night here.
Yes, the nature is undeniably beautiful- hands down. But what has been done to that place is one of the saddest examples of over tourism I’ve ever seen. The middle of the island is packed with stores and it’s crowded nature is far from the peacefulness conveyed in the images online.
I had just come from a relaxing three night stay in Railay Beach, so the change in atmosphere was quite striking. I immediately wished I could return back to my quiet slice of heaven known as a rooftop infinity pool.
I’ve known people who have visited Phi Phi and loved it. If you’re down to party and are looking for a more touristy activities to do, then Phi Phi might be just perfect for you.
From the view of a solo, female, traveling introvert- it was not my paradise.
I thought I booked a room far enough away from all the noise, but those websites don’t lie! I swear the bay acts like a loudspeaker for the club music. So…
Phi Phi Island- is it worth it? To me..No
Why? Because there are so many other beautiful places to go in Thailand! If you’re looking for a more peaceful retreat, I highly recommend Railay Beach.
Railay is part of Krabi, but can only be reached by boat because of the cliffs. Here you’ll find way less shopping and touristy stuff, and more beach, pool, and views. What’s cool about this place are there are secret paths to find beaches, and if you’re really in shape, cliffs to climb. Here is where I found one of the most iconic images of Thailand.
From Railay, you can take boat tours of other Islands, or, just sit and relax. The sunsets are incredible from the beach, and even if you aren’t staying on the beach side, it’s only a five minute walk from the beach to the pier side.
I stayed at the Railay Princess Hotel, and although this was a bit more than I normally spend on accommodation, it wasn’t insanely expensive for how big and beautiful the room was. If you stay here, request a room by the rooftop infinity pool. I had read that they were the nicest rooms on a hotel review, and I was blown away by the quality- and accessibility to the pool was an added bonus.
The food everywhere in Thailand is cheap, including at the hotel restaurant. Make sure to try the green curry and banana smoothie, which I probably ate almost everywhere on that trip.
So if you’re going to make the journey, definitely think about what type of experience you want. If you want to party- head to Phi Phi. If you just want some peace and quiet? Maybe search for a different beach, and save Phi Phi for a day trip if the pictures are just that enticing!
Are you more of a partier or the relaxed type on vacations? (I think you already know my answer).
-Jessie
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