Hey there, fellow adventurers! Welcome to a Thai-riffic blog, where I’m excited to share with you the incredible journey of a lifetime – an island-hopping adventure in Thailand with Contiki. Buckle up because this story is about to unfold like an epic travel novel!

The Dream That Became Reality

As a wide-eyed child, I would gaze at maps and dream of far-off lands. The idea of traveling abroad seemed as elusive as chasing shooting stars, but life had its own whimsical way of unfolding. Fast forward a few years, and there I was, a part of the travel industry, charting voyages for others. It was an enchanting journey, but little did I know that my own adventure was just around the corner. Finally, the opportunity to fulfil my long-awaited dream came knocking, and guess where the compass pointed? Thailand – a youthful daydream brought to life.

Solo, but Not Alone

Stepping onto that international flight, I could hardly believe it was real. Nervousness coursed through me – not just because it was my first international trip, but because I was journeying solo, or at least I thought I was. You see, I wasn’t truly alone; I was part of the Contiki family.

Contiki is more than a travel company; it’s an experience that defies conventional tourism. Imagine diving headfirst into local cultures, led by the very people who call those places home. It’s not just about seeing landmarks; it is about understanding the heartbeat of a destination through the eyes of those who live it. And it doesn’t end there. The journey itself, often aboard the iconic coaches, becomes a tapestry of friendships woven with shared stories, playlists, and a united passion for exploration.

From Dreams to Reality

Picture this: You’ve seen those stunning scenes from “The Beach,” and you’ve been daydreaming about those limestone islands and craving Thai food since forever. Well, my friends, it was time to turn those dreams into reality. We embarked on an eight-day expedition that would take us from the bustling streets of Phuket to the pristine shores of Koh Phi-Phi and the exotic paradise of Krabi.

Phuket: Where It All Begins

Our adventure kicked off in Phuket, where the excitement was palpable. Eight days of exotic lands and mesmerizing Thai beaches lay ahead of us. As we gathered in Phuket, we embraced the laid-back island vibes, spending our first full day exploring rescued elephants and Chinese-influenced architecture. Come evening, we couldn’t resist the allure of the Banzaan Night Market for local food, a sensory delight. Thirsty for more youthful adventure, we headed to Nida’s bar, renowned for epic cocktails and Thailand’s finest beers, and later danced the night away at the iconic Illuzion club in Phuket. It was a night to remember, a perfect way to kickstart our unforgettable journey through Thailand’s wonders.

Koh Phi-Phi: Revealing the Thai-Tropical Paradise

On day three, our journey from Phuket to Koh Phi-Phi embodied the spirit of “mai pen rai – don’t worry, be happy.” Upon arrival, this tropical haven welcomed us with open arms, its sheer beauty leaving us spellbound. Long beach days, enchanting sunsets, and ocean adventures filled our time, along with authentic Thai culinary delights like mango sticky rice at The Mango Garden and vibrant nights at Slinky Beach Bar – its lively ambience and eclectic cocktails, it was the perfect spot to let loose and dance the night away. We also savoured khao yam and witnessed mesmerizing fire shows at Carlito’s Bar. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we strolled along the beach, capturing the island’s essence.

The following day granted us the freedom to explore Koh Phi-Phi at our leisure. Some chose the “Day on the Bay,” blending island hopping and relaxation. As the day turned to night, we savoured one last beachside walk, enveloped in the island’s soothing glow, with the scent of Pad Thai lingering in the air. The Blanco Beach Bar & Hostel added an artistic touch to our evenings, where we mingled with fellow travellers and enjoyed the night at the beach. Koh Phi-Phi had etched its beauty into our hearts, reminding us to embrace life’s moments and be happy, echoing the island’s mantra, “mai pen rai.”

Krabi: Witnessing Nature’s Ultimate Masterpiece

Leaving Koh Phi Phi was bittersweet, but our salty seadog spirit remained intact as we set our course for Krabi. This exotic paradise was calling our names, and we eagerly answered. In Krabi, we soaked in the small-town charm of Ao Nang. Friendly locals, massage parlours, local markets, and seaside cocktails at the Upbeat Bar (formerly known as Loft R&B) made our day perfect. The vibrant beats and tropical vibes at this hidden gem on the map added an unforgettable rhythm to our adventure.

Back on the Thai mainland, Krabi greeted us with stunning island vistas. Some of us chose to embark on a speedboat cruise of Phang Nga Bay to see the famous James Bond Island. The sheer natural beauty of the area left us in awe, and the memories we created were like snapshots from a movie. This was one of the best spots for the souvenirs, we strolled through the local markets, sipping tropical juices by the sunset, painting a vivid picture of the day’s adventures.

Day in Krabi

With a free day in Krabi, we seized every opportunity to make the most of this incredible place. Whether it was lounging on Railay Beach, feeling the thrill of rock climbing, or enjoying the tantalizing flavours of the Kiran India restaurant, we made the most of our last day together as a Contiki family. The flavours of India transported especially on a culinary journey back home while the beach offered solace and serenity.

Farewell to Paradise

And then, all too soon, it was time to bid farewell to paradise. We reluctantly boarded the coach back to Phuket, where our adventure had begun. With heavy hearts, we shared one final moment of togetherness with our travel family before taking our transfers, some to the airport and others back to our starting hotel. Our trip had been an incredible rollercoaster of experiences, from the flavours of Phuket to the wild nights on Bangla Road, the breathtaking beauty of Koh Phi Phi, and the charm of Krabi. We had become a tight-knit group of friends, sharing unforgettable memories and moments of pure bliss.

Insider’s Guide:

Lodge Log: My Hotel List

Phuket – Sawaddi Patong Resort
✓ Highlight: Exceptional food at the resort’s restaurant.

Phi-Phi Islands – Bay View Resort
✓ Breath-taking view, but a bit of a hike to reach.
✓ Room’s panoramic view is worth the journey.

Krabi – Avani Ao Nang Cliff Resort
✓ Excellent location, close to trails, clubs, and restaurants.
✓ Conveniently, a McDonald’s is in the same building.

Tips to Avoid the Travel Bloopers in Thailand

• It’s advisable to carry cash, as many restaurants, shops, clubs, and Seven-Elevens prefer cash payments.
• Tourist SIM, the airport has more reliable options, but they are expensive. You might find cheaper ones at local shops.
• If you need to use an ATM, consider seeking aid from a trusted local to avoid the potential inconvenience of the machine swallowing your card.
• For authentic wooden souvenirs and beachwear, Krabi is the ideal destination.
• If you’re looking for souvenirs like fridge magnets, keychains, printed bags, wallets, jewellery, and, of course, the finest coffees, explore the lanes near Patong Beach.
• When it comes to savouring the best local food, head to Phi-Phi. You’ll want to skip the offerings of McDonald’s and Burger King while you’re there.

So, there you have it, my island-hopping adventure in Thailand – a journey of a lifetime that left me with heart full of gratitude and a lifetime of stories to tell. Cheers to new friendship, Thai flavours, and the lottery of life at Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint. It was an adventure that I will never forget.

Thank you for embarking on this amazing adventure through Thailand with me. Stay connected for more captivating travel stories and inspiration, and don’t forget, you can delve into more such tales right here!