Last visited in December 2024

After the necessary but too many months spent in my home country, it felt indescribably good to return to Asia. Besides my inner urge, the timing was perfect; the winter started to be too cold and dark in Europe, shops already overdosed on the Christmas horror, and I was annoyed by the smells (bad ones), public transportation, and the expensive mobile net.

It sounds like I hate Europe, but that’s not the exact truth; I just don’t belong there, never have, and don’t even want to. In Southeast Asia, it always feels like coming home, a feeling I never had on the Old Continent. I slowly let go of the social expectations and opinions about how to live my life and focus more on caring for my own needs and happiness. That sweet exit plane ticket was the first step to speed up this process.

Reaching a destination can be a real adventure when you play Lego with tickets. Followingly, I landed in Krabi before spending some time in Penang and then arriving in Bali. Why? Why not.. and because of the cheap tickets. I wanted to continue where I left off (namely, Thailand) and thought Krabi would be a perfect place to jet lag and adapt to the Asian lifestyle again. I’m happy with my decision.

Krabi is one of the most beautiful provinces in Thailand and probably the top one in the south. You’ll find here everything for a real Thailand experience: white sandy beaches, lush jungle, outdoor activities, extraordinary temples, night markets, laid-back atmosphere, and even the famous Thai smile is not so tired yet. You can choose to stay in Ao Nang (more touristy) or Krabi Town (more local), which will determine your experience to some extent.

AO NANG

This resort town is the hype in the area but has the same vibe as Pattaya or Patong Beach; you know, the Chang singlets, ladyboys, and Italian restaurants run by Indians kinda thing. Depending on the season, it can be crowded or fuckin’ crowded, slightly overpriced and loud. I know it sounds judgmental, but if a place stinks of beer and canal, is packed with drunk backpackers, and has serious waste issues, that’s not where I like to be. However, Ao Nang is the port from which Railay and other islands in the Andaman Sea can be reached, so you can’t avoid it.

KRABI TOWN

Krabi is a market town serving as a land and air transit point. I like it because it’s still authentic, but apart from the day and night markets, there’s not much to see here, and compared to the neighbouring town, it feels like a forgotten city next to the state route after they built the highway. Which is also its charm.

Although you won’t see crowds, hotels may be completely booked out in high season (December and January), so if Krabi is on your list, I highly recommend booking your accommodation in advance.

The only worthy sight in town is Wat Kaew Korawaram, so I recommend renting a scooter and exploring the region. There are many scooter rentals (just google or walk to Vicar Road), but some are very strict or simply sell out fast (same as with accommodation).

RAILAY

You don’t have to sail far from the mainland to find beautiful islands and beaches. The most popular destination here is Railay. After a short boat ride from Ao Nang Beach, you can enjoy (in case it’s not packed) the white sand and turquoise water heaven of Tonsai, Railay, and Phra Nang, climb up to the Princess Lagoon or the East Viewpoint, and put a dildo offering at the Princess Cave.

WAT THAM SUEA (Tiger Cave Temple)

Undoubtedly, the main attraction of Krabi. 1237 steps instant death (not even joking). I’m fit, but these stairs hurt; I wanted to faint after 30 steps and considered turning back at least three times.

Ultimately, I still made it, and gasping for air on the top with the 360-degree panoramic view in the morning light was never this satisfying. The only sensible time to accept the challenge and visit the temple is right after dawn. Believe me, you’ll die enough from climbing in the jungle humidity and don’t need the midday sun on top.

KHAO PHRA – BANG KHRAM (Wildlife Sanctuary)

Home of the famous Emerald and Blue pools. It might be a gorg scenery if you’re the only person there, but with the masses in the water, it felt rather disgusting. I didn’t even take any photos just jumped in and out of the natural pool and left the scene.

WAT MAHA THAT WACHIRAMONGKOL (Wat Bang Thong)

The highest temple in southern Thailand and my absolute favourite attraction in Krabi. Luckily, it is still less known and has not yet been overtaken by the mainstream. I love places that exceed all expectations; the shapes, colours, and details of this temple are insane and overwhelming. Perfect for casual visitors and art lovers.

Krabi is where I experienced the real digital nomad life for the first time. I could perfectly balance the so-called work-life thing and filled the free hours with lots of cocoa milk tea, kao moo dang, tasty noodles, and juicy fruits. You know, even jet lag doesn’t hurt that much when you like where you are.

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