< Previous70 | BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 SUSAN HOI (OR SHELL CEMETERY) This 75-million-year-old “shell cemetery” on the seashore at Laem Pho is a formation of thick limestone layers with shell fossils around 200 metres long and 50 metres wide. Over the millennia, geographic upheavals pressurised the fossilized shells into solid, impressive layers that is 40 centimetres thick. Do check the tide prediction beforehand, as it is only visible during low tide. ANDAMAN CULTURAL CENTER The Andaman Cultural Center is a knowledge resource hub for the history of Krabi and other southern provinces along the Andaman coast, along with local culture and arts such as the impressive Andaman Beads Museum on the premises that showcases seven zones – each relating a story corresponding with the distinct charms of Andaman beads. Also to be found on the premises is the Andaman Art Museum, which displays works by both local and international renowned artists as well as rotating exhibitions. KRABIBANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 | 71 SOUVENIRS FROM THE SEA With a determination to protect the sea from waste that endangers the marine ecological system, Souvenirs from the Sea is a creative studio that creates upcycled bags, tote and more from sea debris. Each and every item differs according to the waste that was collected each time. Apart from supporting a good cause by purchasing such unique items, visitors can also book a special workshop to learn the creative techniques. Contact Facebook: SFTSKrabi, IG: SFTS_Krabi or Tel: 089-353-6924 for further details and to make an appointment. REEVE BEACH CLUB Located on Ao Nang beach, this is the most happening night-time spot with a welcoming vibe and exciting fire dance show by skilful and entertaining performers every evening at 8 p.m. In addition, the food and beverages are top quality – the Japanese dishes here are second to none, the thin-crust Reeve Pizza (THB 520) is as good as it gets and the Mixed Grilled Seafood (THB 2,000) is superb. Do not miss making a toast or two with a cocktail crafted by one of the professional bartenders – guest favourites include Reeve Paradise (THB 320) and Pineapple Ginger Beer (THB 180).72 | BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 ISLAND EXCURSION A visit to Krabi would not be complete without a day boat trip on the Andaman Sea, with an abundance of islands of different sizes waiting to welcome you to their natural charms. One of the islands that is worth a visit is Koh Hong, around 20 minutes by longtail boat from Tabkaek Beach, Embarking at Koh Hong pier, an entrance fee of THB60 for Thais and THB300 for foreigners is applied. where crystal-clear water and a powdery white beach is guaranteed. Do not miss the hilltop view point from where to take in the ocean panorama from 109 metres above sea level. The trail up there is 239 metres and takes around 45 minutes. Day boat trips vary in price according to the boat type, route taken, length of trip, refreshments served, etc. KRABIBANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 | 73 BIRD’S NEST Perched high up among verdant trees in a secluded area within the Banyan Tree Krabi, you’ll discover the iconic Bird’s Nest – a highly private, Instagrammable as well as enchanting dining spot comprising of only three nests. Enjoy afternoon tea in one of these during 2-5 p.m., or else enjoy a fine Bird’s Nest dinner set menu (THB 3,000 per person) created by the award-winning Saffron kitchen. Advance reservation is highly recommended. KHAOTHONG HILL CAFÉ The place to hit for a perfect sunset is one of the nearby “forest islands” and at Khaothong Hill Café, perched 120 metres above sea level on one of these, you’ll have unobstructed views of the sun dropping majestically into the ocean with a glorious sky as the backdrop. To reach the café you’ll need to park at the foothill and hop onto its truck service which costs THB 50 per person (but will be deducted from your final bill at the café). The food and drink menu is broad enough to please every palate. 74 | BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 KO CHOI Located near the airport, Ko Choi is a local restaurant that is famous for its soft rice noodles with some chew, and wide choice of curries. The popular Assorted Set, priced at THB 220, includes six curries plus fresh vegetables. Another popular is the fried chicken with pepper and garlic at only THB 25. Ko Choi is open daily from 6 a.m. –7 p.m. ROTI BANGNARA Roti Bangnara is so popular for its crispy, unoily roti that it serves over 500 pieces each day. The famous roti is typically enjoyed with condensed milk and sugar (THB 30), banana (THB 35) or with curry (THB 50). Traditional Thai tea and other local drinks complement roti well. Roti Bangnara is open only from 6 a.m. –2 p.m. and the queue always includes local and visitors alike. KRABIBANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 | 75 SWEET & SOUR Set in an orange-coloured building beside the main road, Sweet & Sour offers food and drinks but is most-loved for its homemade ice cream. The best seller is Strawberry Cheese Cake Ice Cream (THB 79 per scoop). Berry Toast (THB 139) and Pan-Cookie Choc Lava (THB 150) are equally satisfying, while from the savoury menu the Spaghetti Carbonara (THB 169) is creamy and tasty.76 | BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 C’MORE MOUNT BAR C’More Mount Bar is to be found in an avant-garde building nearby a verdant plantation. It offers an extensive choice of drinks as well as a variety of desserts such as Korean Strawberry Cheesecake (THB 130) and Carrot Cream Cheese Cake (THB 120). A best-selling drink is Mocha Latte (THB 115). There’s also an outdoor play area for young guests. AQUA BEACH CLUB If you’re looking for a private spot on the beach to unwind and enjoy water activities, Aqua Beach Club is the place to head to. During its construction, as many natural materials were used as possible and the outcome is remarkable. It offers plenty of seating choices – indoor, outdoor under the shade of trees, outdoor in the sun, on the giant swing, and more. The long drinks list and food items will save you from hunger pangs. KRABIBANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 | 77 RUENMAI RESTAURANT This is the southern eatery that sits at the top of everyone’s list in Krabi. The local experience begins with a swinging foot bridge from the parking area with its bamboo fence that leads diners onto the dining area with its impressive thatched conical roof built with bamboo. The ambience is fresh, the service is expedient, and the authentic southern dishes are full- flavoured and tasty. Notable are Fresh Vegetables and Shrimp Dip (THB 150), Pad Pak Mieng (THB 150), and Pad Sato (THB 200). 78 | BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 HOTEL IN KRABI ➜➜ LOCATION Step into the sanctuary for the senses, where the sapphire blue sea meets tropical white sands against a backdrop of lush jungle-green mountains. Banyan Tree Krabi , inspired by the story of the “Naga”, is the only property in the destination which offers all pool suited and villa accommodation that features fabulous semi-private beach with incredible sunset views. The resort is embraced on two sides BANYAN TREE KRABI 279 Moo 3, Tambon Nongtalay, Amphoe Muang, Krabi 81180, Thailand +66 075 811 888 krabi@banyantree.com www.banyantree.com/ thailand/krabi T E W by one of Thailand’s most alluring national parks, and on its seaside by yet another marine national park. All suites have a saltwater pool and jet pool entering the bathroom.BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE JOURNEYS 2023-2024 | 79 ➜➜ DINING Embark on a nutritious and delicious culinary journey at Krabi's most iconic venue. Experience dining in one of the "Bird's Nests" at Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant, Saffron, or try the all-day dining with creative and international rustic cuisine at The Naga Kitchen. Relax at the beachfront Kredkaew Bar with dramatic sunset views, and top off your vacation with a unique tropical Destination Dining experience, blending romance and intimacy with the flavours of Thailand. ➜➜ RECREATIONAL & ENTERTAINMENT The very best of spa treatments and therapies developed in award-winning Banyan Tree tradition awaits you in this secret hideaway featuring The Rainforest, a holistic hydrotherapy wellness experience designed to heal and soothe. During your stay, choose from the variety of complimentary activities on offer including Thai boxing, yoga and meditation classes as well as our various marine activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boards. The Kids' Club provides a welcome distraction for the little guests, with a mix of fun and educational activities while the state-of-the-art fitness includes treadmills, elliptical and cycling machines and an extensive range of free weights and machines facilitating strength training.Next >