VACATION DETAILS

As a late arrival to the tourism market 55 mi/88 km south of Phuket, Koh Lanta is still relatively low-key, a refreshing change of pace for travelers hoping to escape the nonstop party of nearby Koh Phi Phi. It is also beautiful, with dramatic vistas and pristine beaches, and it feels welcoming—local families run many of the tourist businesses. The west coast has a number of tourist developments and can get crowded in the high season between November and April. Resorts offer good discounts during low season.

The island offers good diving and snorkeling, and in the center, there is a spooky system of extensive caves (with stalactites and rock formations) where many bats make their home. There are also a few waterfalls.

Koh Lanta is reached by ferry from Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and Phuket. In the low season, services are scaled down and take longer.

Bangkok is chief port capital of Thailand and one of the most important cities in Southeast Asia. It is the epitome of the country's kaleidoscopic blend of old and new. It is an expression of Thai respect for tradition coupled with their vibrant involvement with modern progress. Rama I built the walled Grand Palace, which contains Temple of the Emerald Buddha. During the 19th century, Bangkok was known as the Venice of the East because of its many canals, which served as streets and commercial thoroughfares. Houses perched along the banks of the remaining canals are still common sight. Some of Bangkok’s most distinctive features are the approximately 400 Buddhist temples, known as wats. Bangkok is Thailand's economic center. Other sights to see include Temples, monuments, museums, Vimarnmekh Mansion, and Jim Thompson’s House.