Discover the Tropical Beauty of Koh Lanta, a Secret Paradise Island in Thailand

KOH LANTA – A PARADISE ISLAND IN THAILAND
When you think of Thailand, it is most likely that you associate it with turquoise water and white sandy beaches. But this Asian site for vacation heaven has much transformed in the last dozens of years. Mass tourism and pollution have turned once idyllic and exuberant isles into resorts and party meccas. And while these may prove to be an ideal vacation destinations for some, others want to see more of what Southern Thailand used to be – scenic and distant. Few of those locations are left, concealed in plain sight, just because they may be seriously invaded by the human factor, however are still underrated. One of these is Koh Lanta, an island in the Andaman Sea, outside of Krabi state.

BUT WHAT MAKES THIS ISLAND SO UNIQUE, AND WHY IS IT SO UNDERVALUED?
While many other isles cater especially to western tourists, to spoon feeding Thai culture to them. Koh Lanta’s tourism revolves around another kind of travelers. This isle is where Thais flock to for their holidays, making the place contemporary and reachable. There are lots of restaurants and resorts. At exactly the same time, farangs (westerners) aren’t taking over the area. A number of pubs are spread along the road, and make the whole nightlife of the isle up; there aren’t any malls and chain stores that would associate to anything Western like.

WHO WOULD JUST LOVE IT, AND WHO WOULDN’T?

This is a specific area to visit in Thailand, unlike other destinations. Like young backpackers might not appreciate the family resorts of Phuket, or retired couples would not want to stay on a full moon party hostel. Here, at Koh Lahta, you can anticipate great food, a laid back atmosphere, and idyllic shores. It is perfect for travelers who need a time out from their hectic lives. Still, you can perfectly keep yourself amused here. Do not anticipate however the excursion experience. It would also be perfect for couples who desire to enjoy an intimate holiday on a tropical isle. Families can enjoy sun, plus the beaches, with their families. The sea is calm, and the sand is soft. Do not come here expecting to shop or similar. Currently, there is no Starbucks and no H&M.

WHAT’S THERE TO DO ON KOH LANTA?

You may get the feeling that there’s nothing when looking at Koh Lanta. Nevertheless, there are a significant few activities to keep you occupied. Motorbikes here are not expensive and an excellent choice to hiring a Tuk Tuk for the day. You’ll be surprised, as the island is fairly big. But you won’t get lost, as there is just one road that goes around the isle. That makes it perfect for quests around. Resist the temptation to remain on the west of the isle, where you are able to see all the shores. While on it, run to Lanta Old Town for a small history lesson and some nice food treatment.

Additionally, Lanta is an ideal starting point for island hopping. Attempt to allow a complete day for snorkeling on Koh Rok twin isles, among the most pristine areas in the Andaman Sea. Then, take the five island tour to Waen, Koh Muk, Ngai, Kradan and Cheuak. A few of these areas are rather touristy, but the tours are more silent than most island hopping in Krabi. Don’t miss out on the magic Tham Morakot, the “emerald cavern” on Koh Muk! After you have your snorkeling fix, check out Mu Ko Lanta National Park and Khlong Chak Waterfall. The latter one requires you to pay an entrance fee, but in turn, you can not appreciate the jungle trek and lighthouse.

Another excursion for the nature lover would be the one to Khao Mai Kaew, an astonishing cavern full of stalactites – and stalagmites and bats. Sign up for a cooking course once you’re back at your resort. Choose one at ‘Time for Lime’ cooking school if you need to join the joy of cooking with an excellent action. The money they bring in through the courses goes straight to the Koh Lanta animal welfare. In case you don’t enjoy much cooking, try their great beachfront area where you can have some really nice dish, plus famous mojitos. If you get a superb spot, you can see the magnificent Koh Lanta sunset right from your table.

Fairly speaking, there’s lots to do on the isle. And if you have time nothing is more blissful than a day on the magnificent shores. Perhaps grab a drink at one of the beachfront pubs and an excellent book.

WHEN SHOULD YOU GO?

The high season spans from November to April. This is time when Thailand gets the most of its foreign visitors. You have tons of choices for your lodging and food. Tourist bureaus and all the resorts are open and running. You will reach Koh Lanta by speedboat, and be able to reserve tours to nearby islands, and mingle with local people.

Try to go in this seasons. During low season, Koh Lanta is quite empty. That is not always a terrible thing though. It depends what you are up to. If you are fine with being a loner at the beach, and have it all for yourself skip the suggested time frame and pay a visit in some other month. There are only several restaurants and places that are operating throughout the other part of the year. These are mostly served by locals. Given the fact that low season tourism occurs on popular destinations like Phuket or Koh Samui, you might find yourself the only guest in your resort or hostel.

SO IS KOH LANTA A SECRET HEAVEN?

The nature of a distant and undiscovered isle has the advantage to largely remain unaffected. If you are after a quiet and idyllic location, to get away from your hectic lifestyle, the attractiveness of Koh Lanta might just be the right and ideal destination for you. In contrast to well known island, nature here is generally left whole, and you will not have to dodge tourist’s cameras and sunburned drinks. Plus, you still do not get to see any similar shores like these anywhere else.

If this doesn't make you feel like travelling I'm not sure what will.
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