All photos courtesy of Krabi Resort
Located in southern Thailand, the sister island of well-known Phuket is the magical Krabi. Krabi is 8 times larger and has almost 3 times as many pet islands than Phuket. They are similar geographically with tropical monsoon climates.
Krabi has dense mangrove forests, caves, coral reefs, waterfalls and rugged limestone cliffs added to its white sand beaches whereas Phuket is all mountains and beaches. Phuket is expensive and busier in comparison to Krabi, whereas Krabi is one of the most relaxing places on the planet. So, why not visit Krabi?
Located 30 minutes away from Krabi International Airport and outside the town center on most popular beach on the island, Ao Nang Beach, is the traditional Thai style resort Krabi Resort. The town of Ao Nang has an array of shops, restaurants and bars, and a night market that provides opportunities to buy trinkets and street food. This is an ideal location to discover the islands, relax on the beach, and enjoy the unsurpassed views.
Krabi resort is one of the first resorts developed in the area. To keep it updated, there have been ongoing phases of renovation, including the addition of 19 villas. When we arrived, construction to create a covered entrance to the lobby was in the works, a good idea given the tendency for rain showers.
Guests are welcomed into the expansive lobby with a Thai wooden ceiling, tiled floors and several seating areas including traditional Thai-style beds for lounging and relaxing.
The 215 spacious guest rooms, bungalow and villas are set amongst lush tropical gardens and palm trees with views of the transparent and mesmerizing Andaman Sea. There are two outdoor pools, one with a swim-up bar option.
Each guest room has been designed with either Thai traditional theme decor or contemporary modern design with Asian touches. All room types have fully equipped amenities as well as a balcony or terrace, and some have their own private pools.
The bathrooms vary in style as well, but each is ample in size and has its unique personality.
The Beachfront and Tropical Pool Villa are special home-like accommodations with similar layouts, one offering the beach view and the pool villa offering complete privacy. These are spacious with close to 600 square feet including private sitting room, master bedroom and a huge bathroom with a separate shower, two-seater jet stream jacuzzi, a large double vanity and a big dressing area.
The private outdoor pool makes for a perfect romantic getaway. Walled in by white walls, tropical plants, and bamboo thatching, the pools have a surprising waterfall feature that delights.
Krabi Resort food and beverage outlets offer either an excellent view of the Andaman Sea or are located poolside. Cuisine includes classic Thai food and favorite international dishes. There is an extensive choice of seafood BBQ available at night with a romantic presentation. The beach bar and pool bar serve a variety of drinks, spirits, and liquors, both import and local. The Boat Restaurant is the main restaurant located near the beach, where the indulgent complimentary breakfast buffet is served every morning.
