Day 14: Farewell Koh Phayam, Hello Ranong

Our last morning in Koh Phayam started with a pragmatic mission: luggage storage and motorbike return. Dropping our bags at Tom’s for safekeeping, we returned our trusty motorbike, costing us 200 Baht per day. The rental owner, ever so helpful, arranged our ride to the harbor for 100 Baht per person, ensuring a seamless departure.

Breakfast at Homemade Bakery

Next stop: Homemade Bakery (Homemade Bakery), a spot we’d heard much about but left us with mixed feelings. Arriving just before 10, we found the coveted croissants sold out, leading to a slight disappointment and a contemplation on the hype vs. value after shelling out 405 Baht for a simple breakfast.

Chill Afternoon and Departure

Seeking comfort, we retreated to Bamboo Bungalows (Bamboo Bungalows) for a few final hours of work and beach time before our 3 p.m. speedboat to Ranong. The boat ride, a smooth 40-minute transition, gave us time to book our night at the Iconic Hotel (Iconic Hotel).
And we used book-a-way again to arrange our next day’s bus to Krabi for 760 Baht for both of us, marveling at the ease of online bookings.

We had dinner in Ranong at Barnchuen – this is a restaurant, where a lot of Thais are eating as well. It’s affordable and the food was good. This is a recommendation to get some food there. It’s very basic, but solid. And we had “Bingsu” – a Korean dessert made of shaved ice. It looks amazing and comes in different flavours (Kit Kat, Oreo, Banana Chocolate etc.). It looks better than it tastes. We had the Kit Kat version and the ice was a mix of coconut milk with a lot of water. A Bingsu costs around 150 Baht and there are also hot Bingsus, although we don’t know how these look like.

Day 15: Getting From Ranong To Krabi

In the morning we had breakfast in the hotel, which was included in the price and which was very ok. We were picked up from the hotel for our 6 hours bus tour from Ranong to Krabi. The bus departs at 11:00.
You need to be at the bus terminal ca. 30 minutes before departure to get your tickets (you need to exchange the vouchers from book-a-way to tickets).
The bus turned out to be a bit older, but it was ok. The A/C in the bus was good, so we had a comfortable ride.
There are 3 stops during the tour, the middle one a bit longer (ca. 20 minutes), so you have time to get something for lunch etc.

Arriving in Krabi at Jack’s House

We arrived at Krabi and immediately went to a travel agency on the bus terminal.
It’s very common in Thailand to just go to any travel office you come across. They are well organized and can support you in getting from A to B very well.

We booked the boat to Koh Jum two days later for 1.000 Baht for 2 people including pickup from the hotel. We decided spontaneiously we want to stay in Krabi for two days because I wanted to see the Tiger Temple and Danja wanted to see Rai Leh beach.
Two days of Krabi ahead .
We took the taxi to the accommodation we booked which is called Jack’s house

Discovering A Bar From Outa Space Again: Jungle Bar In Krabi

Before we arrived in Jack’s house, we were passing by a bar called Jungle Bar. From outside it looked very interesting, so we decided to go there for dinner.
When we approached it, it was just like the hippie bar on Koh Phayam.

When you enter it, it’s like another world that you’re entering.
It’s a great atmosphere there. Choy – the owner – is an architect, and his story is really touching because he lost everything during the tsunami in 2004.
He’s a musician, and after having a great dinner and nice cocktails – they also have nice drinks – we ended that evening with Dana and him jamming around and playing a session where she was singing and he was playing the guitar.

The prices in the Jungle Bar are really good as well, and the quality is amazing, so definitely a recommendation.

Late Night Talks With Kay About What To Do In Krabi

When we came back to Jack’s House, Kay – the owner – was waiting for us. We sat down with her asking her about the possibilities to get to the Tiger Cave Temple and she said she could do the transfer. And she could pick us up after that to get us to the pier for the long tail boat to Rai Leh for 600 Baht in total.
We decided to get up early to climb up the 1260 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi…

Day 16: Tiger Temple and Rai Leh Disappointment

With a 6 a.m. wake-up call, Kay and her husband escorted us to the majestic Tiger Cave Temple (Tiger Cave Temple), a spiritual ascent up 1260 stairs marked by an amusing detour and breathtaking early morning serenity. This energizing start cost us 600 Baht for the round trip.

Our journey to Rai Leh (Rai Leh) for 100 Baht per person was met with disappointment; the east coast’s muddy waters and crowded shores contrasted sharply with our tranquil experiences. Seeking solace, Bark Railay Krabi (Bark Railay Krabi) provided a brief respite with good breakfast amidst the chaos.

Escape to Aonang and Krabi’s Charms

Disenchanted with Rai Leh’s crowded beaches, we ventured to Aonang (Aonang Beach), only to find similar crowds. A gem among the bustle was Much & Mellow (Much & Mellow), where we indulged in exceptional coffees and desserts, a moment of peace before our public bus adventure back to Krabi, which, despite a 20-minute wait, was a pleasant and affordable 60 Baht per person ride.

Evening in Krabi At The Jungle Bar Again

Our return to Krabi was crowned with another visit to the Jungle Bar (Jungle Bar), where we unwound with delicious food and drinks for 700 Baht, reaffirming its place in our list of recommendations.

Summary

Days 14 and 15 were a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences, from the highs of Tiger Cave Temple’s serene beauty to the lows of Rai Leh’s overcrowded beaches. Yet, the culinary delights and the vibrant life in Krabi and Aonang offered a comforting contrast. As we navigated through these days, the magic of travel – with its unexpected turns and discoveries – reminded us why we embarked on this journey. Stay tuned for more adventures from Dana & Wild!

#KohPhayamToKrabiJourney #IslandAdventures #CulinaryExploration

The post Koh Phayam to Krabi: A Tale of Temples, Beaches, and Cafes – Days 14, 15 & 16 appeared first on DANA & WILD - The Bonnie & Clyde Of Music.

Day 11: A Varied Culinary Experience – The Magic Cafe

Our Day 11 began at the Magic Café, a quaint spot with a reputation for great cakes and croissants. We opted for omelettes, eggs, and fruit shakes. While the breakfast was satisfactory, it was the warm, freshly baked croissant that truly delighted us, even though the overall cost (405 Baht) was a bit steep compared to other places. The café’s inviting atmosphere and tempting cake display promised more treats for future visits.

Google Maps Link to Magic Café: Magic Café

Buffalo Bay Work and Evening Delights at Supranee

Post-breakfast, we retreated to our haven, the Buffalo Bay Vacation Club, where we spent the day balancing work with serene ocean views. As evening approached, we discovered the culinary gem of Supranee. Dining here was not just a meal; it was an experience of authentic local flavors, fresh from Supranee’s garden. The simplicity of the setting contrasted with the rich, home-cooked vegetarian dishes, making it a must-visit spot.

Google Maps Link to Buffalo Bay Vacation Club: Buffalo Bay Vacation Club

Google Maps Link to Supranee: Supranee

Self Made Ice Cream From Another Planet at Koh Co Ice Cream

Later, we indulged in handmade coconut and mango ice cream at Koh Co Ice Cream. The flavors were natural and refreshing, a perfect treat to conclude our day.

Google Maps Link to Koh Co Ice Cream: Koh Co Ice Cream

Day 12: Beachside Bliss and Relaxing Massages

The next morning, we resumed work before heading to Bamboo Bungalows for a beachside breakfast. The rest of the day was spent working and enjoying occasional dips in the sea, embracing the laid-back island lifestyle.

Google Maps Link to Bamboo Bungalows: Bamboo Bungalows

Our evening was a blend of relaxation and indulgence at Relax Massage. Dana opted for a soothing warm oil massage, while I chose the traditional Thai massage. The experience was rejuvenating, capped off with refreshing drinks and a serene ambiance.

Google Maps Link to Relax Massage: Relax Massage

Day 13: Exploring Ban Suan Kaiyou 2 and Hippie Bar Sunsets

On Day 13, we discovered Ban Suan Kaiyou 2, a charming beachside resort. Breakfast here was a tropical affair with fresh coconuts and delicious local desserts. We spent the entire day savoring the serene beachfront, enveloped by the gentle sound of the waves.

Google Maps Link to Ban Suan Kaiyou 2: Ban Suan Kaiyou 2

As the day transitioned to evening, we moved to the Hippie Bar, captivated again by its unique world. Watching the sunset from this elevated spot while enjoying mojitos and fruit shakes was an experience in itself.

Google Maps Link to Hippie Bar: Hippie Bar

A Night To Remember At Musika Goa Party

The highlight was the Goa party at Musika. Nestled deep in the forest, the journey there was an adventure, leading us to a night of dancing, vibrant music, and great company. The atmosphere was electric, yet intimate, embodying the ‘Koh Phayam Magic’ in every aspect.

Google Maps Link to Musika: Musika

Summary

Days 11 to 13 in Koh Phayam were a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and exhilaration. From quaint breakfast spots to serene massages and vibrant evenings, each experience added to the island’s enchanting allure. The ‘Koh Phayam Magic’ is real and ever-present, making every moment here truly special. Stay tuned as we continue to share our adventures in this tropical paradise!

#KohPhayamMagic #IslandAdventures #TropicalEscapades

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Day 9: Work And Discovering Koh Phayam Cafes

Our Day 9 kicked off with a productive session at Lucky Rock Bar. Nestled beside the iconic Lucky Rock, this spot provided the perfect blend of work and relaxation, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the sea.

Google Maps Link to Lucky Rock Bar: Lucky Rock Bar

Afternoon at Hippie Bar

Later, we ventured to the mesmerizing Hippie Bar on Buffalo Bay’s other side. This place was more than a bar; it was an experience. Every corner brimmed with creativity, from the handcrafted boat bow to the vibrant decor. The smoothies were a delight, adding to the bar’s magical vibe.

Google Maps Link to Hippie Bar: Hippie Bar

Dinner at Lotus 51

For dinner, we headed to Lotus 51, where the beachside setting and delicious food created an unforgettable evening. The red snapper here was a highlight, perfectly complementing the tranquil beach atmosphere.

Google Maps Link to Lotus 51: Lotus 51

Ending the Night at Cha Chai Bar

To cap off the night, we visited Cha Chai Bar. The chai was excellent, though the overall ambiance left us with mixed feelings. Still, it was a worthwhile stop for a good cup of chai and a moment of relaxation.

Google Maps Link to Cha Chai Bar: Cha Chai Bar

Day 10: The Garden and East Coast Exploration

The next day, we started at The Garden, a charming cafe known for its great coffee and ambiance. Later, we explored the east coast of Koh Phayam on a motorbike, seeking our next accommodation and making a necessary ATM run – a reminder that cash is essential on this island!

Google Maps Link to The Garden: The Garden

Lunch at Flower Power Village

Our culinary journey continued at Flower Power. This expansive restaurant and shop offered a diverse menu, including freshly made noodles. We enjoyed the variety of food options and the overall quality of our meal.

Google Maps Link to Flower Power: Flower Power

Unique Experience at Rock Bar

Later, we visited the Rock Bar, a unique establishment built into the natural rocks. The adventurous setting and wild design made our visit both thrilling and memorable.

Google Maps Link to Rock Bar: Rock Bar

Summary

Days 9 & 10 on Koh Phayam were filled with discovery, from the artistic Hippie Bar to the serene dining at Lotus 51 and the eclectic Rock Bar. Each spot we visited added to the diverse tapestry of our island adventure. As we continue to explore Koh Phayam, its laid-back charm and unique spots never cease to amaze us. Stay tuned for more of our island stories and experiences!

#KohPhayamCafes #BeachfrontDining #IslandAdventures

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Day 7: Koh Phayam Surfing Adventures and Beachside Breakfast

Our morning on Koh Phayam started with a mouth-watering falafel plate at the beachfront. The sight of perfect waves was too tempting to pass up, so I (Wild) decided to try surfing for the first time. Renting a board for 150 Baht per hour, I managed to catch some waves and even stood up a few times. It was thrilling!

Bungalow Quest Along the Beach

In the afternoon, our stroll along the beach turned into a quest for our next stay. We explored various resorts, finding options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. The search was as much fun as it was challenging.

A Refreshing Pause at the Reggae Bar

Needing a break, we stopped by the Reggae Bar for some incredible smoothies. The mango and pineapple concoctions were just what we needed to recharge before continuing our exploration.

Evening Delight at JJ

Dinner was a beachside treat at JJ, where we enjoyed a scrumptious red snapper. The sound of the waves complemented our meal perfectly, creating a memorable dining experience under the stars.

Day 8: An Amazing Breakfast – The Perfect Start

The next day started with an amazing breakfast at “Bilbo’s”. They have self baked cinamon rolls, great fruit bowls and the best coffee we drank so far on the island (we have to mention, that we didn’t drink much coffee yet ).
So this cafe is definitely worth a visit…

Motorbike Ride to Buffalo Bay

This day brought a new adventure as we rented a motorbike to check out Buffalo Bay. The beach there had a different vibe, less inviting than our current spot but still worth the visit. Our hunt for accommodation led us to a solidly built bungalow at Buffalo Bay Vacation Club, a significant upgrade from our previous stay, especially the toilet!

Google Maps Link to Buffalo Bay Vacation Club: Buffalo Bay Vacation Club

Dinner and Work at Gypsy Bar

Our evening unfolded at the Gypsy Bar, where we combined dinner with a productive work session. The atmosphere was just right for both relaxation and getting things done – a rare find on Koh Phayam.

Summary

Days 7 & 8 were a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation on Koh Phayam. From my first surfing experience to finding the ideal bungalow, every moment added to the charm of this tropical haven. As we continue to explore and uncover the secrets of this island, we’re reminded of the beauty of discovering lesser-known paradises. Join us for more tales and tips as Dana & Wild keep unraveling the wonders of this hidden gem!

#KohPhayamSurfing #HiddenParadise #IslandAdventures

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The Journey to Bamboo Bungalows

On Koh Phayam, our first stop was a cozy shop where we met another Tom, who recommended the Bamboo Bungalows. His suggestion sounded perfect – beach access and a chill vibe were just what we needed. So, we hopped into a tuk-tuk (200 Baht/8€) and headed there.

Google Maps Link to Bamboo Bungalows: Bamboo Bungalows

Settling into Our Bamboo Abode

At the bungalows, we snagged the last available room – a simple, rustic bamboo bungalow for 600 Baht (about 16€) a night. While the room had its charm, the toilet situation was… let’s just say, less than ideal. But hey, that’s island life for you! Despite the smell, the overall ambiance of the place won us over.

Exploring Koh Phayam Paradise

Hungry for more than just scenery, we ventured out to explore the local dining scene. Koh Phayam is lined with cafes and eateries, offering a tempting array of choices right by the roadside. It’s a food lover’s paradise!

A Pizza Redemption at Paolo Italian Pizza

We stumbled upon ‘Paolo Italian Pizza’ and decided to give pizza another shot. We violated our 3 rules for eating in Thailand (see our other post), but we took the risk and it paid off! This time, the wood-fired oven promised a better experience. And it delivered! The pizza was fantastic, coupled with a fresh salad – a meal that definitely made up for our previous pizza misadventures.

Google Maps Link to Paolo Italian Pizza: Paolo Italian Pizza

Evening Beach Walks and Sunset Wonders

Post-dinner, we meandered back to Long Beach, a stretch of sandy shores perfect for leisurely walks. The sand was fine, and the best part? It didn’t stick to our feet – a small but significant joy! As we strolled, we found ourselves captivated by the breathtaking sunset, a perfect end to our first day in this island paradise.

Google Maps Link to Long Beach: Long Beach

Summary

Arriving on Koh Phayam was like stepping into a postcard, with just a hint of adventure (courtesy of our bungalow’s toilet!). From heartfelt breakfasts to beachside bliss, our day was a blend of island serenity, culinary delights, and those unforgettable sunset moments. As we settle into this slice of paradise, despite its quirky challenges, we’re reminded of why we love traveling so much. Stick around for more stories from Dana & Wild as we continue exploring the enchanting the Koh Phayam!

#KohPhayamParadise #IslandAdventures #TravelDiary

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