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 (Bambusbungalows) 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.
In Thailand ist es sehr verbreitet, einfach zu jedem Reisebüro zu gehen, das dir über den Weg läuft. Sie sind gut organisiert und können dich sehr gut dabei unterstützen, von A nach B zu kommen.

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.

Zusammenfassung

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.

Tag 9: Arbeiten und die Cafés von Koh Phayam entdecken

Unser 9. Tag begann mit einer produktiven Sitzung in der Lucky Rock Bar. Direkt neben dem kultigen Lucky Rock gelegen, bot dieser Ort die perfekte Mischung aus Arbeit und Entspannung, begleitet von den beruhigenden Klängen des Meeres.

Google Maps Link zur Lucky Rock Bar: Lucky Rock Bar

Nachmittag in der Hippie Bar

Später wagten wir uns in die faszinierende Hippie Bar auf der anderen Seite der Buffalo Bay. Dieser Ort war mehr als nur eine Bar, er war ein Erlebnis. Jede Ecke strotzte vor Kreativität, vom handgefertigten Bootsbogen bis hin zur farbenfrohen Einrichtung. Die Smoothies waren ein Genuss und trugen zur magischen Stimmung der Bar bei.

Google Maps Link zur Hippie Bar: Hippie Bar

Abendessen im Lotus 51

Zum Abendessen gingen wir ins Lotus 51, wo die Lage am Strand und das köstliche Essen für einen unvergesslichen Abend sorgten. Der Red Snapper war ein Highlight und passte perfekt zu der ruhigen Atmosphäre am Strand.

Google Maps Link zu Lotus 51: Lotus 51

Die Nacht in der Cha Chai Bar beenden

Zum Abschluss des Abends besuchten wir die Cha Chai Bar. Der Chai war ausgezeichnet, aber das Ambiente ließ uns mit gemischten Gefühlen zurück. Trotzdem war es ein lohnender Stopp für eine gute Tasse Chai und einen Moment der Entspannung.

Google Maps Link zur Cha Chai Bar: Cha Chai Bar

Tag 10: Der Garten und die Erkundung der Ostküste

Den nächsten Tag begannen wir im The Garden, einem charmanten Café, das für seinen guten Kaffee und sein Ambiente bekannt ist. Später erkundeten wir die Ostküste von Koh Phayam mit dem Motorrad, um unsere nächste Unterkunft zu finden und einen Geldautomaten aufzusuchen - eine Erinnerung daran, dass Bargeld auf dieser Insel unerlässlich ist!

Google Maps Link zu The Garden: Der Garten

Mittagessen im Flower Power Dorf

Unsere kulinarische Reise ging im Flower Power weiter. Dieses weitläufige Restaurant mit Laden bot eine abwechslungsreiche Speisekarte, darunter auch frisch zubereitete Nudeln. Wir waren begeistert von der Vielfalt der Speisen und der Qualität des Essens insgesamt.

Google Maps Link zu Flower Power: Flower Power

Einzigartige Erfahrung in der Rock Bar

Später besuchten wir die Rock Bar, ein einzigartiges Lokal, das in die natürlichen Felsen gebaut wurde. Die abenteuerliche Umgebung und das wilde Design machten unseren Besuch aufregend und unvergesslich.

Google Maps Link zur Rock Bar: Rock Bar

Zusammenfassung

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!

#KohPhayamCafés #Strandrestaurant #IslandAbenteuer

The post Koh Phayam Cafes & Escapades: Exploring Unique Cafes and Beach Bars – Days 9 & 10 appeared first on DANA & WILD - The Bonnie & Clyde Of Music.

Tag 7: Koh Phayam Surfing Adventures und Frühstück am Strand

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 entlang des Strandes

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.

Eine erfrischende Pause in der 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.

Abendliches Vergnügen bei 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.

Tag 8: Ein erstaunliches Frühstück - Der perfekte 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 ).
Dieses Café ist also definitiv einen Besuch wert...

Motorradtour zur 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 zum Buffalo Bay Vacation Club: Buffalo Bay Vacation Club

Abendessen und Arbeit in der 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.

Zusammenfassung

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!

#KohPhayamSurfen #HiddenParadise #IslandAdventures

The post Discovering Koh Phayam Surfing and Explorations: Day 7 & 8 appeared first on DANA & WILD - The Bonnie & Clyde Of Music.

Die Reise zu Bambusbungalows

Auf Koh Phayam war unser erster Halt ein gemütlicher Laden, wo wir einen anderen Tom trafen, der uns die Bamboo Bungalows empfahl. Sein Vorschlag klang perfekt - Strandzugang und eine entspannte Atmosphäre waren genau das, was wir brauchten. Also stiegen wir in ein Tuk-Tuk (200 Baht/8€) und fuhren dorthin.

Google Maps-Link zu Bamboo Bungalows: Bambusbungalows

Sich in unserer Bambus-Wohnstätte niederlassen

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.

Koh Phayam erkunden Paradies

Da wir nicht nur Lust auf eine schöne Landschaft hatten, machten wir uns auf den Weg, die lokale Restaurantszene zu erkunden. Koh Phayam ist gesäumt von Cafés und Restaurants und bietet eine verlockende Auswahl direkt am Straßenrand. Es ist ein Paradies für Feinschmecker!

Eine Pizza-Einlösung bei Paolo Italian Pizza

Wir stießen zufällig auf „Paolo Italian Pizza“ und beschlossen, es noch einmal mit Pizza zu versuchen. Wir haben unsere verletzt 3 Regeln für das Essen in Thailand (siehe unseren anderen Beitrag), aber wir sind das Risiko eingegangen und es hat sich gelohnt! Dieses Mal versprach der Holzofen ein besseres Erlebnis. Und es hat geliefert! Die Pizza war fantastisch, gepaart mit einem frischen Salat – eine Mahlzeit, die unsere vorherigen Pizza-Missgeschicke definitiv wettmachte.

Google Maps Link zu Paolo Italian Pizza: Paolo italienische Pizza

Abendliche Strandspaziergänge und Sonnenuntergangswunder

Nach dem Abendessen schlenderten wir zurück nach Long Beach, einem Sandstrandabschnitt, der sich perfekt für gemütliche Spaziergänge eignet. Der Sand war fein und das Beste daran? Es klebte nicht an unseren Füßen – eine kleine, aber große Freude! Während wir spazieren gingen, waren wir vom atemberaubenden Sonnenuntergang fasziniert, ein perfekter Abschluss unseres ersten Tages in diesem Inselparadies.

Google Maps-Link nach Long Beach: Langer Strand

Zusammenfassung

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

The post Koh Phayam Paradise – Arriving In Paradise (With A Toilet Issue): Day 6 appeared first on DANA & WILD - The Bonnie & Clyde Of Music.