2004 - Thailand - Phuket & Krabi

Phuket & Krabi (Thailand) (14th to 17th March 2004)
Phi Phi Island:
See also:
http://swytravel.blogspot.sg/2013/06/2013-phuket.html
http://swytravel.blogspot.sg/2008/08/blog-post.html
Phi Phi Island:
About 50km south-east of Phuket, it is best known as the backdrop for The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Pockets of pristine beaches are concealed between cliffs ringing the island cluster, where clear waters beckon.
Located in the Phuket Sea between Phuket and mainland Krabi, it is a twin island jewel of Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don.
They are two of the most stunning islands in Asia. Perched at the southern end of the Phang Nga chain, 34 Km southeast of Phuket, and part of Hat Noppharat Thara Ko Phi Phi National Park, the beauty of these limestone monoliths rivals another island, French Poylnesia's Bora Bora.
Phi Phi Island:
Sunset from Patong Beach:
Patong Beach - Phuket's biggest and busiest beach

Krabi:
Located on the mainland to the east of Phuket, Krabi Province comprises rainforested hills, a gorgeous Andaman Sea coastline, pristine beaches and around 200 islands.
Chicken Island (Kai Island), near Krabi:
Poda Island, near Krabi:
Railay Beach, Krabi:

Other Excursion Venues:
Phang Nga Bay
Ao Phang Nga National Park is a marine reserve comprising unusual limestone monoliths and islands, towering cliffs and the clear waters of the Sea of Phuket.
One of the island - Ko Ping Kan (James Bond Island) was featured in the Bond film, The Man With the Golden Gun.
The Similan Islands
One of the world's most beautiful diving spots. Located some 95 Km northwest of Phuket. A well-kept secret among scuba divers. Because the island lie so far from civilisation, they are still pristine, providing ample rewards for those willing to endure long boat trips to experience them.

Best time to go:
The best time for diving is between December and April when the weather is fine, the seas are calm and underwater visibility is at its best.
Phuket enjoys hot summers (March-June) and mild winters (mid-November to mid-February). During the monsoon season (May-October), the rain generally falls in the late afternoon. The best months to visit are November through February.

Useful Maps:
Straits Times travel article on 7/8/2012: