I’m really going to miss being in Koh Phi Phi. Prior to making our arrangements for the island I was worried it would be too touristy or that the weather would get in the way of our plans the entire time we were there. Fortunately everything worked out even though we were risking things being there during the off season. It wasn’t very crowded and we were able to fill 3 full days of activities. The food here was very good, slightly more expensive than Bangkok since it’s on and island but there was an abundance of street food stalls right when we walked out of our hotel. None of us got sick in the least bit. Just a word to the wise don’t get food that is swarming with flies and ask for food that’s been freshly cooked. Street food is my main source of sustenance but I’m not reckless about it.
Today was a good day to leave though. It started raining as we were getting ready to catch the ferry back to the mainland. Unfortunately this was the last day for Xu. It was great having her along with us. As I’ve said before, I really enjoy traveling with friends as everyone has a different take or perspective on activities that I may not have thought of. I appreciate the diversity of thought and conversation too. It helped that she was as laid back and enjoyed eating all the food as we were. She’s flying back to Singapore, then doing a trip to China, a 6 day cruise with her family, and then moving to Maui for work so her vacation does not end today.
I pre purchased our ferry ride back to the mainland on our first day and accidentally threw the 450bht tickets each into the garbage when I was emptying my wallet by accident. I repurchased them at the pier and the new tickets were 350bht. For future reference, don’t buy the ferry tickets round trip ahead of time, you’ll save yourself a few bucks.
We arrived back in Krabi and a minibus took us directly to our hotel Ao Nang Cliff Beach Resort. If you’re heading to Ao Nang or Krabi town, the ferry you booked with will take you directly to your hotel location, do not catch a cab right when you get off the ferry, as the drivers are like vultures and try to get you to go with them.
This hotel is our one fancy night. I like staying in cheap hostels but balance it out with one “expensive” night. I think I booked this place for $82 for the night. The room faces Ao Nang Cliff and the ocean too with a bathtub on the balcony. Super fancy
The real attraction to this hotel is the infinity pool a rooftop pool that extends out on the building. I first found out about the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool in Singapore, it’s $350 a night at the hotel. I had to add swimming in one of these on my bucket list. The view did not disappoint.
We arrived at the hotel about half an hour before official check in time so the pool was still relatively empty. We took advantage of it and managed to take some pictures before it got busy. I’m going to have to learn more about directing models for the next trip because coming up with poses is hard.
After the pool we decided to fill up the tub and continue enjoying the view from our room. Joanna yelled when she turned on the tub water because a little gecko crawled out of the faucet.
They heavily advertise the buffet that’s downstairs next to the hotel lobby. It was really pricey at almost $15 a person. I heard a lot of good things about it from reviewers too so my expectations were high for a seafood buffet. My recommendation is to avoid it at all costs. The food was overcooked and tasteless. They kind of just threw shrimp, beef, chicken, and squid onto a grill and expected it to taste good. There was some sushi that I ate which was warm. Honestly the most disappointing food experience we’ve had on the trip so far.
We’re headed to Chiang Mai tomorrow for a few days which I’m excited about because the food scene there is supposed to be amazing.
