Thai Islands: Ko Lanta & Ko Phi Phi

After a painful 20 hour bus journey from Bangkok the first thing you ask yourself is what's so special about this place? You arrive in the afternoon when the tide is low making the beach hideous. Once the next morning rolls around you find yourself in paradise. A great way to explore the island is by motorbike. You can easily drive around the whole island stopping only at the most secluded beaches. The thing I loved most about Ko Lanta is that it remains a friendly local island which doesn't give you that big resort feel. Rumour has it that Leonardo DiCaprio has a house somewhere on Ko Lanta. He must have enjoyed his taste of the islands when he filmed The Beach on Ko Phi Phi.

Only one hour away by ferry is the widely known island of Ko Phi Phi. The island is known for its narrow strip which is bordered by beaches on both sides. Ko Phi Phi is exactly what you expect out of an island, beautiful beaches and fantastic mountain tops. The scenery is breathtaking. Moreover, the party scene is all there and then some. Many people will argue that the partying on Ko Phi Phi rivals the famous full moon parties.

Last night I arrived in Chiang Mai which is in the north of Thailand. Already I get a very different vibe from the islands.

I can't wait to see what's in store

-Jonathan