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Skip Phuket!!! I hear what you’re thinking. Is this guy serious?

Perhaps I am being a little harsh because Phuket is a great vacation destination, yes, great!!! And if that is your preferred holiday destination in Thailand, I’ll be the first to say there is nothing wrong with that, especially if you love the busy atmosphere of the famous tourist island of Phuket.

What if I could tell you that there is another option just as appealing for travellers, an option that is situated along the West Coast of Thailand and overlooks the Andaman Sea. Better yet, it’s only a short 60-minute drive from the Phuket International Airport.

Sounds Great!!! Well, let me introduce you to Khao Lak.

The chances are you have probably heard of it. Some of you have probably paid a visit. But if you haven’t stumbled across Khao Lak during your time in Thailand, or if you are just plain unfamiliar, I will give you a few reasons why you should head North to Khao Lak and skip Phuket in the process.

 

Are you looking for Phuket Hotels? Find a bargain with Booking.com!

 

Ditch Phuket

Jump for joy; it’s Khao Lak.

 

 

Skip Phuket – Khao Lak is a Tourist Delight – Thailand

Phuket and Khao Lak are two of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. Phuket is renowned for its beaches, while Khao Lak is known for its natural beauty. However, Phuket is also crowded and expensive, while Khao Lak is relatively undeveloped. As a result, many visitors to Thailand skip Phuket and head straight for Khao Lak.

Khao Lak is a delight for tourists who want to experience real Thailand. The town is small and quiet, with a laid-back atmosphere. The beaches here are pristine, and there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. In addition, Khao Lak is surrounded by jungle-covered hills, which offer fantastic hiking and biking trails.

Best of all, accommodation and food in Khao Lak are very affordable.

So if you’re looking for an authentic Thai experience, add Khao Lak to your itinerary. Let’s discuss the Phuket Khao Lak debate a little more and why I’ll always choose the latter.

 

 

Less Hustle and Bustle in Khao Lak

Fewer crowds, fewer tourists, and fewer worries are the rave about Khao Lak.

Walking around the town centre and the major markets of Khao Lak are a breeze, especially when there is less chance of colliding with people on the streets and the need to watch your step at every turn. Another bonus is the traffic on the roads, which is considerably less, which means fewer motorbikes to dodge when crossing the streets.

In the quieter streets of Khao Lak, you have the luxury to shop freely without being constantly hassled by a shop owner until you are ready to buy because that’s when the bartering begins. The same can be said with the laidback nature of Khao Lak’s bars and restaurants; you can wander in, grab a seat and enjoy a relaxing Chang beer while mingling with those around you. At the end of the night, you can either stroll back to your hotel or catch an affordable, readily available taxi.

 

Khao Lak Markets

Get out and about in the markets of Khao Lak.

 

The Unbelievable Khao Lak Beaches

When you enter Khao Lak and take your first glimpse of the coastline over the Andaman Sea, you will be mesmerised at how beautiful a Khao Lak beach can look from afar. Very white and pristine indeed. The first thought will be to get the camera out and take some fantastic photos, and the second thought will be to put on the swimwear and have a swim.  

Once at the beach, there is plenty of room to move about, with crowds not an issue at all and the seas relatively calm in most parts along the white sand beach of Khao Lak. Best of all, you will find the beaches are kept relatively clean, so take off your thongs and enjoy the soft sand underneath your feet while listening to the sounds of the water.

 

Khao lak beaches

Skip Phuket – Khao Lak beaches are quieter.

 

Delightful beachside Resorts 

When a town is close to the beach, there are bound to be great beachside resorts, and Khao Lak doesn’t disappoint with many resorts spread through the town. You will find several alternatives within walking distance of the main town centre or a few top-notch resorts a little further out. Whichever way you go, you won’t be disappointed. 

A few notable resorts in Khao Lak are the Mai Khao Lak Beach Resort, Laguna Resort, Beyond Resort and the delightful Anda Mani Resort. Don’t threaten what your budget is in Khao Lak, and you’ll be sure to find suitable accommodation for your desire and needs.

Check out my article on the Mai Khao Lak Beach Resort and get ready to pack for Thailand.

 

Life after the Khao Lak Tsunami of 2004

Khao Lak has been through a lot in the past years. In 2004, the area was devastated by a tsunami, and many people lost their lives. However, the reemergence of the site since then has been nothing short of phenomenal.

The Region is now a thriving community, with new businesses and homes everywhere. The area is also becoming a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world enjoying its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery.

Phuket Khao Lak is definitely on the way back – and it’s better than ever.

 

Are you heading to Khao Lak? Check out hotel prices at TripAdvisor!

 

Mai Khao Lak

Mai Khao Lak Resort.

 

Khao Lak has everything you need for a perfect holiday

Khao Lak will not let you down whatever you desire for a luxury holiday. There is shopping, beaches, waterfalls, restaurants & bars and many other attractions close to town. With fewer crowds, Khao Lak has all that Phuket has to offer.

Do you want a day trip to James Bond Island or Phi Phi islands? You want a trip over to Phuket, only a short drive away, and you can be back in time to watch a gorgeous Thai sunset over the Andaman Sea to end another perfect day. Khao Lak and their popular tours will deliver to you.

If you didn’t know much about Khao Lak, you know a little more, but nothing can beat seeing this fabulous town for yourself and witnessing pure luxury. It may persuade you to ditch Phuket for your next holiday and explore a different area of Thailand.

 

Am I too harsh on Phuket?

Phuket is great, but I might be slightly biased when I say that you should skip Phuket for Khao Lak. I instantly adored Khao Lak, and there’s just something about the place that makes it unique. Phuket is beautiful and has plenty to offer, but for me, Khao Lak is the better choice.

If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then Khao Lak is the place for you. It’s more laid back and relaxed, and the scenery is stunning. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed.

 

Khao Lak Beach

I am overlooking a beach in Khao Lak.

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