When we talk about the resorts of Thailand, first of all, our head is visited by associations with noisy Asian and also crowded cities. But this does not mean that in the country there are no quiet and solitary exotic corners. The list of such paradise territories is headed by the Similan archipelago, consisting of nine small islands.
The Similan Islands in Thailand are washed by the waters of the Andaman Sea and are located a short distance from the main resort of Phuket, which in a short time has been chosen by millions of tourists around the world. It is worth noting that the archipelago occupies the tenth position in the list of the most beautiful places marked by UNESCO.
The islands are ranked as a national park in Thailand and are regularly monitored by the authorities. The environment in the Similan Islands is carefully monitored: construction is prohibited here. Thus, the absence of any structures, including even shops and retail stalls, can be explained.
If you came to Thailand in search of exotic places, pristine beaches and unique nature, then you are definitely on the Similan Islands. The azure sea, white sand and a sense of freedom will not leave you throughout your vacation.
Let's take a closer look at the main attractions and natural wonders that can be found on the territory of the Similan Islands.
Islands in Thailand
A large number of tourists annually arrive on the territory of the Similan archipelago for a fairly short period of time, since the location of the islands allows you to travel both ways, lie on a sandy beach, enjoy the beautiful nature and return back to the hotel. Although many vacationers want to spend a longer weekend on the Similan Islands in Thailand, it is for such visitors that small tent towns and cozy forest bungalows are provided here. The entrance to the territory of the archipelago for visitors is closed during the rainy season - from May to September.
Co similan
As we have already said, the archipelago consists of nine islands, but only a few are open to public access.
The island of Koh Similan is the largest among all the others and is marked at number eight in the archipelago. This area is famous for its crystal clear water, underwater landscapes and tropical vegetation. First of all, novice divers and snorkelers are sent here. Granite rock enjoys particular popularity among tourists, from the top of which a stunning view of the entire district opens. A photo of the Similan Islands can be found below.
Koh Miang
Koh Miang has gained great popularity among passive beach lovers. Firstly, because in the eastern part of the island is located Haad Lek - one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Thailand. The second reason is the specialized territory for the tent camp and bungalows in the north of the island. You can also get from the town to Haad Lek by a special track dedicated to this, which passes through the picturesque jungle. Walking from one place to another will not take you much time, and not far from this amazing beach you will find a beautiful coral reef, ideal for snorkeling.
Koh hu yong
This island is number one in the archipelago. Unfortunately, it is not intended for overnight stays, but here you can have fun in the afternoon. It is here that tourists come to wander along the long sandy beaches and watch turtles.
Ku Ba Ngu
He has a second, more common name among visitors - Skull Island. When you come closer to him, he really resembles a large skull from the side. There is clear sea water and coral reefs, so the surroundings of Ku Ba Ngu are chosen by both beginners and professional divers.
Climate
The tropical monsoon climate zone covers the entire southern part of Thailand. Here, for the whole year, summer and good weather reign. The exception is the rainy season, but the air temperature does not drop much. During the tourist season, the mark on the thermometer reaches 35 degrees.
The mild warm climate of the Similan Islands is great for a beach holiday resort. Rich tropical vegetation and magnificent azure sea await travelers from different countries.
As we said, the rainy season falls in the summer months. When all the countries of Europe are weary of the heat, heavy rains in Thailand. Therefore, the organization of your trip to this wonderful country should be approached responsibly.
How to get there
You can get to the Similan Islands yourself using one of the flights from Russia to Phuket. Upon arrival at your local airport, a new question will arise before you: taxi or public transport? Of course, the first option will cost several times more, but it will save a lot of time. If you have nowhere to rush, you can wait for the bus following the route to the Bus Terminal 1 bus terminal in Phuket Town.
Further, all tourists transfer to another transport, to Khao Laki, where the Tap Lamu pier is located. This is the most budgetary way to get into the territory of the Similan archipelago. Although some visitors book direct tours from Phuket, but this is a matter of taste and financial security.
Extremely speed boats run from Tap Lamu Pier, as the distance between the islands and it is about 60 km. This information may not seem so important at first glance, but often some travelers simply forget to take convenient places on the boat, and then they have to huddle all the way among a standing crowd of tourists.
Underwater world
Similan Islands are very popular among lovers of the underwater world. This is a full-fledged paradise for professional divers and just lovers of diving with a mask and fins in search of marine life.
In most cases, all trips to the Similan Islands for divers are divided into two categories:
- Individual travel with an instructor. The tourist can draw up his individual route, after coordinating it with the instructor.
- Diving cruises. You go with the team along the popular "beaten paths" for a few days. On the ship you are provided with a bed, a full briefing and training.
The most favorable place for organizing such trips is Phuket. Here you will be provided with a wide selection of various professional-level operators, it is also possible to get a discount. It is worth noting the fact that multi-day cruises or diving among the caves are available only for experienced divers, confirmation is the availability of an appropriate certificate.
Visa to Thailand
We are all used to the tough visa policies of many European countries. Often the usual vacation planning turns into a terrible nightmare because of all this paperwork in the visa centers. After which we all still have to remain in a state of tension for some time awaiting the consul's response to our application. Fortunately, our affairs with Thailand are a little different.
Any citizen of the Russian Federation should just smile at the passport control upon arrival in the country, as he instantly receives the desired stamp in his passport. From this moment the most interesting adventures in his life begin!
If you want to stay in the country for a longer period (over 60 days), then you need to apply for a visa at the Thai Embassy in Moscow. Visas are divided into single and double. In the second case, it is necessary to leave the territory of the state after three months of stay. Alternatively, you can leave Thailand to the neighboring country of Laos for one day, and then return again before the expiration of the issued visa.
How much will the vacation cost?
The money issue quite often worries novice travelers who have never been to Thailand before. How much will a tour to the Similan Islands cost? Honestly, asking such a question, you already knowingly expose yourself to waste of money. No tour to the archipelago needs to be booked in advance from Russia. In Thailand, there are many local travel agencies willing to offer excellent organization for fairly little money.
One day on the islands with a return to Phuket will cost about 4000 baht, which in terms of is about 7000 rubles. Two days with one overnight stay in the archipelago will cost about 6,000 baht, about 10,500 rubles.
All the necessary information on how to get to the Similian Islands on your own was described in the previous paragraphs. Our dear readers can only follow the already prepared instructions.
Excursions to the Similan Islands
One of the most reliable travel operators in Thailand is SeaStar, reviews of which can be found countless on the Internet. The operator is famous for its organization, comfort and excellent cuisine, which is included in the price of trips.
You can book an excursion to the Similan Islands from Phuket, Krabi or Khao Laki at any time for a period of one to three days. The closest remoteness from the archipelago is considered to be Khao Laki, but Ao Nang will have to travel about three hours one way.
What is included in the price of the tour?
Almost all tour operators offer tourists on the streets of Thailand the following list of services included in the price of the tour:
- Transfer from the hotel by bus to the pier, where boats depart to the Similan Islands.
- Escort of the guide.
- A tour of the islands of “Ko Miang” and “Ko Similan” and a stop over the sea for snorkeling, with the issuance of the necessary equipment.
- Three meals a day.
- Insurance.
- Accommodation in a tent.
How much will it cost to rent an apartment on my own in the archipelago?
This question is asked by many tourists who plan to save on the services of travel agencies, and rightly so, since independent travel is often more exciting and unpredictable. Someone finds romantic notes in this, but someone does not like noisy tourist groups breathing intently in the back.
So, as we have already mentioned, the closest thing is to get to the Similian Islands from the Khao Laki pier. Directly on site, if you plan to stay overnight, you need to rent a tent or bungalow. The following rates apply on the territory of the archipelago:
- Tent rental - 900 rubles per day.
- Bungalow with a fan - 1700 rubles per day.
- Air-conditioned bungalow - 3500 rubles per day.
When booking on your own on the website of the national park from Monday to Thursday, a 30% discount.
Conclusion
The Similian Islands is a paradise of the earth, suitable not only for sightseeing trips, but also for independent trips. They are recognized as one of the most beautiful and mysterious places throughout Thailand. Picturesque nature, a rich underwater world, romantic sunsets and snow-white beaches will deeply absorb the soul and will attract here again and again. It will appeal to both adults and children.
Holidays in the archipelago may also be suitable for honeymoon trips for many reasons. These are wonderful portrait shots on an exotic background, romantic bungalows buried in the jungle, and the lack of paperwork with a visa. And most importantly - affordable prices for any type of vacation. Russian tourists have long ago chosen this place and are trying to give their preference to this country, and Turkey and Egypt, already familiar to everyone, are gradually fading into the background. In addition, numerous positive reviews of the Similan Islands are at least a reason to visit. Have a nice rest and new discoveries!