- Is Ko Phi Phi touristy? Sure thing.
- Is it still worth visiting? Absolutely!
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| Maya Bay "The Beach" – Ko Phi Phi Leh |
Ko Phi Phi Archipelago lies on the Andaman Sea and is composed of six islands, which--together with surrounding waters--are protected by Hat Nopparat Thara - Ko Phi Phi National Park. The Archipelago became famous after one of the islands was used as a location of the movie "
The Beach," featuring Leonardo diCaprio. Smart and savvy Thai people immediately capitalized on the movie by offering day trips to the islands.
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| Ko Mai Phai – "Bamboo Island" |
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| Maya Bay "The Beach" – Ko Phi Phi Leh |
The highlight of our trip to
Ko Phi Phi Archipelago was cutting through high waves by our mighty speedboat. Equipped with five engines 225 hp each, our boat was jumping effortlessly from one wave to the other, with each landing splashing tons of water and causing all passengers to scream and laugh in euphoria. It was more thrilling than any roller coaster ride I did in my life, and I'd highly recommend it to all adrenaline junkies. Just remember that your adrenaline levels depend on the height of the waves, so don't go on a trip if the ocean is calm.
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| Maya Bay "The Beach" – Ko Phi Phi Leh |
There are at least four companies in Ao Nang that offer day trips to Ko Phi Phi. All of them have the same trip program, so you'll see the same places no matter which company you'll choose. Still, I'd recommend choosing
Aonang Orchid Resort Speedboat, as they have the biggest and most powerful speedboats. What it translates to is that you'll be getting places faster than others, and at each destination you'll be able to enjoy the view in relative peace and tranquility, without hundreds of other people spoiling your memories and photos.
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| Ko Mai Phai – "Bamboo Island" |
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| Long-tail boats at Ko Phi Phi Don |
During a such day trip you'll get to see all of Ko Phi Phi Archipelago islands and you'll stop at three of them (Ko Phi Phi Leh, Ko Phi Phi Don, and Ko Mai Phai). You'll also get to do some snorkeling both off the beach and at open sea. Sadly, the snorkeling there isn't too good. I hardly saw any fish while snorkeling at Ko Mai Phai (a.k.a. Bamboo Island), and maybe 15-20 different fish species while snorkeling at Hin Klang. So don't get your hopes too high!
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| Ko Mai Phai – "Bamboo Island" |
Despite poor snorkeling and crowds, we had lots of fun and can recommend this trip to anybody who loves ocean and beautiful views.
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| Ko Phi Phi Don |
