About Krabi

Iceland and London are among the world's best-value destinations thanks to the economic crisis, travel guide firm Lonely Planet said Tuesday, while Thailand remains tough to beat.

South Africa, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Bulgaria, Kenya and Las Vegas in Nevada rounded out the top 10, said the British-based company in its "Best In Travel 2010" guide.

The annual snapshot book captures "the world's hottest travel trends, destinations, journeys and experiences for the year ahead," Lonely Planet said.

The economic collapse in Iceland meant the island was no longer punitively expensive, said the guide, putting the beleaguered country at the top of its best-value list.

Last Updated ( Friday, 30 September 2011 17:07 )

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Situated in the heart of southern Thailand, Krabi has an abundance of climbs that will please both established climbers and beginners wanting to get a taste of this exciting sport. The most popular climbing areas are Ao Nang, Ton Sai and Railay, all of which can boast some amazing rock formations that will delight climbers.

The limestone surrounding Ton Sai beach provides some excellent climbing routes with a number of overhanging rocks for the more athletic climber. For those truly seeking adventure, climbers can scale a striking karst cliff in Railay to discover a hidden lagoon at its centre. The sense of adventure is all the more intense due to Railay’s secluded location. Situated on a peninsula just south of Ao Nang, it is inaccessible by road due to the remarkable towering cliffs. Those wishing to experience this beautiful location, and its dramatic scenery, can easily catch a longtail boat from nearby Ao Nang beach.

Local support is also on hand for climbing enthusiasts. Informative rock climbing guidebooks can be purchased in most resorts in Krabi giving valuable information about the sport and the various climbing routes in the area. Also, there are a number of established rock climbing schools that provide a range of courses and tours for both beginners and for those wishing to improve their climbing skills.

The French numerical system is used in Thailand to grade a climb according to the overall technical difficulty and toughness of the route. Therefore, climbers can be confident of not exceeding their abilities; an important safety concern, especially for the novice climber. In fact, the Thai authorities pay special attention to safety; the use of a rope is mandatory and there are several hundred bolted routes to prevent the risk of falling. These precautions have resulted in climbing being regarded as a very safe sport in Krabi.

It’s not only magnificent cliffs and beautiful scenery that can be found in Krabi. Visitors will also find excellent quality accommodation, coupled with the warm welcome for which Thailand is so famous. Local firm, Krabi Riviera Co Ltd, provides an outstanding range of villas that are ideal for couples, families or groups of friends. All villas offer 5 star comfort, including private swimming pools, a personal concierge service, and some first-rate complimentary services such as airport transfers and a taxi service within the Ao Nang area. An exciting development for the company is the recent addition of The Beach House to their property portfolio. This beautiful new villa is truly unique in the Ao Nang area. It is the only beachfront villa with convenient road access, allowing guests easy access to both the beach and the many inland attractions that Krabi has to offer.

Activity holidays certainly don’t need to lack luxury. Those seeking relaxation following an active day scaling Krabi’s beautiful cliffs can be well assured that Krabi Riviera Co Ltd will cater for their every need.

Kayaking is available in the waters off Krabi and Phang-nga provinces, which boast some of the most spectacular seascapes and marine life anywhere. The sport is accessible to beginners and veterans alike, since operators offer training at the start of the trip. The sea-kayaking centre is at Ao Nang, which blendsthe rugged appeal of rocky outcrops with the serene beauty of beaches and crystal-clear water. Off its shore lie limestone outcrops honeycombed with caves and hollows and fringed by mangrove forests. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at many of the guesthouses in the Ao Nang area, and guides are also available to lead you through the myriad of small, deserted islands.