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Thailand

Gate D37 · Thailand · March 2024

Thailand

Fascinating Thailand

GateD37
TimeMAR 24
SectionDestinations
QueerScene
StatusBoarding

Dreamy beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, bobbing longtail boats, idyllic bays and charming people – welcome to the Krabi region, a piece of paradise that welcomes you with open arms.

Here, where the emerald-green sea laps gently against the white sandy beaches and the majestic cliffs whisper stories from times long past, you’ll find a place that not only enchants the eye but also touches your soul.

Ao Nang, the region’s lively heart, pulses with energy and joie de vivre. Stroll at leisure along the beach promenade, let yourself be seduced by the spicy aromas of Thai cuisine and go shopping at the markets. Snorkelling and diving off Ao Nang reveal an underwater world that will leave you amazed: colourful coral reefs, dancing shoals of fish – and perhaps a mysterious seahorse will become your companion.

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From Ao Nang, it’s just a stone’s throw to Railay, a dreamy bay. Let the gentle lapping of the waves lull you, find your inner balance in a yoga session on the beach or take on the climbing challenge of the steep limestone cliffs. Railay is a place that perfectly combines adventure, partying and relaxation.

The Krabi region, a jewel on the Andaman Sea, is not only easy to reach from Zurich with Thai Airways but also a kaleidoscope of breathtaking landscapes. And while Krabi may not have a pronounced LGBT+ scene, the atmosphere here is very open and welcoming, especially at the Le Passe-Temps Hotel: gay couple Olivier and Kiet run this gem with its breathtaking view over Phang Nga Bay.

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To round off your trip in style, take a drive along the picturesque Krabi coast to Phang Nga. Here you can explore James Bond Island by kayak — the legendary Khao Ping Gan, with its view of the rock island of Ko Tapu, made famous by “The Man with the Golden Gun”. And the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint offers you an unforgettable view. Inspiration for queer travellers: gothaibefree.com

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Thailand

Our addresses in Krabi

Le Passe-Temps — When Olivier and Kiet discovered their future home in 2003 – a remote plot of land in the heart of Ao Phang Nga Bay – it was nothing more than dense jungle. Years of dedication turned the wilderness into a paradise.
Rayavadee — This exclusive resort impresses with its beautiful gardens and direct access to Phra Nang Cave Beach, nestled between dramatic limestone cliffs and the Andaman Sea.
Sametnangshe Boutique — Here in Phang-nga, the view is the programme: every room offers one of Thailand’s most beautiful natural spectacles.
Centara Beach Resort & Villas — Set on the secluded bay of Pai Plong, an oasis of calm with a private sandy beach.
The Grotto — Enjoy a romantic dinner by the sea in this cave restaurant, with a welcome “Sawadee Ka” cocktail at sunset.
Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi — In 2000, Leonardo DiCaprio searched for the perfect beach in the film “The Beach” and found it here. Today, you can get there easily by ferry from Ao Nang.

Photos and text: Raphael Hadad

Thailand
Thailand
Thailand

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