Visiting Iceland Without a Car – Day Trip Ideas From the Capital
by bdpash on 18/05/18 at 1:29 pm
Unless you’ve been living under a rather large rock, there’s a fairly good chance you’re aware of just how attractive Iceland is right now. But with prohibitively increasing car rental costs and rare accommodation outside the capital, planning a road trip can be a daunting task. Fret not: I’ve compiled a list of places that are doable as day trips from Reykjavik.
Read more:http://www.travellers-content.co.uk/visiting-iceland-without-a-car-day-trip-ideas-from-the-capital/
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The Ultimate Guide to Nightlife in Thailand
Thailand is one of those places where day smoothly progresses to night, and you still have enough to see and do every day of your holiday! It really is hard to weigh the beauty of Thailand from when the sun comes up and when it goes down. The country’s natural beauty knows no bounds, with the vast blue sea and dense green cover in every direction, and beaches and cultural hubs in between.
How To Get From Krabi To Railay Beach
The land of some of Asia finest beaches, scenic jungle treks, limestone cliffs, and spectacular underwater world, Krabi is Thailand’s top tourist destination. The province is home to Phi Phi islands, Ao Nang Beach and the tiny yet fabulous Railay Beach. The Railay peninsula is a small beach comprising of only four pristine beaches. It is located between Krabi Town and Ao Nang, and is only accessible by boat. In fact, Railay only has footpaths – so no bus, car or longtail boats can help you reach there or navigate inside. It is just right for a lazy yet adventurous trip in Thailand.
The Fastest, Cheapest & Most Scenic Ways To Go From Bangkok To Krabi
South-East Asia’s top party destination, Thailand, holds a treasure of serenity, sunsets and sand. Located in the southern part of the country between Phang Nga and Trang, the Krabi province is a perfect place for travellers looking to unwind on pristine white beaches and turquoise waters. Besides the exceptional coastline, Krabi also features lovely jungles for treks, limestone cliffs, waterfall and caves.
Ithaka | IthakaKrabi is also a paradise for water lovers, with a range of sports and activities on the beach as well as some exceptional underwater life. Being less crowded than other popular places in Thailand, locals as well as tourists from the city of Bangkok often flock here for some respite. Krabi is around 770 kilometres from Bangkok and offers multiple routes from the capital city to the beach paradise. Here’s how you can commute.
To Krabi By Flight – Fastest
As mentioned, Krabi is at quite a distance from Bangkok, hence flights are the best and fastest alternative to travel between the two destinations. However, it could be a tad heavy on the pocket.
There are plenty of flights that fly daily and even multiple times a day between the two places. You can pick luxury as well as cheap airlines for your journey to Krabi Airport (KBV).
It is important to note that you need to be at the airport at least one hour before the flight, as the gates close 40 minutes before take off. This can be tricky as in Bangkok traffic, you may take almost two hours to reach Suvarnabhumi Airport. The city bus is the best way to commute, but you can even take the taxi, which is expensive or the train which can be crowded
Flights Available: Currently, you can take budget airlines such as Air Asia that has eight flights to and fro; Bangkok Airways that has daily flights and often additional ones during peak season; Nok Air with two flights every day; Scoot (Tiger Airways) that has one flight every day; Thai Airways with four or five flights; and Thai Lion Air with three flights daily.
The 700-plus-kilometre journey may seem daunting via road, but it can be quite comfortable in a luxurious bus. Recliner, air-conditioned buses leave from the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok to reach Krabi. These buses are extremely safe and reliable for tourists, especially if it is an overnight journey to Krabi. However, it is advised that you keep your valuables on you at all times. Besides, not all buses have washroom facilities, so you need to check that before you get on board. The tickets need not be booked in advance, except on Thai public holidays, wherein you may book online or via local agents. There are minibuses and intercity taxis that also offer this trip, which are faster and more convenient. However, not all of these are safe and reliable. Only if you know a local source that offers information on these should you opt for it, else it is ideal to stick to the bus service. Reaching the Southern Bus Terminal or the Sai Tai Mai, can be tough from the city’s centre. There are direct taxis but it might cost you around THB 120 (Rs 127, US$ 3.5); instead you can take a local bus that might take a bit longer but will be far cheaper. In Krabi, the buses arrive at the Talaat Kao bus terminal. The private cars and minibuses tend to end their trip at Lomprayah stations, which are slightly away from the central area in Krabi, but you can take a bus or taxi to reach your destination. Bus Companies: A few reliable companies are Phantip, Songserm, Lignite, Paradise Travel, and Jolly Travel. Technically, there are no direct trains from Bangkok to Krabi, as the latter has no station or tracks. However, you can combine your trip via a train and then by road. In Bangkok, you need to board a train from the Hua Lamphong station, then go to Surat Thani station. From the railway station, you need to go to the bus terminal at Surat Thani and then take a direct bus from there to Krabi. In addition, this station itself is extremely busy, as it connects all major metro lines and is in the middle of the city. For a tourist, it can be daunting to understand where to get the train to Surat Thani from, hence keep at least 30 to 40 minutes of time before you board your train. Book tickets for the train, or a combination of train and bus from Surat Thani in advance to save time and avoid confusion at the Hua Lamphong station. There are trains during the day as well as sleeper trains at night. You have an option of booking second- and first-class tickets. The coaches are air conditioned and one meal is included. The bus from Surat Thani to Krabi will also be a luxury air-conditioned one. The post The Fastest, Cheapest & Most Scenic Ways To Go From Bangkok To Krabi appeared first on Ithaka Travel.
Cost: Depending on the airline you might spend THB 1,500 to THB 2,500 (Rs 3,387 to 5,646, US$ 46 to 77) or more, as per season and time of the day. This is the cost for a one-way flight.To Krabi By Road – Cheapest
Cost: It take about THB 650 to 900 (Rs 1,355 to 2,023, US$ 18 to 27), depending on the type of bus you choose and the timing of the day.To Krabi By Train – Most Scenic
Now Hua Lamphong station is at the heart of the city, making it easily accessible by the MRT as well as the local buses. You can opt for a regular bus or pick an air conditioned one to reach Hua Lamphong. And, of course, you can get a taxi to the station, but it can get really crowded and messy to find a taxi during peak hours.
Cost: The one-way train tickets for second-class start at THB 800 (Rs 1,800, US$ 24) and increase, depending on which train you choose. The one-way bus tickets start at THB 550 (Rs 1,242, US$ 17). A combination ticket would cost lesser.
Krabi In December: What To Expect
If you want to experience Krabi in warm, beautiful weather, then December is one of the best months to visit. The island provides a calm and relaxing atmosphere during the hectic festive season, making it a popular destination in December.
Krabi is hot all year-round, but the weather does get a little cooler in December. While others have to struggle with snow and rain, you can lay out on the beach or go for a swim. Along with a few national holidays and celebrations in December, you can also look forward to the decorations and fireworks that light up the island on New Year’s Eve.
Part 1: Weather
The climate of Krabi is tropical, so the island is warm all year around. Krabi experiences a dry season from December to March. December, while still being one of the coolest months in Krabi, has generally warm temperatures.
Average Temperature: 27°C, with the highest rising to 32°C and the lowest being 24.5°C.
Humidity: Mildly humid
Average rainfall: 60 mm, for about 6 days of the month
Sunshine: About 7 hours
December is perfect for those who want to visit Krabi without experiencing very hot temperatures. The month is known to bring a little rain, but it is very rare that constant rainfall will ruin your trip.
Part 2: What To Pack & Carry
- The average temperature throughout December is steadily warm, so you’ll need to bring plenty of light and airy clothing to keep comfortable.
- Temperatures have been known to rise to 30°C, so bring enough suntan lotion or sunscreen so you don’t suffer from sunburn.
- Bring along a hat and sunglasses for extra protection from the sun.
- Bring an umbrella and raincoat just in case it rains on your trip.
- The weather is tropical so belted sandals, flip-flops or sneakers are best for touring the island.
- Since December is one of the cooler months in Krabi, bring a light jacket just in case it gets a little chilly in the evenings.
- Remember to bring a waterproof phone and camera cases to capture memories that you can take home with you.
Part 3: Things To Do In December
The amazing thing about Krabi in December is that the weather is great so there’s not much that you can’t do on the island. Here are a few fun things you can do in Krabi in December:
Beaches
What’s better than laying on a beach on a tropical island in December? Krabi province has some beautiful beaches among its 200+ islands, many of which are perfect for kayaking and swimming. During December, the average sea temperature is 29°C, which is more than warm enough to enjoy a dip.
Ko Talabeng, on the east coast of Ko Lanta Yai, is one such island that is perfect for those who want to enjoy kayaking and swimming in beautiful, tropical surroundings. This limestone island offers a few small sandy beaches which are only accessible when the tides are low.
Shrines & Temples
Tiger Cave Temple via@niechcemisieWat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple) is one of Krabi’s major attractions. With its huge outdoor Buddha statue, spectacular octagonal pagoda and the thousands of steps that lead to an amazing view of the surroundings, this attraction is one of the most fascinating places to visit on the island.
The Phra Nang Shrine is also another popular attraction that’s worth exploring.
Natural Attractions
Emerald Pool via@salsa.shristyKrabi is known for its natural beauty, so of course, there are many natural attractions that will appeal to nature lovers. Bathe in the inviting waters of the Emerald Pool at Thung Teo Forest Natural Park or the warm mineral-rich waters of Klong Thom Hot Springs surrounded by lush forests. Koh Phi Phi’s viewpoint and Koh Lanta National Park are great for outdoor adventures too.
Shopping
Krabi Town via Gopal VenkataramanExploring the many markets in Krabi is one of the coolest ways to see the creativity of locals. From local readymade snacks to cool souvenirs, handicrafts, and trinkets, you’ll find it all in the markets. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the streets of Krabi Town are taken over by vendors selling a range of goods. Other local markets like Ao Nang Market, Nongtalay Market, and Klong Muang Market operate on various days of the week.
Festivals
On December 5, a national holiday that marks King Bhumibol’s birthday, there is a grand celebration in Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi where locals come together to celebrate their beloved King. Although King Bhumipol’s birthday is observed on December 5, throughout the entire month, you will find streets with Thai flags in Krabi Town and the resorts, along with the King’s pictures and many beautiful flowers.
To get in the Christmas spirit, locals also decorate their houses and streets with lights and ornaments, sing Christmas carols and shop to celebrate the holidays. Closer to New Year’s, there are a host of beach parties, exclusive functions and fireworks to ring in the new year.
Indoor Activities
- Thai Cooking Class: A cooking class in Krabi is a great way to learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes. The Smart Cook Thai Cookery School, located in Ao Nang, is one such place where learning meets food and fun. The cookery school is found inside a teak wooden home and the classes are taught in a clean open-air kitchen. Everyone is in charge of their own workstation so you can make your food as spicy as you want!
- Spas: There’s something special about enjoying a soothing oil massage or invigorating Thai massage after a day on the beach. Krabi has a multitude of massage shops, some of which are right on the beautiful beaches. For more exclusivity and high-end pampering, there are also exquisite spas that you can enjoy.
Part 4: Activities To Avoid
Extensive Island-hopping: The weather can be quite unpredictable at times, so December may not be the best time to bounce around from island to island. If you do plan to visit another island on your trip, ensure that you have transportation that is extremely reliable.
Hiking After Dark: While the nature trail at Sra Morakot is absolutely beautiful, during December it gets dark at the crack of sunset. Avoid bringing children out on the trail (if you can’t, ensure that you watch them closely) and try to leave the trail by the evening. The jungle overhead will make it look darker than it is.
Part 5: Tips For Travelling In December
- Book your accommodation well in advance, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on your accommodation preferences. Hotels and resorts are often booked out during the festive season.
- Krabi is known for its sometimes tremulous weather. Each beach you visit will have a sign telling you where to go in case a tsunami is coming. It’s important to read these signs before unpacking at the beach.
- When going out in the water for kayaking or touring other islands, always have a life jacket on you.
- If you are planning to take a walk around the nature trail at Sra Morakot, be sure to wear proper shoes as the area can be very treacherous to walk on.
- In general, keep a raincoat on you, mosquito spray, and plenty of water.
- Whether you are hiring someone to take you boating, snorkelling, or sightseeing, it is important to do your research and compare the companies in the area for the best deal.
December brings warm temperatures to Krabi and makes your trip to the island all the more enjoyable. Relax and soak up some sun on the beach or explore the island’s attractions and learn more about the history and culture of the people. There’s so much to do in the festive season in Krabi, both indoors and outdoors.
The post Krabi In December: What To Expect appeared first on Ithaka Travel.
Mombasa’s Moi International Airport to go solar
Moi International Airport will mark a regional first when the contract signed with Solarcentury has been delivered and a new solar power plant been commissioned.
The installation, expected to have a lifespan of at least 25 years, is expected to massively reduce the airport’s carbon footprint, reduce utility bills, and add sustainability long term.
The scope includes a replacement of diesel-propelled ground power units for parked aircraft and also a power air bridge and gate equipment.
The USD6.5 million project, supported by ICAO, short for the International Civil Aviation Organization, is due for completion by late next year.
