Ko Phi Phi
I took the picture to the left in October 2003. The next time I visited the island (in February 2005) it was to help in the clean-up operation in the aftermath of the tsunami. Like most, I’d seen the television pictures, but to witness the devastation first hand was deeply moving. Over a thousand people died here and of the local people who survived, many saw their businesses and livelihoods disappear. Nobody who experienced it will ever forget that fateful day, but Phi Phi has bounced back and once more tourists are discovering the charms of this beautiful part of Thailand.
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Phi Phi Don & Phi Phi Leh
There are two islands which collectively make up what is known as Phi Phi and which is regularly voted as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. All of the accommodation is located on Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two islands. Phi Phi Don has a slender isthmus which connects the east and west of the island and features two stunning symmetrical bays, which can be fully appreciated from the viewpoint to the north-east (see picture above).
The uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is much smaller than Phi Phi Don and has earned worldwide fame as the location for the movie, ‘The Beach’. Getting there from Phi Phi Don means hiring a longtail boat.
Where to Stay
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Much of the budget accommodation is located close to the two bays of Tonsai and Loh Dalum. This area suffered particular damage during the 2004 tsunami and has always been popular with backpackers, independent travellers and Phi Phi’s diving fraternity. Hat Yao (Long Beach) is another popular choice for many visitors.
For more exclusivity and comfort try the Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort and Spa on the north-east of the island at Ao Loh Bakao. To spoil yourself in unadulterated 5-star luxury, head straight for the Zeavola on Laem Thong at the northern most point of the island.
Getting To Phi Phi
The most convenient way of getting to Phi Phi means coming via Phuket or Krabi. Boat and ferry crossings vary according to the time of year and are more frequent during the dry season. The main arrival point is Tonsai on Phi Phi Don. Tour operators in both Krabi and Phuket can arrange day tours to Phi Phi and often include lunch on the gorgeous beach at Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh.
Ko Phi Phi Weather
The dry season is from November-April and corresponds with the tourist high season. May-October is the rainy season with south-westerly breezes bringing rain in between the sunshine. Statistically, the highest chance of rain is during June and September (80% chance) with the lowest chance from November-March (5% chance).