Thailand island-hopping: Jungle meets beach

The long wait is over. Thailand's calling! You give your luggage a once-over. Sense of adventure? Check! Spirit of discovery? Check! Curiosity? Check! And it's time to go. You grab your bags, make your way through the airport and before you know it, the sound of your trolley rolling to the check-in desk is replaced by the rush of turbines as your plane speeds off into the night sky. Street food, temples, dream beaches – one last time, you dream of all the adventures that await you before they finally come true.

You take one glance out the window and know that Thailand's tropical paradise is just a few minutes away. When you finally get off the plane in Phuket a few moments later, you can't tell which is shining brighter: the grin on your face or the sun! Welcome to the land of smiles!

Where are you heading? Krabi! The tropical retreat is surrounded by imposing, steep limestone cliffs and azure ocean waves. Hectic city life? Not a chance! Good vibes only – that's probably the best way to describe the attitude towards life in Krabi. And when you arrive, you feel it right away! So, what's first? Explore your accommodation or head straight for the beach?

This morning, you wake up in high spirits, slip into your swimwear, walk down to Ao Nang Beach and feel the ever-louder sound of the waves purge your body of every last bit of stress. Tall palm trees, towering cliffs and longtail boats drifting on the bright blue sea form the backdrop for your perfect beach day. The beams of sunlight joyfully caress your skin and slowly but surely warm the water to a relaxing temperature. Want a change of perspective? Then follow the Monkey Trail at the eastern end of Ao Nang Beach and climb its stairs into the jungle. But beware! As the name suggests, there are lots of monkeys hiding in the green thicket, and these nimble forest dwellers can quickly turn into cheeky little thieves. The trail ends at Pai Plong Beach, where you'll be greeted with a magnificent view of the sea and the islands of Krabi – a true storybook motif that you'll surely never forget!

Today, it's sunglasses on and back to the beach! But how about Railay Beach this time? This remote beach is considered one of the most beautiful in Thailand and can only be reached by boat (optional, payable on site). No roads, no cars – the bay between the jagged cliffs is a true paradise. Take an invigorating dip in the cool water to give yourself a burst of new energy for another adventure – perhaps a short hike to a beautiful viewpoint? Just head to the starting point between Railay Beach East and Phra Nang Cave Beach, then slowly make your way higher and higher up the steep path along the rock face, where every now and then, you'll meet mischievous little monkeys. After about 20 minutes, you'll be rewarded with an incredible view of the bay, where the turquoise sea shines so intensely that you'll wonder if it's all a dream. And the green palm trees swaying gently in the wind and the towering limestone cliffs make for the perfect pic!