Why You Should Visit Khao Lak
When I looked at all of the different places in Thailand I could visit, the name Khao Lak came up and I was a little nervous. It seemed like a beautiful destination for a relaxing holiday, but friends and family had made me nervous. To be fair, the movie 'The Impossible' had terrified my mum, and the fact that it was based on what actually happened in that beautiful place made her fear even more intense.
But the tsunami that demolished Khao Lak over a decade ago is a thing of the past. The people came back. They rebuilt. In fact many of the extras in 'The Impossible' were survivors of the actual tsunami. Amazing right? The whole town was rebuilt, and holidaymakers have been returning slowly but surely to this beautiful little corner of Thailand.
Located around an hour's drive from Phuket Airport, the town consists of one main street with a few restaurants, shops and hotels. The whole place feels...untouched. New. Everything has been freshly built, and it shows. The hotel I stayed in (Centara Seaview Resort) was absolutely beautiful. Located on the beach, with the friendliest staff, greatest food and plenty to do I never had a dull moment. And there was a spa too!
It isn't quite like the lively party places I've been used to visiting, with only one bar in town open late. Shout out to Monkey Bar though, that place was amazing! There is a live band every night, with visitors encouraged to get up and perform too. Cheap cocktails and a friendly owner make the place a destination worth visiting. Other than Monkey Bar (and Tarzan, I loved that place), the town is geared more towards families, and those looking to get out there and have adventures. Food wise, there are plenty of options. From the friendliest French restaurant owner (Smile) to amazing food trucks (Happy Hippie), there's something for everyone. I didn't think I was a huge fan of Thai food until I went to Khao Lak!
There are plenty of activities to be had in and around the town. I enjoyed a trip to Phuket, a boat ride through the mandrakes, and had dinner in a village sitting on stilts. None of this took more than an hour and a half to get to.
If you're looking for a new part of Thailand to visit, I couldn't recommend Khao Lak enough. Friendly people, beautiful food and a relaxing time awaits!
