Four stops in Thailand- Bangkok, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, were a mix of hectic city exploring, heaping amounts of pad thai, island-hopping and relaxing. Here are a few recommendations on where to eat, where to stay, and what to do.

Krabi
STAY:
Ban Sanai Resort
This boutique resort is impeccably designed to offer a peaceful and relaxing stay in Krabi. Reminiscent of my stay in Marari, Kerala (India), it offers private villas, a large infinity pool looking onto a stunning cliff and a great breakfast (try the curry and banana crepes!). The best part about the resort is that it gives the atmosphere of being tucked away in the middle of nowhere, yet it is quite close to the main strip of restaurants and beaches of Krabi (and the resort provides free shuttle service).

DO:
Longtail Boat Tour
You cannot visit Krabi without taking a tour of the surrounding islands. Even a half-day tour will suffice, as you can easily hit five pristine islands, enjoying snorkeling, swimming, relaxing on the beach and taking in the stunning views. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Koh Phi Phi
EAT:
Grand PP Arcade
For the popularity of Phi Phi Island, there aren't that many great places to eat. Most restaurants are big on quantity, but very low on quality, and cater to the party-goers who aren't even fully aware of what they're eating (or maybe they just don't care). However, Grand PP Arcade was by-far the best place to eat on the island. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (closed between 3-6PM to prepare for the evening), they have a large menu with the best Massaman curry I've ever tried. Also worth noting- the mango shake, Thai iced tea and mango sticky rice for dessert.

Bangkok
EAT:
Thipsamai
This restaurant, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, is loud, messy and almost guarantees a line-up halfway down the street of loyal customers and curious tourists waiting for a table. Don't worry, you won't be waiting for long. Service is incredibly quick here, and you'll be served up some of the most authentic pad thai you've ever had. As a bonus, try the orange juice- it's fresh squeezed!
Tealicious
I don't think they even sell any tea here. This unassuming restaurant, hidden on a sidestreet is quiet, but has a huge selection of delicious Thai dishes. Of course, I had to test their pad thai, and it passed with flying colors.
After You Co.
After eating so much Thai food, sometimes you just need a break... a dessert break. This café is centrally-located, beautifully decorated and open fairly late. They have an extensive dessert and smoothie menu, and it's the perfect spot to spend the evening after exploring the city.

Phuket
STAY:
Sala Phuket
The Phuket outpost of this boutique hotel & resort chain is situated north of the airport, offering a tranquil retreat with impeccable service for those wishing to have the best of the beach, without the noise of downtown. Don't plan to leave the resort during your stay- you won't need to, and probably won't want to either. The resort itself it outfitted in zen decor, an airy open restaurant, plenty of cabanas to lounge around in and an absolutely delicious breakfast spread (a must-try are the mango pancakes, banana-honey shake and morning glory Benedict). Lunch and dinner options at the restaurant are aplenty, and if you're feeling extra-ambitious, order one of the set dinners for two. Block of an hour to enjoy a Thai or soothing aromatic massage, and most importantly, do yourself a favour- reserve a villa with a private pool.

Thailand Travel Diary