After a beautiful stay in Phuket, I took a charter to Krabi. Here began the spontaneous part of the trip…

In Hong Kong I had met an Australian man, who was a current resident of the Asian country. We sat across from each in a local café, each sipping a cup of Joe, talking easily. Our conversation carried into the night, as we tried to arrange evening plans to meet up again. Although unfortunately we couldn’t meet before I left the city, I nonchalantly mentioned I was heading to Thailand and we could always meet there. Little did I know, he booked a flight to The Land of Smiles (Krabi, Thailand). Crazy, I know, but his energy felt right and I was confident he wouldn’t throw me off a boat and drown me. To be sure, I took extra precautions in case, little tidbits I’m happy to share for the spontaneous travelers. I wouldn’t suggest this to everyone, this level of spontaneity. But sometimes these wild decisions result in the best experiences and stories.

I stayed at Rayavadee Luxury Beach and Spa Resort, one of the most romantic and desired resorts on the island, and one that provides a new level of tranquility. Located on Railay Beach, it actually offers access to three beaches in all: Railay West, Phra Nang, and Railay East. One of the “Leading Hotels of the World”, it can only be accessed by water.

Arriving by boat, I was dropped off on the sand and greeted by our personal butler who would offer us 24-hour service during our stay. As he carried my suitcase across the sand, I headed to our beach-front villa.

photo credit by Rayavadee

The Raitalay Villa was set on a sheltered corner of gorgeous Railay Beach, overlooking the azure waters of the Andaman Sea. The villa’s spacious accommodation featured a living room, a dining room, a kitchenette, an outdoor deck with a hydro pool, and two non-adjoining bedrooms, each with a king size bed and ensuite bath, and one boasting a large bathtub.

View from the Villa

The resort’s grounds were stunning and expansive.

In the afternoon we cooled off in the beach-front pool and laid out in the sun to work on our golden tans.

These guys were a common sight in the trees that surrounded the resort.

Just down the beach was a walking street that had restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and activity guides.

One of the most desired places to go at the resort was the Grotto. I recommend heading there at sunset to enjoy a cocktail or feast on delicious Thai food. We went for sunset cocktails and then indulged in Thai food at the resort’s romantic restaurant, Krua Phranang.

On our last morning we enjoyed their delicious assorment for breakfast. It was a short but highly indulgent getaway.

Thank you Rayavadee!