Thailand has become Asia’s top travel destination, welcoming over 28 million visitors last year, and it feels like a good number of them are here in Ao Nang!
The main scene is along a bustling mile of Beach Road, which runs along the coast before curving inland beneath towering limestone cliffs. Lined with a blend of bars, restaurants, and just about anything a tourist might need—tour agencies, currency exchanges, souvenir shops, Thai massages, custom suits, and even cannabis—it’s a lively mix of sights and sounds.
During the day, most tourists head out on adventures, hopping on iconic long-tail boats bound for stunning spots like Railay Beach or the nearby islands in the Andaman Sea—Hong Island, Chicken Island, James Bond Island, and more. By sunset, the crowds return, many gathering on the beach to witness Krabi’s incredible sunsets, often followed by a lively fire show.
I spent much of my day close to my condo, which is up the hill from the main action. It’s been nice wandering around, guessing where other tourists are from. Met some interesting folks at lunch—a couple from Israel and a family from France. Traveling solo can have its perks; it pushes you to connect with people or risk getting lonely.
For dinner, in honor of Dia de Muertos, I couldn’t resist checking out a local Mexican restaurant. There’s something fun about seeing one culture’s take on another. Greeted with an enthusiastic “Hola!” by Thai staff in Catrina makeup, they seemed to enjoy singing along to “Guantanamera” and “La Bamba.” The corn soup with shrimp and bacon was tasty but probably not something I’d find back in Mexico!
Today’s plan? Just soaking it all in and enjoying paradise—same as yesterday.