Just Back Report

Just returned from an fantastic holiday in Thailand the first week of which we spent at Le Meridian in Khao Lak. We flew with Thai Airways and it certainly was as smooth as silk. Immigration at Phucket took an hour, but they were doing some building work so hopefully that might improve matters. It took about 75 mins to transfer to Le Meridian. Although we had seen photos of the resort we were knocked out by the quality of the resort and the beach. We were in a delux room which was well appointed and spacious. We had wondered about upgrading but as the room was so good were pleased we had saved the money. Had an explore and a dip in the sea, checked out happy hour at the beack bar then a delicious Thai meal in the Baan Thai. Next morning wandered along the beach picking up shells and peering in rock pools. Had a drink in a beach bar then a swim before returning to the beach bar (Ao Thong) for a lazy lunch. Dined at the Bangsak Griil also good.

The next day we had booked to do John Grey Hong by Starlight trip.

It does take over an hour to get to the pier for the boat but it is a must do if you are in the area. ( Lots of posts about the trip if you need info)

The next day we were out with Mr Sam a brilliant driver, very knowledgeable and great fun. Took us to a local market, and stoped to see coffee and rubber plantations on to Marts house, long tail boat trip around James Bond Island then to the Gypsy village where we had lunch. If Mr Sam offers to give you a massage go for it ,he is great. Mart let me steer the boat for part of the way back to his house. Saw all sorts of interesting things along the way and learned loads about the Thai way of life. Again, several other posts on the forum and we will certainly book Mr Sam again on our next trip.

Next day on the beach walked along to the Cape Pakarang Boatyard

( about 10 mins along from the Sarojin) saw them building boats for the fishermen who lost their%26#39;s in the tsumami. Worthwhile project as it will give long term stability to region.

That night the new KukKak nightspot opened in the grounds at the front of Le Meridian and a good night was had by all!

We had intended to have a lazy week but had to book a Raft ride and Elephant treck the next day. we booked at the hotel and its about 20 mins away. Just a small family business, brilliant fun, with a stop on the treck to swim at a waterfall. The guide took us to see a resort that has just been left since the Tsunami. It brought home just how much work has been done to repair all the damage. After a local lunch back to the hotel

We took the shuttle into town that night but a mini monsoon meant we only got a limited look round

Our last day was lazy, enjoying the sea and beach ending up with a super meal at the Bansak Grill

A great week and we will be back next year.

Thanks to TA experts and contributors for advice and help and to everyone in Khao Lak who helped make our holiday special.

Just Back Report

Really nice trip report Pete,

It was interesting to read about a different location and what you got up to at Khao Lak.

Where did you go after your first week at Le Meridian?

Nicky

Just Back Report

Hi Nicky

Followed Le Meridian with 5 nights at the Cape Panwa in Phuket. Hotel was nowhere near as nice as Le Meridian even though it was a similar price but does have excellent restaurants. Then we went onto Bangkok and stayed 4 nights at the Peninsula which is outstanding located on the banks of the river, but you pay for it. Brilliant shopping particually at the weekend market.

The whole holiday ticked so many boxes for us that may well repeat it again next year, which is something we would not normally do.

Something I did not mention in previous post. I have been

attempting to leard sone Thai language and at the Gypsy village we called in at the school and had a very giggly conversation in a mixture of Thai and English with the kids. Their English was much better than my Thai even though they were only 11 and 12 and I%26#39;m sure they thought I was crazy!

Pete

Thanks for the quick reply Pete,

I have heard that the Peninsular hotel in Bangkok is indeed beautiful!

Visiting the school would have been so gorgous - I can imagine the children giggling - what fun.

We go next March/April first to Bang Tao Bay, then Krabi and finally Patong (for some action and shopping for the kids). Starting to book accommodation at the moment, its very difficult to decide but also very exciting.

Nicky