Packing for the Solo Traveler
Ever since I could remember, traveling was always a group effort with my family. So when an opportunity arose to volunteer solo in the Philippines for 4 months, I jumped at the offer. This was to be my first solo trip and my longest time away from my family. The most overwhelming part of any trip is the packing. (Because once you’re there, all you can really do is take in the adventure!) A few tips for the solo traveller:
One carry on and one check in. That’s it. In fact if you can do without the bulky carry on, avoid it; it makes transcontinental trips easier. However, if you have had a bad experience with losing your luggage, having a small carry on with a change of clothes isn’t that bad.
Money should never be in one place. I like to have a few envelopes with some cash in various compartments. This helps to budget your money and it’s always nice to find “surprise” money later on in your trip.
Check the temperature of your destination and choose your clothes accordingly. If you’re going to be volunteering in Africa, chances are you won’t need your snorkeling gear or that really fancy dress. Some people tend to pack things “just in case” – avoid this mentality. Pack what you need and IF absolutely necessary, you can purchase what you forgot locally. Chances are, they would have exactly what you would need anyway. (That’s how I scored my splendid Italian leather jacket). More »
Krabi Beaches and Sights of Thailand
Krabi National Parks
Krabi boasts more than its fair share of breathtaking National Parks, so include at least one of them on your next Krabi holiday!
Mu Ko Lanta National Park – situated in southern Krabi, this large park covers 152 square kilometres of dramatic rocky islands including Ko Lanta Yai, Ko Lanta Noi and Ko Taleng Beng. You can enjoy watching the dazzling ‘Floating Boats’ festival celebrated by the ancient sea gypsies on Ko Lanta Yai at specific times of the year.
Than Bokkhorani National Park – located in northern Krabi and covering an area of 388 km square, this beautiful park includes a diverse landscape of iconic limestone cliffs, lush mangrove forests, rivers, waterfalls and mesmerising, emerald green pools.
Hat Noppharat Thara – the biggest and probably the most popular of Krabi National Parks. A large area consists of a flourishing marine environment where scuba divers and snorkelers can enjoy unbeatable diving experiences among coral reefs and crystal clear waters. The remainder of this vast park is formed from mangrove forests, craggy cliffs and peat swamps. The world famous Krabi islands Ko Phi Phi don and Ko Phi Phi Le (with its interesting Viking Cave) are also located within the park, along with a fascinating fossil shell cemetery named Susan Hoi.
Krabi Beaches
Krabi is particularly renowned for a selection of world class beaches, each with its own unique vibe.
Ao Nang Beach – although centrally located and possibly the most developed of all Krabi’s beaches, it is thankfully largely unspoilt. Picture an idyllic tropical beach and you will not be disappointed! More »
