Dangling – Railay Beach, Thailand.

Posted By : Techhdarre

Koh Lanta.

Patrick and I were climbing something called the Bungaloo and I was about three quarters of the way up. I was straddling a rock formation but just couldn’t hold it so I let go. Out I swung away from the rock. The anchor was bolted to an overhang which was 5 meters from the rock face where I let go. The belay station was on a ledge, ten meters up from the ground. I was suspended in mid air 5 meters out from the rock and 30 meters up. Actually I wasn’t suspended, I was swinging. The rope was going back and forth over the jagged lip just under the anchor like a big string over a big serrated knife with my full body weight acting as a big hand working to cut through the rope.

The realization of what could happen next gripped me and I instantly played in my mind the next sequence of events in disturbing clarity: The rope saws itself across the jagged rock, eventually sawing right through(I’ve seen this in the movies a dozen times!); I plummet to the ground in silence, the surreal feeling of free falling as the rock face whizzes by and the ground ‘rises up to meet me’ all in that silent slow motion feeling you get when you are in the middle of something very, very bad but have little or no control over it. I could feel myself hitting the ground, landing in the shallow rocky water below landing in such a way that would surely break my back or at the very least both my legs…even the possiblity of death ran through my mind. I felt this as if it were sure to happen. A disturbing thought escaped my subconscious mind…I objectively wondered “Would I bounce when I hit the ground from here?”. A question I sometimes wondered about the poor sap who reportedly jumped from the office building beside the one where I worked in Calgary. Scary to think something like that with such detachment in such circumstances.

Koh Lanta.

All this went through my head within a matter of seconds and no more than 5 seconds passed before I yelled to Patrick “Lower me!” Needless to say I made it down without further incident, but not without a fair bit of adrenaline pumping through my body and reluctance to do anymore climbing that day !

I asked a veteran climber later that day if he ever heard of a rope breaking “Never!” he said “The only way it could possibly break is if it were cut against a jagged rock”!!

With kind permission, source by : http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/techhdarre/4/942384388/tpod.html

Amazing Krabi, Thailand.

Posted By : Techhdarre.

Wickedly Beautiful Beaches.

So I was out of my funk thanks to Becky and in the famous beach area of southern Thailand not exactly where the book “The Beach” was set, but close enough. It was in fact where some of the movie was filmed (the Kho San Road scene where incidentally my cousin Traviss and his fiancé Carly had a part!!! How cool is that?)

Traviss and Carly were actually the ones who recommended Krabi to me…I am forever in their debt for learning about such a place and the recommendations they gave me for in and around the area. It was their favorite place in Thailand and now mine! Actually it is my favorite place in the world! Not so much the town itself but the whole area and what it has to offer: the proximity to tropical beaches and remote islands with millions of things to see and do on the cheap! Figure in the excellent food and the friendly Thai people and it all added up to an amazing experience!!!

Krabi with Becky was a blast, enjoyed hanging with her doing the beach and food and shopping thing. Becky eventually travelled on to Ko Phang Na a popular Island on the East coast of Thailand for the full moon party there. The full moon party is basically a huge all night rave attended to by thousands of mostly western partiers…an event that shouldn’t be missed by anyone visiting Thailand. We parted company but by the time we did I had come back into my own and felt able to handle things a little better than when I was in Penang!!!

Limestone Formation.

Beautiful weather, beautiful beaches, great food, awesome people and I was beginning to meet other travellers, life was good. My initial reason for travelling to Krabi was to rock climb so I went to Railay beach to check it out. Railay beach is a stunning place that can only be reached by a long tail boat ride (see pictures for a view of a long tail) It has three or four beach areas with sand that is white and ‘crunchy’ and crystal clear blue water. There are no vehicles here which only adds to its allure. On the ride over I met Kate. A cool Brit from Leeds who was also going to rock climb. We ended up in the same course and hung out thereafter for a few days. The rock climbing course was pretty basic but it was great to hang out with a few people who shared the same interest and to do something that was familiar to me! The introductory half day course cost me 500 Baht which is equivalent to $20.00 CDN!!

Kate and I returned to Krabi that night on a long tail in a middle of a squall the only time I was ever freezing the entire month! Kate’s friend Claire came from Australia the next day and we all hung out a bit and met up with a friend of Kate’s from University. It amazes me the frequency of which people meet friends of theirs from home. Hasn’t happened to me yet! I had spent about five days in Krabi and was itching to go somewhere else. I caught wind of an Island called Ko Lanta which was supposed to be beautiful and largely undeveloped so I decided to head there.

Climbing At Railay Beach.

Coincidentally Kate had booked a spot on the same island with her travelling companion Claire. They headed off and I followed the next day. Unfortunately the places we booked were quite a ways apart, actually not unfortunate as driving to their Villa on a scooter that evening ended up being one of the most memorable moments of the trip so far. So we were able to meet up and hang out a wee bit longer and enjoy more great conversation. Kate and Claire left for Bangkok the next day and again I was on my own.

With kind permission, source from : http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/techhdarre/4/942384388/tpod.html

Krabi Day One – Rock Climbing.

Posted By : LiZ in Oz!!

Our first activity for the trip was rock climbing… making our way to the jetty to take the long tail boat to railay beach for rock climbing…

Left Picture : here’s our “tour guide” – the rock climbing expert…. he’s the one carrying all our equipment as well…. see the guy loaded with so many bags… that’s him with the full equipment for the 5 “participants”…..
Right Picture : here’s our mode of transport to railay beach…

Below Pictures : At railay beach… we must make our way thru the slippery, muddy beach cos it’s low tide when we arrive….finally it’s the start of the activity… listening attentively to instructions….gin looks confused though….mi posing with the guide…..my turn to climb….slowly making my way up…..finally at the TOPPPPPP!!!!! it was hard work!!!! slowly abseiling down….. this is the most relax and enjoyable part…..exhausated after the climb… i conquered three 10m wall and one 20m wall….=)n besides the photos and the aching muscles, here’s wat we’ve got as “souvenirs” from the rock-climbing…. ouch ouch!! after an exhausting day of being “spider women”, it’s time to chill and relax…. we went to this mexican pub for the WORLD CUP FINALS – holland vs spain….n my prediction was right once again!!!! SPAIN won…. n i won this shirt from “guessing the winning team” lucky draw from the pub…. wohoooo!!!! see the before and after…. the whole big group of holland fans in the pub…. see the same pix below after the match ended….and this marks the end of our long day…

Article from : http://liz-oz.blogspot.com/2010/07/krabi-day-2-rock-climbing.html

Mention Thailand and images of beaches, elephants and Bangkok come to mind. Less known is the fact Thailand rock climbing is some of the best in the world.

Thailand Rock Climbing
Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand is bordered by Cambodia, Burma and Laos in the north and Malaysia in the south. The shape of the country is somewhat similar to Italy, and you’ll find similar differences between northern and southern Thailand that you do in Italy. For rock climbing enthusiasts, the south of Thailand is where the action is. The rock formations in Thailand are almost universally limestone. The level of climbing can be as simple as bouldering or as challenging as tackling over vertical cliffs. This makes Thailand a popular rock climbing destination since it has a little something for everyone.

Krabi
Located on the southern section of the “tail” of Thailand, Krabi has a wide variety of rock climbing challenges. Most of the climbs in this area are of the pre-bolted sport route variety. There are literally hundreds upon hundreds of climbs with difficulty levels from beginner to multi-pitch knuckle crushers. The beauty of climbing in Krabi is…well, the beauty. While you might have visions of jungles and mosquitoes when thinking of Thailand, Krabi is an area of a different sort. Most of the climbs have been set up on cliff faces on the beach. Being natural capitalists, the Thai’s have built hotels, bars and so on at these locations. As a result, you can literally climb a multi-pitch route for five hours, cool off with a swim and then have a beer. If there is such a thing as a rock climbing heaven, many feel Krabi is it. Before you cash in your savings, keep in mind that Thailand is a seasonal vacation spot. If you go during the wet season, there is a good chance you’ll just end up sitting around drinking beer. While that isn’t too bad, you’ll go crazy looking at the climbs that are so close, but oh so far away. Generally, you want to head to Thailand from late November through maybe April. The summer months tend to be both incredibly hot and wet. Make sure you pull up forecasts for the area before booking a trip. Flying to Thailand is inexpensive, but flights are incredibly long with stopovers. Still, it is all worth it once you experience Thailand rock climbing.

SOURCE : http://blog.vici.ro/2010/03/28/thailand-rock-climbing-rick-chapo/

Krabi province in cooperation with Krabi Provincial Administration Organization, Krabi Tourist Association, TAT Krabi Office and Railay Rock Climbing Club,  is going to co-organise “Krabi International Rock Climbing 2010″ date 16-18 April 2010 at Tonsai Beach, Railay Beach and Ao Nang Beach. This event aims to publicize rock climbing activity in Krabi Province and to push rock climbing activity as annual tourism promotional event of the province. In addition,the image of Krabi will be projected as “Rock Climbing Destination”, as it is renowned among the rock climbers that Krabi is a not-to-be-misses destination with its world renowned cliffs, beautiful nature and fully equipped facilities.

The competition is divided into three categories, which are;

• Lead Climbing Marathon
• Speed Climbing
• Deep Water Soloing

Apart from rock climbing activity, there are competitions on  “Fire Contest”. It is expected that Krabi International Rock Climbing will make the province know nationally and internationally and will stimulate tourism in the province to a certain level.

Interested participants can access information and apply at
1) Krabi Tourist Association, Tel : 075-623944, Fax : 075-623955, Email : tourism@krabi_tourism.org
2) Club Activities Railay Bay, Tel : 089-2940686, Email : pranang_rockclimbing_club@yahoo.com
3) Ton Sai Bay Club Activities, Tel : 081-0819993, Email : dreamvalleyresort@yahoo.com

Download application form at
1) http:// www.krabi-tourism.org
2) http://www.tourismthailand.org/krabi

Here are some photos from last year event, courtesy of Krabi Tourist Association.

Krabi, one among the tourist destination while touring Thailand, has enclosed itself as negligent resort destination as the site gives prominence to ease and relaxation rather than with the high-energy social gathering celebrations. Here you have plenty to see and to explore with the copious plant life found all over the landscape, which in turn is really an enchanting as well as ideal for peace seekers.

At Krabi, there are many places which will inspire you to watch the splendor, as the landscape draws attention to limestone projections crop up all around the countryside, which is one among the many of the magnetism which pulls visitors and travelers towards this vacation destination. Then the national park is a good place to have a view of different species of plants. No wonder Krabi has its own magnificence which cannot be found in any other tourist destinations. While traveling all the way through this vacation destination one should view the top things or else it would be an utter waste traveling so long and not to enjoy each and every important aspect of it.
Exploring the archipelago : Walk all around through the archipelago will craft a significant experience to view the limestone rock formations as well as stunning beaches where you can take excursion from one island to the other island. More than a few guides propose well thought-out excursion to emphasize of the archipelago which are really admirable also ensuring a possibility of breaching away from the crowd of the mainland resort, spending time with peace and calm.
Than Bok Khoraine National Park : An idyllic site to hang up a tent and to set up a camp, as the national park is full of plant species. Moreover, it is free from the wild animals and the hazards caused by it. This national park also has abundance of limestone caves amid exquisite mangrove woods.
Rock Climbing : Here you do rock climbing as well as have lessons as per your proficiency which will enable you to improvise your abilities in rock climbing. Limestone precipice and exceptional stone formations enables the Krabi to have a reputation with rock climbing all around the globe.
Kon Lanta Marine National Park : This marine national park exhibits stunning beaches and exceptional rocks and a lot of place for traveling around. Here several rainforest is almost untouched and leftovers protected. Facilities are available for the travelers to rent villa and to stay here for a while.
Krabi Nightlife : When seeking for the nightlife, Ao Nang Beach Resort is the apt choice for traveler’s center, as the Krabi town not offering a lot to the outsiders except for a peep for the locals in the area. This place is not as electrifying as Phuket, yet you can find the doors remaining 24 hours open in bars and restaurants. Its much more family oriented vacation spot with quiet and calm environment.
Scuba Diving : Even though the conditions are friendly for annual diving yet the authorized diving time of year in Krabi is from November to March. You can earn certificate as a diver with the diving companies which provide the necessary guidance for the purpose.
Biking : One among many ways to tour all around the groves of coconut trees to have fresh air is really fascinating one.
Railay Beach : It’s the most distinctive coastal area, with the falcate shaped seashore which has no links to the mainland by huge projections of rock. Easy to get to the beach is by means of boat. You can halt in any of the resorts for overnight that lay very close to this calm-serene beach, which no other beaches in Phuket can be a rival for Railay Beach.
Excursion to Watt ham Seua : One of the largest temples in Krabi and the name signify Tiger Cave Temple. The thing which draws attention to this temple to the various tourists is due to the Buddha’s footprint.
Shell Fossil Cemetery : Millions of years ago, Ban Laem Pho Cape was a vast freshwater marsh which were crowded with small snails, the residual of which led to a fossilized composite. This in turn has now grown up to 16 inch thick. These are the few top vacation destination in Krabi where you can seek for peaceful atmosphere, away from all trouble, just to relax to the very extend of relaxation.

SOURCE :
About The Author, Wolfgang Jaegel

To Explore Krabi Discovery Tour Packages
Click the following links below for details.

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]]> http://www.krabidiscovery.com/travel-digest/articles-on-krabi/top-things-to-do-in-krabi/feed/ 0 http://www.krabidiscovery.com/place-to-stay/railay-beach/sand-sea-resort/ http://www.krabidiscovery.com/place-to-stay/railay-beach/sand-sea-resort/#comments Sun, 24 May 2009 08:06:20 +0000 admin http://www.krabidiscovery.com/?p=1462

Working Hotel Partner, Sand Sea Resort, a magic land of the sea where you can have your own privacy in one of the most beautiful places of the world. We’re willing to provide you with many comfortable rooms that vary either natural ordinary or A/C  single or double bedrooms. Also, foods are available in delicious typical Thai, Chinese and Western cruisine with our best friendly and polite service.  Visit a place where you are close to nature with sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and an amazing underwater world. A stay in such fantastic natural surroundings is a wonderful experience which you will never forget.

Our Latest & Reflective Selling Rate

Special Offer May. 01-2009- Oct. 31-2009
Every 3 nights Get 1 night for Free of charge at room + breakfast

Remark

• The above rate are inclusive of daily buffet ABF, service charge and government VAT
• Third person in room, 12 years and older, extra bed mandatory. All bed include extra breakfast.
• Children between 3-12 years stay with parents without extra bed must pay for breakfast 100 per day.

Compulsory Gala Dinner

• Christmas Eve 24 Dec 09 : Adult   1,950 THB , Child age 5-12 years old  1,100 THB.
• New Years Eve 31 Dec 09 : Adult   2,350 THB , Child age 5-12 years old  1,650 THB.
• Child under 5 years old are free of charge.

Hotel Surrounding

Deluxe Fan Bungalow
Room Facilities :
TV, Refrigerator, Satellite TV, Minibar, Hot and Cold  Water, In House Telephone.

Superior A /C Bungalow
Room Facilities :
TV, Refrigerator, Satellite TV,  Electric pot, Coffee set, Hair dryer, Minibar, Hot and Cold Water, In House Telephone.

Deluxe A/C Bungalow
Room Facilities :
TV, Refrigerator, Satellite TV, Electric pot, Coffee set, Hair dryer, Minibar, Hot and Cold Water, In House Telephone.

Sweet Cottages
Room Facilities :
Air Condition, Satellite TV, Personal In house safe, In house Telephone , Jacuzzi , Hot & cold shower,  Bathrobes , Refrigerator with filled mini bar, Electric Jar pot, Coffee and tea set, Hair dryer, Slippers, Fruits  Basket, Honeymon decor upon arrival.

Facilities

• Tourist information center
• Airport transfer
• Laundry service
• Currency money exchange
• Thai Massage
• Conference room
• Minimart
• Restuarant
• Internet Service

Booking:

Working Hotel Partner, Railay Village Resort : The resort is entirely surrounded by limestone cliffs and only accessible by boat. We offer you a choice of bungalows, Thai and Western food restaurant and friendly service. Also available are inexpensive boat trips to many offshore islands including the amazing Pee-Pee Islands. Swimming snorkelling exploring caves and mountains and more in a setting which must be seen to be believed.

Our Latest &  Reflective Selling  Rate

Remark

• The above rate are inclusive of Tax, Service charge and ABF for 2 person.
• Child is 4-11 years old.

Compulsory Gala Dinner

• New Year’s Eve ( 31 Dec 09 ) 3,000 Thai Baht / Adult, 1,800 Thai Baht / child.

Room
25 Spa villas ( Outdoor Jacuzzi ),6 Units of The 2 low – rise pool villas has 24 guestrooms. Each pool villa has 4 guestrooms and each floor has 2 connecting room.
*** The private verandah or a small sala offer a spectacular view of the sea and a beautifully landscaped garden and pond.
*** The private balcony overlooking a beautifully landscaped garden and swimming pool.

Spa Villas ( 50 sq. metres / bedroom & a small sala 5 sq. metres.)

Spa villas king-size bed, Comfortably furnished,  Hot & cold shower, Air-condition,  IDD telephone,  Slipper,  Hair dryer, Day bed / sofa available as extra bed, Outdoor jacuzzi, Mini-bar, Satellite TV., Bathrobes, In-room safe

Pool Villa ( 44 sq. metres / bedroom & the balcony 8 sq. metres.)

Pool villas king-size bed or twin beds, Comfortably furnished, Hot & cold shower, Air-condition, IDD telephone, Slipper, Day bed / sofa available as extra bed, Hair dryer, Bathtub, Mini-bar, Satellite T V, Bathrobes, In-room safe

Facilities
* Restuarant : Dine in style at our beachfront restaurant to the sound of the surf and golden sunset enjoy a variety of barbequed fresh seafood and a full menu of western and traditional Thai food.
* Activities: If you don’t just want to sit back and relax then activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, rock climbing and jungle. Visit the lake in the mountains and the beautiful diamond cave. Away from the beach our tour office can arrange boat trips to offshore island, elephant rides, cycle trips into the countryside and much, much more
* swimming pool :2 swimming pool (160 sqm., 300 sqm.)
* Room services
* Internet service
* Tour desk
* Traditional massage
* Transfer services
* Coffee & tea maker
* Fruits basket
* Welcome drink

Booking :

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