Area Description: Ao Nang is an excellent base for diving and snorkeling in Krabi, providing more than 30 dive sites and numerous snorkeling locations throughout the many small islands off the main coastline. The emerald Andaman Sea is teeming with marine life. Whale sharks, dolphins and turtles are regularly spotted. There are a number of reputable diving schools in Ao Nang that cater to both new and experienced divers. PADI certified courses, diving and snorkelling excursions are run in a number of European and Asian languages. Kayaking & Rafting Kayaking and rafting are simple yet pleasurable ways of exploring Krabi's islands, sea caves and mangrove forests. You will be able to view birdlife such as hornbills and kingfishers, and marine life such as crabs and monitor lizards. Unaccompanied and guided tours are available for kayakers of all abilities. The guided tours focus on the areas of: Ao Thalane (mangrove and ca ... [Read More]

Area Description: Ao Nang is an excellent base for diving and snorkeling in Krabi, providing more than 30 dive sites and numerous snorkeling locations throughout the many small islands off the main coastline. The emerald Andaman Sea is teeming with marine life. Whale sharks, dolphins and turtles are regularly spotted. There are a number of reputable diving schools in Ao Nang that cater to both new and experienced divers. PADI certified courses, diving and snorkelling excursions are run in a number of European and Asian languages. Kayaking & Rafting Kayaking and rafting are simple yet pleasurable ways of exploring Krabi's islands, sea caves and mangrove forests. You will be able to view birdlife such as hornbills and kingfishers, and marine life such as crabs and monitor lizards. Unaccompanied and guided tours are available for kayakers of all abilities. The guided tours focus on the areas of: Ao Thalane (mangrove and canyons) Bor Thor (limestone caves) and Ko Hong (island with secret lagoon) Exploring Krabi's Islands We can book a reputable longtail boat driver who can take you on a day trip so you can snorkel, swim and explore the many islands that dot the Krabi coastline. Pack the villa cooler box with a picnic, get into our minivan and we'll transport you to the beach to introduce you to your driver before setting off. Restaurants There is a wide range of food available in the local area to suit all palates. On the main beach road in Ao Nang, restaurants serving Italian, Swiss, Indian and other foreign cuisine are available. Many of the restaurants serving Thai food have westernized their offerings. Traditional Thai cuisine is still available at certain restaurants in the area. If you express your preferences to us, we will be pleased to recommend a restaurant for you. Markets There are a number of colourful markets in Ao Nang and surrounding areas that sell a wide range of fresh produce for you to eat and cook in the villa kitchen. If you have difficulty in translating your needs to the market sellers, just give us a call from the villa mobile phone and we will be happy to translate for you. Thai Cookery School We can highly recommend an excellent Thai cookery school that is located very close to the villa. Many of our guests have attended these classes and they have reviewed it favourably. Climbing Climbing is a very popular sport in Krabi that attracts many amateurs and professionals alike. There are a number of climbing schools in Krabi that offer a range of programs at nearby Tonsai & Railay. Railay, a 10 minute longtail boat ride away from Ao Nang, is one of the most popular climbing areas in Krabi. The stunning limestone cliffs have over 600 bolted routes to suit climbers of all abilities. Big Game Fishing Those interested in fishing can choose to hire a longtail boat and head out with an experienced guide or go in a larger group on a bigger boat. We can arrange both daytime and nighttime fishing trips. Bring your catch home and let our chef prepare a delicious seafood meal or take your catch to one of the beachfront seafood restaurants and they will be happy to cook your fish for you. Temple Visits The Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Seua is located in a forest. Visitors can explore the nature trail, tiger cave and even scale the 1237 steps to the hilltop shrine for a stunning view. Visiting local villages, markets and handicraft centres To get the true flavour of Krabi life, you can visit a local village and observe the local communities in their everyday avtivities. These may include boat building, rubber tapping and fishing. Local markets are colourful, noisy and an excellent way of meeting the ordinary Thai person. Many guests like to unwind on holiday by experiencing blissful spa treatments. Baan Oriental can book qualified therapists to provide guests with massage and beauty treatments in the villa itself. These treatments include manicures, pedicures, traditional Thai massage, and aromatherapy and face massage. In addition, we can provide you with complimentary transfers to the nearby Tropical Spa. This beautiful spa is set in a spectacular garden and provides clients with a wide range of spa treatments. There are a number of National Parks in the Krabi area, within a relatively short drive from the villa. Khao Phanom Bencha is a beautiful park with a number of waterfalls. There are clear walking trails and hence it is a popular trekking destination. Khao Nor Chu Chi is also a stunning park with an infamous clear pool.