Thailand... Are we nuts?! Nah: The airport trouble is over, and while politicians keep bickering in Bangkok, the rest of the country is ripe for exploration. Claire Duffett just spent two weeks in southwest Thailand sailing the Andaman Sea from Krabi to Phuket.
Koh Lanta offers the beauty of the Andaman Sea with fewer crowds because the large size of this island helps it absorb everyone. Head south through the national park and prepare to stabilize your breathing: The beaches down there are magnificent, as is the scenery along the winding, pothole-covered roads.
Here's the catch: None of this is within walking distance of the nearest towns, and even the resorts down in the more rustic areas of the island require motorized transport. The solution? Hire a moto driver, or, if you’re brave enough, rent one and navigate the island yourself.]]>