Krabi Province: A Tropical Paradise in Thailand

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [la-kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีต้อนรับ
  [prode/yin dee ton rap]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop khun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kor toht]
• How are you?สบายดีไหม
  [sabai dee mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดีค่ะ คุณล่ะ
  [sabai dee ka kun la]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [kun poot paa saa ang-krit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai kao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อย
  [kor doo menu noi]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin neu]
• Cheers!ชนเหยาะ!
  [chon yao]
• I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อย
  [kor jai ngoen noi]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย!
  [chuai duay]
• Go away!ไปข้างหลัง!
  [pai khang lang]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ!
  [tor tam-ruat]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ!
  [tor mo]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันอยากซื้อ...
  [chan yak sue...]
• I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดู
  [chan kae doo]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [ra-ka thao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng gein pai]
• Can you lower the price?คุณลดราคาได้ไหม
  [kun lot ra-ka dai mai]

• What time is it?ตอนนี้กี่โมง
  [ton nee kee mong]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมงเช้า
  [pen mong chao]
• Half past (10)สามสิบครึ่ง
  [sam sip khreung]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua wan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [sam]
• 4สี่
  [see]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
• 8แปด
  [baet]
• 9เก้า
  [gao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [... yu tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่คืออะไร
  [tee yu keu a rai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ช่วยชี้ให้หน่อยได้ไหม
  [chuai chee hai noi dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?รถคันถัดไปเมื่อไหร่
  [rot kan tud pai meua rai]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว (ไป...)
  [tua (pai...)]

Krabi Province's history can be traced back to prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence, such as stone tools and skeletal remains, indicates that humans have inhabited the area for over 30,000 years. The ancient inhabitants were likely hunter-gatherers who relied on the rich natural resources of the region for survival.

During the 8th to 13th centuries, Krabi was part of the Kingdom of Ligor, which is known today as Nakhon Si Thammarat. This kingdom was an important political and cultural center in the region, and Krabi benefited from its strategic location along maritime trade routes. The influence of Indian culture, religion, and art was significant during this period, as evidenced by the remains of ancient Hindu-Buddhist temples.

In the 13th century, the Thai people began to establish their own states in the region, leading to the gradual decline of the Kingdom of Ligor. Krabi came under the influence of the Sukhothai and later the Ayutthaya Kingdoms. These new Thai states brought with them new cultural and religious influences, further enriching the local culture.

Krabi's coastline and natural harbors made it a crucial hub for maritime trade between the Malay Peninsula and the Andaman Sea. By the 18th century, the town of Krabi had developed as a significant trading port. Merchants from China, India, and Europe frequented the area, bringing with them goods, ideas, and cultural practices that would blend with local traditions.

During the 19th century, Krabi, like much of Thailand, felt the pressures of European colonial expansion in Southeast Asia. The region managed to remain independent through skillful diplomacy. In 1872, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) officially established Krabi as a province, as part of his administrative reforms to modernize the country and centralize power.

During World War II, Krabi Province was occupied by Japanese forces. The area was strategically important due to its coastal location and served as a base for Japanese naval operations. The local population endured hardships during this period, but the end of the war brought liberation and a return to normalcy.

Following World War II, Krabi saw significant development and modernization. The construction of infrastructure such as roads, schools, and hospitals improved the quality of life for residents. The discovery of natural gas in the Andaman Sea in the late 20th century spurred economic growth, and the province began to develop its tourism industry, capitalizing on its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Krabi is home to a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional Thai music, dance, and cuisine. The province is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival, which celebrates the opening of the Andaman Sea tourism season with parades, cultural performances, and boat races. Additionally, the Loi Krathong festival, where residents float decorated baskets on water to pay respect to the goddess of water, is a significant cultural event in the province.

Krabi Province is well-connected and accessible by air, road, and sea. The primary gateway is Krabi International Airport (KBV), which has direct flights from major cities in Thailand and international destinations. From Bangkok, you can take a domestic flight to Krabi, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can travel by bus from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal, a journey that typically takes around 10-12 hours. Ferries are also available from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta during the high season.

Krabi Province offers various transportation options for getting around. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) and local buses operate within Krabi Town and to nearby beaches. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are widely available for shorter distances. Renting a motorbike or car is a popular choice for exploring the area at your own pace. Long-tail boats are essential for reaching islands and remote beaches. Always negotiate and agree on a fare before starting your journey.

The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are widely available throughout Krabi Province, including at the airport and in major tourist areas. Currency exchange services are also available at the airport, in banks, and at exchange booths in popular tourist spots.

Krabi Province is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Be cautious of scams, especially involving taxi fares and tours. Ao Nang and Railay Beach are popular tourist areas and generally safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings. Be mindful of water safety, especially during monsoon season when currents can be strong.

In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance, 199 for fire emergencies, and 1669 for medical emergencies. Krabi Hospital is the main medical facility in the province, and several clinics are available in tourist areas like Ao Nang. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate, but carry a sarong or scarf to cover up when visiting temples. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places. Religion: Do remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. Show respect by being quiet and not touching religious artifacts. Public Transport: Do negotiate and agree on a fare before boarding a tuk-tuk or taxi. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet others with a 'wai,' a slight bow with palms pressed together. Avoid touching someone's head or pointing your feet at people or religious objects. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Thai dishes and street food. Always use your right hand when eating or passing items. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Krabi Province like a local, visit the morning markets in Krabi Town for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with locals and learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your interactions. Take part in eco-tours and community-based tourism activities to support local initiatives. Explore less-visited beaches like Klong Muang for a more tranquil experience. Don't miss the night markets for unique souvenirs and delicious street food.