🌴 Phi Phi Islands

The next set of adventures took us to the lively islands of Phi Phi. There are six islands, and they’re packed with a variety of wonderful and spectacular things to see. From snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters to dancing the night away on their beaches, there are plenty of things to do and see here, especially with it being such a tourist hub.

🔥 First Night — Fire Show

Our first night was going to see a live fire show!

Now this was pretty cool — seeing how skilled the entertainers were, and the crowd even got to join in! A few of us were picked to take part in the fire show by sitting in deck chairs while they twirled flames near us and lit up sticks placed in our mouths. It was terrifying but exciting to watch, let alone take part in!

For me it was a nice way to break up the evening from purely drinking/partying. So far the tour had done a good job of providing different activities and sources of entertainment. After some more drinks and good company, we spent the rest of the night partying it up. It was an eventful night to say the least, but one I thoroughly enjoyed!

Note: Unless you enjoy drinking a lot, it’s a good idea to balance your consumption with getting enough food and sleep — helps with all the activities you’re doing.

🚤 Boat Day & Maya Bay

We spent the next day out on a boat, snorkelling, enjoying the weather and heading to the famous Maya Bay. Personally, I love the ocean and snorkelling is one of my favourite activities to do whilst abroad (or anything in the water really!). This wondrous beach has dramatic natural scenery with white-sand shores, clear turquoise water and towering limestone cliffs surrounding it. It truly is a majestic place to see. The famous movie with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed there in 2000, which led to its rise in popularity.

Some tips and tricks!

💰 Maya Bay Fees

• 400 Baht entrance fee
  (Just something to be aware of — it’s become a major tourist hotspot.)

Watch out: Long-Tailed Macaques

Proceed with caution — they will run at you if they feel like it!

Would I go back? Probably not, mainly due to the crowds. If you get FOMO and want to tick it off the list — yes.

The boat trip led into the night, with more drinks at our disposal and a night swim with the bioluminescent plankton! I strongly recommend seeing this. The plankton are microscopic organisms that light up when moved or disturbed — like swimming through tiny stars.

⭐ Best Conditions to See Them

• Moonless night
• As dark as possible
• Dependent on plankton density

Stay open-minded — not always guaranteed.

The boat ride was incredible and watching the sunset (along with stargazing much later on) is something I will always appreciate. Just looking up at the nights sky with music and good energy is right up my alley!

🌅 Sunrise hike

After a long day, we headed to bed for our VERY early morning hike. The final proper morning was our hike up the hillside for sunrise. I wasn’t exactly feeling my best, but it was worth it. Seeing the island for the first time in daylight puts into perspective how beautiful our planet is. These moments break up all the partying and nightlife.

We spent the rest of the day shopping and relaxing at the beach before moving to our next destination.

My Thoughts on Phi Phi

Phi Phi is extremely popular with tourists. If you’re into nightlife and meeting new people, definitely go. It’s easy to island hop and there are tons of activities. Social butterflies and party animals will love it.

Honestly, I don’t think I’d return anytime soon. It’s overcrowded, pricey, loud, and the vendors can be pushy. It’s a backpacker’s heaven and a family’s worst nightmare. If you’re in the area, give it a go — but if you prefer a quieter vibe, avoid at all costs.

We also stopped in Phuket, but I was too ill from Phi Phi to explore properly. I’ve heard mixed reviews and want to see it for myself another time.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai – where to begin?

Based in northern Thailand at the base of the Doi Suthep–Pui mountains, this is my favourite place in the whole country. With thick jungles and over 300 temples, it feels the most authentic and cultural — from the landmarks to the food.

Our first official activity was the Bua Tong Waterfalls. This activity is free, though transport is needed.

🕒 Opening Hours

• 8:00am – 5:00pm
• BUT, the best time to visit: 8–9am or after 3pm to avoid crowds and excessive heat!

Barefoot climbing actually works best — flip-flops will betray you. The rock is firm and grippy, though some areas need caution. Keep your wits about you and you’ll have a great time. It’s a brilliant outdoor activity.

Embrace in the nature and explore to your hearts content!

After our morning of waterfall hiking we explored more of the local area and headed to the classic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

⛩️ Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Chiang Mai’s most famous temple, known for its Golden Chedi that lights the place up.(Figuratively speaking)…

🚗 Distance – 30–40 minutes from Old City

💰 Prices – 30–50 Baht entrance fee

🕒 Opening Times

• 6:00am – 6:00pm

There’s a mountain tram, stalls, statues, and landmarks to admire. Next to the temple is a lookout with panoramic views over Chiang Mai — mountains, city, everything. You can admire the view and ring the temple bells

🌿 The Last Two Days — Jungle Stay

For the final two days, we stayed inside the jungle. I’d done a big hike before (Machu Picchu), and this was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. A backpack, good company, and great views — bliss. We had a campfire, cabins, and peaceful vibes. You really feel disconnected from society.

TIP: Bring proper attire and plenty of water. I tripped badly because of terrible shoe choice… and I’ve got the scar to prove it.

On the second-to-last day, we visited another temple and spent the evening playing cards and reminiscing.

🐘 Final Day — Elephant Sanctuary

This was the moment we’d all been waiting for.

We spent the afternoon in an ethical elephant sanctuary — no riding, no washing. They rescue elephants from cruelty and entertainment industries, giving them a peaceful life. Watching them wander, feeding them, and getting to pet them was unforgettable.

🚫 What to Avoid

No washing — too frequent washing damages their skin.

No riding — cruel, unsafe for elephants.

Simply walking beside them and letting them do their own thing was rewarding enough. Ending the tour here was the cherry on top.

Thoughts on Chiang Mai

Honestly, this ended up being my favourite place of the entire trip. The thick jungle, the calm of the surroundings, and all the outdoor activities hit exactly what I was craving. After all the heavy partying we’d smashed through earlier, winding down somewhere peaceful was beyond needed. I loved how Chiang Mai blended nature with culture — the temples, the mountain air, the slower pace — it all just worked for me. I felt plugged back into nature, fully grounded, and completely in my element again.

🇹🇭 Final Thoughts on Thailand

Thailand is huge and full of culture, vibes, food, friendly people and endless things to see — cities, beaches, jungles, everything.

🧭 North vs South

🌳 North

• Cultural, authentic
• Dense jungles
• Lots of temples and history
• Less touristy
• Similar prices
• Feels more grounded

🌊 South

• Stunning beaches
• Watersports, temples, shopping
• Island hopping
• More touristy
• Phi Phi and Phuket = pricier + party-heavy
• Food is divine though

I recommend seeing both, but if I returned, it would be to explore more of the north. I’d also strongly recommend Khao Sok for a peaceful vibe.

Some of my key takeaways from this trip were definitely the simpler things in life. The views, hiking and the nature. Thailand has more natural beauty than anything I have ever seen! True nature lovers will appreciate the different landscapes and environments. outside of the socialising and partying, I will always value the natural side of this majestic country.

With that, I packed my bags, said my goodbyes, and made my way back to the UK.

NOTE!: If you are interested in more of my adventures, I have started a YouTube channel named: Intrepid Trails & Tales . Here I Vlog my 2025 and onward adventures! (in video form).

So as always, Thank you for reading my post—I hope you enjoyed.

Until my next blog of intrepid tales on my trails…!