Premium Trip From Phuket Phi Phi Maya Bay & Khai Islands: An Honest Review

Dreaming of postcard-perfect beaches, that vivid turquoise water, and, like, those dramatic limestone cliffs that define Thailand’s island paradise? Well, a premium trip from Phuket to Phi Phi, Maya Bay, and the Khai Islands might just, sort of, be what you are looking for. But is it all that it is cracked up to be? You know, I mean, does it live up to the hype, or is it just, in a way, a tourist trap masked with fancy marketing? I had to, you know, see it for myself, so, I’m here to, like, spill the tea and give you my honest review.

What’s Included in This Premium Tour, Basically?

Alright, so the “premium” label tends to suggest a step up from, you know, the standard tours, and that is reflected in the price, and also, the amenities. That said, you will usually find that it includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, which is, definitely, a plus because who wants to deal with taxis after a day in the sun, anyway? There’s also, sort of, the speedboat transportation, that, really, gets you to the islands quicker, allowing more time to enjoy them; a lunch buffet (more on that later), drinks and snacks all day, snorkeling equipment, and a, like, knowledgeable guide.

You will want to, maybe, check the specifics because tour operators vary, but that’s, pretty much, the standard deal. Premium tours often limit the number of passengers on the speedboat, which means a less-crowded, so, way more comfortable experience; something that’s incredibly welcome when you have been out in the sun all day. Is it worth paying more? I feel that is the main question and a decision we’ll get to.

First Stop: Phi Phi Islands – Picture Perfect or Overcrowded, Perhaps?

Okay, Phi Phi is really beautiful; it is everything you imagine, seriously. That said, reality hits you when you realize that you are not the only person that has seen that particular brochure. The boat pulls up, and you are greeted with hordes of tourists. Depending on the tour, the premium part can potentially give you a chance to, just a little, beat the crowds because it can start earlier or go to, like, quieter spots. Although, truthfully, even with fewer people, it can feel a bit busy, you know? Don’t expect a deserted island, although; expect that the, like, collective desire to have that picture-perfect moment does, sort of, take a bit away from the tranquility.

One highlight, I would say, for me was Monkey Beach; that is exactly what it says on the tin; the monkeys, while cheeky, are really entertaining. As well as, remember to keep your belongings safe, because they are little pros at snatching snacks or sunglasses. As I was saying, it’s very touristy, very photogenic, so, just be prepared to share that experience with a lot of people, in that case.

Maya Bay: The Beach – Worth the Hype?

Alright, so Maya Bay; the place Leonardo DiCaprio helped make, that, literally, iconic. It had been closed for quite a long period in an effort to rehabilitate the ecosystem, which is so great. And, so, now it’s reopened, but with restrictions that control the number of tourists and forbid swimming in particular spots. When you get there, you can now see that there’s definitely been an effort made, like, on conservation; so the sand feels softer, the water appears to be even clearer; it really does seem to be recovering.

Can you swim there? No, it is more about just, sort of, wading in the shallows, snapping some pics, and then appreciating the landscape. Did I like it? You bet. However, again, it can be crowded; in fact, arguably very, very crowded, so manage your expectations, maybe. What do I mean? Don’t imagine having that exclusive moment on a desert island, as such. Though you may get some really great photographs and remember that you visited a world-renowned spot, perhaps.

Khai Islands: Snorkeling and Relaxation – Time to Unwind, Maybe?

Okay, after the craziness of Phi Phi and Maya Bay, the Khai Islands do tend to offer a welcome change of pace, it seems. They’re very, very small, you know; and that means it’s not long at all until you are up to your ankles in powder-soft sand. The main draw here has to be the snorkeling. That shallow, clear water is, very, just literally teaming with colorful fish, so this is the spot to use the snorkeling gear provided.

How busy are these islands? Expect lots of other snorkelers. Khai Island, also, has some bars and stalls; the kind that offer drinks, ice creams, and, you know, souvenirs. It feels much more laid-back, sort of, after the intensity of Maya Bay. That’s nice if you like to kick back and then have a, sort of, paddle in calm waters.

The Food Situation: Premium or Just Standard Tourist Grub, Really?

Let’s discuss that lunch buffet because it’s usually part of that “premium” experience. It’s served on one of the islands, often Phi Phi Don. What is it? It is normally Thai dishes, such as, just, fried rice, noodles, and a, literally, variety of curries. Is it gourmet dining? No, very, very far from it. Is it edible and, so, does it fill you up after a morning of swimming? Absolutely; to be honest. It tends to cater to all tastes, as well; so there’s normally something for everyone.

If you have any dietary requirements; it is sensible to inform the tour operator beforehand. If you are anticipating Michelin-star cuisine, this, just, really isn’t it; although it’s decent enough, perhaps. In this case, I recommend lowering your expectations and also think of it as a convenient way to, just, refuel. And also remember to sample what’s on offer when you’re at Khai Island. It has very tasty, that, refreshments for a very, very small cost, in the meantime!

The Guide and Crew: Make or Break, Maybe?

Actually, the quality of the tour guide can completely transform your experience. I feel if you have got a really fantastic guide; you get more than just that simple sightseeing trip; and that turns into something educational, memorable, or even humorous. We had, just, really such a fantastic guide that spoke perfect English, very helpful and passionate, and provided insightful comments regarding the islands, and that really increased, sort of, my enjoyment; basically.

Conversely, there might be crew members on the speedboat who are friendly and ready with water and those cold towels. You would definitely notice the difference that they made, when you are baking in the sun, and I’d really hope that the experience on the “premium” tour is what you get, rather. Their attention to detail and willingness to help often made all the difference.

Is That Premium Price Tag Worth It, Basically?

Okay, this is definitely the big question. This decision to go for a “premium” tour has to come down to a personal cost, as such, benefit. Here is, just, how I viewed things:

• Crowd Aversion: Are you prepared to, actually, spend more to ensure there is, in a way, a smaller group? When the answer to that question is yes; then this premium option could be worth the cash.
• Convenience: So, that hotel pickup and drop-off, the endless drinks and snacks; these are worth a considerable amount. If you prefer the ease, then definitely think of going for premium; it, very, can relieve that stress.
• Quality of Experience: What level do you like? Consider that “premium” label; it ensures that there are improved services and gear; and that can increase the experience exponentially.

If those, almost, sound appealing, then that premium trip could justify spending more on it. Although if you are on a tight budget, then there’s that, like, standard tour that will take you to those places, too, anyway. I’d actually like to state that sometimes, you can sacrifice that comfort.

Top Tips for That Phi Phi, Maya Bay, and Khai Islands Trip

• Book ahead: The premium tours definitely tend to be popular, just because of limited availability, and they normally sell out very quickly.
• What to bring: It’s usually the usual suspects – swimwear, that sunscreen, those sunglasses, hats and a camera. It might, could be, a very great idea to bring a towel in case those provided by the tour aren’t all that fantastic.
• Respect: Consider that you’re visiting natural locations, very much so, be careful about your trash, respect that local culture, and, sort of, follow the guidelines in place particularly around Maya Bay.
• Be Prepared: The sun may be intense, especially, take precautions to, literally, avoid sunburn. As well as, stay properly hydrated, particularly if you are enjoying all those free drinks provided.