Nusa Penida Snorkeling

Nusa Penida Snorkeling

Swimming with manta rays in Bali’s most spectacular marine sanctuary was high on our list for a recent adventure and a day trip to Nusa Penida snorkeling really delivered.

Long before arriving in Bali, we’d admired photographs of giant manta rays gliding effortlessly through crystal-clear water and sea turtles grazing over vibrant coral reefs.… Read the rest

Phuket Travel Guide: Best Beaches, Things to Do & Day Trips

Best Beaches, Things to Do & Day Trips

Phuket is an island of contrasts, where beautiful beaches, turquoise waters and tropical landscapes sit alongside vibrant resorts, historic neighbourhoods and a rich cultural heritage. From the energy of Patong to the quieter shores of Nai Thon and Nai Harn, Phuket offers a remarkable variety of experiences, while the colourful Sino-Portuguese streets of Old Phuket Town reveal a very different side of the island.… Read the rest

Phuket’s Beaches: 7 of the Best

A perfect arc of pristine sand and crystal water

Finding your perfect stretch of sand among Phuket’s beaches may be harder than you think.

Thailand’s largest island is blessed with an extraordinary coastline. Along its shores, jungle-clad headlands tumble into the Andaman Sea, framing everything from hidden coves and undeveloped bays to bustling beach towns lined with restaurants, massage huts and colourful longtail boats.… Read the rest

Nai Thon Beach, Phuket: A Quiet Alternative to Phuket’s Crowded Beaches

Nai Thon Beach

Some places are memorable because of what you do there. Others stay with you because of how they make you feel. Nai Thon Beach on the island’s northwest coast, is firmly in the latter category.

Nai Thon Beach remains one of Phuket’s most underrated coastal gems, a place where natural beauty takes precedence over development.… Read the rest

Kamala Beach: Finding Our Rhythm in Phuket

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach never really asked to be the highlight of our time in Phuket. That became part of its appeal.

We spend two weeks based here. First, we settle into a backstreet villa at Nathon House, located along the suburban Hua Khuan Nuea Road.… Read the rest

Racha Yai Diving

Racha Yai Diving (photo credit Roberta Martinotta)

Today starts with a crackle of anticipation as the alarm sounds in the early morning. We’re all excited about our our family scuba diving tour to Racha Noi and Racha Yai Islands. We have been promised coral gardens, curious marine life and just enough unpredictability to keep things interesting.… Read the rest

Tri Trang Beach: A Quieter Side of Phuket

Tri Trang Beach

Just a few minutes south of Patong Beach, one of Thailand’s most famous strips, Tri Trang Beach feels like a different world altogether.

While Patong, Phuket’s most famous beach, buzzes with jet skis, beach clubs and a constant stream of visitors, Tri Trang occupies a quieter corner of the coastline.… Read the rest

Nai Harn Beach: A Refined Local Favourite

Nai Harn Beach

At Phuket’s southernmost reaches, Nai Harn Beach occupies a sweet spot that many of the island’s better-known beaches have long since lost. Beautiful without being flashy, developed without feeling overbuilt. It has become a favourite among locals, expats and repeat visitors who know exactly what they’re looking for.… Read the rest

Rang Yai Island

Rang Yai Island

There’s something quietly seductive about islands you can see but haven’t yet reached. From Phuket’s east coast, Rang Yai Island sits just offshore, it’s close enough to feel accessible, distant enough to promise escape. At 110 acres, this privately owned island has built a reputation as a tranquil paradise, known for its white sand beaches, calm waters and a long association with pearl farming.… Read the rest

Phi Phi Islands Family Adventure

Phi Phi Islands Family Adventure

There are early mornings, and then there are the kind that begin under a velvet sky, the world still hushed, as the promise of something extraordinary pulls you gently from sleep. Phi Phi Islands calls us for a family adventure.… Read the rest