Koh Yao Noi

A quiet, rural island in Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi, with rice fields, rubber plantations, Muslim fishing villages and views of the limestone karsts rising out of the bay. Life is slow, with no big hotels, just small bungalows and some upmarket resorts; there's little to do but relax, which is the point.

Hire a scooter or bicycle to explore, join a cooking class or homestay, or take a long-tail boat or kayak to the karst islands and lagoons of Phang Nga Bay, such as Koh Hong. Respect local customs by dressing modestly away from the beach.

Boats run several times a day from Bang Rong pier on Phuket (about 30 minutes) and from Krabi.