Long before “The Beach” was filmed on Phi Phi islands, many tourists who have discovered the beauty of Krabi have jealously guarded the province and its attractions as their own secret paradise. But, the word is out. The throng of holidaymakers is arriving.

Krabi has always been Thailand’s best kept secret. Certainly one of the kingdom’s most stunning landscapes are set here, from majestic limestone cliffs and lush forest covers to dramatic rock formations and pristine island beaches.

With such glorious natural beauty, utter tranquillity and Xanadu-like settings, Krabi can cast a kind of magical spell to visitors, especially those who are ready to forget the pleasures of Phuket or Samui.

But Krabi is not just an alternative to the two top destinations. It is by itself an entirely different beach resort from the other two, often considered more beautiful, and more diverse. Thai tourism has another winner in Krabi.