New Thai Tourist Visa that Allows You to Stay in Thailand for 6 to 9 Months
The ThaiMultiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) allows foreign tourists to stay in Thailand for 6 months. But you can stretch your time in Thailand up to 9 months if properly used. I’ll explain more about that later. It is a new category of visas introduced in November 2015.
First I’ll explain why I got the METV instead of the usual double entry Thai tourist visa. Because both allow visitors to stay in Thailand up to 6 months. And you will learn what the differences are between Thai Tourist Visa and the Multiple Entry Tourist Visa.
How I Used to Stayed in Thailand for 6 Months Using the Double Entry Tourist Visa
Since I am a US citizen and NYC resident I always apply in person for a tourist visa at the NYC Thai Consulate General located on 52nd Street 3rd Avenue.
For many years I have been entering Thailand using a double entry tourist visa which allowed me to stay in the country up to 6 months maximum.
Each entry I got 60 days. When those 60 days are over you are allowed to extend your stay for 30 days. Since I got double entry I can extend two times for a total of 60 days.
After 90 days I had to exit the country and do a border run by land or air. I usually go by air. I am too old to be cooped up in a speeding van on a visa border run driven by a guy with nothing to lose. And when I return to Thailand for the second entry I get a fresh 60 days and a “Used” stamp on my old visa.
Here’s a breakdown of the old double entry Thai Tourist Visa
Each entry fee cost $40USD so for me I paid $80USD for 2 entries. The cost of 30 days extension is 1900THB and you can apply for one at Bangkok’s Immigration Office located in Changwaettana, Bangkok.
As of November 2015, double and triple entry Thai tourists visas are discontinued.
That’s how I stayed in Thailand for 6 months before.
Today, the Thai Multiple Entry Tourist Visa has essentially eliminated and phased out the double and triple entry tourists visas. Which means from now on, if you want to stay in Thailand for 6 to 9 months you’ll need to get the new METV.
That said, single entry Thai tourist visas are still available for $40USD fee at the NYC Thai Consulate General.
You can find this document on NYC Thai consulate general’s website.
Applying For Thai Multiple Entry Visas at the NYC Thai Consulate General
One of the benefits of living in NYC besides the awesome Pizza and Gray’s Papaya hot dogs is that I have the convenience of applying for whichever country (except for North Korea, not that I want to go there) I need tourists Visas easily.
For Thailand I simply make my way to the New York Thai Consulate General, drop of my Visa application and supporting documents in the morning and pick up the next day afternoon time:
NYC Thai Consulate Visa Service Hours:
Monday to Friday (closed on weekends)
Submission: 9am to 12pm
Pick Up: 1:30pm to 4pm (next day)
Bear in mind the NYC Thai Consulate office is closed on both major US and Thai holidays so check their calendar on http://www.thaicgny.com/ to make sure they are open the days you plan to go submit your application as well as passport pick up.
It is very important to mention that the METV can not be obtained by doing border runs. METV are only issued from the home country of the applicant.
This is just one way the Thai government is cracking the whip against foreigners who have been abusing back to back tourist visas in order to work in the country longer illegally by doing the border run shuffle.
As a reminder, even METV holders are prohibited from working in Thailand.
What You’ll Need to Apply for METV Including Required Documentations in NYC
Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. permanent resident.
A passport or travel document valid for at least 6 months.
A filled out visa application form. Be sure to fill out the section asking where you will be staying. Here is the link to download a Thai visa application.
2 passport sized photos, 2 inches x 2 inches.
For non-US citizens you must provide one copy of U.S. permanent resident alien card or a copy of valid US visa with employment verification. If you have a US student visa you should provide a letter proving full-time student status.
One copy recent bank statement showing you have adequate funds a minimum of $7000USD. Could be checking account or savings account.
An employment verification letter.
One copy each of airplane ticket and hotel reservation.
$200USD visa fee either cash or US money order. This fee is non-refundable even if your visa application is denied.
In the past few years, Thailand has been tightening up on immigration policy. While in Thailand almost once every month or so I would read about down and out foreigners living on the streets of Bangkok or inside a teepee in some secluded beach. And those are the ones spotted on the news.
As a result changes were made in Thai consulates and embassies around the world to carefully vet potential foreign visitors before they set foot in Thailand.
Inside Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thai Consulate visa office full of disgruntled foreign tourists…
I started noticing this a few years ago when I went to the Thai consulate office in Kuala Lumpur for the very first time to apply for a Thai tourist visa.
I could see and hear a lot of pissed off foreign tourists when they were told to supply more documents such as a bank statement copy, hotel reservation or a ticket out of Thailand. I’m guessing a lot of people got caught off guard. But then again the Thai Consulate in Kuala Lumpur has always had a reputation for denying visa applications for insufficient documentation.
But for me all I supplied was my entry/exit airfare ticket out of Thailand. I think every visa officer has different ways of sizing up an applicant. Because they do have the authority to ask for whatever proof reasonable as clearly written inside the consulate office (I wish I took a picture of the sign).
Getting Tourist Visas Today Has Changed Even in NYC Thai Consulate Office
For years I have been getting a double entry tourist visa in NYC. I usually just bring my application, passport photos and my flight itinerary. That was it.
However just recently, while handing in my application for the multiple entry tourist visa I was politely asked to provide a bank statement. It was not a problem at all but at the moment I did not have a copy.
I pretty much opted in for electronic statements on all my financial accounts so my banks don’t have to send paper statements anymore. Just doing my part on saving trees.
The friendly visa officer asked me which bank I use and I told him. He pointed out the nearest branch where I could request a statement print out. So I went and returned with my statement and handed everything back to him again.
He checked my documents again and was satisfied. I paid my $200USD fee and was handed a receipt. It was simple and painless.
Royal Thai Consulate General New York, 351 East 52nd Street New York, NY 10022
I have to admit I was a little caught off guard too. But he only asked for a bank statement just to make sure I met the minimum required cash amount of $7000USD. Which is one of the requirements when applying for METV.
He could’ve asked me for a letter of employment verification too but didn’t. But I guess when he saw that I filled in the application that I was self employed that was sufficient enough. Or maybe he just saw that I was old and concluded I didn’t have to work anymore.
But it’s more likely because they have seen me before and recognize me. The Thai consulate in NYC is a small office and every year I’ve gone back there I have never had to stand in long lines. And I always got my passport with a newly minted visa back the next business day.
From my experience the visa officers inside the NYC Thai consulate are always super nice and friendly. Whatever questions about the METV I had they took their time to answer. I must’ve been inside speaking with the visa officer for 5 minutes without another visa seeking applicant coming in.
But I”ll be prepared for next time and have all my required documents ready when asked from now on.
If you can not apply in person or reside in the following states listed below you can mail your visa application and include the required documents, passport photos and fees. It will take about 10 days to process including shipping time. For more information take a look at NYC Thai Consulate website on how to apply via mail.
The NYC Thai Consulate General Handles Mail-in-Visa Application Processes for:
New York
New Jersey
Connecticut
Rhode Island
Massachusetts
Maine
Vermont
Pennsylvania
Ohio
New Hampshire
My new Thai multiple entry tourist visa (METV)…
How the METV Works
The one major difference between my new Multiple Entry Tourist Visa and old double entry tourist visa is that I can travel in and out of Thailand within a 6 month period as much as I want. Which was never possible with a traditional double entry visa.
Because I live in NYC and know that the NYC Thai Consulate has a fast reliable visa process turn around, I can go in a few days before my scheduled flight to drop off and then pick up my passport the next business day.
“The METV is unique in that it allows visitors to travel in and out of Thailand as much as they wish within the visas maximum 6 months stay.”
It’s important to know that your visa is active the day it was printed and placed on your passport. So if you apply for your METV 2 weeks before your scheduled flight then you’ve just lost 2 weeks in Thailand.
As you can see on my visa the issue date is May 26, 2016. And note that the enter before date is November 25, 2016 which is the expiration date. That’s six months in total.
Every time I exit Thailand and return I will get a stamp on my passport for another 60 days as long as it is before the expiration date, which in my case is November 25, 2016.
This means that I can plan a small trip to Hong Kong on November 20th and return on November 24 before the expiration date then I can get another 60 days with an option to extend another 30 days more at Bangkok immigration office for 1900THB.
Under the METV if You’re in Thailand 90 Days Consecutively…
Keep in mind that every consecutive90 days stayed in Thailand, METV holders are still required to exit Thailand.Which was the same rule as the now defunct double entry tourist visa.
For example once you’ve stayed in Thailand for 60 days you can go to the nearest immigration office and apply for a 30 day extension. After those 30 days are up this means you’ve been in Thailand for a total of 90 days. Which means you must exit the country to do a visa run.
Upon return to Thailand, as long as it’s before the METV expiration date, you will get a fresh 60 day passport stamp.
Thailand is a wonderful country. I can’t blame anyone for wanting to stay there for as long as possible…
Love it or Hate it the METV is Here to Stay
I’ve been reading around the inter-web about the Thai multiple entry tourist visa. Seems like there are many hates and complaints about the new METV. It could be the stricter documentation requirements.
To me, I don’t really have a problem with it at all. Because Thais have to jump through bigger hurdles and requirements just to get a tourist visa to my home country USA.
Vacationing and living in Thailand is wonderful. It’s a great jump off point for visiting even more countries!
Thailand wants tourists too. It is not in the country’s best interest to discourage foreigners from visiting. Just get the right visa, present the right documents and you’re on your way to an unforgettable time in Thailand.
The Perfect Spot for a Wedding by the Beach. Private, Secluded and Magical…
La A Natu Bed and Bakery is the resort we always visit when when my wife and I need to get out of Bangkok and recharge. This super private resort is located in the middle of nowhere. But in a good way. Because of its secluded environment and privacy, my wife and I even took our wedding photos at La A Natu.
I mean literally it’s hard to find for most. But when you do find it you will be rewarded! La A Natu was definitely one of my favorite quiet beachside resorts to review!
Wouldn’t you like to wake up to sunrise like that every morning!…
As you can see on the map La A Natu is far from many tourist attractions from Hua Hin. So it’s better to have your own set of wheels to get around.
But realistically if you want a resort to spend your honey moon or just a romantic getaway, La A Natu will most certainly impress your significant other.
La A Natu’s Rooms
There are only 10 rooms divided in 3 categories. Me and my wife we always choose their tropical village style villa. And each villa has a unique name. Matter of fact all of their accommodations have a unique name linked with nature.
The villa we always stay at is called Ta-khrai (Lemon-grass- ตะไคร้). And all three villas are facing the beach where you can lazily sit back and watch the sun rise in the morning.
There are 3 tropical village style villas. Ta-khrai (Lemon-grass- ตะไคร้) is right in the middle…
So far I think we’ve been in that same villa at least 5 times. The villa style is so cool and interesting and when you step inside you’ll feel instantly at home.
I normally pay around $150USD $200USD per night during low season. With that price tag we don’t stay too long. But even it’s a few days we were more than enough happy. And we normally book via Agoda.com as usual for the better rates.
La A Natu Bed and Bakery is not a super luxurious resort. However, it does have a 4 star price so they are not cheap. Though their rooms are certainly worth the money and compared to many other properties with expensive price tags a good choice for those looking for privacy and seclusion, but don’t want to pay through the nose for it.
A Beautiful Little Beach Right Outside
I really enjoyed walking out on the beach every morning. Since we usually stay at La A Natu during the weekdays there are very few guests. So I’m pretty much the only one out in the morning while my wife is still enjoying her peaceful sleep.
I can watch the fishing boats slowly coming back through an inlet bringing in fresh catches of squid and fish. Being in Bangkok most of the time with all the concrete, chaos and noise one can truly appreciate the feel of soft sand and the quiet sounds of ocean waves and nothing else. And the air is so clean.
There are no other hotels on the same strip of beach as La A Natu Bed And Bakery except for a few private houses.
The Breakfast…
What’s a morning without a good breakfast at a resort? And I do love to eat! Because La A Natu is such a small property with not too many guests it is understandable they don’t have a massive buffet spread. But what they do have is certainly sufficient and enough to satisfy hearty appetites.
La A Natu Also Serves Up Tasty Lunches And Dinners
This is one resort where you don’t even have to leave the property to get a good meal. However, I would recommend stopping by at a 7 Eleven or even a supermarket to load up on snacks and beers. Other than that, La A Natu’s prices for lunches and dinners are quite reasonable.
Not a Luxurious Resort but they Deserve 4 stars…
Only guests are allowed to roam around the resort property…
If you plan on staying at La A Natu Bed and Bakery one thing you can expect is privacy. Lots and lots of privacy. They are well known for their bakery and especially their afternoon tea set complete with delicious homemade cakes. So there are public visitors that come to the resorts restaurant just to sample their delights.
However, only guests with rooms at La A Natu are allowed to walk around and explore the rest of the resort grounds.
Thailand is littered with lovely tiny resorts by the beach. Where you can go and unwind to your hearts content with the sun shining down through coconut trees and fresh ocean breeze. La A Natu Bed and Bakery is our special little slice of heaven in Thailand.
Best Way to Get to La A Natu Bed and Bakery
The only way to get to La A Natu is by car. There are no forms of public transportation in the area at all. So you have to drive. Or you can always hire a driver to drop you off and pick you up when you check out.
La A Natu Bed and Bakery is about a 30 minute drive from Hua Hin City center. So if you’re coming in from Bangkok you can easily hire a taxi to take you there.
If you are self driving then getting there is very easy. And I do recommend driving. Because you can check out Sam Roi Yod, an area with many mountains, shrimp farms and beautiful landscapes.
Map from La A Natu Bed and Bakery
And if you drive up an down the coast you’ll be treated to even more private beaches. The roads leading to La A Natu are narrow but there are very little cars on the roads. And when you are nearby you will start seeing small little signs leading to the resort so keep a sharp eye out to avoid getting lost.
Things to Know Before Booking
La A Natu’s High Season and Low Season
High Season: October and January through May
Low Season: June through September and November to mid December
Peak Season: Mid December through early January and mid April
Because the resort has only 10 rooms divided into 3 categories you can bet high season and during long weekends you may have a hard time booking a room there. Prices will be a lot higher too during those times, especially peak season.
My wife and I usually stay during low season on weekdays. Rates are cheaper but still expensive compared to other 4 star hotels in Hua Hin city center.
La A Natu Bed & Bakery
Address: 234 Moo 2, Samroiyod, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand 77120 Click to Book this Hotel and read more guest reviews.
I’ve always been a fan of Ibis hotels. But when I found out that the Ibis Hua Hin allows cats and dogs into guest rooms I became an even bigger fan!
Toby our blue tabby cat loves to travel too. That’s cause he’s got the wayfaring travel bug. But there are not a lot of hotels that allow pets in Hua Hin. Last I checked there were about 5 in and around Hua Hin. But some pet friendly hotels in Hua Hin are too expensive. And the cheaper ones had some really bad reviews.
However, the Ibis Hua Hin was just right in every aspect. It’s a clean hotel though the standard guest rooms are only 20 square meters. Though their space saving furniture design doesn’t make you feel claustrophobic. And the bed is pretty comfortable too. It’s a short 5 minute walk to a beautiful stretch of Hua Hin’s beach. The service from hotel staff is friendly and courteous.
Reasonably Priced Hotel in Hua Hin but Skip the Breakfast
And it only cost me 1400THB per night including taxes, that’s about $40USD at current exchange rates. The downside is they charge 200THB for breakfast. Normally, it’s 250THB but if you pre-pay for breakfast at check in the Ibis gives you a 50THB discount. We stayed for 3 nights so breakfast for my wife and I totaled 1200THB. That’s nearly the price for an extra night.
Now, I wouldn’t mind paying for good food. But the breakfast at this particular Ibis was truly unimpressive and certainly not worth 200THB. It’s a mix of Western and Thai dishes with not a whole lot of variety. We stayed there for 3 nights and the food just got boring. There’s no egg station where you can order up a fresh cooked omelet or scrambled eggs. Many hotels these days even in the 2 star range has an egg station.
Still A Good Value Hotel to Stay if You’re Bringing Your Pet
Okay, so I’m not staying there just for the breakfast. Most important factor we made on deciding to choose Ibis was because it’s pet friendly.
No pets over 10Kg are allowed however. While staying there I saw quite a few guests with pets. All of them had dogs and from what I saw we were the only ones with a cat. Some guests even had 2 dogs. And pets are not allowed in the dining area as well as the swimming pool. And you can’t leave them alone in the room.
But there were several times we had to leave Toby in the room during the day. If you’re a cat owner then you know already cats sleep during the day. So taking him out during that time is like carrying a sack of rice around for nothing.
There’s room under the sink for a litter box, that’s where we put it…
We just waited until room cleaning was done before leaving our little guy to rest in the comforts of an air conditioned room. What a lucky guy!
Ibis is a very pet friendly hotel in Hua Hin…
No pets allowed at the pool…
But guests with pets are allowed to eat breakfast in the lobby area. Though pets are not allowed in the swimming pool area.
Good Location, Reasonable Rates, The Ibis is Okay in My Book!
Ibis Hua Hin provides guest free shuttle service to most areas in central Hua Hin along Phetchkasem Road. The furthest I think the shuttle will take guests is to Hua Hin Night Market. But you have to make reservations ahead of time at reception. I forgot to take a picture of the shuttle but it fits about 9 to 12 people.
You can also walk to the popular Cicada Weekend Night Market, it’s south of the hotel about a 10 minute walk. The hotel shuttle service can take you there as well.
I really like this hotel. Even if I wasn’t traveling with Toby I would still stay at the Ibis Hua Hin. And although their breakfast is bad I can easily overlook that. But I think most people will like this hotel because it’s a clean hotel with friendly service and not a far walk to the beach.
Read current guests reviews and find discounts for Ibis Hua Hin.
How To Get There
It’s super easy to find this hotel. Go down Petchtkasaem Road (Highway #4) heading towards Khao Takiab. It’s the first hotel you’ll see at the entrance of Khao Takiab.
Here’s Where I Share One of My Favorite Neighborhoods in Bangkok for Delicious Food!
One of my favorite neighborhoods in Bangkok is an area called Huai Khwang. It’s not far at all from main tourist areas such as Sukhumvit. Just hop on the MRT subway at Sukhumvit station and in four short stops you’ll hit Huai Khwang MRT station.
I know a lot of people like to stay in this area because it’s close to Sukhumvit via MRT subway plus there are many budget hotels in the area like Hip Hotel, Park Residence, and CMYK that are about 5 5-minute walk to the station.
Even though Bangkok has plenty of restaurants where you can get a noodle or rice dish for a little over $1 USD, Huay Khwang is the place I highly recommend you go for cheap and tasty rice dishes and bowls of noodles with generous portions.
Huai Kwang is Mainly A Residential Area in Bangkok
So what else is so great about Huai Khwang? It’s a food mecca especially for the late-night owls looking for good food or for those that have a bit of extra cash to spend for shopping. There are a lot of very good budget and pricey restaurants in Huai Khwang.
Huai Kwang has long been a popular section of Bangkok for the working class…
But I’ll tell you where you can find some really good Khao Man Gai (chicken and rice) and other popular Thai dishes that are tasty and cheap too!
A simple shop with 4 carts serving popular Thai rice and noodle dishes…
The Restaurant Name Sounds Weird But Trust Me the Food is Good and Cheap!
Okay, so the name of this restaurant I recommend is called สี่จ่า loosely translated as “Four Sergeant”. It’s an open-air restaurant just 30 meters down Soi Pracha Songhkhao 36. It’s very easy to find and locals know this place well. So even if you’re bad with directions you can show them this post and they’ll point you in the right direction.
I’m quite confident that this is the first time this restaurant has been mentioned anywhere else on the blogosphere. It’s not exactly on the tourists’ path. But as I mentioned the locals know this place very well. And when you find Four Sergeants you will be glad you did. And you might as well pat yourself on the back for being a foodie adventurous!
This is the corner of Soi Pracha Songkhao 36 and Huai Kwang. When you see this turn left…
Whenever I feel like I want a quick, cheap, and tasty plate of Khao Man Gai (ข้าวมันไก่) orchicken and rice that’s where I go. Doesn’t matter what time of night it is. Not only are they well known for their succulent chicken and awesome rice, but สี่จ่า is also very popular because of their noodles with sliced duck which my wife loves.
Sliced duck with rice noodles in a rich herb broth…Yong Tau Fu in a sweet and sour chicken broth with fish balls, fish cake and cuttle fish…
But I like their Yong Tau Fu which is an assortment of fish balls, fish cake, a fish dumpling, and cuttlefish bits. I typically choose either the flat rice noodles or egg noodles depending on my mood. With the noodle dishes, you can choose 4 types: egg noodles, broad flat rice noodles, thin rice noodles, and glass rice noodles.
A variety of noodles with soup to choose from…You can pick from 4 types of noodles…A selection of rice dishes…
Not Exactly Char Siu but it’s Still All Good
I also enjoy their Khao Moo Daeng (ข้าวหมูแดง), rice with red pork. It’s not the Char Siu or red roasted pork I love so much and can find in typical Chinese restaurants. Even the restaurants in Bangkok’s Chinatown don’t make the Char Siu which is a total bummer.
Thai-style red pork is different than the traditional Char Siu done in Hong Kong style. It’s gently grilled so you can barely see any grill marks. Thai red pork is also not marinated or covered in honey and other spices while on the grill. To me, Thai red pork is a bit dry because they use leaner cuts of pork. However, whenever you order a plate of Khao Moo Daeng the plate is liberally doused with brown gravy.
As a guy who grew up on typical Hong Kong-style roast pork, it was a bit odd for me. But, the sauce grew on me. And Four Sergeants makes one damn good gravy.
Khao Moo Deng – Rice with red pork, another popular rice dish in Thailand…
The Best Khao Man Gai You’ll Find in Bangkok in My Book
Khao Man Gai hawker stands are all over Thailand. In Bangkok, chicken and rice shops are as ubiquitous as pizza shops in NYC. And if you poll a group of Bangkokians on which shop has the best chicken and rice you’ll get pulled in all different directions with no clear winner.
To me, Four Sergeants has the best Khao Man Gai. Their slices of chicken are tender and moist. The rice is of good quality and not heavily soaked in artery-clogging chicken fat. Too many places emphasize greasy oily rice. Four Sergeants makes their rice just right, a perfect combination with their succulent chicken.
All rice dishes come with a small bowl of chicken soup. There’s some MSG in it but not so much that your lips will be smacking for some water.
The classic Khao Man Gai, chicken and rice…
What does it All Cost?
Everything you find at Four Sergeants costs about 40THB or around $1.20 USD. A small bottle of water costs 10THB and they do sell bottled soda and beers. There is a 7-Eleven right next to the restaurant and the staff don’t care if you buy drinks from there and have them on their tables.
Duck simmered in an herbal broth…Tender chickens waiting to be sliced up…
Their food is not expensive at all. I often order a rice dish followed by a bowl of noodles. One time after a late night of drinking I remember putting down 4 plates of Khao Man Gai.
Four Sergeants closes late, around 4am. But they open around 6pm daily. So they get quite packed as the night gets later because local Thais living in the area often finish work late.
Customers just find a table with an open seat and sit down…
There’s a food court atmosphere at Four Sergeants restaurant. Just pick a seat at an empty table. They do have menus but not a lot. Just say “Kor Doo Menoo Noy” ขอดูเมนู that’s how you ask for a menu in Thai. The menu has photos so you can just point and pick.
This is one of the few restaurants I frequent often. They don’t have a lot of choices. But they have just the right amount. The atmosphere is great if you want to feel like you’re one with the locals. And the food is consistently good.
FourSergeants has been around in the same location for at least a decade. And they’ve got a strong following of locals. Today, Huai Kwang is rapidly changing. Every time I’m there, I’ll often hear Cantonese or Mandarin spoken at a nearby table. And that’s why the menu has Chinese written on it.
There are many cheap Thai restaurants in the Huai Kwang area, even the seafood restaurants where you can find fresh sea snails, giant grilled prawns, fresh grilled fish, and crabs all for a reasonable price.
However, the cheapest meals are of course the single rice dishes and bowls of noodles, such as the ones found in Four Sergeants.
How to Get There
Four Sergeants isn’t widely shared on inter web. But it’s practically an institution in Bangkok. Four Sergeants has been in the same location for nearly a decade.
Huai Kwang Night Market, keep walking down and you’ll find Soi Pracha Songkhao 36…
It’s not difficult to walk there at all. If you’re coming from the Huai Kwang MRT subway station use Exit #3.
Make your way to Huai Kwang Market and when you reach the first intersection which is Soi Pracha Songkhao 36 make a left. It’ll be about a 10 minute walk.
Hope you find this place. The food is good and I’m sure the experience of finding this restaurant will be fun. And be sure to check out the Huai Khwang night market while you’re there, open from 8pm to 2am!
So I have here a Google map that can help you out a bit. I placed a star on the restaurant’s location:
After my wife spent 5 days at her university campus in order to fulfill her course requirements she met a friend who works at the Amari Vogue Krabi Hotel. She told us it’s a really nice 4 star hotel located on Tub Kaek beach.
At the time we were planning on heading to Kanchanburi instead for a little getaway. But after seeing pictures and reading reviews of the Amari Vogue Krabi I was intrigued. And Tub Kaek beach is well known for beautiful Krabi sunsets.
Amari Vogue Krabi – If you love privacy and seclusion this place will not disappoint…
Our minds were made up in a flash. I booked my flights though Air Asia. Then booked one of Amari Vogue Krabi’s deluxe room at Agoda.com for this review. Our round trip plane tickets cost $250USD. Our 3 nights stay at the Amari Vogue including taxes and breakfast set me back $421USD.
I might’ve overpaid for the plane tickets because I bought them with only a week left before departure. However, the Amari Vogue Krabi was a deal. Due to low season I paid $140 per night (including some member point discounts via Agoda).
A view of the hotel property while waiting to get checked in…
Small Hotel, Big Beach, Super Friendly Hotel Staff and a Big Surprise
When we arrived at hotel’s open air reception area we felt a nice ocean breeze. The air was so clean. We could hardly see any guests out and about. This property has only 57 rooms so it’s a small hotel and just right if you don’t want to be shoulder to shoulder with huge tour group guests. But there are plenty of friendly hotel staff all around to take care of your needs.
We were checked in by a lovely lady who led us to our room which was down a series of steps. About midway down the length of the hotel property we finally reached our room.
It’s not a far walk and I was psyched to see if we would get a deluxe room with a view of the beach. She then led us through the hotel’s spa and up a flight of stairs to room #3201.
We got upgraded to a Spa Suite!
When she opened the door to our room my wife and I were impressed. It was all wood furniture all done up in traditional Thai style. A huge four poster bed with mosquito nets.
And the mattress and pillows were so comfortable. The balcony had a view of the ocean. However there were a row of tall coconut trees in front. But we were not complaining.
Then she opened another set of doors that revealed a room with two massage beds connected to the bathroom. Complete with a jacuzzi bathtub and a shower/steam room. Doing a quick check up online these spa suites are 70 to 80 square meters.
Now I know I definitely booked a deluxe room that didn’t have all the bells and whistles and are only 50 square meters. So, we got upgraded! But the lady who showed us our rooms never mentioned it. But we were grateful and I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to remember her name.
You’re probably thinking just because we got a sweet room upgrade this is going to be an automatic favorable review. Well I’ve have had room upgrades yet still have had bad experiences. Just take a look at my stay in Pa Prai Villa Plantation review. You can always rely on me for honest hotel reviews.
There are also many small swimming pools and even a private one near the beach. Now I wasn’t planning on using the pool. But I did plan on using the fitness room. And it was a small room and it felt like they just stuck late 90’s equipment inside an office space. I know the Amari Vogue Krabi is a smaller property and they can’t just build a big gym. So it’s not a big deal. But I think they can do better.
Besides, my and wife got a pretty good workout hiking up a national park just 200 meters from the entrance of the Amari Vogue Krabi. Unfortunately we only made it up about three quarters of the way. We weren’t prepared because there were lots of rocks and we were wearing flip flops.
Since it rained in the morning the rocks and soil were slick. We had to make the decision to go back or risk spraining an ankle and that would be bad.
The trail was 3.7 kilometers long and supposedly there is a great view up on top. We went around 9am after breakfast and the weather was cool with the tall trees providing adequate shade. But I can imagine it being too hot if we went for the hike in the afternoon. So it’s best to do the hike early in the morning.
Speaking of breakfast I think the Amari Vogue Krabi has just the right amount of choices. Since they’re not a huge hotel they don’t have a huge spread. Though what they have is certainly enough. Breakfast starts from 6:30am and ends at 10:30am.
They have some Thai and Japanese choices. Even Chinese dim sum. And of course there’s the American breakfast option of eggs cooked to order and bacon. They even had pork sausages which is the first I’ve seen in a hotel, though they don’t have it every morning.
A good hearty breakfast in my book…
But you can see the Amari Vogue is keeping up to date on todays health issues. This is the first resort I’ve ever seen carrying gluten free breads and cereals. They even have fruit smoothies and an herbal ginger drink for detox. And they make their own fruit jam. It’s those little details that impress me a lot.
Tub Kaek Beach – The Perfect Spot to Watch the Sunset in Krabi
Having a beautiful beach is just one part of the equation to a resort’s success. And Tub Kaek is the beach front that makes the Amari Vogue so much more impressive. It’s a long beach and the Amari is the last resort on the north end of Tub Kaek beach so it’s a lot more secluded.
There are beach front hotels in the vicinity. But luckily no noisy bars and clubs. So if you want peace and quiet you’ll get it here.
A view of Amari Vogue Krabi from Tub Kaek beach…
Though from what we were told the waters of Tub Kaek are much more beautiful during high season. During our stay it was low season. The waters were a little bit rough with the tide going in and out so the waters were not as clear as it could be during our stay.
But if you want to swim in clear water, Hong Island (a review coming soon) is not far away. You just have to hire a long tail boat to take you out there.
Tub Kaek Beach – Not a lot of people so you feel you have the whole beach to yourself…
That said, my wife and I still enjoyed our walks and dips in the waters. It’s best to swim in the mornings when the tide is higher.
But the beach is perfect for a romantic walk when the tide is low and you can see thousands of baby crabs scuttling towards the waters or digging themselves a hiding spot under the sand.
Now the drawback to staying at a hotel that is private and secluded is you’re going to be far away from the usual tourist destinations. Though many, including me, would consider that a pleasant drawback.
Amari Vogue mini bus has enough room for around 10 to 12 passengers…
However, if you’re the type that likes short jaunts into town the nearest one is called Ao Nang. Bars, restaurants, cafes, Thai massage shops, tour companies and ATM machines can all be found along Ao Nang.
Many massage shops in Ao Nang charging roughly the same rates. Foot massages cost about 200THB for 1 hour…
And Ao Nang Beach is not so bad considering all the commercial businesses nearby. The town is sort of U shaped, not so big and very easy to navigate and walk around.
Ao Nang Town – You can get there via Amari Vogue’s shuttle service. But it’ll cost each passenger 100THB one way.
Ao Nang town is about 20 minutes away by car. But if you didn’t rent a car or a motorbike the Amari Vogue has a shuttle mini bus service 3 times a day going to Ao Nang and back.
Though, they charge 100THB per passenger per way. Now to me, that’s a bit pricey. Personally I think it should be free or maybe half the price because it’s not that far of a drive.
Ao Nang Beach in Krabi
Getting to Amari Vogue Krabi Hotel from Krabi International Airport
Just like in Phuket if you take a taxi from the airport to your hotel you’re going to pay higher than normal taxi prices throughout the Kingdom of Thailand. There are no metered taxis in Krabi. You pay a flat rate and the prices increases depending on the distance.
You can find a few taxi operators inside Krabi International Airport…
Now the Amari Vogue Krabi is one of the furthest resorts from Krabi International Airport. We hired a taxi from the airport and the cost was 800THB and the journey took 40 minutes.
About halfway on to the resort our driver stopped outside of a tour agency. He does this out of the blue and if you ask he’ll tell you he’s going to the toilet.
Once your driver is in the office a guy comes out and tries to sell you some tours. This is business as usual and quite comical. Just say no and they leave. It’s the same in Phuket.
For your return trip from Amari Vogue back to Krabi International just speak with the same driver and they’ll charge the same 800THB rate. Which is what we did. Because the Amari charges 1200THB for the same ride.
I honestly don’t know if there is a cheaper way to get to Amari Vogue Krabi. Not unless you rent your own car and stay there longer. I suppose you can catch a mini bus or a songthaew down to Ao Nang and from there get a taxi. But I have a feeling you won’t be saving that much money.
But I’m a New Yorker. And I’m used to paying $45USD from lower Manhattan down to JFK airport. So to me, 800THB which is around $25USD (based on current exchange rate) for the same distance is a price I can handle.
If you’re staying at the Amari Vogue Krabi, be sure to ask what time the sun sets. You don’t want to miss it. It’s beautiful…
The Amari Vogue Krabi is a wonderful hotel and just perfect if you want a romantic getaway with a wonderful and natural surrounding. But a beautiful resort in a wonderful natural surrounding means nothing if you’ve got bad hotel staff.
One of this hotel’s strong points is the friendly and well trained staff. Every Amari staff that we encountered could speak a fair amount of English. Not too many four star hotels can make this claim. This and just many other reasons are why my wife and I would not hesitate to go back to Amari Vogue when we visit Krabi again.
Read current reviews and find discounts for Amari Vogue Krabi click here.
Or Tor Kor Market (ตลาด อ.ต.ก.) – A Durian Aficionado’s Heaven
I’m going to put it out there right now that I’m not a huge fan of Durian, the so called “King” of all fruits. I’ll eat it a little of it just to satisfy my wife’s fruitless attempts to convert me to a durian lover. I don’t go bananas over it like most durian fanatics do. You’re probably wondering why you should go on reading this?
Because I know there are a lot of people who love this fragrant pungent fruit. So I’ve asked friends, friends of friends and associates where they go for the finest most rank smelling durian in Bangkok, regardless of season.
And the majority tell me they head to Or Tor Gor, a popular farmers market where Thais with cash go to get their durian fix. It won’t be cheap. But if you love durian more than I love a juicy ribeye steak than something tells me you won’t mind spending some cold hard Baht.
Aor Tor Kor Market next to Kamphaeng Phet MRT station exit #3
Or Tor Gor is a popular and easy to reach market that is still off the tourists’ grid even though it’s a measly 200 meters from the southern entrance of Chatuchak Weekend Market. And JJ Mall is about 400 meters away near the western entrance of Chatuchak. So there are quite a few spots to visit in a day if you’re in the area.
#3 Station entrance/exit nearest Aor Tor Gow Market. Notice the no durian allowed sign?
This wet/dry/food market is well known to Thais with cash and can buy the best and freshest fruits year round. But there’s more to this place than high quality fruit including the best durian found in Bangkok. Aor Tor Kor has a food court with a wide variety of familiar Thai favorites and classics such as som tom, grilled giant prawns and many other prepared foods you can take back to your hotel room.
In Thailand, it could be a lot cheaper to buy food and take home than cooking…
But do remember that hotels don’t allow guests to bring in durian. Even BTS and MRT stations have a strict no stinky fruit policy. If they see you carrying a fresh bag of durian they will deny you entrance. And the guards do check, particularly at the Kamphaeng Phet MRT station near the market.
Forget the potato chips and junk food, plenty of healthy nuts can be purchased at Or Tor Gor…
It’s all about the Durian Baby
There are at least 6 or 8 shops that sell durian year round inside the market. However, the best time to indulge and buy with decent prices is around the months of July and August. Although the official season for durian in Thailand runs from late months of April through September.
Durian farmers will tell you quality durian is a fickle fruit to grow and harvest. The weather and time including a host of other factors play a major role on taste and quality. And Or Tor Kor market vendors only select the best or have connections with farmers that keep their special stock because they know they can sell their higher quality durian at a higher than normal market rate price.
Normally at Or Tor Kor When the Fruit is in Season You Can Find Two Popular Varieties of Durian:
Monthong and Kanyao durian varieties are very popular now…
1. Monthong (หมอนทอง)
In Thai this variety of durian is translated as “Golden Pillow” because it’s quite big and fluffy. The outer husk is huge with spikes so big you can use it to do some serious damage when used in a bar fight. The Monthong name is known as the largest producer of durian with many of its prized fruits coming from prime farming real estate south of Thailand close to Malaysia. Which is another Southeast Asian nation famous for its durian production.
2. Kanyao (ก้านยาว)
Kanyao is a smaller variety of durian with smaller spikes but you’d still better be cautious when handling it. Its name translates to “Long Stem” in Thai though by the time it reaches the vendors in Or Tor Kor the stem is trimmed down for easier handling. Though you will see many vendors leave the stems on just for show and decoration.
If you stick a gun to my head and forced me to choose one of the two kinds of durian I would prefer Kanyao. It’s sweeter, kind of like pineapple but without the sour acidic taste. Some would say it taste like super ripe mangosteen. But even then I still limit myself a small piece just to appease my wonderful wife.
Vendors won’t hesitate to give prospecting customers a taste of their durian. So don’t hesitate to ask for a piece they are very willing to oblige.
As of writing, a durian vendor that we always go to charged 240THB for 80 grams, about 3 pieces of Kanyao durian. I can’t remember off hand how much the Monthong variety cost but I believe it was a bit more expensive because the pieces were larger. Prices fluctuate due to availability and season. Off season you can expect to pay 25% to 40% higher.
Wife buying some Kanyao durian. You can see the long stemmed durian in the background…
Or Tor Kor is open everyday from around 6am to 7pm. Though some shops close earlier. It all depends how much stock they have left. They carry a lot of seasonal items that normally don’t grow in Thailand such as cherry or strawberries from the USA to prized and super expensive cantaloupe imported from Japan and Korea.
Or Tor Gor vendors take great care in cleaning and presenting their goods to customers…
Ever buy a bag of mangosteens and rambutan and find it with a nest of ants? Or Tor Gor vendors know their customers have discerning taste. So not only do they carry fruits from the finest farms they also pretty it up and by that I mean they try to get rid of pests that could cause an insect infestation at a customers’ home.
If you’re reading this and it’s still July then this is the prime time to stuff your gut on durian in Bangkok, and Or Tor Kor is the best place to buy it. You can also find high quality durian at the Emporium Supermarket inside Siam Paragon Mall, but they charge much more. Also, while at Or Tor Kor, don’t forget to check out their rockin’ food court!
