HOT Magazine May 15, 2015 | Page 57

mostly inhabit it and can be seen going about their daily errands in their traditional boats along the coast. Koh Racha Rai consists boasts of a stunningly beautiful bay of fine white sand and clear blue water; it is also the area in which all of the accommodation is located, given that Koh Racha Noi is uninhabited. The most famous one of these is the five star hotel The Racha, a classy resort in which one can find all sorts of amenities and luxuries. The island however, is more popular amongst those who prefer to visit it as a day trip location as it is easily accessible. Sadly, day trippers miss out on one of Koh Racha’s most beautiful and unique night activities: stargazing. Because of the relatively small quantity of bars and lights as well as its isolation from polluted areas, Koh Racha’s night sky flares up with incandescence when the night’s blanket covers it and thus the view is spectacular, highly coveted by the few that know about it. Koh Racha Noi on the other had is solely a day trip island. It is the perfect place to go and find some peace and tranquility. It is mostly composed by rocks and rugged areas so it is ideal for those who enjoy sitting and fishing just as the locals do. However, if you want to escape the crowds that can end up forming in Koh Racha Yai’s U-shaped bay, it is equally a good option. Getting to Koh Racha takes a little longer than getting to Coral Island, where Coral Island is 9 kilometers from Phuket, Racha is 22. As a whole, Coral Island and Koh Racha are definitely destinations worth spending a good holiday in. If you are looking to explore a large range of coral reefs and partake in numerous water sports with all the amenities of a developed island, the former is the place to go. If on the other hand you prefer taking a relaxing day trip or night time stargaze in a sandy U-shaped bay’s beach, head to the latter. But if you want a bit of balance and prefer to experience everything these cosy islands have to offer, head to both of them and enjoy a fascinating experience. Summer is quickly approaching, so it is time to decide. Which one is it going to be? May 15 - June 15 , 2015 57