Welcome to Thailand. Or should we say, welcome to paradise. Thailand is blessed with some of the world’s most-enviable beaches and a myriad of off shore islands for a holiday filled with watersports, hammocks and sunset strolls along the water’s edge. Some areas are super-vibey while others offer a more serene experience.

Some of our favourite holiday destinations in Thailand include Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi and Khao Lak. You could decide to spend your holiday at just one of these destinations, or combine a few in a tailormade Thailand holiday.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is undeniably the country’s most popular beach destination with a vibrant nightlife, bustling market stalls, a family atmosphere or romantic seclusion. Phi Phi Island is located two hours by ferry from Phuket (some resorts also offer a speedboat service) and offers a quieter area where sandy beaches lead to aquamarine bays filled with marine life. Krabi is known for sheer limestone cliffs where over 130 islands rise majestically from the sea, and secluded beaches are accessible only by colourfully adorned long-tail boats. And finally, Khao Lak is on Thailand’s mainland west coast, and is a less crowded tourist destination with a rugged natural beauty.

Thailand is an island paradise that offers a vast selection of hotels, and the beaches supply every kind of vibe! There’s always a party or something to do if you feel like being active while you’ll also find quieter beaches and rainforest retreats if you’re travelling as a family or couple. While Thailand was once known as a cheap, budget holiday destination, it is now becoming better known for its range of luxury hotels, of which the Holiday Factory only works with the best of the best.

Thailand is a unique destination where exquisite beach resorts combine with delicious exotic cuisines, stunning natural locations, unique modern architecture, and captivating local cultures, to offer a well-rounded holiday experience quite unlike anything you’ll find in South Africa. An island holiday here is like travelling to another world and offers you a chance to not just getaway but to truly explore somewhere different from your everyday.

Thailand’s tropical climate has three main seasons: hot from March to June, rainy from July to October, and cool from November to February. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C. The monsoon season in the Andaman Sea is from approximately May to October but even during this time the monsoon rains are generally short and heavy, clearing quickly and days of constant rain are rare.

The currency is the Thai Baht which is better for bargaining and shopping in markets. US Dollars, Pounds and Euros are accepted at hotels. A service charge is already included in all prices. Tips, in general, are not mandatory, and you should only give them if you are really content with the service offered. Waiters, bellboys, porters, restroom attendants and taxi drivers will happily accept loose change. Thailand is 5 hours ahead of South Africa. The electric current is 220 volts AC and the majority of electrical outlets take a round, two-pronged slim plug (the same as us!)

It is important to show respect for the Thai Royal Family. Do not climb over or sit on Buddha monuments. Do not touch or give anything directly to a Buddhist monk if you are a woman. It is also rude to touch people on their head or point your feet at people or an object.

Drink only bottled water and avoid ice unless you know it is made from bottled or boiled water. Be cautious when eating from food vendors on the street.

Light, cool clothes are sensible. Shorts, sleeveless shirts, tank tops and other beach-style attire are considered inappropriate dress when not actually at the beach or in a resort area. Revealing attire is not allowed in religious shrines. The dress-code for dinner is usually smart casual and gents are required to wear long trousers.

The 5 Star Rayavadee, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is set on the edge of Krabi's National Marine Park at the heart of the stunning Phranang Peninsula with its lush foliage, limestone cliffs, white sand beaches and the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea.

The resort's award-winning architecture and tropical landscapes were inspired by the atmosphere of a southern Thai village.

LOCATION
Ao Nang, Krabi.

HOW TO GET THERE
Road transfer from Phuket airport to Krabi, followed by a resort speedboat transfer to the resort.

ACCOMMODATION
The resort's 94 two-storey pavilions and 7 luxurious villas are dotted throughout tropical gardens and coconut groves and feature fully equipped, spacious accommodation and stylish details throughout.
The pavilions’ unique circular design blends perfectly with the resort's natural surroundings

62 Deluxe Pavilions (Size: 90m²)
Deluxe Pavilions boast fully equipped, spacious accommodation and stylish, tropical decor with polished wood, richly coloured fabrics and handcrafted details throughout.

16 Terrace Pavilions (Size: 115m²)
Terrace Pavilions offer a contemporary take on the popular Deluxe Pavilion design featuring an open and airy ground floor living plan with tropical décor and glass doors that open onto a breezy outdoor terrace, with lounge area and lots of space for relaxation surrounded by lush palms and garden greenery.

12 Pool Pavilions (Size: 115m²)
The Pool Pavilions provide a heightened sense of luxury with the addition of a 3 x 8-meter private pool situated in a lush landscaped tropical garden with sun loungers and a terrace.
An ideal option for those looking to enjoy indoor-outdoor living in perfect privacy.

2 Family Pavilions (Size: 137m²)
The Family Pavilions have an additional ground floor bedroom with two queen size beds as well as an outdoor dining area, sun lounges and a terrace, making them ideal for a family holiday. They are located amongst coconut palms with the resort's sheer cliffs as a backdrop.

2 Family Pavilions with Pool (Size: 167m²)
The spacious Family Pavilions with Pool offer a luxurious freshwater, 3 x 8 metre private pool set in a spectacular enclosed tropical garden with sun lounges and a dining area.

3 Family Villas with Pool (Size: 345m²)
Family Villas are situated in lush garden and cliff surroundings at the heart of the resort, just a five minute walk from stunning Phranang Beach and Railay Beach in either direction. The villa offers spacious accommodation with two adjoining bedrooms as well as a living room and space for outdoor lounging around the villa’s own private 3 x 12 metre swimming pool.
A dedicated butler service is provided.

1 Rai Talay Villa (Size: 260m²)
The Raitalay Villa is set on a sheltered corner of beautiful Railay Beach, overlooking the clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea. The Villa features two adjoining bedrooms with king size bed and ensuite bathroom as well as a living and dining room, kitchenette and an outdoor deck with hydro pool.
A dedicated butler service is provided.

1 Rayavadee Villa (Size: 417m²)
The Rayavadee Villa has its own private pool and views overlooking Phranang Beach.
Furnished in elegant, contemporary Thai style, the Rayavadee Villa offers two large adjoining bedrooms with king size bed and ensuite bathroom as well as a living and lounge area, kitchenette, dining room, sauna and plenty of space for outdoor entertainment.
A dedicated butler service is provided.

1 Phranang Villa 404 (Size: 417m²)
The Phranang Villas are discreetly hidden in an annex amidst a dramatic landscape of limestone cliffs with views overlooking world renowned Phranang Beach.
Just five minutes’ walk down the beach from the main resort, the villas offer a private pool, master bedroom with ensuite bath and two additional (non-adjoining) guest bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom. The spacious living room, dining area and kitchenette make villa entertainment a breeze.
A dedicated butler service is provided.

VALUE ADDS FOR VILLA GUESTS:

• Welcome Bottle of Champagne
• Delicious Thai Snacks on Arrival
• Daily special treats from the complimentary mini bar including : fruit and coconut juices, soft drinks, mineral water, chocolate treats, crisps and nuts.
• Daily Bottle of sparkling Rose wine
• Afternoon tea in the villa with cakes, pastries and Thai snacks.
• Children's gift soft toy monkey to remember their visit to Rayavadee for years to come (per child).

ROOM FACILITIES

• Ceiling fan
• Air conditioning
• Mini bar
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Flat screen TV with DVD/CD player
• Bathrobe & slippers
• Hair dryer
• Signature bath amenities
  
  

DINING

Meal Plans
The resort operates on a Bed & Breakfast basis with the option to upgrade to Half Board or Full Board.

Half Board includes:

• Breakfast at the Raya Dining Restaurant.
•  Lunch OR Dinner at the Raya Dining Restaurant.

Full Board includes:

• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at the Raya Dining Restaurant.
  
  

Raya Dining
Raya Dining features international cuisine in an elegant yet informal setting. Innovative grill cuisine with Thai and Western influences with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients that include locally sourced seafood and top cuts of meat.
Air-conditioned indoor and open-air seating is available.
Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (07h00 – 23h00).

Krua Phranang
Stroll along a moonlit path to Phranang Beach and experience a memorable dinner by the sea at Krua Phranang, the resort's romantic Thai restaurant. The dining room offers air-conditioned and open-air seating with views over the stunning beach, limestone cliffs and outlying islands.
Open for Dinner (18h00 – 23h00).

Raitalay Terrace
Raitalay Terrace offers casual style dining with a menu of light, Asian-inspired cuisine adjacent to the free-form swimming pool with views over Railay Beach.
Open for Drinks and Snacks (11h00 – 23h00).

The Grotto
Set against a backdrop of limestone cliffs with views onto stunning Phranang beach, The Grotto offers a selection of refreshing drinks, light snacks, fresh salads and tasty stir-fries in a casual beachside setting.
Open for Drinks and Snacks (12h00 – 20h00).

SPA
The Rayavadee Spa's extensive range of therapies draws on ancient Thai healing traditions and a philosophy of well-being that combines body, mind and spirit to create treatments that impart a deeply felt sense of relaxation in luxurious, private surroundings.
Choose between revitalizing facials and scrubs, energizing body wraps, soothing massages and a variety of salon treatments or combine several offerings into a package individually tailored to your needs.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary throughout the resort.

WATERSPORTS & ACTIVITIES (* some at a supplement)

• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Sea canoes
• Snorkelling
• Windsurfing *
• Tennis courts
• Squash courts
• Thai cooking classes
• Flower garland making
• Traditional Thai fruit carving
• Boutique *

All information in this Fact Sheet is applicable as at January 2025 and is subject to change without prior notice.