Embarking on a journey through Thailand as a Muslim couple, we discovered a country of incredible diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From tranquil islands to bustling cities, Thailand offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every traveller. This blog shares our personal journey, insights, and practical tips, aiming to inspire and guide fellow Muslim travellers on how to navigate the beauty of Thailand while adhering to Islamic practices. Join us as we explore the serene getaways, culinary delights, and cultural wonders of this vibrant country.
Koh Yao Yai: A Serene Getaway
Image Credit: TripAdvisor
Arrival Experience
Our journey to Koh Yao Yoi began with a ferry ride from Jian Wanich Pier, which proved to be quite challenging. With problems right from the moment we arrived at the pier, it was not a great start to our holiday. We then opted for a speedboat from Bang Rong Pier with Koh Yao Sun Smile Tours, so we could reach our destination. This was the last boat that was departing for Koh Yao Yai for the day, adding to the stress already encountered for the day. This experience taught us the importance of timing and planning, which is really important when you are in an unfamiliar location and have a language barrier. Read more about our experience at Jian Wanich Pier here.
Settling In
Upon arriving at Koh Yao Yai, our hotel sent a driver who greeted us at the pier and took us to Coconut Grove Resort. The hotel was a sanctuary of peace, nestled in nature's embrace and perfect for unwinding. We found that taking a moment to relax and recharge was essential after our trip.
Here are our tips for anyone travelling to Koh Yao Yai: Soak in the surroundings, enjoy the quiet, and let the island's serenity rejuvenate you. Not all of the islands are as peaceful as this one, we enjoyed our stay and wish we had stayed longer.
Phi Phi Islands: Exploring Paradise
Image Credit: TripAdvisor
Halal Food on Phi Phi Islands:
While there are some halal food options available, such as Baba Pita, which we definitely recommend (look for our sticky note on their Wall of Fame!), the options are somewhat limited. It's crucial for Muslim travellers to inquire about ingredients and seek halal certification where possible. Although the local markets offer some halal choices, dining can be a challenge when searching for halal food.
Sunrise Tour of Phi Phi:
The island offers various tours for those who visit, and we decided to join the sunrise tour which was from 6:30 to 10:30 AM, and cost us 1000 baht per person. The guided tour was memorable and featured snorkelling opportunities, visits to national parks and other islands around Phi Phi. However, it's essential to note that while the tour starts early, the islands can quickly become crowded as the day progresses. We recommend booking onto the sunrise tour from the main stand on the island, to save yourself some pennies, and to enjoy the experience before the crowds kick in.
Overall Experience:
While the Phi Phi Islands offer stunning scenery and some enjoyable experiences, Muslim travellers may find it less accommodating than other destinations. The islands' vibrant nightlife and the frequent hassle from vendors can detract from the overall tranquillity and enjoyment of the trip. The Phi Phi Islands are often very crowded and not as accommodating to Muslims as one might hope. During our stay, we were frequently approached with offers to buy drugs, which can be uncomfortable. Additionally, the nightlife is quite vibrant, with loud music playing throughout the night, making it difficult to get a good night's sleep.
Phuket: The Quiet Side of Adventure
Image Credit: TripAdvisor
Phuket, often celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and bustling tourist spots, surprised us with an unexpected tranquillity upon our arrival. This serene atmosphere allowed us to explore the island at a more leisurely pace, appreciating its beauty far from the crowded scenes typical of other destinations. The island's ability to blend serenity with adventure provides an ideal balance for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.
During our stay, we booked a room at the Midtown Ratsada Hotel. Despite being a last-minute arrangement directly with the hotel, we received a great rate. The staff at Midtown Ratsada were incredibly friendly, which was a relief especially since we had a complication with our original booking at a different hotel. This experience only enhanced our appreciation for the hotel's commendable customer service.
We highly recommend the Midtown Ratsada for anyone looking for a pleasant and accommodating place to stay in Phuket. For more details on our experience, see our review of Hotel Midtown Ratsada here.
Exploring Phuket
Based on a Google search, we discovered that Phuket offers a wide array of cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities that cater specifically to Muslim travellers. Here are some suggestions for those visiting the island:
- Cultural Exploration: In Old Phuket Town, visitors can delve into the island's rich history. The vibrant Sino-Portuguese architecture and bustling local markets provide a vivid snapshot of Phuket's historical and cultural landscape.
- Historical Sites: The Big Buddha is one of Phuket's most iconic landmarks. Not only is it a significant spiritual site, but it also provides stunning panoramic views of the island, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of the scenery.
- Recreational Activities: Phuket's beaches are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, offering a variety of water activities. For those seeking a quieter beach experience, less crowded spots like Banana Beach or Freedom Beach are worth exploring.
- Halal Dining: The island is home to an increasing number of halal-certified restaurants, ensuring that Muslim travellers can enjoy local Thai cuisine without concern. Some recommended places include The Chicken Rice Shop and Roti Taew Nam.
Phuket's quieter side offers an unexpected adventure, blending the thrill of discovery with moments of peace and reflection. Its cultural depth, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural beauty make it an ideal destination for Muslim travellers looking for a comprehensive experience. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Old Phuket Town or relaxing on a secluded beach, Phuket has something for everyone.
Practical Tips for Muslim Travellers
Travelling in Thailand as a Muslim offers a rich and rewarding experience, provided you keep a few practical tips in mind regarding accommodation, dining, cultural sensitivity, and religious practices.
- Halal Dining Options: Thailand is home to numerous halal-certified eateries, especially in popular tourist locales. Utilise local apps like Halal Navi to find nearby halal restaurants, or ask for recommendations from your accommodation staff.
- Dress Appropriately: When visiting religious sites, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Always have a scarf or shawl handy for quick cover-ups.
- Respect Local Customs: Always remove your shoes before entering sacred spaces or homes. A travel shoe bag can keep your footwear neatly organised.
- Prayer Facilities: Use apps like Muslim Pro to locate prayer rooms in public areas and plan your day around prayer times. A foldable travel prayer mat can be very useful for praying on the go.
Conclusion:
Our journey through Thailand was a rich tapestry of experiences, blending tranquil moments with vibrant nightlife, especially in Phuket. While we faced some challenges, such as limited dining options later in the evening, the availability of halal food and the overall welcoming nature of the country made our trip fulfilling. There is much more to see beyond Phuket, and we plan to return to explore other destinations in the region including Koh Samui, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai.
