For those travelling to Thailand and wishing to explore some of the country's beautiful islands, Pak Bara is an important city. It is located to the northwest of the popular city Satun and is commonly used as a starting point for jumping from island to island. There's not much in Pak Bara, but it offers a ferry to KohLipe and other Islands.
The When:
Visiting Thailand is all about timing. Since the weather is usually the same all year long, the main difference lies in the precipitation. Basically, Thailand has two seasons rather than the traditional four. There is the dry season between November and March and the wet season between July and October.
The wet season is the more unpredictable of the two. It usually includes short but strong periods of rain during the afternoons although intense flooding is also possible. If you're on the mainland in Thailand trying to get to KohLipe during the wet season, boat travel may be touch and go.
The dry season is the preferred time for tourists. Not only is boat travel much safer, but it is also the time of year where Thailand showcases its luscious landscapes. It is much more ideal to travel during this time via ferry from Pak Bara and then perhaps take a ferry from KohLipe to Langkawi.
The How:
Exploring the small island is only possible through a ferry from Pak Bara to Koh Lipe. KohLipe and similar islands are too small for airports so boats (or water aircraft) are the only way to arrive.
The journey will take only about 1 and a half to two hours by speed boat from Pak Bara and a little long by ferry. There is no pier in KohLipe but there are long tail boats that charge around 50 baht to taxi you to the shore. All in all, it is easy to arrive on shore in only a few hours. It is a possible location for a day trip, however, the beauty of the island makes it hard to leave.
The Why:
Although there isn't much to do in Pak Bara, it is such a vital point for the journey to KohLipe, where the real adventure awaits. The island of KohLipe is encased in beautiful white sand beaches with only a few resorts. Driving time from end to end is at max only five minutes. Diving is a must when visiting and wildlife thrives on the island.
The locals usually speak good English and are extremely helpful. They can help locate the best Thai food on the island which will be far less expensive than the western options available and usually better tasting!
When travelling to Thailand, the islands rank high on the list of local attractions for most tourists. The when is perhaps more important than where, but the why will be undeniable
Martin Wynn
