Klongthom, Krabi Province
Krabi is a beautiful coastal province well known for it’s sandy beaches, and the nearby scenic islands that dot the Andaman coast. With plenty of marine sporting like snorkeling, diving, and boating nearby, and lots of outdoor tourist attractions in the area, Krabi has a lot to offer. Krabi is also famous for it’s abundance of good rock-climbing locations.
Check out what XploreAsia teacher Jon Crowe has to say about his experience living and teaching in Klong Thom city, Krabi Province Thailand.
What is special and interesting about your town?
“I think I’m the only Farang. I’m kind of like a celebrity here. Barely anyone speaks English but they are very kind. There is also the emerald pool and natural hot springs.”
Where are your favorite places to go out to eat and drink?
“Krabi town. Klong Thom is extremely limited. I only know of 3 places to eat, and two are overpriced. There is an okay market and the weekend walking street is great.”
Where can you go or what can you do to exercise?
“No gyms in town. I have to go for a run or work out in the weird Thai playground/gun equipment things.”
Where can you shop for all the necessities?
“There is a small Tesco, and there are also stores near the market that sell clothes, shoes, etc.”
What type of transportation do you use to get around?
“I rent a motorbike in Ao Nang, but the songteaw is only 40 baht to town, and less of a hassle than driving. Busses run all day until around 10pm, and you can just flag one down to go towards Krabi town or trang.”
What is your accommodation like?
“Small but nice. I pay 4,800 baht a month for a small room, but it’s brand new with ac, and a huge bed and bathroom. The owner speaks English very wellm, and is now my best friend here. It is called Vanilla Villa Resort. There are other options but the other furnished ones may run around 10k a month.”
What can you do for fun in the evenings?
“Watch soccer games at my school, or play music at school with the music teacher.”
What do you do on the weekends?
“Go to Krabi town or Ao Nang. If you do some digging there are many nice beaches the tourists don’t go to, like Tub Kaak Beach.”
What is the best nearby excursion or trip?
“Islands… Islands everywhere. Koh lanta is a 59 km ride, but you can get a bit to James Bond, Phuket, Phi Phi, etc in Krabi town for around 400.”
What are some tips you could give to new teachers in your town?
“It’s scary and slightly depressing at first not being able to speak to anyone. Just go outside, and try to be seen. If you see kivas having a beer somewhere go join them. Go to the market, if anything just to walk around and smile at people. Just be seen trying to fit in, and the locals will take care of you.”
Do you have a “Thai mom” or anyone in your town that has been incredibly helpful or welcoming?
“My landlord is great. He takes me into town when he has to run errands, and shows me all the good places to eat, and helps me order Thai food, a task more difficult than one might imagine. He is also a plethora of knowledge about Thai culture, politics, and the economy. He can tell you all the good places to visit too.”