Koh Racha Yai

Bright turquoise water and soft white beaches await you on the island of Racha Yai, 20-kilometres south of Phuket. This small island is in sharp contrast to the development found on neighbouring Phuket, and is a welcome getaway to a more simpler way of life. Despite the name – ‘yai’ in Thai means ‘large’ – the island really is small. The name is comparative to its twin island, Koh Racha Noi - ‘noi’ in Thai meaning ‘small’. Due to its size, there is not a huge amount to do on the island, which is in fact the attraction.

The island is a paradise for those that get their kicks below water. Some of the best snorkelling in the area can be found off Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Here you will find clear waters with coral reefs, and many different species of fish, of all different colours. For scuba diving, the opportunities in this region are some of the best in Thailand. However, if wishing to spend time exploring on land, stroll around the island and there is a pleasant village with a gentle atmosphere. You’ll find local restaurants serving up delicious seafood, and a few small shops selling groceries.

Koh Racha Yai is reached by taking a 35-minute speedboat journey from Chalong pier on the southeast of Phuket. En-route, dramatic scenes of limestone karsts towering into the sky are the norm, and you will be forgiven for thinking you are in a film-set, such is the perfection of the coastal scenery in this part of Thailand.

There are a very small number of resorts on the island, and as most of the visitors arrive as day trippers from nearby Phuket, we recommend staying over on the island, in order to experience it at its most authentic. The Racha offers beautiful villa accommodation set in lovely gardens overlooking a stunning white-sand beach, and a turquoise bay.

The best time of year to visit is between November and April when the weather should be at its driest, and the sea at its calmest - perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving.

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My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus

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I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India

Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly... And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
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Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India

We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
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Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
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So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
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Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
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I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
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We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
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I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India

Koh Racha Yai

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