Destination: Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay's distinctive feature is the sheer limestone karsts that jut vertically out of the emerald-green water. James Bond Island and Koh Panyee are just 2 of the more famous spots in this bay.

Phang Nga Bay is a great place for boating. The interesting limestone cliffs create a picturesque backdrop and there are many safe places to anchor. The fact that it's protected from both the northeast and the southwest monsoon seasons means that its waters remain calm year-round. This adds to the appeal of its scenic wonders and abundant wildlife.

James Bond Island, also called Koh Ta-pu ('Nail Island' in Thai), first found its way onto the international map through its starring role in the James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun (1974). And this is where most tours seem to take all of the tourists – all at the same time. With its signature rocky pinnacle, the entire area surrounding this island is indeed spectacular.

Koh Panyee is a remarkable village – it's built out over the water on stilts, with a giant rock monolith guarding its rear.

Hongs of Phang Nga

It wasn't many years ago that aerial surveys first revealed the hong ('rooms' in Thai) that lie inside some of Phang Nga's islands. These microcosms, hidden realms rich in unspoiled flora and fauna, are collapsed cave systems open to the sky and surrounded by towering limestone walls.

Try sea-kayaking, where you paddle sturdy fiberglass boats through caves into the mysterious hearts of islands such as Koh Panak and Koh Hong.