Phi Phi Island, Thailand.

Phi Phi consists of six small islands 46km south of Phuket. Fine sandy beaches give way to soaring limestone cliffs to form spectacular scenery. Add crystal clear water, a refreshing lack of roads, plus a laid-back lifestyle, and it's easy to see why Phi Phi is one of southern Thailand's most popular destinations.

The smaller, uninhabited island of Phi Phi Leh is a big tourist attraction. Surrounded by sheer limestone walls dotted with caves and passages the island's shallow blue-green lagoons and coral gardens are a snorkeler’s paradise. The island also has two magnificent beaches, Loh Samah and Maya Bay – used as a location for the Hollywood film The Beach.

Longtail boats make the many secluded beaches around Phi Phi Don accessible. Diving and snorkeling at Laem Thong and Hua Rah Ket is excellent. Many dive companies offer all-inclusive trips. In room after room, some of the most famous paintings in the world are side by side.

How to get there:

Definitely by the ferry or speedboat.

The ferry is by far the most popular method of reaching the islands. Ferries take about two hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi or Koh Lanta. The top deck of the ferry doubles as a sundeck, which is great for those who want to tan. The lower decks feature air-conditioned rooms and drinks and snacks are available onboard. The ferry terminal is a one-hour drive from Phuket Airport and Krabi's is 30 minutes from Krabi Airport.

Private speedboat transfer is the next most popular way of getting to Phi Phi. Basically, it's a private charter of a speedboat so departure and drop-off points are a little more flexible and you can go right up to the front of your chosen resort which can save a lot of time.