Khao Lak is a popular resort town 100 km north of Phuket.

The town itself is unattractive and is dominated by the fast road running through it, which is fortunately far enough from the beaches for traffic noise to be heard. The beaches, whilist clean and not too busy, are only average by Thai standards, as there are no particularly arresting offshore features to feast the eyes on.

It is within day-trip range of the best scuba diving in the kingdom, around the marine life-saturated Similan Islands.

Also within day-trip range is the best snorkeling in Thailand, around the Surin Islands.

Originally Khao Lak was just a launching pad for trips to these fantastic attractions, but quickly blossomed into a destination in its own right, and one well noted for its great amenities and peaceful atmosphere.

Five years after the big waves devastated so many lives, hardly a sign of the horror remains. The mouldering lobby of an abandoned resort can be glimpsed through some palms. A police boat was guarding the royal prince who died here, and has been left where it was deposited by the wave, 2 km inland, as a memorial to those who so tragically died.

These days, visitors need have no fear of a tsunami, for two reasons: (a) an early warning system is in place to give 30 minutes warning of an approaching tsunami (b) after the next massive underwater earthquake, the resulting tsunami won't touch Khao Lak - for the reasons why, click here.

Khao Lak has a wide range of accommodation, with options to suit all travelers and all budgets.

With so many upmarket resort restaurants in Khao Lak, gourmets are spoiled for choice.

Party animals, however, will be disappointed. Whilst there are a few bars, the nightlife is low key compared with nearby Phuket's. The better resorts arrange entertainments and shows.

Whilst families will love Khao Lak ....