Unpacked by AFAR · Thursday, September 10, 2026
For travelers seeking less crowded experiences, Romaine suggests islands like Koh Yao Noi, which offers a more local feel with fresh, island-grown ingredients, and the Trang province, known for its stunning beaches. She also points to Nan province as an example of Thailand's rural, mountainous beauty, highlighting its transformation into a coffee-growing region.
“There are still so many islands I think in Thailand that aren't busy and over-touristed. Ya Noi is one that I personally have not been to, but I've heard amazing things about. It's far less developed. There's a small island, there's one guesthouse, one 7-11, one doctor at the hospital.”
“And I've also been told that Trang, which is on the Andaman Sea on the west, has apparently the most stunning water and sand, especially Ko Muk and Ko Kadan.”