THAILAND | Ko Kret, a car free island at Bangkok's doorsteps

By Charlotte Burgoyne,

The packs of cars. The gigantic roads. The high rises. The pollution. The constant noise. Bangkok can become quickly aggravating, and anybody who has ever visited understand the luxury of escaping town once in a while. What if I told you that you don't need to go far to find extreme peace. I have found the most relaxing spot, only 30 minutes away from Bangkok city center!

Welcome to Ko Kret, a car free manmaid island, where time seemed to have stopped. To get there, you will need to hop on a quick ferry trip across the Chao Praya river. As soon as you land on the island, you will feel in the countryside. Merchants are selling local fruits and vegetables. Food stands awake your stomach. There are no roads around, only intricate alleyways. Time to rent a bike!

There are several rental right off the boat with children seat and kids bikes options. Not the latest models, but it works! Biking is a fantastic way to explore the backroad of the island. As it gets pretty hot and humid on the island, I'd recommend you get there as early as possible.

There is a amazing bike path running across the island. You will recognize it easily as it has barriers on each sides and a lot less people than the little pedestrians streets. You will bike in the middle of the an incredible lush scenery. You might meet some local farmers, or pottery makers famous on the island.

When you are done exploring the country side, time to get back closer to the water, return your bikes back and walk along the path parallel to the water. When you see signs to pottery workshops, follow the directions! You will be able to have a family pottery class for few euros. So fun for kids!

You will literally forget about Bangkok for the day, yet you will still be so close to it.

Pratical Info

Getting there. Take a taxi until one of the two piers facing the East side of Ko Kret island. The South pier Wat Klangkret is quieter, and you will have more option to rent scooters and newer bikes upon arrival BUT you will be further away from the island's main attractions.

Eating. There are many small eateries along the alleyway running on the East coast of the island. Don't miss Chit Beer, one of the most famous craft beer maker of the country ONLY open on the week end.

To do. Bike amidst incredible lush sceneries, meeting poetry makers, eating delicious cheap Thai food, having a drink at Chit Beer.