Island Living Made Simple
Daily life in Krabi revolves around the beach, islands, and outdoor activities. Transport is primarily by scooter, songthaew (shared pickup trucks), and long-tail boats for island access. The pace is relaxed compared to Bangkok - most expats embrace the "island time" mentality. Ao Nang has tourist infrastructure while Krabi Town offers authentic Thai living. WiFi is good, utilities are simple, and the lifestyle is focused on nature and adventure.
Scooters are the primary way expats get around Krabi. Roads are less congested than Phuket, making riding pleasant. Most rentals are Honda Click or Yamaha NMAX automatic scooters.
Songthaews (red/blue pickup trucks with bench seats) run fixed routes between Krabi Town, Ao Nang, Nopparat Thara, and nearby beaches. Cheap and authentic but less frequent than Bangkok.
Traditional Thai long-tail boats are essential for reaching Railay Beach, Phra Nang Cave, and nearby islands. Iconic wooden boats with distinctive long propeller shafts.
Grab operates in Krabi but with fewer drivers than Bangkok/Phuket. Works best in Krabi Town and Ao Nang. Can have long wait times.
Metered taxis are rare. Most are fixed-price taxis at airport and tourist areas. Always negotiate price before departure.
Thai SIM cards are essential and cheap. All three major carriers work well in Krabi with good 4G/5G coverage in populated areas.
Best coverage overall, especially islands. Tourist SIM 299 THB for 15 days unlimited data. Monthly unlimited: 599-899 THB.
Good speeds, competitive prices. Tourist SIM 299 THB. Monthly unlimited: 499-699 THB. Often bundled with home internet.
Budget option with decent coverage. Tourist SIM 249 THB. Monthly unlimited: 399-599 THB. Slightly weaker on islands.
Fiber internet available in Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Most condos include WiFi or you can arrange installation (usually within 3-5 days).
Note: Railay and remote areas may not have fiber. 4G/5G mobile hotspot often needed.
Having Thai bank account makes life easier for rent, utilities, and daily transactions. Requirements vary but generally need long-term visa or work permit.
Everywhere in Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Open 24/7. Basics, snacks, drinks, ready meals. Slightly more expensive.
Large supermarket with everything. Imported goods, fresh produce, household items. Best prices for bulk shopping.
Wholesale store good for bulk buying. Need membership card (easy to get). Cheapest for staples if buying quantity.
Fresh produce, meat, seafood at local prices. Krabi Town weekend market and daily fresh markets. Cash only.
Nightly market with street food, clothes, souvenirs, Thai products. Tourist prices but convenient.
Friday-Sunday evenings. Local products, street food, clothes at Thai prices. More authentic than Ao Nang.
Limited compared to Bangkok/Phuket. Central Plaza Krabi in town has Tops Market, restaurants, cinema, shops.
Lazada and Shopee deliver to Krabi (2-5 days). Good for electronics, household items, clothing.