The first settlers came here in the 1950’s from the neighbouring island of Koh Yao. They came to Phang Nga Bay on the North of the island. Then people came from surrounding areas like Koh Lanta and Krabi making Phii Phi a wonderfully diverse mixture of Thai people.
Thai islanders are predominantly Muslim but also have a large population of Buddists. You can hear the Muslims prayer heard in the village morning and evening which comes from the Mosque. There is always a high attendance in the mosque which shows how strong the community spirit has become over the years.
Yes, there was a tsunami, and yes, it hit Phi Phi hard. But in most places, you'd never know. Construction is still underway on the isthmus between Ton Sai Bay - the main landing area and commerce centre of Phi Phi Don - and Loh Dalam Bay. The other side of the island was sheltered from the worst and remains undisturbed. Along the northeast coast, the famed soft sand beaches - fringed by swaying coconut palms and vibrant coral reefs nearby - look better than ever. Bottom line: Hotels everywhere are welcoming guests.
People make a living in many ways on Phi Phi, from cashew farming, coconuts (milk is still the raw ingredient of the wonderful curries) fishing, bars, clothes and food markets, boat tours and many other great ways to bring in an income.
The local fisherman take much pride in their work and consider themselves very experienced in their art. When the big storms come you can see many of the larger fishing boats moored together to wait out the dangerous weather in the harbour. We are not sure whether they are aware that it's a Marine Park!
At places like The Paradise Resort on Longbeach you can literally step out of your bungalow and on to warm white sand. Operating with full services, this resort offers a combination of tranquillity, perfect scenery, and great value.
It couldn't be a better time to visit these gorgeous islands. Perfect beaches, a hammock catching the breeze, and a superb resort at super rates.
The ancient people have been stopping in Phi Phi for hundreds of years now, they make temporary homes as and when the seasons change. In high season they settle on the west coast in Lodalum Bay. In the low season, they stay near Rantee bay on the east coast sheltering from the winds.
They are trying to improve the way they fish, as they are often verbally attacked by conservationists not happy with some of there techniques.
There are great bars on Phi Phi Island, Apache Bar, Hippie Bar and The Reggae Bar are Phi Phi Don's largest night spots. Hippie bar is right on the beach with fantasic views of Phi Phi Ley playing chilled music and have daily fireshows. The Reggae Bar is an open air area with five bars, a thai boxing ring and some pool tables. If you are Scandinavian the Carlito's Bar is where to hang out and meet fellow travelers , chill out on the sand listening to a huge mixture of great music, whilst ordering cocktails or a nice cold beer or three. The Tiger Bar and Hippies are open late in to the morning so you can dance your feet off and then watch the sun come up.
If you want something really chilled then The Sunflower bar on Lodalum Bay is the place to go. It has regular Live bands and play everything from reggae, trance, blues, indie to rock and roll ! It’s the best place to see the sunset in Phi Phi.