The search for a place untouched by too much technology and unspoiled by civilization is not an easy one. One needs to seek far and wide, hoping to find a place where one can rest the mind and soul, away from blinding lights and raucous crowds.

It is therefore a surprise to come upon the unblemished island of Koh Yao Noi among the well-developed tourist places in Thailand. Koh Yao Noi is a small island in Phang Nga Bay between Krabi and Phuket. The name means little, long island, though Koh Yao Noi is neither especially small nor long. To a traveler’s delight, the dainty island can be explored in less than a day. The people move in a peaceful and relaxed way, flashing warm smiles on friendly faces as visitors pass by. Koh Yao Noi gained worldwide attention in 2002 when it received the World Legacy Award for Destination Stewardship awarded by the National Geographic Traveler magazine.

Koh Yao Noi hotels cater to all price brackets except one. There are no three-star hotels on the island. Koh Yao hotels offer an uncompromising sense of luxury and generous personal space. The island welcomes travelers who seek tropical adventure, a beach retreat, or just want to be away from the ceaseless demands of the city. Most of the Koh Yao Noi hotels offer exclusive spa facilities, top of the class dining, and dazzling pools. Inside these lavish resorts await unparalleled service and facilities that travelers will not find outside the resorts’ borders. Personal spaces range from beautifully decorated rooms to extravagant bungalows and villas.

The tranquility of the atmosphere is matched by breathtaking views of the beach and the ocean. Along the borders of some Koh Yao hotels reside some of the most pristine shores. The stretch of white sand turns gold as the sun rises and sets, while the seemingly endless blue waters are awe-inspiring. The limestone pinnacles of Phang Nga offer a dramatic and picturesque view.

For the adventurists, Koh Yao hotels offer tour packages which include kayaking, cruises, snorkeling, eco tours and nightlife discovery. Since nightlife is not typical in the quiet Koh Yao Island, tours are directed to Phuket and other nearby and more modernized islands. Bike rentals are popular, although novice motorcyclists may find the route difficult due to lack of signage. For that reason, Koh Yao Noi hotels have all-day mountain bike tour packages to guide tourists who wish to explore the quiet island. The packages and routes are customizable depending on the travelers’ needs. The ride typically circles the island’s paved roads with some off-road tracks inside the jungle areas. The stress of everyday life will surely fade as one experiences the slow pace and soothing way of life of the locals.

Surely, Koh Yao Noi is an island where you can find seclusion and peace. As you set foot on the island, you will quickly absorb the calm atmosphere and get used to the warm and relaxed pace of life of the islanders. Staying at Koh Yao Noi hotels is not for those who seek wild adventures and tiresome nightlife. Here, travelers experience the serenity of an untainted paradise where one could heal and restore a delicate soul.

Koh Yao Noi is an hour away from the international resorts of Phuket, and entry is accessible by daily trips of long-tail ferry boats on Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket.