Krabi, a province on Thailand’s Andaman Coast, has long been popular with visitors for its scenic beauty, with limestone cliffs and ancient rainforests in close proximity to emerald seas. But now, amid a wobble in Chinese tourist confidence about the South East Asian country, Krabi could be set to give the industry another much-needed screen-driven boost, similar to the one recently prompted by The White Lotus. Why? Jurassic World: Rebirth is due for release in early July and, as the primary filming location for the latest instalment of the beloved movie franchise, Krabi finds itself centre-stage.
Captured in the film, the area’s tropical climes and diverse landscapes are also available for tourists to explore and are being promoted by hotel chain Avani with “Stay in Jurassic Paradise” packages at the Avani Ai Nang Cliff Krabi and their Koh Lanta Krabi resorts.
According to a promotional press release, movie lovers will be able to “walk in the footsteps of their favourite characters and explore the cinematic scenery firsthand” or “kayak through lush mangroves to secret natural pools” at what are described as “top filming locations.” These include Railay Beach, a golden beach peninsula only accessible from the water, where impressive limestone rock formations and thin jungle cover create an otherworldly feel, and Phra Nang Cave, a small shrine with stalactites and stalagmites.
Hong Island, known for its towering limestone cliffs “shaped over millennia” as well as its coral reefs and marine life, is another film location bound to draw fans, like Than Bok Khorani National Park where jungle trails, waterfalls and ancient caves set the scene for hiking adventures.
Aside the region’s natural wonders, movie-inspired experiences include dining at Avani Ao Nang, dinosaur-themed welcome treats aimed at younger guests, spa rituals like the Lava Stone Renewal or Age of Rebirth treatments for the grown-ups at AvaniSpa, as well as themed cocktails and mocktails.
Daily breakfasts are included, as are inter-resort transfers, a complimentary room upgrade and relaxed late checkout, withpackages starting from THB 38,000 (just over €1,000) for a family of four sharing a Family Room on a bed and breakfast basis.
The experience features two nights at Avani Ao Nang followed by two nights at Avani+ Koh Lanta. Guests can enjoy themed Jurassic-era dining at Avani Ao Nang, followed by adventure excursions such as kayaking through mangroves or hiking through lush trails. For a more relaxing experience, two adults can unwind with a spa treatment at AvaniSpa, choosing between the Lava Stone Renewal and the Age of Rebirth rituals. Jurassic-inspired cocktails and mocktails are also available at both resorts, adding a cinematic touch to the tropical escape.
