[ozlover]

Hey everybody!
I have been a member of the board for a while and have noticed that the subject of a trip to Phi Phi does arise from time to time. I thought I'd share my 2 cents on the subject as I have just come off the island after working 2 months at a dive shop.

Why go?
Phi Phi is a major backpacker destination, but they are trying to raise the profile and attract more families. However, the majority of farangs on the island are Scandinavian backpackers (70 %) with the rest a mix of Brits, Americans, Germans and Israelis. It is NOT a monger destination, but if you are under 35, fit and enjoy Swedish blondes this might be the best place in Thailand to score! It also has nice beaches, a very laid-back atmoshpere (no traffic on the island) and excellent diving & snorkelling!

Why not go?
If you have a Thai GF already, my advice is not to bring her! I think most BM's not have a problem with the "stigma" of having a Thai GF, but I think the GF would not enjoy the experience as they do stand out a lot more on Phi Phi than otherwise on Phuket.
If you do not have the time for more than a daytrip, do not go! You will be in a large group shepherded around, snorkel with 100's of Asians in a life vest (which can be funny, but it is not why you signed up), you will have a lousy lunch and spend most of your time en route. Do yourself a favor and spent one night at least.
Also, if you have had enough with naive, tree-hugging, slightly feral, overpriviliged Western youth looking to find themselves - stay away!

If you think you fall in the first category, here some advice:

Go diving!
Best diving in Thailand outside Similan Islands! Turtles, lepard sharks, octopuss, barracudas, sea snakes and tons of reef fish! Most local dives were good, but the Kingcruiser wreck can have really strong currents. Snorkelling is also good fun!

Go to a beach bar!
Hippes and Carpe Diem are two bars right on the beach with OK music and fire shows every night. Thai's and some farang that juggle with sticks etc with the ends on fire. Not breathtaking, but good fun. Should start after 10 pm

Go to Maya Bay!
This is the major tourist attraction after Leo DiCaprio did the movie "The Beach" after the Alex Garland novel. The movie is shit, but the book is OK! Anyway, parts of the movie was shot here and it is a nice beach. Go in the afternoon after all the daytrippers from Phuket has left (around 3 pm)!

Spend a bit more on accommodation!
The island is loaded with penniless backpackers, so spend a bit more to get away and get better value for your money. 2000 - 3000 baht per night should get you a nice place with A/C, swimming pool and good views.

After 2 - 3 days, get off the island!
Everybody else does... there's not much more to do!

General info
Phi Phi is in fact two islands (Phi Phi Don/Phi Phi Ley) - both small and beautiful. Don is the bigger island and the populated one. Ferries run twice a day (morning/afternoon) and the boat ride ride takes 1,5 - 2 hours. Estimate another hour to get to Rassada Pier, Phuket town.

I hope you find this useful! Have a nice trip!