Hi, I'm Matt

My Story

I first visited Ko Yao Noi in 2023. I was looking for somewhere quieter than Phuket, somewhere with real island life rather than tourist strips - and the Ko Yao Islands delivered on every count. The limestone karsts rising out of the bay, the empty beaches, the local fishing villages where people actually wave at you. I was hooked.

I came back a second time to explore Ko Yao Yai, the larger and even quieter southern island. That trip confirmed what I already suspected: these islands are one of Thailand's best-kept secrets, and they deserve a proper travel guide.

That's why I built this site. Before my first trip, I spent hours piecing together information from outdated blog posts and forum threads. I wanted to create the resource I wished had existed - detailed, honest, and regularly updated.

What Makes This Guide Different

• First-hand experience. I've walked the beaches, taken the ferries, stayed in the hotels, and eaten at the local restaurants. Every recommendation comes from personal experience.
• Fact-checked details. Prices, ferry schedules, and facility information are verified against current sources - not copied from other websites.
• No sponsored content. Hotels and businesses don't pay for reviews or placement. I recommend places because they're genuinely good.
• Regularly updated. I keep information current so you don't arrive expecting something that closed two years ago.

Editorial Standards

Every factual claim on this site is verified against current data sources including Google Maps, official ferry operator schedules, and local knowledge. I don't publish time-sensitive promotional information (bonus offers, discount codes) that could mislead visitors. When I mention prices, I note that they are approximate and subject to change.

How This Site Makes Money

This site contains affiliate links to accommodation booking platforms and transport providers. When you book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This income helps me maintain and improve the site. My editorial content is never influenced by affiliate relationships - I recommend places based solely on their merit. See the full affiliate disclosure for details.

Follow Along

I share travel videos and tips on social media as Matt's Life & Travels. Follow along for behind-the-scenes content from the islands and my other adventures.

Get in Touch

Found an error? Have a suggestion? I'd love to hear from you. Visit the contact page or drop me an email at [email protected].