Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Raw Art Moovment
( 10am-late)
A place for art, music, socialising, drinking and, most importantly, the
Sunday Art Jam when the island's talented musicians perform and the vibe is like a big,
fun party at someone's house (in fact the venue is part of owner's Denny and Lisa's
house). The first chords are strummed at 7.30pm, but come by any time.
LIVE MUSIC
Shopping
Although most items are cheap when compared to prices back home, diving equipment is
a big exception to the rule. On Ko Tao you'll be paying Western prices plus shipping plus
commission on each item (even with 'discounts') so it's better to do your scuba shopping
at home or on your computer.
HAIR CARE
Avalon
OFFLINE MAP
(Mae Hat; 10am-7pm Mon-Sat)
If you're having trouble scrubbing the sea salt out of your hair,
then stop by Avalon for some locally made (and eco-friendly) body and hair-care
products.
Information
The ubiquitous
Koh Tao Info
booklet lists loads of businesses on the island and goes into
some detail about the island's history, culture and social issues.
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
There's nothing more annoying than enrolling in a diving course with your friends and
then having to drop out because you scraped your knee in a motorcycle accident. The
roads on Ko Tao are slowly being paved but are still horrendous. While hiring a moped is
extremely convenient, this is not the place to learn how to drive. The island is rife with ab-
rupt hills and sudden sand pits along gravel trails. Even if you escape unscathed from a
riding experience, scamming bike shops may claim that you damaged your rental and will
try to extort some serious cash from you.
Travellers should also be aware that mosquito-borne dengue fever (and a similar but
less-severe cousin) is a real and serious threat. The virus can spread quickly due to tightly
packed tourist areas and the small size of the island.
EMERGENCY
