Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ko Chang & Eastern Seaboard
Why Go?
Bangkok Thais have long escaped the urban grind with weekend escapes to the eastern sea-
board. Some of the country's first beach resorts sprang up here, starting a trend that has
been replicated wherever sand meets sea. As the country has industrialised, only a few
beaches within reach of the capital, such as Ko Samet's, remain spectacular specimens.
Further afield, Ko Chang and its sister islands offer a more 'tropical' ambience, but are far
from undiscovered.
Just beyond the foothills and the curving coastline is Cambodia, and the east coast
provides a cultural link between the two countries. Many of the mainland Thai towns were
at some point occupied by the French during the shifting border days of the colonial era.
Travellers who take the time to explore these lesser-known spots will find remnants of Old
Siam, tasty market meals and an easy-going prosperity that defines ordinary Thai life in
this region.
When to Go
»
The best time to visit is the end of the rainy season (usually around November) but be-
fore the start of high season (December to March) when the weather is cool, the landscape
green and rates reasonable. Peak season on Ko Chang is the Christmas and New Year holi-
day period. Crowds thin in March, the start of the hot season.
»
The rainy season runs from May to October. A few businesses on Ko Chang close and
the nearby islands of Ko Kut, Ko Mak and Ko Wai go into hibernation with many places
shut. Your best monsoon bet is Ko Samet, which enjoys its own micro-climate and stays re-
latively dry.
Best Places to Eat
»
Mum Aroi (
Click here
)
»
Phu-Talay (
Click here
)
»
Norng Bua (
Click here
)
