Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
While Bang Bao isn't a very traditional experience, the commercialisation of Bang Bao
has been done the Thai way. It's much like a mainland market, with every possible space
dedicated to selling something. Follow the pier all the way to the end, though, and you'll
find a big blue ocean and boats waiting to take you past the horizon. There are some fine
places to stay here, but if you're heading back up the coast, finish your visit before sunset,
as taxis become scarcer and more expensive after dark.
Hat Khlong Kloi
At the eastern end of Ao Bang Bao, Khlong Kloi is a sandy beach that feels a lot like a
secret though there are other people here and all the requisite amenities (beer, fruit, food,
massage) and a few guesthouses if you want the place to yourself. You'll need private
transport to get out here.
BEACH
Northern Interior
Ko Chang's mountainous interior is mostly protected as a national park. The forest is lush
and alive with wildlife and threaded by silvery waterfalls.
ELEPHANT CAMP
Ban Kwan Chang
( 08 1919 3995; changtone@yahoo.com; 8am-5pm)
In a beautiful forested setting, this is the best
of the three elephant camps on the island; deeper in the jungle and you get more time rid-
ing the beasts. Tours range from 1½ to three hours (500/900B) and involve feeding,
bathing and riding a pachyderm. Transport to and from the camp is included in the price.
Be sure to apply mozzie spray.
Pittaya Homkrailas is the camp owner, a well-regarded conservation enthusiast who
works to preserve a humane relationship between the elephant and mahout. His interest in
environmental and community issues also includes efforts to preserve the southeastern
mangroves in Ao Salak Kok on the island's east coast.
East Coast
The east coast is still peaceful and undeveloped, mainly undulating hills of coconut and
palm trees and low-key fishing villages that have resisted the resort rush of the west coast.
You'll need private transport to explore this lost coast of scenic bays and mangrove
forests.
