Northern Thailand - Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Northern Thailand - page 832

THAILAND'S EASTERN SEABOARD
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 duplicated wherever sand meets sea. As the country has become more industrialised,
Ko Samet's beaches remain the most spectacular destination within reach of the capital,
and Ko Chang and its sister islands, further afield, offer the best 'tropical' ambience in the
region.
Just beyond the foothills and the curving coastline is Cambodia, and the east coast
provides a convenient 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 co-
lonial era. Migrating travellers who take the time to explore lesser-known spots such as
Trat will find remnants of Old Siam, tasty market meals and an easy-going prosperity that
defines ordinary Thai life.
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Ko Samet
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A tiny island idyll, Ko Samet bobs in the sea with a whole lot of scenery: small sandy
coves bathed by clear aquamarine water. You'll have to share all this prettiness with other
beach lovers as it's an easy weekend escape from Bangkok.
Ko Samet is part of Ko Laem Ya/Ko Samet National Park and charges all visitors an en-
trance fee (adult/child 200/100B) upon arrival. The fee is collected at the National Parks of-
fice (btwn Na Dan & Hat Sai Kaew; sunrise-sunset) in Hat Sai Kaew; sŏrngtăaou from the pier
will stop at the gates for payment. Hold on to your ticket for later inspections.