Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Ko Pha-Ngan
POP 12,500
Slacker, hippie-at-heart Ko Pha-Ngan has become so synonymous with the wild and
massive Full Moon Party on Hat Rin that the rest of the island - and even Hat Rin outside
of full moon week - gets forgotten. It's a strange juxtaposition where for one week the is-
land has some 30,000 people crammed on one beach partying their minds out and then off
they all go on the next boat, leaving the beaches and accommodations half empty. It's at
this time that budgeting serenity seekers can retreat into a fog (perhaps with a slight herbal
scent) of the backpacker days of old and nab a fan-cooled beach shack from 400B (on the
northern beaches at least). This will probably change quickly with the imminent opening
of the island's airport in late 2014, but for now this exceptionally gorgeous is land is in a
sleepy sweet spot where you can even find a solid bungalow on Hat Rin for around 1000B
outside of full moon mania .
Ko Pha-Ngan has plenty to offer the more clean-cut, comfort-seeking traveller as well;
its peace and quiet make it a great choice for families. Remote Hat Thong Nai Pan Noi in
particular feels like a miniature version of Ko Samui with its elegant resorts fronted by
rows of cushion-clad beach loungers, while the easier-to-access west coast has attracted a
handful of new upscale resorts and a few older places have been revamped to attract a
more ritzy market.
The phrase 'private infinity pool' and 'personal butler' may soon be heard more fre-
quently than 'magic milkshake' and 'another whisky bucket please'. But whatever hap-
pens, chances are that the vast inland jungle will continue to feel undiscovered, and there
will still be plenty of stunning, secluded bays where you can string up a hammock and
watch the tide roll in. Enjoy.
