Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Jungle Gym
(Hat Rin)
One of several Thai boxing places on Ko Pha Ngan, this very conveniently loc-
ated gym was one of the island's first. It also offers yoga and well-maintained fitness
equipment.
GYM
Tours
Eco Nature Tour
( 08 4850 6273)
This exceedingly popular oufit offers a 'best of' island trip, which in-
cludes elephant trekking, snorkelling and a visit to the Chinese temple, a stunning view-
point and Nam Tok Phaeng. The day trip, which costs 1500B, departs at 9am and returns
around 3pm. Bookings can be made at its office in Thong Sala or at the Backpackers In-
formation Centre.
Pha-Ngan Safari
(
ECO TOUR
08 1895 3783, 0 7737 4159)
offers a similar trip for 1900B.
Sleeping
Ko Pha-Ngan's legendary history of laid-back revelry has solidified its reputation as
the
stomping ground for the gritty backpacker lifestyle. Even so, many local mainstays have
recently collapsed their bamboo huts and constructed newer, sleeker accommodation
aimed at the ever-growing legion of 'flashpackers'.
On other parts of the island, new tracts of land are being cleared for Samui-esque five-
star resorts. But backpackers fear not; it will still be a while before the castaway lifestyle
goes the way of the dodo. For now, Ko Pha-Ngan can revel in having excellent choices to
suit every budget. Pha-Ngan also caters to a subculture of seclusion-seekers who crave a
deserted slice of sand. The northern and eastern coasts offer just that - a place to escape.
Sleeping options start in Hat Rin, move along the southern coast, head up the west
side, across the northern beaches and down the quiet eastern shore. The accommodation
along the southern coast is the best bang for your baht on Ko Pha-Ngan, while the west
coast is seeing a lot of development. The atmosphere here is a pleasant mix of quiet se-
clusion and a sociable vibe, although some of the beaches, particularly towards the south,
aren't as picturesque as other parts of the island. Price tags are also higher than north or
south of here.
