Koh Tabu - Phang Nga

Koh Tabu - Phang Nga

The island of Khao Tapu is located in the Phang Nga Bay national park, Thailand.

This now famous landmark first found its way onto the international map through its starring role in the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun - for this reason, it is also often referred to as James Bond island. The entire
area surrounding this island with its signature rocky pinnacle is indeed spectacular, but most of the tours bus visitors up the main highway for an hour on the same well-worn itinerary. An integral part of most tours is lunch at Koh Panyee.

There is a bus boat that moves around the islands and ends up at James Bond Island but by far the largest number
of people do this trip via a tour from Phuket, Thailand that takes people through some of the major sites on the way. Alternatively, take a boat cruise from the north of Phuket Island, Thailand – less crowds and a bit quieter.

James Bond locations - James Bond Island is just one of dozens of famous and exotic locations at which filming for the James Bond series of movies has taken place.

Koh Rang - Trat

Koh Rang - Trat

It is the western most island in the Koh Chang archipelago on the south eastern edge of the Gulf of Thailand. The island rises up out of 60m of water in most places and has few beaches. Thesoutheastern corner of the island offers a reasonable anchorage and the Thai Coast Guard has deployed several mooring buoys in this area for dive boats. There is a small Buddhist shrine on the beach adorned with phallic fertility statues. The small island of Koh Tun lies across a narrow channel to the south where fishing boats take shelter from the southwest monsoon.

Phi Phi Islands

Mu Koh Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands)

Regarded by travelers from all walks of life as being among the most beautiful tropical islands of the world, Phi Phi Islands have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand. In addition, the islands are famous as the location where the movie "The Beach" featuring Leonardo Di Caprio was shot. The islands, together with the nearby Noppharat Thara Beach, a total area of 390 square kilometers, were recently established as a national park. Phi Phi Islands are located just 40 kilometers away from both Krabi and Phuket. Thus, despite the fact that both Noppharat Thara Beach and Phi Phi administratively are a part of Krabi Province, most tourists think that Ko Phi Phi is part of Phuket Province.

The islands and the coastal hills are composed mainly of limestone and are an extension of the limestone mountain range in Phang-Nga Province. The main characteristics of these mountains and islands are their steep cliffs, large caves and dwarf trees growing out of the rock crevices, like those in Phang-Nga Bay.

The island group is composed of two rocky, tree-covered islets Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le. Phi Phi Don, the larger islet to the north, is well known for its fine beaches and coral formations. Above average tourist facilities and accommodations are available along two beautiful curved bays, namely Ton Sai Bay and Lodalam Bay. Several shops at Ton Sai can arrange diving and snorkeling trips around the island or the nearby islands - Koh Phi Phi Le,
Koh Yung and Koh Mai Phai.

About 2 kilometers to the south is Phi Phi Le. Contrary to Phi Phi Don, this islet is uninhabited as there is no beach area as the island descends abruptly into the sea on all sides and it is prohibited by the administrative body. The main attraction is a large cave about 3.2 square kilometers in size known as Viking Cave derived from one of the numerous drawings on the wall which resembles a Viking ship. The cave has a 10 to 15-metre high ceiling which contains many
ledges inhabited by thousands of swallows, thus a bird's nest collection demonstration is a regular feature of guided tours.

Ao Maya and Ao Lo Sama - Phi Phi Islands scenic coves are favorite snorkeling places while the sea around the islands, especially the southern part, which are deep and full of coral formations are popular diving spots. With its emerald crystal sea, secluded beaches, mountain cliffs, colorful coral reefs and undersea life, Phi Phi is a paradise in the Andaman Sea. The best time to visit Phi Phi Islands is from November to April, when the sea is calm.

Koh Yung, an island to the north of Koh Phi Phi Don, has a stone beach on the east and small sandy beaches amid valleys. In addition, the island is teeming with diverse colorful coral reefs. Koh Phai, another island to the north of Koh Phi Phi Don and not far from Ko Yung, has spectacular beaches in the north and east of the island. The bank of coral reefs comprised mainly of antler corals stretches from the north to the south of the island.

Getting to Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi Islands which are equidistant to Phuket and Krabi Provinces can be reached by boat.

From Krabi
Chao Fa Pier: Passenger boats leave Chao Fa Pier twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. The trip takes about 2.30 hours.Ao Nang: There is one express boat trip leaving daily at 9 p.m. taking 40 min.

Koh Mak - Trat

Koh Mak - Trat

This is a large island to the south of Koh Chang that is blessed with several beautiful bays and beaches and coral reefs nearby that are still in perfect condition. The islanders make their living by growing rubber and coconut trees. The best time to visit is from November until late April. There are a number of accommodations and tourist facilities available. A passenger boat departs Laem Ngob daily at 3.00 p.m. and returns from Ko Mak at 7.00 a.m., traveling time is 3.5 hours.

Koh Mak has 27 km coastline, many nice and long sand beaches, a few hills and it is about 16 km² large. On low tide, it is possible to walk to Ko Kham, which is a smaller island less than 1 km northwest from Koh Mak. Ko Phi, also north west from Koh Mak but southwest from Koh Kham, is not occupied. There are about 12 resorts on Ko Mak. Activities include sea kayaking, snorkeling, swimming and motorbiking, also on low season.

Both Koh Kham and Koh Phi can be easily reached with sea kayak from the resorts on north west coast of Koh Mak. Both little islands have nice places to snorkel, depending on the direction of wind. Speedboat service 2 trips everyday from LaemNgob 10.00 AM. and 04.00 PM. From Koh Mak 08.00 AM. and 01.00 PM. Takes about 50 minute travel time. A ferry from Laem Ngop district takes about three hours to Koh Mak and it goes there daily leaving on 15:00 (on August 2004). A ferry from the island leaves at 8:00 (on August 2004)

Koh Larn - Pattaya City

Koh Larn - Pattaya City

Lying about 7.5 kilometers off of Pattaya by a 45-minute ferry or 15 minutes by speed boat ride, the island measures 2 kilometers by 5 kilometers and offers several white sandy beaches, notably Hat Ta Waen, Hat Laem Thian and Hat Thong Long, the latter facing coral reefs. Visitors can choose either snorkeling or viewing the coral from glass bottom boats. Ferries to the island leave South Pattaya pier daily from10.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. Cruises by sailing junks, with lunch provided are also available. Most of the people that live here also work and go to school on the island. Any of the everyday necessities are here including a police force and a small medical facility. There are about six beaches on the island that boast white sand and clear blue water. Koh Larn is a lush green tropical island which has an abundant amountof rain fall each year during monsoon. The terrain is mostly mountainous which is covered in most part with heavy vegetation, jungle if you will. Monkeys naturally inhabit the island as well as other wildlife. Infrastructure here in mostpart consist of narrow roadways covered with brick pavers.
There are many activities here for visitors to enjoy, some include para sailing, snorkeling, jet ski, banana boat, of course swimming in tropical waters, and there is even a shooting range located here. Because the island is mountainous there are also some spectacular views for those that like to take a few snapshots. Koh Larn is also very suited for bicycling andhiking, many bicycling events have been held here. Many movie production companies have used the island for movie shoots. There are many accommodations that will make you feel right at home here.
Then there are the places to eatmany right on the beach, serving up fresh, catch of the day sea food. Many visitors come to stay their entire vacation on Koh Larn and return year after year, kind of a home away from home for some.

Koh Laoya - Trat

Koh Laoya - Trat

This wonderful island which is less than 1 kilometer long and 300 meters wide with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water and colorful corals lies about 3 kilometers west of the southeastern end of Koh Chang. Koh Laoya forms an island group with Koh Laoya Klang and Koh Laoya Nok and is connected to Koh Laoya Klang by a wooden bridge. Travel time from Laem Ngob to the island takes about 2.5 hours and only chartered boats can reach the island.
Accommodation is available but must be reserved well in advance.

Koh Kood - Trat

Koh Kood - Trat

This island is the farthest island from the coast of Trat. Its size ranks it as the fourth largest island in Thailand or thesecond largest island next to Koh Chang in Trat. The island, which is 25 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide covers an area of approximately 105 square kilometers or 65,625 rai. Its natural features include mountains and plains where many streams originate and become waterfalls. One famous waterfall is Nam Tok Khlong Chao, which flows throughout the year and is an ideal place for swimming as it is comprised of 3 tiers; of which the upper two tiers are running streams and the lower one is a large pond. In 1911, King Rama VI paid a royal visit to this waterfall and named it 'Nam Tok Anam Kok' to commemorate Ong Chiang Su. In addition; there are beaches with crystal-clear
seas which are popular among visitorssuch as Taphao Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Khlong Hin Beach, Phrao Beach, etc. Accommodations with a private atmosphere is available for visitors at the inner sea of Koh Kood, and the other two islands, Koh Rat and Ko Mai Si, opposite to Koh Kood. Package tours including accommodation (on Koh Kood, Koh Lao Yaand Ko Ngam) as well as return fares are usually offered. Those wishing to charter a boat can contact the Laem Ngop landing or make advance inquiries at the Koh Chang Centre Point.

Getting to Koh Kood
There are boats from Koh Chang to Koh Kut three times a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday). Please ask for the departure times of the ferries from Laem-Ngop Pier to Koh Kut at the pier. Infrastructure on Koh Kood The island is rather flat compared to Koh Chang with the highest mountain on the island, Khao Phaenth, measuring 315 metres. It has a good number of wonderful beaches with crystal clear water (Ta Pho Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Thakian Beach, Phrao Beach etc.). Inland, the island is very wild with a lot of coconut and rubber treeplantations located in the plains. Population on Koh Kood Most of the island inhabitants live off of the cultivation of coconut, rubber production or fishing. But meanwhile the expanding tourism industry gives more and more work to the less than 2,000 residents. The best time to go to
Koh Kood The best time for a visit to Koh Kood is between beginning of November and the end of February. At this time it is relatively cool, dry and mostly sunny. But until the end of May, when it is hotter than the cool season, a visit is still convenient. Even during monsoon season, Koh Kood is worth visiting for it doesnt rain every day and all day long.

Activities on Koh Kood
Besides lazing on the beach, snorkeling at the beautiful coral reefs or just watching stars at night; visitors can also visit nearby islands for snorkeling and other activities. Some of the more expensive Resorts on Koh Kood offer Banana-, Donut-boat-trips and water-skiing. In addition
visitors can do drop line fishing at the beaches and bays or rent a boat over night
(about 3000 Baht) in order to try night time fishing.

Koh Kham - Trat

Koh Kham - Trat

It is a small island near Koh Mak, on Trat Province, Thailand.It can be reached with a sea kayak from Koh Mak or by walking during low tide. Koh Kham has nice places to snorkel, depending on the direction of wind. Especially the southbeach has a calm sea, nice sand dune, black lava rocks with shells and crabs (orcrayfishes or shellfishes). Near rocks, you may see (or swim over) black sea urchins that have 15-30 cm radius and many thin black pipes about 30-50 cm long (don't know the name, help wanted). Locals say that the pipes contain small needles and poison: if one touches the pipes and gets the needles, the needle should be crushed with a rock. The poison is only irritating and not lethal. In Thai, the name is Hoi Ment. It is endowed with natural wonders such as crystal clear seas, chie sandy beaches, coral reefs andmost importantly, tranquility and privacy. Ideal for swimming and diving,
the trip to Koh Kham from Laem Ngob takes 2.5 hours.

Samet Island

Samet Island

General Information of Samet Island
Koh Samet, also Koh Samet or Ko Samed or Koh Samed, is an island off the coastline of the Thai province of Rayong.
Popular with foreign tourists and as a weekend getaway for residents of nearby Bangkok, most of the island
(excluding the Na Dan area) belongs to the Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park.

Ko Samet is not overly renowned for its parties (unlike Ko Pha Ngan) or its diving (unlike Ko Tao), but it has both convenience and quietness in its favor. It's a popular tourist destination for Thais as well as foreigners for its proximity to Bangkok.

Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park Sparkling white sand and cliffs from an azure sea, the archipelago of Same Island is the setting that inspired classical Thai poet, Sunthorn Phu,to write his most famous epic: Phra Aphai Manee,a story of princes, sages, mermaids and
giants That was 150 years ago, and today you can still enjoy the magical qualities of Samet and surrounding areas.In 1981,the Royal Forest department declared the archipelago of Samet, the headland of Khao Laem Ya and 11 kilometer of Mae Ramphueng Beach to be a national park. Samet island group comprises of several islands i.e. Ko Kudi, Ko Kruai, Ko Ma Kham, Ko Ma Kham, Ko Plai Tin, Ko Thaiu and Ko Chan [Ko means island].One has its’own uniqueness
which visitors should not miss.

Located 200 kilometers southeast of Bangkok in Rayong province, Khao Laem Ya- Mu Ko Samet National Park covers 131 square kilometers of land and sea, and is an easy destination for Bangkokians and world travelers alike. Most come to relax and enjoy the beaches, but opportunities exist for more adventurous: hiking trails and exploring reefs.

How to go
Koh Samet, including all of the good parts, is a national park and has an entry fee. Thais pay 40 baht, foreigners 400 baht - a classic example of Thai dual pricing. If your ferry arrives at the main pier and you take a songthaew to the beaches, there will be a stop at the main ticket checkpoint. If your ferry arrives at one of the beaches, an officer will collect the fee as you step out of the surf. Note that there is plenty of foot traffic in and out of the park to the 7-Eleven
ATM or other shops and restaurants and if you have no bags you can nonchalantly walk into the park without anyone checking your ticket. (There is a road via the temple, take that and you won't get near the checkpoint.

The 1st class bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) to Ban Phe usually takes just over 3 hours,costs 276 baht, and terminates opposite the ferry piers (there's no direct service to Ban Phe from Moh Chit - nearest alternative is to Rayong, from there you can take a Song Thaew to Ban Phe). If you take a regular bus from Pattaya or Sattahip, you'll need to take a songthaew or charter a tuk-tuk to the ferry piers. Minibus services go straight to the piers.

Ferries from Ban Phe to Ko Samet take around 30 to 45 minutes. Only buy a one-way ticket, as there's no discount on round-trip tickets and you won't have to worry about losing it. The ticket sellers may also offer to sell you the national park ticket - don't bother.

The nearest airport fielding commercial flights is U-Tapao, just east of Sattahip - about 45 km from Ban Phe.

Phuket

Phuket

Located approximately 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as
the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white
powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest,
busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Nestled in the tropical zone off the west coast of the southern part of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean, the province covers an area of approximately 543 square kilometers (excluding small islets). It is estimated that Phuket Province covers an area of approximately 590 square kilometers if its 39 other small islands are included. The islands total length, from north to south, is estimated at 48.7 kilometers and approximately 21.3 kilometers wide.

Phuket borders on Phang-nga Province to the north. The other 3 sides are encircled by the Andaman Sea the place where many of the best diving sites are located. The island is connected to Phang-nga Province by Sarasin Bridge and Thep Krasattri Bridge.

Staying on the island is easy, as there are only two seasons in a year - the rainy season (May to October) and the hot season (November to April). The low season of phuket is between September and October as they are the wettest months. The best period for a visit, is from November to February, when it is possible to see the clear blue sky, feel the fresh sea breeze and marvel at the crystal clear water while lying on powdery, palm-fringed beaches. Average temperatures ranges between 23°C and 33°C.

Phuket's topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers except for a total of 9 brooks and creeks.

Phuket is divided into 3 administrative counties namely Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Thalang and Amphoe Kathu.

Phuket has a lot more to offer its visitors other than its natural heritage sea, sand, sky, beach, forest, and world renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell delighting travelers to the city, while Phuket-style hospitality has never failed to impress visitors from all walks of life. In addition, accommodations ranging from world
class resorts to tropical-style bungalows have warmly catered to the different needs of travelers. For seafood lovers, there is a lot more to sample than just Phuket's famous lobster. Altogether, these characteristics have made Phuket a truly unique destination.

Koh Chang - Trat

Koh Chang - Trat

A stretch of long white sandy beach dotted with coconut tree orchards is
a common sight on Koh Chang the largest and busiest island in Trat and the
second largest island in the country after Phuket. Covering an area of 429
square kilometers, Koh Chang, boasts several amazing natural wonders that blend magnificently with the traditional way of life such as 70 percent
undisturbed island rainforest, steep hills, cliffs, waterfalls, and notable
wildlife, fine beaches, coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. In
addition, numerous fruit orchards dot the island. Most of the scenic beaches


and bays are on the west side spreading from the north to the south they include Ao Khlong Son , Hat Sai Khao , Hat
Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae. A road cuts through the western shore almost reaching Hat Kai Bae where there is a
nature trail passing through Ao Bai Lan and Ao Kruat and meandering through wet forestland to Ban Bang Bao, a
fishing community on the foot of the hill in the south. To the east are Ao Sapparot, where a ferry landing is situated
and Ao Salak Khok. In addition, along the eastern shoreline is a road cutting through to Ao Salak Phet, a community
with a boat pier to the south of the island. Coral ranges worth visitingare at Ao Khlong Son near Koh Chang Noi and
around islands south of Koh Chang.

In addition to sea-based attractions Koh Chang has numerous inland attractions including several waterfalls with
reasonable access. They are the Khlong Phlu waterfall, 3 kilometers from Ao Khlong Phrao and a further 20 minutes
on foot; Khlong Nonsi waterfall, a 4-kilometre walk from park headquarters; and Khiriphet and Khlong Nung falls,
which are about 3 kilometers from Ban Salak Phet. As well as the obvious activities Ko Chang offers many other
attractions including waterfalls, temples, the National Park and Museum or the beautiful scenic lookout points, which
are all worth a visit. Divers will find fascinating diving areas off of the shores of Koh Chang and the surrounding
islands. Besides the many coral reefs,sunken warships,a reminder of times past,can be visited in the Salak Phet Bay.

The Koh Chang National Park occupies an area of 650 square kilometers and is comprised of 47 islets, which spread
from Laem Ngob to Klong Yai Districts.The most popular islands includes Koh Chang, Koh Klum, Koh Ngam, Koh Lao
Ya and Koh Rung where natural wonders await travelers. The most popular season for traveling to the National Park
is from November to March. The park headquarters are divided into 4 units namely Tha Than Mayom, Ban Khlong Son
Tha Khlong Plu and Ban Salak which provide useful tourist information. At any one of the headquarters, an entry fee
of 200baht is collected.

Samui Island

Samui Island

General Information of Samui Island
The island was probably first inhabited about 15 centuries ago, settled by fishermen from Malay Peninsula and Southern China.

It appears on Ming Dynasty maps dating back to 1687, under the name Pulo Cornam. The name Samui is mysterious in itself. Perhaps it is an extension of the name of one of the native trees, mui, or it is a corruption of the Chinese word Saboey, meaning "safe haven".Until the late 20th century, Samui was an isolated self-sufficient community, having little connection with the mainland of Thailand. The island was even without roads
until the early 1970s, and the 15km journey from one side of the island to the other involved a whole-day trek through the mountainous central jungles. Today, Samui has a population of about forty-five thousand, and lives on a successful tourist industry, as well as exports of coconut and rubber. It even has its own international airport, with flights daily to Bangkok and other major airports in Southeast Asia. While the island presents an unspoiled image to
the public perception, economic growth has brought not only prosperity and changes to the island's environment and culture, a source of conflict between local residents and migrants from other parts of Thailand and other countries.

Geography
Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 35km northeast of Surat Thani town(9°N, 100°E). It is surrounded by about sixty other islands, most of which comprise the Ang Thong National Marine Park, but also include other tourist destinations Ko Pha Ngan,Ko Tao and Ko Nang Yuan.The island is roughly circular in shape, and is about 15km across. The central part of the island is an (almost) uninhabitable mountain jungle (peak Khao Pom, 635m) and the
various lowland areas are connected together by a single road, that covers the circumference of the island. There is one town, Na Thon, on the west coast of the island, with a major port for fishing and inter-island transportation. Each of Samui's many beaches is also nominally considered a town, due to the number of hotels, restaurants and bars that have sprung up in recent years

How to go
By plane : Bangkok Airways and (Berjaya Air) are the only public airlines currently serving Ko Samui Airport (USM) private planes are accepted with advance notice. Bangkok Air has near-hourly departures to/from Bangkok; tickets are expensive by Thai standards, but advance bookings can be tolerable (around 2000B), which a walk-in booking may be twice as much. There are also daily flights to/from Phuket for 2200 baht, U-Tapao, and Singapore; four direct
flights a week from Chiang Mai (but no direct flights in the opposite direction); and twice weekly flights to/from Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur (Berjaya Air). Air cargo services from both airlines are also available. Ground transportation from the airport is readily available. A seat in a minibus for the 20-minute ride to Chaweng costing 100 baht/person; a faster taxi will cost 150-300 baht. Be sure to negotiate the rate to your destination before you get into the taxi since
many drivers refuse to use their meters. A cheaper but less convenient option is to fly to Surat Thani or Chumpon and connect by road and then ferry. By boat : Numerous ferry services direct from mainland Surat Thani include an express boat and slow night boats
(taking6-7 hours).Lomprayah offers a combined bus/high speed catamaran ferry service from Bangkok to Ko Samui which takes about 11 hours . The bus pauses in Hua Hin and then stops at Chumphon where it connects with the ferry, which calls atKho Nang Yuan, Ko Tao and Ko Pha Ngan on its way to Ko Samui. The buses and ferry are air-con and very comfortable. From Surat Thani train station, combined bus/ferry services to Ko Samui - some entail a 60 minute bus ride followed by a 90 minute ferry crossing, others a 30 minute bus ride but longer on the ferry.
Tickets are sold by numerous agents who meet each train.

Koh Tarutao

Tarutao National Marine Park

Koh Tarutao consists of 51 islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Satun Province of Southern Thailand. The Tarutao National Marine Park consists of two island groups: Tarutao and Adang-Rawi , which are scattered from 20 to 70 kilometers distance from the southwestern most point of mainland Thailand. The park covers an area of 1,490 square kilometers (1,260 ocean, 230 island). The southern most end of the Park lies on the border with Malaysia. Tarutao became Thailand's first marine national park on April 19, 1974. The word Tarutao is Malay for "old, primitive, mysterious". The diving sites at the park are considered to be some of the best.

There are essentially 7 islands of note in the Tarutao/Adang-Rawi archipelagoes:
Tarutao Archipelago (located approximately 30 km off the Thai coast) Kok Tarutao - The largest of the islands, Kko Tarutao is 26.5 km long, and 11 km wide. The highest point is over 2,000 feet. Forest covers over 60% of the island. Kok Klang, Kok Lek Adang Archipelago (located approximately 45 km west of Tarutao) Kok Adang , Kok Rawi, Kok Lipe, Kok Dong In the Adang Archipelago, the small (4 sq. km) island of Lipe is the most important. With water available year-round, it is the home of the largest permanent settlement, of approximately 800, and the gateway for boat transportation in and out of the Adang group.

History
The park was established in 1974. In 1982, it was listed as one of the original ASEAN Heritage Parks. It was also submitted to UNESCO for inclusion to the World Heritage in 1990, but its listing was deferred in the fifteenth session of the World Heritage Committee in 1991. The UNESCO requested a stronger management of the area.

Koh Racha - Phuket

Koh Racha - Phuket

The island consists of Racha Yai and Racha Noi islands located south of Phuket. Koh Racha Yai (Big Racha) has an enchanting beach located on the west between the valleys that resembles horseshoes. The area is known as Ao Bungalow which is famous for its white powdery beach and crystal clear water. Visitors can marvel at the delightful panoramic view of the whole island from the vantage point at the peak of the mountain located south of the bay.Koh Racha Yai is the ultimate place to explore the wonders of the underwater world, especially at Ao Siam, Ao Tue and Khon Kae. Accommodations are available.Koh Racha Noi (Small Racha) is located just 10 kilometers from Big Racha Island. Originating from the accumulation of coral stones, the island has more rocky hills than beaches, thus the island is more suitable for fishing. To get there, visitors can charter long-tailed or speed boats from Chalong Pier. Alternatively, they can buy a package tour from reliable travel agencies.

Koh Sire - Phuket

Koh Sire - Phuket

An interesting site to visit where visitors can explore the daily life of Chao Le as it is the oldest and biggest community of Phukets sea gypsies. With an area of approximately 20 square kilometers, the island is located approximately 4 kilometers southeast of Phuket and is separated from the main island only by the small Thachin Canal. The mountain-top temple on the island houses a big Buddha image in the reclining position. The island is not an ideal place for swimming, but is perfect for discovering the sea gypsies' way of life, especially at Laem Tukkae.

Koh Mai Thon- Phuket

Koh Mai Thon- Phuket

A small peaceful island located southeast of Phuket, Ko Mai Thon is famous for its unique corals, crystal clear waterand relaxing ambience. The island is ideal for diving, swimming or even fishing. Accommodations are available forthose wishing to stay in this enchanting, secluded den. A one-day trip is also provided by travel agencies. There areboats to Ko Mai Thon from Rawai Beach.

Koh Naka Noi - Phuket

Koh Naka Noi - Phuket

Located near Po Bay, approximately 25 kilometers north of Phuket City, the island offers unspoiled natural beauty thatis second to none. Ko Nakha Noi is approximately 6 kilometers off of Po Bay and is home to the Naga Pearl Farm theonly South Sea Pearl Farm which is open to the public all year round. Visitors will be able to learn more on techniquesof pearl cultivation at the farm. Souvenir shops are available.

Koh Surin- Phang Nga

Koh Surin- Phang Nga

Situated in Tambon Koh Phra Thong and covering an area of 84,375 rais (33,750 acres), Mu Koh Surin is an archipelago of 5 islands: Koh Surin Nuea, Koh Surin Tai, Ko Ri, Koh Khai, and Ko Klang. It was declared a national park on July 9, 1981. The archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai-Burmese sea border, to the west coast of Thailand. There are beautiful and unspoilt coral reefs; the area is suitable for snorkelling. The best time tovisit is from November to April.Koh Surin Nuea has several bays. The most well-known bay is Ao Mae Yai, the largest bay that offers calm waters. To the southeast of Koh Surin Nuea lies Ao Luek, which is so deep that the sea appears dark green, offering splendid shallow corals as well as sea weeds, sea flowers, coral lines, and various species of fish. Sea Gypsy Village, a Singha, or Morgan, Sea Gypsy tribe resides on the shore of Hat Sai En, Koh Surin Nuea. There are 130-150 sea gypsies who still hold on to their traditional ways of life and still live in their boats. On shore, there is a wooden sculpture resembling the Indian Totem Pole and is considered a sacred area. Every year, on the 15th day of thewaxing moon in April, the sea gypsies in this village would worship their respected spirits. The event lasts for 3 days. Ao Mai Ngam, situated to the west of Koh Surin Nuea with the National Parks office nearby. There is a 2-kilometre walking path that you can take to enjoy the natural features of Hat Mai Ngam or you can take a longboat ride. The lovely bay provides fresh water and a long beach that is best for snorkelling and swimming. Ao Chak, situated to the north of Koh Surin Nuea. The bay possesses unspoilt coral reefs.Interesting attractions on Ko Surin Tai include Ao Tao, situated to the east of the island. The bay is home to numerous sea turtles and magnificent coral reefs. Ao Phakkat, situated to the south of Koh Surin Tai. It is where unspoilt coral reefs can be seen.Koh Klang or Koh Pachumba has a scenic bay called Ao Mangkon. The bay is teeming with splendid coral reefs and many schools of various kinds of fish.Koh Khai or Koh Torilla, situated to the south of Koh Surin Tai. On the eastern side of the island there is a long stretch of unspoilt and picturesque coral reef. Snorkelling is the most recommended activity here.

Koh Pha Ngan - Surat

Koh Pha Ngan - Surat

ThainKoh Pha Ngan (or Koh Phangan) is an island in the Gulf of Thailand in South East Thailand. It is famous for its fullmoon party at Haad Rin Beach and as a backpackers destination. Koh Pha Ngan has two sister islands: Koh Samui inthe South and Koh Tao in the North. Short Story about Koh Pha Ngan The Bronze Drum of Dongson Culture (500BC - 100BC) that was found on Ko Samui in 1977 is evidence that therewere settlements of people on Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and their islets from more than two thousand years ago.Some historians and archaeologists believe that the first group who migrated to Koh Pha Ngan were the Muslim seagypsies (Pigmy, Semung, and Proto-Malay) who travelled by boat from the Malay Peninsula. However, nowadaysthere are few Muslims who live on the island. The name of Koh Pha Ngan comes from the word 'Ngan', the southerndialect meaning 'sand bar', for there are many sand bars offshore around the island.As a natural paradise island in the Southern Gulf of Thailand, Koh Pha Ngan serves as the perfect getaway retreat,where one may go relaxing on quiet deserted beaches, snorkelling and learning to dive at the distinctive island of KohMa, trekking in the footsteps of Thai Royalty at Than Sadet National Park steeped in history and culture, or seekingadventure in the nearby Ang Thong archipelago composed of over 40 islands endowed with pristine beaches, naturalcaves and the tranquil Tha Laem Nai. Koh Pha Ngan has over 250 resorts to choose from, ranging from the budget 80Baht a night beach hut without private toilet to luxury air-conditioned accommodation with private swimming pool.It's the simple beach life which continues to attract visitors each year along with the island's reputation for full moonparties and a hedonistic approach to life. The backpackers, budget tourists and aging hippies are beginning to giveway to families and more mainstream tourists but the beaches are still beautiful and undeveloped. The full moon partyscene still runs with a cast of thousands in high season - all on the beach. Hedonists everywhere still flock to theworld's biggest beach party every month. The music from the multiple sound systems is mostly ear-splittingly loudtrance and house, and a predominantly youthful crowd dance 'til dawn on party nights. This may not be to everyone'staste, certainly, but it's definitely a unique cultural experience. Other events such as the Half Moon Party and BlackMoon Party also attract large crowds. However, it is still possible to visit the island and avoid the full moon partyaltogether, with dozens of quiet, secluded resorts and beach huts dotted all over the island for a variety of prices.Many of the more costly resorts offer such facilities as daily yoga, yoga teachers' training, meditation, a variety ofhealing, healthy & natural therapies, spa massage & pampering services and herbal steam rooms.Other activities available on the island include scuba diving with a number of companies offering very reasonablypriced training courses and excursions, snorkelling, especially off the Mae Haad sandbar in the north west,wakeboarding, archery, fishing, walks in the national park or simply relaxing in the company of other farangs or thefriendly locals.

Mu Koh Similan (Similan Island)

Mu Koh Similan (Similan Island)

Similan is a Yawi or Malay word, which means nine or a group of nine islands. This is located in Tambon Koh Phra Thong, Amphoe Khura Buri, occupying an area of 32,000 acres. It was declared a national park on 1st September 1982. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south, respectively, namely: Koh Bon, Koh Bayu, Koh Similan, Koh Payu, Koh Miang (two adjoining islands), Koh Payan, Koh Payang, and Koh Huyong. The National Parks office is located on Koh Miang. Similan is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater. It is situated 70 kilometres from Phang-nga town. Best time to visit is between November and April.Interesting attractions in the National Park include:Koh Similan or Koh Paet is the largest island in this group of islands. It has a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bay. The average depth of the water is 60 feet. Underwater is full of rock formations and coral reefs in several shapes and forms such as deer, leaf, brain, and mushroom. The latter one is the most unspoiled coral found in the country. Its soft sandy beach is very beautiful and diving around here will let you see a lot of fishes and coral. To the north, lies a striking large rock formation with astonishing shapes such as boot and Donald Ducks head. The upper part of the beach is an ideal lookout point with a rock of a sailing boat shape.Koh Ba-ngu is the ninth island of the Similan group of islands. It has a strange feature. Looking from one point, the shape of a skull can be seen. Underwater is as beautiful as a valley full of coral reefs, deep gorge, and various sizes of fish.Koh Huyong, the island offers the whitest and longest beach of all the nine islands. During turtles' egg laying season, from November to February, there would be tracks on the beach from turtles that come onshore to lay eggs, resembling centipede tracks.Koh Miang is the second largest island among 9 islands after Similan Island. It is where the office of the National Park is located. The island offers a scenic beach which is suitable for camping.Diving SpotsThere are several diving spots that suit both snorkelling and scuba diving. The famous scuba diving spots including rock formations that lie to the west of Ko Tachai where whale sharks can be seen, Koh Bon, Christmas Point rock formation, Fantasy rock formation, and Ao Kwang En (to the east of Koh Paet), etc.Snorkelling spots are scattered around these nine islands. The interesting points are by the sailing boat rock, Ao Kwang En, and behind Miang Island.

Koh Hea - Phuket

Koh Hea - Phuket

Located southwest of Cape Panwa, the island is famous for its white powdery beach and rich coral reefs whichare ideal for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and other water sports. As the island is not affected verymuch by the monsoon, would be visitors can enjoy traveling to the place year round. Koh Hea has become a popularone-day tour from Phuket as it is only half an hour from the Chalong Pier. It is also dubbed the Coral Island by tourists.Accommodations and basic tourist facilities are available, contact the TAT Phuket Office for more up-to-dateinformation.

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