Koh Chang provides a cost-effective and easily accessible island retreat, only a five-hour journey from Bangkok. With its quieter beaches, fresh seafood, and picturesque fishing villages, it is the ideal location for an unhurried vacation.
Koh Chang surprisingly does establish its own particular identity—it is cost-effective and easily accessible despite being relatively unknown. Located just five hours by car from Bangkok, it is a suitable choice for those seeking a carefree vacation away from the capital.
Koh Chang offers a rare opportunity to readily experience the islands of Thailand.
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Chang
Reaching Koh Chang is a key part of the overall experience. Situated in Trat province, the island is accessible via car, bus, or plane, culminating in a short ferry trip. Many travelers prefer the five-hour scenic drive, while others opt for a short domestic flight to Trat Airport, situated just 20 minutes from the ferry pier.
It is recommended that you book your travel arrangements through companies like 12Go. They provide van transfers with a meeting point, ensuring that your trip is smooth from the very beginning to the moment you arrive at your hotel. It also allows you to book your return trip easily, making your travel plans more convenient.
I am hereby allowing myself to fully experience the unspoiled nature of this island
Koh Chang, Thailand’s second-largest island, is filled with striking contrasts. On the west coast, beaches such as White Sand Beach and Kai Bae Beach present a lively atmosphere, complete with beachside bars, family-friendly resorts, and soft, golden sands. Meanwhile, Lonely Beach, once a secluded sanctuary for backpackers, has evolved into a vibrant strip lined with bars and nightclubs. Nonetheless, despite its transformation, Koh Chang still boasts quieter areas where one can truly experience peace. Klong Prao Beach is ideal for fans of sunsets, and Klong Kloi Beach offers a more tranquil escape.
In the midst of the island, Koh Chang’s less crowded areas remain unaltered. The Bang Bao Village, a quaint fishing community situated on stilts, offers guests the opportunity to stroll through its wooden paths and taste the freshest seafood caught on the same day. Further south, the Salak Phet area provides a glimpse into the island’s authentic way of living, surrounded by coconut plantations and fishing boats gently swaying in the harbour.
This island is a nature lover’s haven. Its lush interior contains the Khlong Phlu Waterfall, where a short walk leads to a refreshing swim in a natural pool. Adventurously-minded travelers may also explore the island’s jungle pathways, discovering secluded beaches and panoramic vistas along the way.
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5. **Overstaying**: Due to the simplicity of Law in Thailand, the average fine for overstaying a visa is a very low fee – at around 500 THB although it is higher for unavailable entry points
What sets Koh Chang apart is its affordability, making it a prime destination for remote workers who seek a place to stay for an extended period. In contrast to more developed islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Chang offers the advantage of longer stays. The island’s laid-back atmosphere features numerous coffee shops where one can relish expertly crafted coffee whilst working in a serene environment.
For a co-working space, Oopsy Daisy Work and Play Café is a viable choice. Specialty coffee enthusiasts will appreciate L’ Coffee and Bar, a compact coffee cart featuring a casual, outdoorsy atmosphere. WARI Coffee, located right on the beach, is another excellent option where you can obtain high-quality coffee or refreshing coconut water. Additional recommendations are Coffee Routine, Hill Café, and Sea Almond.
One of the things we appreciate about Thailand is how many cafes serving coffee also serve delicious, straightforward Thai dishes. You don’t need to visit upscale restaurants to find genuine Thai cuisine, as it’s simple to find and is always full of flavour.
on Koh Chang
Koh Chang’s accommodation scene is as diverse as its landscapes. Budget travelers will appreciate the charm of “Saffron on the Sea,” known for its beautiful location right on the water, simplicity, and friendly atmosphere. For those seeking a more upscale experience, “Dinso Resort & Villas Koh Chang” offers chic design in neutral tones. Other favorites include “Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort” and “Sea Escape Koh Chang”.
