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Koh Chang

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand

by Kim 7th April 2023

written by Kim

The tiny South-East corner of Thailand has always intrigued me and an invitation to review the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang was an excuse to make our way for some exploration in this area.

As tourism is recovering fast and to avoid potential queues for the Koh Chang ferry, we decided to overnight in Chanthaburi and continue to the island in the morning. Chanthaburi is a favourite of ours that is still mostly missed by tourists. The outskirts and not remarkable but once you are by the river, it is like entering another world.

The River Chanthaburi influenced the way that the old town was formed and in one relatively small area you can still see and experience a way of life from a century ago. Traditional tradesmen buildings occupy the water’s edge and as you walk down the narrow Sukhaphiban road the impressions are most memorable. You can catch views into the old shop houses where people still live their simple lives. Some buildings have been restored and re-opened as boutique hotels and others as charming cafés and restaurants on the river. An evening walk past the impressive gothic style Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and then finding a hidden café is a must when you visit.

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 1 — Charms of Chanthaburi

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 2 — Charms of Chanthaburi

We stayed at the very comfortable Am2tree hotel which is in a very quiet location just a 15-minute walk to the Cathedral.

The next morning it was just a one-hour drive to the Ao Thammachat pier for the short crossing to the island. There were more cars waiting than for our last visit during Covid, but we only have to wait 15 minutes for boarding. Our car with two passengers cost just THB.280. The ferries are simple and there is adequate seating for the 20 minute journey.

We were staying the first two nights at the Blue Haven Resort which is just 5 minutes from the arrival pier, so just over one hill and turn right to this exceptional resort area. I wrote a full review that can be read here...

Likewise, I have written an article entitled Koh Chang Re-visited which can be viewed here…

There was no waiting for the return ferry which appeared to be a newer vessel we had the pleasure of turning right on the main road rather than follow all the other cars that turned left. We like to visit atypical places and drive roads that are just there, so we continue south to the Cambodian border. It is a lovely drive along an excellent road with panoramic sea view on one side and the Cambodian border being defined by the range of hills on the left. Rather unspectacular but we did have the dubious honour of being at the ‘Narrowest Part of Thailand’. This is a disputed claim with a spot near Prachuap Khiri Khan and another on the 3 Pagoda Pass. This was definitely narrow at 450 meters and the obscure and abandoned monument left us rather confused. Some little coffee shops are appearing on this section of the road, whilst well located and nicely decorated their coffee skills do need to improve significantly.

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 4 — Only 450 m wide at this point

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 5 — Only 450 m wide at this point

Our destination this evening was Trat purely for dinner and a good sleep before heading out on our next adventure to drive a road, just because it is there. There is some charm to Trat and we will return in the near future.

I have a large map of Thailand above my desk, and I see roads that I want to drive just because they are there! The 317 from Chantaburi to Sa Kaeo is one of these roads as it runs parallel to the Cambodian border. There is little of specific interest along this route but if you want to see a fertile Thai farming landscape the sights are most uplifting. The range of produce grown here is vast with Durian being the largest accompanied by rubber, pineapples and cashew. Thailand is one of the largest producers of the durian fruit exporting extensively to China. The trees take 4-6 years to mature and one can see in this region the massive increase with new plantations being grown.

This area is extremely fertile and enjoys good supplies of water from the nearby mountains, rivers and reservoirs. Whilst many areas of Thailand will appear quite dry and parched at this time of the year(March) this region is green and abundant

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 7 — The scenic Kirithan Reservoir

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 8 — The scenic Kirithan Reservoir

This was my first time seeing cashew trees and it is incredible to see what the tree has to produce just to produce the halves of a cashew nut that we are familiar with. The flower turns into an apple-like growth with the nut protruding from it’s base. Evidently a mature cashew tree can produce 50-100 kgs of nuts annually!

My plans to fully explore the 317 were interrupted by our proximity to the Buddhist pilgrimage site Wat Phluang Khao Kitchakut mountain temple and we veered off to pay our respects. The full article on Wat Phluang Khao Kitchakut can be viewed here…

With the change of plans and an exhilarating visit to the mountain temple we returned to the Am2tree hotel and enjoyed one more evening having dinner within the charming old town of Chanthaburi.

Road Trip Koh Chang and the South-East corner of Thailand 10

7th April 2023 0 comment

Destinations

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023

by Kim 30th March 2023

written by Kim

Koh Chang Island, Trat Region, Thailand.

I have visited Koh Chang several times over the past 10 years and honestly it has not changed drastically in this time. There must have been many changes but I just note the addition of some new, up-market hotels and otherwise not a vast difference.

It remains a laid-back island with some beautiful beaches and interesting sights to explore. We stayed at the delightful Blue Haven Bay and I would heartily recommend staying here if you are looking for an unspoilt bay that stretches almost as far as the eye can see. It is a very relaxed and quiet resort area with many different restaurants and activities. Also extremely convenient for the ferry being just 5 minutes away. You can read our full review at ….

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 16 — Marina Sands part of the Blue Haven Bay

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 17 — Marina Sands part of the Blue Haven Bay

We travel with our own car. We have developed a relaxed teamwork and prefer the convenience of having everything that we need in the vehicle. I have been driving in Thailand for over 10 years and believe that I now know every surprise that the Thai roads can spring on us! When you arrive in Koh Chang you immediately have to climb quite a steep hill(the turn off to Blue Haven Bay is just on the other side). You then drive through a little village and then all traffic has to climb a seriously steep pass with multiple hair-pin corners. The locals treat this road with typical indifference but so many tourists struggle especially if they are on a rented motor scooter.

Whilst renting a moto-scooter in Thailand is part of the experience, for some it becomes a painful memory with scars to prove it. Please wear helmets at all times(it is the law) and drive carefully.

In general, the island was relatively quiet during our visit. Talking so many locals we were told that November to February is the busy season and the rest of the year it is quieter. The exception is any Thai holiday when many Thais will undergo the longer journey to be further from Bangkok and enjoy an island experience. There were people around but certainly not crowded.

It takes 6-7 hours to drive the 350 kms from Bangkok. There is a small airport at Trat but this is only serviced by costly Bangkok Airways, so the island is beyond the average weekender, therefore encouraging longer stays.

We actually love the North and East of the island. It is cruising country with the windows open, inspiring music and spectacular coastal views as you drive through the fertile farming area. Much quieter that the West, few brave the drive over the mountain to explore. We have noticed that some coffee shops are now opening providing pleasant breaks for the adventurous travellers in this area.

We were most impressed by the Salat Khok boat trip through the Mangroves. It is a community project supporting sustainability. The boats are flat bottom punts and your ‘Captain’ stands with 2 paddles propelling you silently through the calm estuary. It is very relaxing, we did not see any plastic but limited wildlife. Check the tides, as when it is low tide, all the water disappears! The food at their restaurant is excellent and reasonably priced. We did try to continue further south and made it eventually to Au Salat Phet and Long Beach, but hardly worth the effort of a long drive..

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 19 — Mangrove Forest at Salat Khok

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 20 — Mangrove Forest at Salat Khok

When you look at the map it appears that there is a lot to see and most attractions are waterfalls. With the exception of some showers and isolated storms, it has not rained substantially in Thailand for many months. Waterfalls are a pleasure to visit but they need water! So if you are travelling during the dry season the majority of the falls will just be a trickle rather than a torrent.

Travelling with a Thai partner, one tends to give in to their whims and wishes, so having said farewell to the Blue Haven Bay we first visited the Klong Son Elephant Camp. I am generally against animal exploitation but many of these camps would not exist if it were not for the tourist contributions. Our wonderful elephant did not seem to notice a 99kg farang landing daintily on her back! The walk is not over inspiring but feeling the adroitness of this marvellous animal as she picked her way through the boulders was enthralling. You are offered two options, just the ride or the ride with bathing. When I asked if they had water for bathing, the lady just gave me the ticket for the first option! At the end of the ride the elephant has the opportunity to bathe in the camp!

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 22 — It was an enjoyable ride

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 23 — It was an enjoyable ride

So now it was time to take on the pass to cross into the rest of the island. It is not long but the hairpins and elevation difference is quite spectacular however the looks on the tourists faces as they saw the road revealing it’s challenges again makes me remind everyone to wear a helmet.

As you come back to ground level you are plunged into White Sand Beach. Mostly hotels and resorts on the beach side and bars, restaurant and commercial entities on the landward side. It is a lovely white sandy beach and for some maybe a pleasant place to stay. For me the beach only comes alive in the evening as the restaurants extend their terraces to the water’s edge. A good range of shops, massage and bars can be enjoyed.

The drive south continues and I had to make a stop at Wari Café located on Klong Prao Beach. From the road the resorts tend to hide the beach, but look for the Wari sign and you can enjoy an excellent coffee whilst relaxing in their comfy beanbags. A short walk will take you to the saltwater estuary with restaurants and hotels on both sides.

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 25 — An excellent espresso

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 26 — An excellent espresso

At this point a mention on the infamous Thai Sand Fly. These blood-sucking dipteran can inflict nasty bits without you even feeling it. You never see then but a few hours later you will feel them. Sadly, I think that some had taken refuge in the Cafés beanbags and when my less than graceful descent into the enveloping comfort dislodged them, the voracious females proceeded to vigorously attack without my knowledge. Only later did the bites appear and the scratching commenced. I find that the ubiquitous Zam-Buk in the green and white tins the best and some antihistaminic to reduce the itchiness. Whilst Tiger Balm is good to relieve mosquito bites it is not recommended for Sand Fly bites.

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 28 — Never seen but soon felt!

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 29 — Never seen but soon felt!

Continuing south one passes the built up areas around Kai Bea Beach and then the road starts to climb through the lush jungle that covers most of the island. The road is relatively narrow and again be prepared for steep clumps, tight bend and invigorating descents. Our destination was the Bang Bao Pier which is the main departure point for the boats to the myriad of islands south of Koh Chang. Once a thriving pier with shops, restaurants and ticket sellers, it was still quiet and many of the shops remain empty. There had been a substantial kerosene spill in the water and the smell was intense but sadly the local fishermen did not seem concerned. We usually enjoy a fish lunch here but with the smell we retreated quickly.

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 31 — Take care with the roads

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 32 — Take care with the roads

Fortunately just above the pier is the charming Pipin Café who serve a deep, aromatic Chiang Mai espresso in a delightful island style café. It is the best coffee in this area of Koh Chang and a visit is highly recommended.

Starting to retrace our route back we chose to stay at the quirky Koh Chang 7 Resort. At the end of an every narrowing trail and right on the water’s edge the resort is quite basic yet has island charm. The 5 huts to the front are rustically constructed, simple, charming and have good a/c. Surprisingly the bathroom had a superb shower. The appeal of the resort was to be able to enjoy a cold Chang In front of our shack directly on the sea whilst waiting for the sunset. The resort is quite well known for it’s Korean restaurant which we tried and the food was enjoyable.

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 34 — Directly on the water’s edge

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 35 — Directly on the water’s edge

The next morning our plan was to return to the ferry but first a stop at the wonderful Fig Café which I remembered served a superb espresso. I even found it without Google maps only to discover that it was closed on a Wednesday. If you are in the region and looking for an excellent coffee, I do heartily recommend the Fig Café.

Just a short 3 day stay to see what was happening on Koh Chang and it was encouraging to see that many establishments have re-opened and being joined by new ones. Still relatively quiet during our March weekday visit but alive, kicking and always an enjoyable island destination.

Naturally a few Instamgramable images!

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 37 — Scenic Koh Chang

Koh Chang Island Re-visited March 2023 38 — Scenic Koh Chang

Kim Waddoup

Founder

Kim Waddoup enjoyed a lifetime in the tourism business and is an active ‘Silver-Ager” living in Thailand. He writes for his age group with high varied articles covering subjects relevant to retirees living in, or visiting Thailand. Any questions or comments on this post? Please do feel free to contact me through our ‘Contact Form’ or directly kim@meanderingtales.com

30th March 2023 0 comment

Blue Haven Bay by Siam Royal View, Koh Chang, Thailand

Destinations

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand

by Kim 20th March 2023

written by Kim

1.Location

The location of Blue Haven Bay is superb, just 5 minutes from the mainland ferry. Just cross one hill and the entrance is on the right so your holiday can start immediately.

The Blue Haven Bay resort complex occupies a large piece of land and almost an entire bay, making it one of the best places to spend a vacation on Koh Chang. Klong Son Bay is a picture-postcard tropical beach with the white sands of Chang Noi Beach lined by palm trees. The water is calm, clear and shallow making it very safe for families. There is the kilometre long natural beach and the artistically made, artificial rocks on the northern end. All allow easy access into the clear waters of the bay. Uniquely the property also has access to a smaller beach overlooking the Koh Chang Strait.

As you are located on the northern end of the island, it is the quieter and less commercialised part. A challenging climb over a mountain pass leads to White Sand Beach and the rest of the island whilst a relaxing drive along the north of the island will take you down the eastern coast to the ecological areas of the Mangrove Forests.

2. The Resort

The total resort area is vast, so it can be slightly confusing when you first arrive as this multi-functional resort offers a range of accommodation possibilities with 3 resorts and private villas. There is a slight feeling of ‘development in progress’ but in a most positive way as the current buildings allow a great deal of space. There are many plots for sale, so if you are looking for a lovely home for own use or rental in a premier resort, this could be for you.

The Marina Sands resort is located by the small marina on the Klong Song River. Just 4 stories high, the rooms are very large(ideal for families) and comfortably equipped with good sized balconies. There is a pool deck in this part of the complex but, at the time of our visit, the restaurant and bar were not operating. An on-demand shuttle will take you to the reception or the main resort area.

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 44 — Vast sized rooms

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 45 — Vast sized rooms

3. Relaxed comfort rather than suffocating luxury

Don’t take this as a criticism, rather as a complement. Many resorts have over excelled in their levels of luxury excessively pampering guests at every corner. One of the greatest features of the Siam Royal Bay is its level of relaxed comfort. You can be who you want to be and as there is no formal restaurant the dress code is extremely relaxed and truly, beach mode. Guests spread out through the resort, some in their villas, some in front of their rooms at the Peninsula Resort, others in the Beach Club infinity pool and others in the nooks and crannies scattered around the resort. It never feels busy or crowded.

4. Choice

It is the choice of locations and facilities dotted around the vast grounds that make the Blue Haven Bay quite unique. There are 2 main swimming pools, the extensive beach, kayaking, spa, pitch & putt golf, disc golf, jungle gym and even just exploring this vast space. Breakfast and easy dining is to be found in the Beach Bistro with the waves lapping at your feet. Additionally, there are two other dining options, the Laguna Beach house which we tried and the Café De Soleil which we only discovered after our departure.

5. Lack of distractions

When people vacation in a new place there is an urge to see everything which often results in an exasperating race against time. Initially it may appear that the facilities are lacking but once in island mode, you will find that everything you need is actually here. You can take long sunrise or sunset strolls along the beach, swim in the pools, try the pitch and putt course, outdoor cinema and so much more. Excursions are available as is motorbike or car rental if you want to venture out. Out of season, which is most of the year(!) the island is not busy and if you are looking for some nightlife the overrated offer of White Sands Bay with its commercial beach side restaurants or mostly deserted bars will soon have you scuttling back to the quiet sanctuary of the resort!

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 47 — Long sandy beaches

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 48 — Long sandy beaches

6. Limited sightseeing

Again not a criticism rather a great advantage in not having to make decisions. If you are only going to make 2 excursions, I highly recommend a leisurely drive down the east side of the island to the enchanting Salat Khok boat tour through the mangrove forests. A small village sustainable project the boats are similar to punts relying only on man-power to preserve the serenity of this ecological area. Lunch on fresh fish at the restaurant and enjoy the un-spoilt scenery of the less commercialised side of the island.

Another lovely excursion is to the Klong Son Elephant Camp. A very basic camp with many very relaxed and happy looking elephants and their mahouts. Whilst some may not agree with this animal usage, it is a way of providing a life for these magnificent beasts whose work in the jungle has largely been replaced by machinery. We were assured that a 100 kg Farang is merely a speck of dust to these powerful animals and whilst the ‘jungle’ walk is not over-inspiring, one can wonder at the dexterity of these elephants as they pick their way daintily through rocks and trees. You will also be rewarded with some lovely photos and the fact that your ‘donation’ provides food.

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 50 — Salat Khok boat tour

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 51 — Salat Khok boat tour

7. Ambience

As mentioned, it takes at least 24 hours to start to acclimatise to Beach Time. Breakfast is very relaxed with the doors of the Beach Bistro wide open to avail you of the sea breeze. Alternatively, you can sit outside at the edge of the water and see the fish hoping for some crumbs to come their way. The bar at the Infinity Pool is another popular spot for cold drinks or refreshing cocktails. We did not try the Café De Soleil or Little Sunshine Resort but did treat ourselves of the very quiet Shambhala Beach Bar and Restaurant. Whilst not connected to the main resort, as long as you take a drink or order some food you are invited to use their pool and relaxed garden. Another relaxed and very informal atmosphere with great ambience both in the day and evening.

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 53 — Beach Bistro

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 54 — Beach Bistro

8. Accommodation

The main resort offers 3 main types of accommodation; the comfortable and quiet Marina Sands Resort with their oversized and comfortable rooms. The Peninsula Beach Resort offers generously sized suites with beach side gardens or the impressive Siam Royal Collection villas for the vacation of your dreams. We stayed in the Marina Sands Resort; the room was vast and comfortable with fully equipped bathroom and large balcony. At the time of our stay occupancy was at about 50% but the style of the resort provides privacy and minimal contact. It also has the great advantage to being extremely quiet with no traffic, just the sound of the local wildlife in the Mangrove Forrest opposite.

9. Peace and Quiet

As the resort is by not fully completed with many building plots available and selective accommodation, the resort hardly feels busy and retains its relaxed informality. High Season in Koh Chang is from October to February. The island does become busier at weekends and especially over Thai holidays. At the rest of the time Peace and Quiet prevails especially at the Siam Royal Bay with no discos or loud music to spoil the ambience. Some nightlife is available over the hill but again generally just a relaxed tropical atmosphere. If you are looking for peace and quiet for an island getaway, then I can highly recommend the Siam Royal Bay but if you are looking for luxury and nightlife another island may suit your requirements better!

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 56 — Peace & Quiet

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 57 — Peace & Quiet

10. Sustainability

The entire resort area is well kept, free of litter and the beaches clean. Whilst you are free to drive around the resort there is little traffic with most guests preferring the shuttles. Whilst not promoted the resort does appear to be following a Sustainability approach to environmental issues.

There are no annoying Jet skis for machos to display their skills at the annoyance of all that are enjoying natural peace and quiet. Super-fast/loud speed boats are also absent from this delightful bay so you can swim or kayak as far as you wish without the worry of a humongous boat bearing down at you at excessive speed. The sea remains tranquil and if you crave the smell of kerosene infused water you will not find it here. It appears that environmental and sustainability issues are being takes care of seriously. Just one more reason to love the Blue Haven Bay at Siam Royal View!

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 59 — Sunset over the Mangrove forest

10 Top Reasons why I love the Blue Haven Bay on Koh Chang, Thailand 60 — Sunset over the Mangrove forest

Website and Contact Details for the Blue Haven Bay here…

Kim Waddoup

Founder

20th March 2023 0 comment

Destinations

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand

by Kim 25th October 2021

written by Kim

Tastefully discerning resort on Koh Chang that provides plenty of personal space

“This review was written just after the easing of travel restrictions. At this time, very few people were travelling and hotels working with skeleton staff and reduced facilities”.

The choice of hotels on Koh Chang is vast with an eclectic range from luxury, classic elegance, to modern conceptual to traditional and everything in between! Making a choice is quite a challenge and should be based on your desires and personal requirements.

We came upon the Gaja Puri almost by accident and were most pleased that fate had guided us here. Sometimes one tires of affluent elegance, luxury or stark conceptual design and looks for a resort where the design has been made to suit the guest rather than fill the annals of Instagram. The Gaja Puri is refined, sophisticated, low key, relaxed, comfortable and a wonderful place to stay on Koh Chang island.

The Reception area is modest and the welcome friendly. The resort consists of individual, single story villas that are scattered around the resort. There is quite a range of room size as can be seen on their website. These villas are connected by wooden walkways leading towards the impressive swimming pool and sandy beach.

We stayed in a Superior Room which was in effect a private wooden house fully equipped with an enormous double bed, desk, smart tv, A/C, ceiling fan, tea/coffee facilities and more. The bathroom was large and again fully equipped. We had a private terrace with sun beds and an umbrella. It represented classic comfort with space, lots of character and individually refined comfort.

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 68 — King Sized bed

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 69 — King Sized bed

The focal part of the resort is the large infinity pool looking out to the beach. The pool is beautiful with plenty of sun beds for use. There is a large grass area that then leads to the sandy beach. The Kai Bae Beach is not the biggest, but it is white sand with palm trees and everything that you expect on a tropical island!

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 71 — Kai Bae Beach

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 72 — Kai Bae Beach

The Beach Restaurant is sweet and intimate with a lovely terrace on the beach.

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 74 — Breakfast on the beach

At the time of our stay we were the only guests which was an amazing privilege as we had the entire resort to ourselves. It provided us an opportunity to explore all the areas and one can see that there is a comprehensive choice of room style to suit individual requirements.

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 75 — Pool, garden & beach

GajaPuri Resort and Spa, Koh Chang Island, Thailand 76 — Pool, garden & beach

The resort is located in the middle of the West Coast on Kai Bae Beach. Just outside the resort gardens are a range of bars and restaurants including the amazing Fig Café. An ideal resort that offers comfort, quality and tradition, even with other guests, I would enjoy staying here again!

https://gajapuri.com

Kim Waddoup

Founder

25th October 2021 0 comment

Destinations

Koh Chang – The Spa Koh Chang Resort

by Kim 22nd October 2021

written by Kim

The Spa Koh Chang is a wonderfully tranquil, jungle resort on the East coast of Thailand’s Koh Chang

“This review was written just after the easing of travel restrictions. At this time, very few people were travelling and hotels working with skeleton staff and reduced facilities”.

The Spa Koh Chang Resort is almost one of those ‘fantasy’ hotels that one dreams of discovering. Leaving the ferry, one sees all the other cars turn right and you turn left to the lesser populated side of Koh Chang island. It’s a peaceful drive with little to challenge the natural beauty and pristine seascapes. In fact the Eastern coast is really the most beautiful and less populated. Just as one thinks that the road leads nowhere the sign to The Spa Resort Koh Chang greats you. Down a little track and slowly the mystique of the resort reveals itself. It’s like a jungle, but look carefully and one sees that the vegetation is well cared for and between this luxurious greenery, small cabins appear. Welcome to The Spa Koh Chang Resort!

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 84 — View to Mangrove forest

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 85 — View to Mangrove forest

Apologies for my rather lyrical introduction but these were our thoughts as we approached. It was just after local travel restrictions had been relaxed and there were few cars on the Koh Chang ferry. It was early and we did not have any reservation, but I had heard about The Spa, wanted to see and so glad that we visited and spent an amazing day here.

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 87 — Hill Cottage

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 88 — Hill Cottage

We had the honour of sharing the resort with just 2 other guests so it was almost our private retreat and the staff were happy to see us and treated us so well.

Most of the rooms in the resort are in the little 2 storey Hill Cottages built on one side. Irregular walkways lead to these little houses. The rooms on the ground floor appear a little smaller and we chose a Hill Cottage Double Room on the upper floor of this jungle villa. The room was beautiful. Large, traditional, full of character and yet featuring all modern amenities. Teak flooring throughout, large bathroom with rain shower, comfortable double bed with mosquito net and a lovely balcony for morning tea!

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 90 — Open the door and you shower with jungle views!

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 91 — Open the door and you shower with jungle views!

The ‘resort’ is as natural as any resort that I have ever visited. Not manufactured natural but real, natural nature with all construction most inconspicuous. A central pond is the feature and leads to the creek out into the Mangrove forests, when the tide is in! Reception is open air and simple and on the first floor their charming restaurant which specialises in excellent and creative vegetarian/healthy dishes.

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 93 — Salt-water pool

Koh Chang - The Spa Koh Chang Resort 94 — Salt-water pool

There is a large Spa complex and beautiful salt-water pool with many hidden sun decks for privacy and relaxation. Looking on the website one sees that The Spa specialises in Health, De-tox, Yoga and other holistic practises. At the time of our visit, naturally none of these facilities were operating. We very much enjoyed The Spa Resort for its relaxed, peaceful and back to nature atmosphere. The peace here is deafening!

www.TheSpaKohChang.com

Kim Waddoup

Founder

22nd October 2021 0 comment

Destinations

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased

by Kim 12th October 2021

written by Kim

What’s it like travelling in Thailand now that most domestic travel restrictions have been eased?

Travelling through Thailand immediately after the easing of restrictions for domestic tourism is both a pleasure and a challenge. It is wonderful that you are virtually alone wherever you go, but the downside is that as there are no people and many places are struggling to open. This trip took us to delightful Chanthaburi, Koh Chang, Kung Wiman, Laem Mae Phim and everything in-between!

Hotels: There are some amazing deals out there but if you stay in one of the big resorts at rock bottom prices remember that a majority of the facilities will be either closed or hardly functioning. Hotels are mostly open (some only at weekends) but most are struggling and may close if they have no guests booked. You can ‘walk-in’ and negotiate a competitive rate but if you are travelling a long way and want a confirmed reservation it is still better to use one of the major booking sites to have a confirmed reservation.

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased 102 — The Ska Koh Chang

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased 103 — The Ska Koh Chang

Most of the hotels are operating with skeleton staff, so be prepared that some language skills and knowledge may be limited. You may find that your room has not been used for many months, so a good airing is recommended. Generally, we found that the hotels have worked hard to maintain a good standard but the batteries in remote controls that have not been used for a long time can be frustrating!

Sightseeing: The majority of the sites have not seen visitor for the last 6 months and a number that we visited were overgrown and not so well tended. However, the advantage is that you will generally be alone.

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased 106 — Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Chanthaburi

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased 107 — Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Chanthaburi

Having a Drink: At the time of writing, alcohol remains forbidden in restaurants and bars are closed. An adult beverage on your balcony as the sun goes down is about the only choice. Whilst purchasing alcohol is generally allowed the hours are limited. Frustratingly you may find that some districts have different rules where you can only buy in the morning and not in the evening. We also arrived in one district that had recently completely forbidden the sale of alcohol.

What to expect?: Our short, recent road trip to Chanthaburi, Koh Chang, Mae Phin (and everything in between) was quite a unique experience. Chanthaburi was interesting as many people live there, many sights had an abandoned feeling with no people. Koh Chang was almost eerie with so few people. Just 3 cars in front of us at the ferry, totally empty beaches, few lights at night. Kung Wiman was an interesting discovery with a few tourists and Mae Phim still waiting for guests to return.

Bang Pao Pier on Koh Chang brought out the worst of tourism. Not another car to be seen but immediately being officiously told that parking costs THB.50. The few stalls that remain open still maintain outrageous prices for out-of-date souvenirs and don’t even seem to be interested to even try to sell anything.

I am a coffee addict and love to visit out of the way, quirky coffee shops. All were open and most appeared to have agood flow of customers. Maybe the lack of alcohol is turning the Thais into coffee afficionados?

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased 112 — The lovely Rich88 in the middle of a durian farm

1st Thailand Road Trip after travel restrictions eased 113 — The lovely Rich88 in the middle of a durian farm

Don’t expect breakfast buffets, just rather complicated pre-order. Plastic gloves are often required. If there is a buffet. Only one hotel checked our vaccination certificate.

Covid-19 Restrictions: There is so much conflicting information as to what is required. We are both double vaccinated and were only asked to show our documents once (at a hotel). Masks continue to be worn everywhere and temperature control and hand sanitiser are always prominent Don’t forget that some more remote districts are seeing an increase in cases and there is still a great deal of concern. We had been ‘reliably’ informed that a vaccination certificate was essential for Koh Chang but all we saw was a small notice on the ticket booth at the ferry but we were not asked! It was interesting to note that the GPS route avoided the notorious Trat ‘Mushroom’ check point!

It is a great time to travel especially during the weekdays as you will mostly be alone. There are plans to revive domestic travel, but current flight prices are tempering the predictions. International travel is still a long way away. Some suppliers really appreciated our support and we made some new friends. However, for many it appears to be just a just a game of waiting for the ‘Business as normal’ routine rather than trying to appreciate the first guests to encourage other to follow!

I personally do not adhere to the ‘we must support Thai tourism’ adage, I travel at my own cost for my pleasure and appreciate when my hosts take my payments graciously. Capitalising on tourism is not a right, rather providing services or products that please the guest and with a smile encourage others to follow. Tourism providers in Thailand will have to learn to smile again!

12th October 2021 0 comment