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Thailand : Ko Chang-Trat - November 2008
Country Code: Dial +65 for Thailand

FROM THE AIRPORT

Bus:  Bangkok Airways mini-buses are on hand at Trat Airport to take you to your accommodation on Koh Chang for 280 to 350 baht, including ferry transfer. Ferries depart at 45-minute intervals. The entire journey takes about an hour. Call (0)8 6563-8889/3932-5775 to book.

TABLE TALK

Cheap chic

Crust
(Opposite Klong Phrao temple. Tel. (0)39 557157)
All those hankering for a hefty slice of cake or roll will be happy to know that this small German-owned eatery serves everything from breads to burgers – the perfect place to stock up on picnic fare before heading to the beach.

Mid-range magic

Terrace Restaurant
(Changburi Resort and Spa. Tel. (0)39 955-1242)
Simple but hearty hillside dining and great views are what’s off ered at this friendly resort’s eatery, where you can feast on both Thai and Euro fare. The dishes here are delightfully spicy, so when placing your order, be sure to let your servers know if you need it a little milder

Gourmet

Bay Restaurant
(Dusit Princess, Tambol Koh Chang Tai. Tel. (0)39 619111)
Feast on international fare and spicy Thai dishes at the poolside eatery of the Dusit’s spanking new island resort. Buffets fill the black hole, but try inventive items such as stir-fried green curry, or the more classic steamed sea bass.

AFTER DARK

Cocktail hour

Koh Chang Wine Gallery
(Kai Bae Beach. Tel. (0)81 668-7035)
This upscale bottle shop and wine bar is just what’s needed when the sun is setting and the palate calls for a chilled Chardonnay or fruity red Bordeaux. Check the press for weekly wine nights where new tipples are tasted and new ranges are showcased.

Late night

River Island Cafe and Bar
(Koh Chang Plaza, Chai Chet (north Klong Phrao). Tel. (0)39 551032)
Enjoy a drink away from the beach under the trees of this new garden bar, on the road to Klong Plu waterfall. It’s a great spot to relax with a refreshing Thai beer in hand.

BODY & SOUL

Aiya Spa
(Aiyapura Resort. Tel. (0)39 555111)
Delicious massages and gentle kneading are all on offer at this hideaway in Ao Klong Son. Designed to pamper you from head to toe, take your pick of healing luxury from its five signature treatments (including Swedish massage or the relaxing Thai hot compress). www.aiyapura.com

BOUTIQUE BEDS

The Dewa
(Tel. (0)39 557339)
Built amid tall coconut palms, this Klong Phrao resort comes with three dashing room types with modern Thai touches and a spot of contemporary concrete here and there. Perch under tall thatched roofs, dip in the pool or just hibernate in the comfort of the villas. www.thedewa-kohchang.com

HOT SPOTS

Bang Bao –On the southernmost tip of the island, this old stilted fishing village, which is built out into the bay, is known for a handful of well-known seafood eateries where the menu simply consists of the catch of the day.

INSIDER TIPS

Spot nature –Wildlife is never far away. On the 40-minute crossing to Koh Chang from any of the mainland piers, look out for the dolphins that sometimes ply these clear waters. Check the island’s forest trails for native species or any of the region’s 61 bird species.

DAY TRIPPING

Koh Chang Marine National Park –There are plenty of adventures to be had here on the high seas. Try your hand at sea kayaking, or check with local Pattaya-based yachties Gulf Charters for all-year cruise options. In the dry season, Amari Emerald Cove offers catamaran cruises from Klong Prao to Koh Kood. Amari, tel (0)39 552000 or Gulf Charters, tel (0)38 237752, www.gulfchartersthailand.com

IN THE KNOW

Koh Chang boasts some amazing waterfalls which are most appealing in the wet season, between June and September. However, avoid visiting these aft er storms, as heavy monsoon rains trigger landslides, rock falls or deadly flash floods. Check with a local guide or the hotel tour desk before you go.

Compiled by Carla Sommers

Previous issues for Ko Chang-Trat
 
   
Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy,
please confirm event/venue details in advance.

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