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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 â 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 whatâs off ered at this friendly resortâs 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 Dusitâs 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
whatâs 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. Itâs 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
islandâs forest trails for native species or any of
the regionâs 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.