Whilst Bangkok has everything a city dweller needs, it’s good to escape every now and then and experience the other parts this country has to offer. The benefit of living in Bangkok is that you are only a short distance from some of the most amazing beaches in the world.

© DC 2006

Having decided to visit every damn beach on offer, this weekend’s getaway was Koh Chang. Located in the eastern part of Thailand, Koh Chang is close to the border of Cambodia. Around 85 percent of the island, along with 50 smaller islands, is part of the Koh Chang Marine National Park. Not only do you have amazing tropical mountains, but crystal clear water like I’ve never experienced before. There are a handful of ways you can get to the island, you can fly from BKK to Trat and then get a cab, or a bus or do as we did and jump in a cab on a Friday morning.
Once you arrive you notice the distinct lack of neon signs, sex tourists and other annoyances found in places like Phuket and Samui. They reckon Koh Chang is like Samui was 15 years ago, and I hope it stays that way for a long time.

© DC 2006

Accommodation is very reasonable, with us staying at the White Sands Beach Resort, right on the beach. A single hut with double bed and toilet, the flushing type, is 1500 baht per night, but you can get cheaper. The benefit of this resort is that the beach is white and the sea is off the scale. Nightlife isn’t as dull as was expected, and my pick is the Magic Garden bar on the other side of the island. It has a siesta room, which consists of 7 double beds, and some of the best music I’ve heard spun in a long time.

If your looking at a good weekend getaway and don’t want the sleaze of Phuket, look at Koh Chang.

© DC 2006