What to do in Koh Chang, Thailand

Is a large island 310 km from Bangkok, on the Western Gulf of Thailand, and near the border to Cambodia. It is well-known for its mountains, wildlife, and beaches. 

WHAT TO DO IN KOH CHANG?

Enjoy the BEACH and the WATER of course.

The west coast is a stretch of white sand beaches, resorts, restaurants, and pubs. One can lay at the beach, swim, snorkel, dive, kayak, and all sorts of water activities. If you're not a water person, then the island has other fun things to offer(example below).

We hung out at a beach near our hotel. Since it was off-peak season when we were there, the whole place was quiet and uncrowded. I was however unimpressed with the beach. The sand was coarse and darker than I expected. The water wasn’t very clear either. I somewhat expected better as it was called ‘white sand beach’ but, perhaps I’m being biased as I come from a country with better beaches. Nonetheless, it was fun! 

Because it was uncrowded, I was able to lay and sunbathe peacefully. There weren't the usual old ladies that offer massages or those that bug you to buy something. The water was warm and it was a delight to swim or just sit in it.

Meet Rambo. Do the JUNGLE ELEPHANT TREK.

We went to Chang Chutimar Elephant Trek for the experience. There are other trekking companies you can choose from. You may even get a better deal than we did! The ride was $20 of fun! Our guide was a funny little guy who with his little English amused us with stories about the jungle and our elephant ‘Rambo,’ who is probably the most famous ellie on the island! (he's in a lot of photos and blogs, etc.)

After a while, he made me get off the chair strapped on the elephant’s back and sit on its head. He taught me how to steer Rambo which I failed at not because I couldn't, I steer ellies everyday! kidding, but really because he was mostly busy eating grass or checking out his girlfriend who was hanging out, feeding somewhere.

The whole trip took about an hour or so and best done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Oh and, do apply on some insect repellent. It's the jungle and elephants have a posse of mozzies following them around because they're celebrities. 

Time for downtime. Enjoy some SEAFOOD by the beach. And have a NIGHT STROLL while you're at it.

Compared to Koh Samui, it's more relaxed and less touristy in Koh Chang. So, if romance and a less chaotic experience is what you're after, this is the place for you. 

This is not to say Koh Chang is lacking in the nightlife department. It has one too, just more tame. 

How to go to Koh Chang?

Most people come from Bangkok but, I traveled by land from Siem Reap. Here's how: Siem Reap to Koh Chang