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Isabel
& Ronald - Thailand Trip 2007 - ŽKoh Pha NganŽ (01)
As a natural paradise island
in the Southern Gulf of Thailand, Ko Pha Ngan serves as the perfect
getaway retreat, where one may go relaxing on quiet deserted beaches,
snorkelling and learning to dive at the distinctive island of Ko Ma,
trekking in the footsteps of Thai Royalty at Than Sadet National Park
steeped in history and culture, or seeking adventure in the nearby Ang
Thong archipelago composed of over 40 islands endowed with pristine
beaches, natural caves and the tranquil Tha Laem Nai. Koh Pha Ngan has
over 250 resorts to choose from, ranging from the budget 80 Baht a
night beach hut without private toilet to luxury air-conditioned
accommodation with private swimming pool.
It's the simple beach life
which continues to attract visitors each year along with the island's
reputation for full moon parties and a hedonistic approach to life.
The backpackers, budget tourists and aging hippies are beginning to
give way to families and more mainstream tourists but the beaches are
still beautiful and undeveloped. The full moon party scene still runs
with a cast of thousands in high season - all on the beach. Hedonists
everywhere still flock to the world's biggest beach party every month.
The music from the multiple sound systems is mostly ear-splittingly
loud trance and house, and a predominantly youthful crowd dance 'til
dawn on party nights. This may not be to everyone's taste, certainly,
but it's definitely a unique cultural  experience. Other events such as
the Half Moon Party and Black Moon Party also attract large crowds.
However, it is still possible to visit the island and avoid the full
moon party altogether, with dozens of quiet, secluded resorts and
beach huts dotted all over the island for a variety of prices. Many of
the more costly resorts offer such facilities as daily yoga, yoga
teachers' training, meditation, a variety of healing, healthy &
natural therapies, spa massage & pampering services and herbal
steam rooms. Click on the picture to enlarge...
Other activities available
on the island include scuba diving with a number of companies offering
very reasonably priced training courses and excursions, snorkelling,
especially off the Mae Haad sandbar in the north west, wakeboarding,
archery, fishing, walks in the national park or simply relaxing in the
company of other farangs or the friendly locals...
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