Koh Chang is Thailand's second biggest island, with crystal clear waters, golden sand beaches, forests and stunning nature...
Recommended for: beach lovers, sun worshippers, families, swimmers and divers.
Not recommended for: partygoers, those needing modcons.
See our general overview on Koh Chang by clicking here or read on for our GingerNetwork Guide with all the latest information, our own recommendations and special offers exclusive to GingerAsia...
Koh Chang Then:
Koh Chang was previously an unsettled island and until the 1980s there was no infrastructure on the island and as little as 8 years ago there was only a dirt track connecting the villages. In 1982 Koh Chang became a part of the protected Mu Chang Marine Park. Koh Chang started becoming popular with backpackers around this time when they used to catch a ride over from Trat with the local fishermen. Since then the island grew in popularity and has now taken on a new role as a luxury tourist resort when buildng restrictions were relaxed and property developers moved in.
Koh Chang Now:
Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand behind Phuket and is fast becoming one of Thailand's luxurious holiday destinations popular with Thai and Foreign tourists with many high class resorts opening up all the time. The nightlife is becoming more sophisticated to match and now Koh Chang boasts two nightclubs and many bars and restaurants. Its location in the Gulf of Thailand provides excellent local seafood restaurants and Koh Chang is very appealing to families wishing to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok as well as increasing numbers of tourists. Koh Chang still retains the tropical feel with dense jungle inland and provides a great getaway location.
Little Known Facts:
- Koh Chang means Elephant Island and was named for the Elephant shape of it's headland...
- A famous battle took place on Koh Chang in 1941 where the Thais were soundly beaten by the French...
- Malaria was finally eradicated in the year 2000 but until then was one of the last outposts in Thailand...
Below are the latest GingerNetwork guides on how to get there, things to do, where to go out, where to stay and making a life there. Be sure to check back regularly as this section is frequently updated with the latest local information...