When I felt exhausted and hopeless, unsure of where to go next, I found myself drifting through life without purpose. But then, I realized that some things are beyond our control and that we must focus on our own happiness. It was time to follow my heart and embark on a journey of self-discovery. This journey led me to pursue my passions, seek inspiration, and embrace new experiences. It allowed me to expand my horizons, connect with nature, and find joy in the simple things.


I started searching the internet for tourist attractions and became interested in Surat Thani province, which has many tourist attractions, including various islands and Cheow Lan Dam. At that time, there was a promotion for the red-winged airline. Even though I had to book it a long time in advance, it didn't matter. I had a low budget but high intentions. I didn't have a clear goal. I wanted to go to Cheow Lan Dam. Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan looked interesting from the pictures on the website. Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Ang Thong National Marine Park. However, due to time and money constraints, I couldn't visit all of them. In the end, I chose Koh Tao as my destination for this trip.



Koh Tao, February 10-14, 2016

Embark on a journey.


It's time to hit the road! Pack your bags and fly direct from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani.

Upon arriving at Surat Thani Airport around 3 pm, I needed to find transportation to the Surat Thani Municipal Market to arrange overnight travel to Koh Tao. For those arriving earlier and seeking a quicker route to Koh Tao, tickets for combined bus and ferry services are available at the airport from various companies, including Lomprayah High Speed Ferry, Seatran Discovery, and Songserm Travel. Travel time and prices vary depending on the chosen ferry service. These ferries depart from Don Sak Pier, approximately an hour's drive from the airport. I opted for a slower option, choosing an overnight ferry to Koh Tao (as I had never experienced sleeping on a boat). Buses operated by Phantip (1970) connect the airport to the pier or Surat Thani city center. I took a bus to the Surat Thani Municipal Market for 100 baht.


The car will drop you off in front of the market, on the opposite side of the road along the Tapi River. This is where you will find the cargo boat pier, which is also the pier for boats to Koh Tao. There are boats leaving from here to Koh Tao at 11:00 PM. These are boats from various companies that take turns departing every day. However, the boat I researched is the KO Jaroen Air conditioned Night Ferry, which is located on the other side of the river. You will need to walk across the bridge and go around a bit to reach it. The boat departs on Wednesdays, Sundays, and possibly Fridays, but I am not sure about Fridays.


I purchased a ferry ticket for 500 baht, the price for Thai citizens. The ferry was a large cargo vessel that could carry multiple vehicles and had a designated area with shared sleeping quarters. The ticket seller informed me that the ferry would depart at 9:30 PM and arrive at Koh Tao around 5:30 AM.


With several hours to spare before my evening departure, I decided to call a friend who works in the city to see if they could show me around before I boarded the boat. While waiting for my friend, I visited the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine.


The sun sets on the horizon as usual, but today I have come far from home.


Let's grab a bite to eat before we get hungry. There are plenty of food options near the pier.


After work, my friend took me to enjoy the view along the Tapi River and the market at the Chinese shrine. We sipped cold beers before he sent me off on the boat. Many thanks to P'Pol (my senior friend who finished several cans of beer).


Upon boarding the ship, I headed to my assigned bunk bed. The bed was comfortable, with a power outlet conveniently located at the headboard. The bathroom was also clean.


Remember to bring your headphones if you're sleeping on the boat. The engine noise is quite loud. Around 10 pm, the boat will depart. After a while, they will turn off the lights so you can rest and prepare for your adventures the next morning.




Good morning, Koh Tao. I arrived around 6 am in the early morning. The boat docked at Mae Haad Pier, the main pier with many shops and accommodations. I didn't know where to go after getting off the boat, and I didn't have a place to stay yet. I went into a 7-Eleven to buy some food first. There are many 7-Elevens on Koh Tao, and the prices are only a few baht different from normal. The prices in the minimarts are almost the same as on the mainland.

It was getting light, so we decided to find accommodation first. While looking for a place to stay, we came across a tour program that included snorkeling around four points on the island and a visit to Koh Nang Yuan. As we were reading the program, the tour operator came out and we started talking. He offered us a discount from 750 to 630 baht, explaining that it was low season and he often gives this price to solo Thai travelers like us. After that, several other people came to inquire, and he offered them the same price. We agreed, as we had just arrived and didn't have any plans yet. We arranged to meet again at 9:30 AM. The tour program was with Saeng Thong Tour, details can be found at the following link: http://www.xn--12cma8clb8f5aw6a2atec9rdt8jvd.com/


After walking around for a while, I found a hostel and guest house called Neptune. As a backpacker, this is the perfect place to stay. http://www.neptune-kohtao.com/index2.html

I opted for a hostel at 300 baht per night, as I only needed it for sleeping, showering, and storing my belongings during the day while I explored the island. The advantage of hostels is that there's no need to wait for check-in times; if a bed is available, you can settle in right away. The hostel also provided a comprehensive guidebook to Koh Tao called "Koh Tao Complete Guide," which contained all the essential information about the island.


After showering and packing our belongings, we set off for our diving adventure. The boat took us on a scenic tour around the island, stopping at various diving spots according to the itinerary. Onboard, we were treated to snacks, tea, coffee (instant), fruits, and a packed lunch. Additionally, the boat offered a selection of beverages for purchase, including Coke, beer, and canned tea.


This boat, right here.

Enjoying the view while on a boat. Sitting on a boat for a long time can make you seasick.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of Koh Tao, where pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life await.


At two in the afternoon, the boat took us to Nang Yuan Island, where the sea is crystal clear and the sand is fine and white. Please note that it is forbidden to bring water bottles or cans onto Nang Yuan Island. There are shops that provide these items in designated zones.


Upon arrival at Koh Nang Yuan, visitors are encouraged to ascend to the renowned viewpoint. The ascent is somewhat challenging due to its steepness, but the panoramic vista is well worth the effort. Koh Nang Yuan comprises three islands connected by sandbars, allowing for exploration by wading through the shallow waters.


After enjoying the breathtaking views from above, it's time to descend and explore the sandy beach and rocky shores below, where you can relax, swim, and snorkel.


During the day, the island is bustling with visitors. However, in the evening, only tourists staying overnight remain, significantly reducing the crowd. Accommodation on Koh Nang Yuan is considerably more expensive than on Koh Tao. If you seek a tranquil sunset atmosphere, consider spending a night here. Personally, I will be departing for Koh Tao at 4:30 PM.


It's time to return to Koh Tao and conclude today's diving program. Those interested in joining us are welcome to do so. However, for those prone to seasickness, a taxi boat service is available to transport you specifically to Koh Nang Yuan.


Upon arriving at Koh Tao in the late afternoon, as the sun began its descent, I embarked on a quest to find the perfect spot to witness the breathtaking sunset. My search led me to RAMBO travel, a motorbike rental shop conveniently located near my accommodation. The owner, a kind-hearted individual, offered me a motorbike for rent at an affordable price of 300 baht, complete with a tourist map. Remarkably, no deposit was required, and the motorbike even came with a nearly full tank of fuel. RAMBO also provides services such as booking boat tickets, arranging tours, and currency exchange, making it a one-stop shop for travelers visiting Koh Tao.


The motorbike rental shop owner recommended Dusit Bancha Resort as the best place to watch the sunset. We drove north until the end of the main road and arrived at the resort.


There is a walkway through the hotel's restaurants to the sunset viewing point below. It's a bit lonely seeing so many people coming in pairs or groups.


As the sun dipped below the horizon, I made my way back through Haad Sai Ri Beach, stopping for a bite to eat and a stroll along the shore as dusk settled in. Haad Sai Ri is another beach teeming with resorts and restaurants. Beachfront restaurants and bars line the shore, with coconut palms stretching out onto the sandy beach, illuminated by twinkling lights. The atmosphere was truly enchanting, making it a prime spot for witnessing the sunset the following day.


After a leisurely stroll and a refreshing beer by the beach, I returned to my room to rest and recharge for the next day's adventure. My plan for tomorrow is to embark on a relaxing motorbike ride along the sandy shores of Koh Tao, embracing the island's laid-back vibes.



Waking up early to pack my belongings today, I decided to change my sleeping environment. I rode my motorbike, navigating steep uphill and downhill roads, until I reached Ao Hin Wong. The atmosphere was serene, with only a few resorts scattered around. I found a new place to stay, Hin Wong Apartments Dive & Snorkel Resort, perched on a hilltop with a short walk uphill. The resort overlooks Ao Hin Wong and boasts a swimming pool adjacent to the sea, where the underwater world is said to be breathtaking. I hiked up to inquire about the price, and the owner offered me a room with a fan for 350 baht. The ambiance was so pleasant that I decided to stay. On the day I checked in, there were two foreign backpackers in the shared room, likely due to the resort's distance from the main community and the steep access road. However, several groups of tourists were staying in the private rooms.

After checking into our accommodation, we set out for a day trip. Driving out of Ao Hin Wong, we came across a岔路 leading to the MANGO VIEW POINT. I decided to head up, despite the steep incline. Along the way, we stopped at JIM BAR to ask for directions.


I arrived at MANGO VIEW POINT, a small bar with a high-altitude viewpoint and a cool breeze. The entrance fee to the viewpoint is 100 baht per person, but after talking to the staff, they reduced it to 40 baht.


We then rode our motorbikes to the southern part of the island, where we discovered a small, secluded beach with only a few tourists. Without hesitation, we headed down to the shore and relaxed on the sand.


The name of this beach is unknown, but there is a resort called Sunset Bungalows Resort located directly on the beach. The resort has a restaurant and a bar. I inquired about the price, and the starting rate for a fan room is 500 baht, which is incredibly affordable. The individual bungalows are situated on a peaceful stretch of beach. If I hadn't already booked accommodation or had the opportunity to return with a group, I would definitely stay here.


After a short rest, we continued to the sandy beach. The entrance looked a little scary, but I was still curious to see what the sandy beach was like.


Leaving the soft sandy beach, our next destination was Freedom Beach, which we found intriguing on the map.


Freedom Beach: A Tranquil Oasis

Freedom Beach is a picturesque haven adorned with lush trees that gracefully line the shore. Foreign tourists bask in the sun and revel in the refreshing waters, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Delicate seashell mobiles sway gently from the branches, adding a touch of whimsy to the scene.

The allure of the beach beckons visitors to escape the heat and immerse themselves in the cool embrace of the ocean. Relaxing on the soft sand beneath the shade of the trees, one can feel the gentle caress of the waves, washing away stress and worries. The name "Freedom Beach" aptly reflects the sense of liberation and tranquility that permeates this idyllic setting.


Adjacent to Freedom Beach, a small path winds its way through the rocky outcrops, leading to Ao Cholok Ban Kao Bay. This area is noticeably more lively, with a wide, crescent-shaped beach.


In the late afternoon, I rode my motorbike a little further and saw a beautiful view in the distance that seemed to be a deep bay. However, I decided to return to my accommodation instead of going there. I will explore the east side of the island tomorrow. I need to wake up early to experience the atmosphere of Koh Phangan for another day.


After resting at the accommodation, we went snorkeling near the Hin Wong Apartments Dive & Snorkel Resort. Snorkels were available for rent at 50 baht per day, but a 1000 baht deposit was required. We walked down to the water and started snorkeling.


Dive right in front of your accommodation and discover a diverse array of fish species beneath the waves.



The sun is setting over Haad Sai Ree beach, casting a warm glow over the cool evening air. As I sip on a cold beer, I watch the sun slowly dip below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and red. The beach is alive with activity, with people enjoying the serene atmosphere in their own unique ways. The gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore and the laughter of children playing in the sand create a symphony of tranquility that washes over me, bringing a sense of peace and calm to my soul.


Returning to the resort, the restaurant balcony jutted out towards the sea. I sat out to enjoy the evening breeze with two more bottles of Chang beer. After drinking enough beer, I went back to sleep before waking up early the next day to continue our journey to Koh Phangan for another day on the island.



Waking up early to watch the first light of the new day on the rocks in front of the Hin Wong Bay accommodation. I had to leave Koh Tao, so I packed my bags, returned the motorbike, and boarded the boat.

It's time to board the boat. The boat departs at 9:00 AM. I boarded the Lomprayah High Speed Ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan for 500 baht. The journey takes about an hour and a half.


I have left Koh Tao, but I will return to explore more of its hidden corners. As promised, I will share your story with my friends.


Upon arrival at Koh Phangan, the ferry docked at Thongsala Pier. My first priority was to secure a return ticket for the following day, as I had a flight to catch in the afternoon. I managed to find a combined ferry and bus ticket to the airport for 450 baht with ส่งเสริมทราเวล. Near the pier, I noticed the decommissioned HTMS Phangan warship and a statue of King Rama V.


Although my arrival did not coincide with the full moon party, I still witnessed several bars hosting their own parties.


Exiting the King Rama V statue square, I set out to rent a motorbike. Koh Phangan is significantly larger and more developed than Koh Tao, so I knew I wouldn't be able to see everything. My plan was to unfold my map and ride my motorbike along the west coast beaches before finding a place to stay. I walked around asking several rental shops, but I couldn't find a motorbike anywhere. As soon as I walked in, they would greet me in English. When I responded in Thai, they would say that they were out of bikes, almost as if they only wanted to rent to foreigners. I walked around for over an hour before finally finding a motorbike at a small shop near the police station on the way to the pier. The shop was called Shadow, and the owner, an older man, rented me a bike for 250 baht per day. However, I had to leave my ID card and a 3,000 baht deposit. The bike I rented was an old Honda Click model. (I took a picture of the rental shop when I returned the bike before leaving.)


After renting a car, the first thing I did was fill up the tank. Then, I headed straight to Haad Rin Nok, the birthplace of the full moon party. Let's see what the atmosphere is like during the day.


At Rin Beach, where the waves and wind are strong, many foreigners come to enjoy activities. Next to the beach, there are many bars belonging to various hotels.



Following the planned route, I rode my motorbike north across the island, starting along the west coast. My first stop was Ao Cholok Lam, a long beach with coconut trees, small bars, and bungalows, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

The left side of Ao Cholok Lam is a fishing port.


A short motorcycle ride down the road leads to Mae Haad Beach, a popular spot for tourists to relax and unwind.


I'd be glad to translate the provided Thai sentence into English, adhering to the specified guidelines:

Original Thai:

ผมเดินเล่นมาตามหาดจนมาถึงหัวหาด บริเวณนี้จะมีสันทรายที่สามารถเดินลุยน้ำข้ามไปยังเกาะม้า ป่ะเดิยลุยน้ำข้ามไปกัน

English

I strolled along the beach until I reached the headland. In this area, there is a sandbar where you can wade across the water to Koh Ma. Shall we cross the water together?

Translation Notes:

  • The tone of voice is simple and short, as requested.
  • The translation is concise and avoids unnecessary embellishments.
  • The sentence is translated in a formal academic style, using the active voice and avoiding personal pronouns.
  • The translation is accurate and reflects the meaning of the original Thai sentence.
  • The HTML structure is preserved.

I hope this translation meets your expectations. Please let me know if you have any other questions.


Upon reaching the beach, the terrain becomes a mix of coral rocks and small seashells. Tread carefully, as broken glass shards washed ashore by the waves may be present.


The waters surrounding Koh Ma offer snorkeling opportunities to observe fish and coral reefs. However, I did not bring snorkeling gear, so I opted to enjoy the scenery and swim instead.


The evening chill sets in as the sun dips below the horizon. I ride my motorbike to Hin Kong Bay, where the muddy beach is not ideal for swimming. However, the tranquil atmosphere is captivating. I park my bike and watch the sunset, observing the local villagers collecting shellfish. The scene fills me with a sense of contentment. Koh Phangan offers many peaceful corners, not just the party scene that comes to mind when people mention the island.


The sun sets at Ao Ban Tai.


I rode my motorbike back to my home in Thongsala. I looked for a place to stay and asked at 2-3 hostels, but they were all full, mostly with foreigners who were staying and having parties. Finally, I found Phangan Guest House. The price was 600 baht, but the owner reduced it to 500 baht for me since I was alone. The room was new, clean, and located on the main road.


After checking into the hotel and taking a refreshing shower, I decided to explore the nearby night market near the pier in search of some delicious local cuisine.


After a hearty meal, we decided to check out Rin Nok Beach at night. Although it wasn't a full moon, there were still a decent number of tourists. The music, fire-twirling performances, and lively atmosphere effectively drew visitors into the shops.


Waking up in the morning, it's time to go back. The fun is over, it's time to travel back. This trip is over, but it will be the beginning of the next trip. Goodbye, Koh Phangan, the island that everyone thinks of when they hear the name, thinks of parties, thinks of drunkenness, and then thinks it's scary and dangerous. But in reality, it's not as scary as you think. There are peaceful corners, there is the way of life of the fishermen, the simplicity of the community in the area. Personally, I like Koh Tao more, a small island where you can do things easily and comfortably. Goodbye, Surat Thani, see you again.





Total expenses for this trip (as far as I can remember):



Round-trip flight tickets from Chiang Mai to Surat Thani for 1715 Baht.

The fare from the airport to the Surat Thani Municipal Market is 100 baht.

The cost of a bed in a dormitory on Koh Tao is 500 baht.

The cost of the diving program is 630 baht.

The first night's accommodation costs 300 baht.

Motorcycle rental on Koh Tao for 2 days is 600 baht.

The cost of accommodation for the second night is 350 baht.

Admission fee to the viewpoint is 40 baht.

Snorkeling rental fee is 50 baht.

The boat fare from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is 500 baht.

The cost of accommodation on Koh Phangan is 500 baht.

Motorcycle rental and fuel on Koh Phangan: 350 baht

The cost of a boat and car to Surat Thani Airport is 450 baht.

Food, drinks, and other expenses: 1200 baht.


Total 7285 Baht



The small learnings from this journey.

- Many things may not go as we expect, and we should learn to let them be.

- When faced with obstacles and problems, it forces us to learn how to solve them.

- Do what we love, even though it's tiring, we're happy with it.

- The first step is crucial. If we do not take that first step, we will never learn or gain experience.

- Immersing oneself in the beauty of nature can enhance our perspective.

- Take some time for yourself to reflect and understand the events that have unfolded in your life.

- Friendship exists all around, even among those who speak different languages and come from different ethnicities.

- Happiness or suffering depends on ourselves, on what we choose to embrace.

- The joy of travel lies in the encounters we have along the way.

- Step outside your comfort zone and discover the unexpected.

- The more we travel, the more we realize how vast the world truly is.

- What we hear may not always be true when we experience it ourselves.

- We cannot forget the past pain, but we can choose to live with it without letting it destroy our lives.

- Memories, good or bad, always hold value for us to reflect upon.



If you are interested in discussing, asking questions, or sharing experiences with me, please feel free to do so via the link below.

https://www.facebook.com/eng21

Until our next journey, take care of yourself.

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