Thailand, renowned for its exotic beauty and thriving tourist hotspots, is rediscovering tranquility on its lesser-known islands, away from the crowd. One such haven is Koh Kood, situated at the edge of Thai territory, with Cambodia to the east. A journey to this island unveils an untouched Thailand, reminiscent of times before mass tourism.
A short ferry ride from the border town of Trat brings visitors to Koh Kood’s wooden harbor, painting a scene of old-world charm. The island’s untouched beauty is emphasized during the songthaew journey, which drives through a thick canopy of trees. This lush, green landscape hints at how this paradise has resisted the rapid transformation seen on more popular islands like Phuket.
Most of Koh Kood’s inhabitants trace their lineage back to Khmer ancestors who migrated here over a century ago. The majority still earn their livelihood through fishing and farming. Despite hosting some luxury resorts, a significant portion of this vast island remains dedicated to rubber and coconut cultivation, or it stands as a rainforest, shielded from the modern world.
Adventurous visitors can enjoy the cascading Khlong Chao Waterfall or the secluded Huang Nam Khiao Waterfall, located deep within the forest, marked by the revered 500-year-old “Makayuk” tree. Koh Kood’s western coastline, especially around Khlong Chao river’s mouth, offers a mix of bungalows, bars, and the captivating sight of kayakers tracing the mangrove-laden estuaries against picturesque sunsets.
A contrasting experience awaits on Koh Phayam, roughly 900km away from Koh Kood, closer to the southern tip of Myanmar. This island, too, remains largely untouched by the commercialization seen in other Thai islands. While the ferry ride to Koh Phayam offers the delightful sight of playful dolphins, the island itself is known for its hornbills, creating an enchanting environment around resorts like Phayam Garden View.
Travelers are also warned about the occasional macaque causing a ruckus on rooftops. The local culinary scene thrives on home-grown produce, as seen at Back to December, a restaurant that boasts dishes made from its backyard garden.
Koh Phayam promises explorers scenic views, be it the horn-shaped Ao Kao Wai beach, the driftwood-built “Hippie Bar”, or the rock formation, Hin Talu, which curiously resembles a map of Australia. Its extensive Ao Yai or Long Beach serves as a playground for novice surfers, while overhead, majestic sea eagles soar.
A visit to these islands offers a peek into a Thailand that many believe has faded – where nature’s allure intertwines with traditional life, away from the bustling crowds. For those seeking genuine Thai experiences, these islands might just be the perfect escape.
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