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The
Ang Thong Marine National Park
Around 42 islands make up the Ang Thong
National Marine Park, northwest of Samui.
Geographically different, this fascinating
group of islands have spectacular limestone
formations, caves, lagoons and beautiful
beaches. Many islands are uninhabited
with bays and colorful coral formations.
Other islands rise from the sea as dramatic
walls of rock hundreds of metres high.
Besides the many small coves and secluded
beaches, erosion has shaped some interesting
formations which give some of the islands
their names, such as 'Sleeping Cow Island'
and 'Three Pillar Island'. Accessible
on day trips by boat.
Koh
Phangan
Famous for its Full Moon Parties, Koh
Phangan also offers a beach lifestyle,
"New Age" culture, inexpensive
local Thai food, and relatively cheap
accommodation. It's a place to go walking,
snorkelling, swimming, or try new things.
From belly dancing courses to Full Moon
parties, to lazing on the beach or snorkelling.
It's all about taking it easy and leaving
mainstream life behind.
Ko
Tao
"Discovered" by travellers in
the 80's Ko Tao has been gradually gaining
popularity. More remote than Samui, faster
and safer boats now allow easier access
to the island and new resorts with 24
hour air-conditioning are adding to the
old basic bungalows. Since the main attraction
is diving - the beaches remain tranquil
and uncrowded. Check out the underwater
scenery - it's what Ko Tao is famous for!
Sharks, stingrays, pufferfish, various
groupers and triggerfish are just some
of the locals. The east of the island
has some of the best snorkelling sites
- spectacular coral reefs, sea fans and
colourful fish.
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