Ko Tao (Thailand)

Advantages: Chilled out, cheap, sunsets, great food
Disadvantages: Too quiet for some

...by Kho Pha Ngan, then Ko Samui (Ko Samui is the biggest of the three). WHY VISIT? *************** Koh Tao is renowned for it’s diving, and this is indeed the main reason we came here, choosing to dive in the crystal waters of Tao, over Pha Ngan or Samui. It is by far the best of the 3 as there are many different sites you can visit. However, it’s a beautiful place, so if you’re not a diver you’ll get a quiet and chilled out paradise during the ...
...WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT? ****************************************** We visited in April, just before the monsoon. The peak seasons here are December - April, and then again from July-September. At those times and during Thai holidays such as Songkran (= Thai New Year) in April, Koh Tao will be almost fully booked. Checking availability of your hotel before arrival is a must if you want somewhere to lay your head. WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE? ... Read review

Advantages:
Disadvantages:

...serious about going diving on Ko Tao and probably know by now that this is one of the best dive areas in the world. Therefore I wont bore you with 30 metre visability, whale sharks, lack of polution, quiet dive sites. What you do need to know is dont sign up with the first tout that meets you coming off the ferry or speed boat. It is a good way to get a free taxi to accomodation but taxis cost less than £1 to anywhere. Dont be sucked in by cheap ...
...a few bars in the main town - at the pier. Ask backpackers, not locals for recomendations. Choose the ones that sound best and go to their offices. Look for new equipment, ask about safety standards and remember - prices are fixed, all companies charge the same price, so you can afford to choose the best. ... Read review

Advantages: beautiful scenery, great weather, friendly & experienced divers- amazing island!
Disadvantages: boat takes 2.5hours from ko samui- but you can sunbathe and mingle with other travellers, so also good

Arriving on Ko Tao, we were bombarded by guest house employees offering "best price for you!" honestly the one and only place to stay is Bans. It is the biggest dive resort on the island, with great and friendly instructors and really sociable restaurant and bar. We planned to stay for 5days in Ko Tao but ended up staying for 3weeks. I completed my open water padi in 4 days and decided diving really was not for me, so while my friends tackled advanced ...
...trek to get there but in the end worth it! A relaxed place, Ko Tao offers something for everyone but I would recommend it particularly to those who like adventure and having fun! And remember you must buy an "I love Ko Tao" t-shirt, as well as a "Narcosis" one.......... ... Read review

Advantages: see text
Disadvantages: see text

...If you are planning a trip travelling round Thailand and want to visit the Gulf coast islands of Ko Samui, Ko Phnag Nang & Ko Tao the most conveinient way to get there is by air with Bangkok Airways. Flight lasts 1 hour 20 mins compared to an overnight journey by train and then a boat journey. Cost substantially more at 1500 Bahts but that equals out at around £30. Planes are new and service is excellent. Only one class available. Flight is comparable to any domestic UK BA flight with more affable staff! If you are arriving at Bangkok by plane and want to head straight to the islands walk 5 mins to the domestic air terminal and outside Christmas and Easter you will usually be able to buy a ticket to travel that day.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Unspeakably Attractive Beach Resort.
Disadvantages: Tourism Authorities Dragging Their Environmental Feet.

...as they are numerous and you can literally spend hours watching them as they go about their business. Each morning up to 15 black tipped sharks feed near the shore. These animals are completely harmless and run for cover if you get too close (as if!). There are many beaches within a few minutes walking distance from the village. The quality of these beaches is not as good as at Long Beach but they make a welcome retreat from the noise of the restaurants and bars. Here you can play volleyball or just watch all the activity that takes place around the pier. ATTRACTIONS Ko Phi Phi has many natural attractions that rank among the best in Thailand. The diving runs a close second to Ko Tao in the Gulf of Thailand and there are numerous sites for snorkelling. The wealth of fish on view is bewildering and these fish are not shy. If you find yourself on Long... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful