In the exotic eastern province of Trat, the Ko Chang islands were agog with activity over a lush three-day weekend. As reported by the esteemed Polwaree Buchakiat, head of the magnificent Mu Ko Chang National Park, it was a fascinating spectacle of visitors in droves, particularly tour groups, landing on the Ko Chang islands. The surge in crowd volume was influenced by the notable King Chulalongkorn Day and the sweet, relief-inducing end of a particularly intense school session.
Visitors explored the serene beauty of nature, with countless footprints left at the Klong Plu and Than Mayom waterfalls. The allure of the crystal-infused waters lured many to the majestic dive sites off the neighboring Mu Ko Rang islands, creating a spectacle for the eyes and soul. Polwaree Buchakiat, the park chief, was not left unimpressed by the hive of activities the islands witnessed this month.
The Mu Ko Chang National Park office indeed had reasons to be enthused, with the collection of entry fees skyrocketing to over 1 million baht, all within the scope of a single month. The vivacious throng of visitors comprised predominantly Thai locals and European tourists, somewhat outweighing the number of Chinese tourists.
The park chief was exhilarated by the embracing arms of the weather. He described the ambiance of the island as being drenched in sun-rays, painting a vivid picture of the serene sea, the sparkling water clarity, and the embracing warmth of the sunny weather. He mused, “It might rain at times, yet it is rather an enchanting experience and not a hindrance at all.”
Testifying to the bustling weekend on the island, Saksit Moongkarn, the former chairman of the Tourism Council of Trat, confirmed that approximately 25,000 arrivals were noted in Trat throughout the long weekend. He reported an influx of about 600 visitors each day, with around 1,200 vehicles making the voyage to the Ko Chang Islands daily throughout the past week.
In a surprising twist, Mr. Saksit shared insights into the relative paucity of Chinese visitors, largely attributed to the lack of familiarity and popularity of Ko Chang amongst them. However, he hoped this would quickly change, given the magnetic charisma and lure of the island.
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