Situated on the Eastern end of Thailand, Koh Chang is Thailand’s second largest island with a population of approximately 5,000 permanent residences. Tourism sectors have been growing rapidly for the last 5 years and the island has become one of Far East Asia favourite tourist destinations.
The name of Koh Chang means Elephant Island, the name comes from the elephantine shape of its headland. As one of Thailand’s most astonishing tropical islands, Koh Chang presents long white sandy beaches and if
compared with Phuket or Pattaya is blessed with a relatively untouched natural environment. It took me approximately an hour of flying from Bangkok before touching down at the airport of this charmingly peaceful island. I went directly to the hotel located about 30 kilometres from the Trat Airport. As I arrived at the five-star Amari Emerald Cove Koh Chang, friendly staff, white sands and mountainous rainforest presented a picture postcard introduction to this resort on its quiet stretch of Klong Prao Beach.
Recognized as one of the best resorts on the island, Amari Emerald Cove Koh Chang offers 165 superior and deluxe guest rooms and suites, each with a private terrace from which guests can soak up the island’s magnificent atmosphere. One can choose between superior rooms with mountain views or deluxe rooms overlooking the sea. The resort and its surrounds are impressive and indicate that a memorable holiday is at hand. The simple yet elegant décor throughout the entire resort is warm and inviting and delivers a tranquil sense of relaxation. Four restaurants and beverage outlets are on offer at the hotel, Mediterranean; Italian and Thai dishes are available from the various restaurants.
The Breeze Spa at Amari Emerald Cove offers a range of lavish treatments that are all available from the spa’s pavilion overlooking the secluded Klong Prao Beach. A visit to the Breeze Spa is a most enriching experience.
One’s visit to Elephant Island would not be complete without taking a trip to one of the many camps offering elephant safaris. This is a rewarding and fun filled way to relate
personally to these huge animals. A full day trip for snorkelling or diving around the
nearby islands of Koh Thang Lang, Koh Rang, Koh Wai, Koh Yak and Koh Nok is highly recommended. One can explore the magic of abundant marine life around striking coral reefs. The day trip is also asmorgasbord of scintillating views of
island pillars contrasted against blue skies and the placid hue of gentle sea. Thai cooking classes are available on the island for those wishing to expand their culinary skills. This is a rewarding exercise that allows visitors to relive at home some of the
delicious reminders of a wonderful holiday
I sat with an exotic cocktail at the Poolside Bar on my last day here at Amari Emerald Cove and considered how hard it was going to be to leave this beautiful island. However, I felt well accomplished in my quest for the ultimate island holiday.