Koh Chang Travel Tips

Banks: 09:00 to 15:30, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 08:30 to 16:00, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: 10:00 to 20:00/22:00, daily, a few closed on Sundays
Museums: 09:00 to 16:00, Wednesday to Sunday, some open on Tuesdays
Business Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday

Koh Chang is a very safe travel destination and there is very little petty crime. Locals are, however, often inclined to get as much money out of visitors as possible and you’ll find that tourists are generally charged more than locals for basic services.

The main threat to your safety may be the traffic, particularly if riding a motorbike. Koh Chang is notorious for the number of road accident victims. You’ll also encounter young children riding motorbikes and hardly anyone wears a helmet. This in combination with many visitors’ inexperience of handling motorcycles, a carefree holiday attitude and inadequate protection makes for a dangerous mix. Diving can also pose dangers, although most certified diving schools and trip organisers adhere to international safety standards.

Electricity: 220V AC, all plugs are two-pronged.

Probably the most widespread health risk is sunburn. Thailand is near the equator, which means the rays of the sun are powerful and skin can burn quickly and easily. Of course holidaymakers want to return home with a nice tan, be sure to slap on sunscreen and start your tanning development gradually to build up a foundation. Make sure you drink plenty of water too. Tap water quality varies greatly, even within towns and cities. Most restaurants serve safe bottled water and ice is generally safe to use.

It is recommended when travelling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. Thailand does not require any pre-arrival vaccinations, unless you are coming from Africa, then a yellow fever vaccination is usually required.

There is a high risk of malaria and dengue fever on Koh Chang. Aside from any disease they may carry, mosquitoes can be bothersome so wear repellent and long sleeves and trousers when going outside at night.

Pharmacies in Thailand are very well-stocked. However, if you require any specific medication, it’s a good idea to bring an adequate supply with you.

Koh Chang International Clinic: +66 39 551 151
Emergency Medical Service: 0179
Koh Chang Police Station: +66 39 586 191

English is widely spoken by people employed or connected with the tourist industry. Many ordinary people and monks are usually very keen to practice their English with foreigners but may be a bit shy. When visiting fishing villages, it is a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Thai to help overcome initial shyness. Many Thais are able to read and write English but have not had much opportunity to listen to and speak the language.

Thailand’s currency is the Baht. Bills come in denominations of 1000, 500, 100, 50 and 20 Baht. Coins are 10, 5, 1 Baht. Satangs are quarter fractions of 1 Baht and are not widely used.

Most international currencies and Travellers Cheques can be exchanged at banks or local moneychangers. Major credit cards are accepted in major establishments as well as at moneychangers. Several banks have sub-branches in the main beach areas offering basic services including money exchange, money transfers and basic account banking. You can get a cash advance on your credit card and transfer funds into the country, the latter usually taking a few working days.

There are many ATMs all over the island, usually with optional displays in English. The majority of exchange places won’t accept damaged foreign notes and if you have series 1999 US $100 bills you may have a problem exchanging them too.

Upon entering Thailand, you must complete a customs declaration form. Fire-arms, pornography and narcotics are strictly prohibited and the penalties for drug trafficking are severe. Antiques may not be taken out of Thailand without a permit from the Fine Arts Department in Bangkok. A reputable dealer will be able to offer advice on the practicality of getting this certificate. Buddha statues, old or otherwise, may not be taken out of the country.

You are allowed to bring in 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco, one litre of spirits, along with a reasonable amount of perfume. If you are bringing in prescription drugs, ask your doctor for a note detailing the drugs you are taking.

It is important to follow some basic elements of Thai etiquette if you want to get the most out of your stay. Koh Chang is a quiet island; so many common courtesies which may be missing in the capital are more prevalent and important here.

When visiting local temples and villages, dress up and cover up, as showing too much flesh may cause offence. Women in particular should be aware that modesty is a highly regarded virtue.

It is also never a good idea to lose your temper, regardless of the occasion. Even if you’ve been clearly disadvantaged or even conned, losing your temper will get you only the contempt of those involved and possibly trying to help you. Keep a cool heart, as the Thais say.

Dining etiquette may not be as strict as in many western countries, but a few basic principles apply.

Dishes will come all at once or in no particular order and everyone at the table is free to help themselves to any of the food in bowls or on plates that is served. Each diner has his or her own plate of rice and a small bowl, into which to heap goodies from the common bowls.

Knives are not usually used as most food is already cut up into mouth size pieces. Forks, spoons and also chopsticks are the main eating utensils. When finishing your noodle soup, placing the chopsticks on the bowl will show you enjoyed your meal.

Entry into Thailand requires a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. If your passport expires while in Thailand, be sure to obtain a new one before arriving or you may be refused entry. 30-day visas on arrival are available at airports and border crossings to nationals of 41 countries. 60-day tourist Visas are available by applying at any Thai Embassy or Consulate before travelling. As visa regulations are in flux and can always change, it is wise to check with the nearest Thai Embassy in your home country or visit.

The TAT Tourist information office is located in Laem Ngop on the mainland. You will find it on the main street coming from Trat, one kilometre after the intersection in Laem Ngop. Tel. +66 39 59 7259-60, opening-hours: Monday to Friday from 08.30 - 16.30.