 Trat is the name of both a province and its provincial capital situated in the east of Thailand, close to the border with Cambodia. The city is often used as a stop-off point for those travelling to Koh Kong in Cambodia, while other visitors come for the provincial islands such as Koh Chang and Koh Kood.
 In whatever capacity you choose to visit the province, you can be sure that you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities to occupy your time. The centre of Trat city is quiet and relaxing and a good launch pad from which to visit local beaches such as Ban Hat Lek and Hat Ban Chun as well as cultural sights such as temples and historic buildings.
Koh Chang, the second largest island in Thailand, is the gem of Trat province. While large-scale commercial development is occurring here at a rapid rate, there are still plenty of unspoilt areas. Even in the large upmarket resorts, there’s little that can detract from the beauty of the ocean views, making the island a winning holiday destination.
 Koh Kood is smaller than Koh Chang and significantly less developed, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to capture a deserted island paradise ambience. Koh Mak is more remote still, and the smaller islands of Koh Kradad and Koh Kham are as quiet and tranquil as it gets.
 The centre of Trat town caters well to visitors in terms of accommodation, although establishments lean more towards budget and family travellers. Koh Chang has a good supply of upmarket resorts along its west side, with Sai Khao Beach and Kai Bae Beach among those with the best selection.
From Bangkok, Trat can be reached by taking a flight to the small domestic airport in Trat city or by taking the bus from the Eastern or Northern bus terminals. Koh Chang and the other islands are reachable by ferry only; there are piers at Laem Ngop from which several daily crossings are made.
Weather
The Trat province experiences a tropical climate, with both temperatures and humidity reaching high levels throughout the year. The dry season, lasting from March through May, is the hottest period and sees the mercury regularly hitting the high 30s (°C). This season can be uncomfortable for anyone not well-adjusted to the heat.
 The coolest season and the most popular time for visitors is the period lasting from late October through early March. Things are still steamy at this time, however, and temperatures can easily reach 30°C by midday. Nights and early mornings are somewhat cooler, but a long way from being cold.
The wet season occurs between the hot and cool seasons and sees high temperatures, extreme humidity and regular rainfall. It’s feasible to visit Trat at this time of the year provided you are prepared for the odd downpour and can deal with the constant stickiness. Boat services to the islands are often disrupted during this season, however.
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