Introduction
Welcome back, Budget Nomads! Today, I’m taking you to the lush and peaceful island of Koh Chang in Thailand. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang offers a mix of serene beaches, affordable accommodations, and adventurous activities—all perfect for remote workers and digital nomads. Let’s dive deep into every aspect of your stay on this stunning island, from where to stay to what to eat, things to do, and how to navigate it all like a pro.
Accommodation Options
Budget Breakdown
Accommodation on Koh Chang is diverse but slightly pricier than mainland Thailand. Here’s what you can expect:
Mid-range Private Rooms: Around $150 per week (or about $20-$22 per night). Monthly stays can bring this down to $120 per week. These often include air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and basic furniture.
Fan Rooms: If you’re okay with simplicity, fan-cooled rooms can cost $10-$12 per night, though they may lack modern comforts.
Hostels: Prices start at $8 per night for dorm beds. While budget-friendly, I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re seeking tranquility on such a beautiful island.
Splurge-worthy stays: If you crave a higher standard with beach access or poolside luxury, you’ll find options ranging from $30-$50 per night.
My Room Tour
I’m staying in a cozy bungalow just 200 meters from the beach. Here’s what you get for $150 per week:
A queen-sized bed with soft linens.
Large windows that allow ample natural light and fresh air.
Reliable Wi-Fi speeds: I clocked 16 Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload, making it ideal for online work.
Air conditioning and a ceiling fan—a must-have combo in the tropical heat.
A compact bathroom with a hot shower, sink, and modern toilet (remember, no flushing toilet paper here—use the bin provided).
Basic kitchen amenities like a mini-fridge and kettle for quick meals or drinks.
A dedicated workspace with a desk and chair, perfect for remote work.
Food and Dining
Budget and Options
Koh Chang’s dining scene caters to all budgets but leans slightly on the pricier side due to its island location. Most ingredients are imported, which inflates costs compared to mainland Thailand.
Budget Eats: Street food like Pad Thai or fried rice starts at 60-100 THB ($2-$3).
Mid-range Meals: Dining at local restaurants typically costs 100-200 THB ($3-$6) per dish.
Snacks and Drinks: Expect to pay 40-50 THB for a Coke or bottled water.
My Dining Experience
I grabbed dinner at a peaceful beachside spot—Pad Thai and a Coke for 140 THB ($4). Watching the sunset while enjoying delicious food was worth every penny. Koh Chang has numerous hidden gems for dining, especially away from the crowded tourist areas.
Activities and Things to Do
1. Beaches
Koh Chang is known for its pristine, uncrowded beaches.
Lonely Beach: A quiet spot perfect for relaxation or working on your tan.
White Sand Beach: More developed, with restaurants and bars. Great for people-watching.
Kai Bae Beach: Ideal for kayaking or just soaking in the views.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Boat Trips: Take a group tour or rent a private boat to explore nearby islands and hidden coves. Prices vary but start around 500 THB per person for group trips.
Kayaking: Rent a kayak for about 150 THB per hour to paddle through the clear waters.
Hiking: The island has trails leading to waterfalls like Khlong Plu—entry costs about 200 THB.
ATV Rides: Thrill-seekers can explore rugged terrain on four-wheelers. Just ensure your insurance covers such activities.
3. Unique Experiences
Gun Ranges: Test your marksmanship at one of the local ranges.
Cooking Classes: Learn to whip up traditional Thai dishes—prices start at 1,200 THB per session.
Snorkeling and Diving: Day trips with equipment rental cost around 1,500-2,000 THB.
Shopping and Essentials
Convenience Stores
Koh Chang is dotted with 7-Elevens, which stock everything from toiletries to snacks. Prices are slightly higher than on the mainland but reasonable for an island.
Local Markets
For souvenirs or fresh produce, visit markets near Bang Bao Pier. While not the cheapest, the variety and quality make it worthwhile.
Money Tips
ATMs and Fees
ATMs are easy to find but come with hefty transaction fees—around 220 THB ($6-$7) per withdrawal. To save, withdraw the maximum limit (30,000 THB) at once.
Use debit cards at stores like 7-Eleven to minimize fees (often just 1-2%).
Recommended Banking Tools
Wise: A multicurrency account that allows you to hold and spend in various currencies. Open a borderless account for seamless international transactions.
Internet and Remote Work
Koh Chang is surprisingly remote work-friendly.
Wi-Fi: Most accommodations offer speeds of 40 Mbps or higher. Stability is good but can be affected by occasional power outages during storms.
Backup Internet: A TrueMove or AIS SIM card with unlimited data costs about 70 THB per week—a reliable option for staying online.
Healthcare
Medical Clinics
The island has numerous clinics for minor health concerns. Most staff speak English, and wait times are short.
Pharmacies: Typically located next to clinics for convenience.
Hospitals: For serious conditions, you may need to transfer to Trat or Bangkok for advanced care.
Travel Insurance
Always travel with insurance. I recommend SafetyWing, which covers everything from minor illnesses to emergencies.
Transportation
Getting to Koh Chang
A ferry from the mainland costs 100 THB one way. Shared taxis are available from Trat for onward travel.
Scooter Rentals: Around 200-250 THB per day. Helmets are mandatory, and insurance is advisable.
Shared Taxis: Affordable and frequent, costing 30-50 THB per ride.
Final Thoughts
Koh Chang is a slice of paradise, offering budget-friendly options for travelers who love beaches, adventure, and tranquility. Whether you're here to work remotely or take a well-deserved break, this island has everything you need.
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