My Trip to Ko Chang, Ranong

Here is a story about a quick decision that turned into a gift too marvelous to imagine. I thank God for giving me this incredible experience. My story is about a quiet island called Ko Chang in Ranong, south Thailand. I knew nothing about it even though I grew up not far away.

My cousin, Tee, brought his girlfriend, Aoy, to the Ching Ming ceremony of my family. This ceremony is a Chinese tradition that shows respect for deceased ancestors. Tee had to drive Aoy back to Ranong the same day. The opportunity to visit Ko Chang sprang up from a conversation about how his girlfriend’s family owns the Sunset Bungalows on the island. He described the unspoilt beauty there that has not been destroyed by big investors yet. There are only a few small bungalows are on the island.
Activities that I typically enjoy on an island are running on the beach, swimming in the ocean, eating, reading my favorite books, and of course napping. Tee told me that there is no electricity at night, only candle light. Wow! It sounded so alluring and my desires were growing. When he asked me if I want to go, I said “yes” very quickly. However, as the time to depart approached, I was concerned about leaving my Mom since I had just arrived. She was so happy to have me visit and my goal for this trip home was to be with my Mom, so I was reluctant to actually leave. In the end though, I could not overcome my desire for this new adventure. I packed my bag quickly and left along with Tee and his girlfriend that evening.

 

Ko Chang Ranong

Ko Chang is a small, forested island about five kilometers off the mainland, which makes for a one and a half hour boat ride in a charming, low-key, laid-back atmosphere. The pace of life on Ko Chang is very slow, with emphasis strongly placed on kicking back and chilling out. I was attracted by the abundance of natural, undeveloped environment. The jungle is pristine, only a few small bungalows on the beach hint at a human presence. Tourists are rare here, in stark contrast to most other Thai island destinations. The solitude allows me to enjoy the environment fully, the sound of crashing waves, the songs from birds and insects, the whispering wind… paradise! My regular swimming and yoga practice have been transformed into an experience like never before, streaming through the ocean and moving in stillness on the beach.

This destination is suitable for anyone who loves to be isolated from all forms of busy lifestyle. Most of the hotels on Ko Chang Island are family owned and operate only six months per year, November through April, because of powerful tropical storms. You can chill out on the island for up to two months on a budget of $500 or less, which includes the bungalow plus food.