Trat Travel: An Island Hopper's Guide

If you are a frequent visitor to Thailand, chances are you have been to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. These top destinations are vibrant and full of exotic activities, however, if you have already visited these places more than once, you are probably craving something new. Rest assured, Thailand still has more to offer.

Introducing Trat, a province situated at the easternmost frontier bordering Cambodia. This underrated province comprises 50 stunning islands that leave both domestic and foreign travelers in awe. Newlyweds, solo travellers, and groups of friends should stay tuned to find out how to get the most out of a trip to this dazzling region.

Travelling to Trat

Trat is around 315 km from Bangkok, so if you are travelling from the capital, public buses from Ekamai and Mo Chit bus stations are a good choice. For those who prefer flying, Bangkok Airways flies three times daily to their private airport in Trat.

Honeymooners

What can be better than spending the very first vacation with your beloved in an exclusive hideaway. Trat has countless hotels and resorts catering specifically to newlyweds' needs.

Among these wonderful places to choose from, travellers seriously need to check out the honeymoon suite at Centara Talay Resort and Villas Trat. With lush tropical surroundings, the suite offers couples all the comfort they could ever need. The highlight of this suite would be the private yet expansive sun terrace with an outdoor Jacuzzi. What more could you ask for!

After a sweet night, or day, at the romantic resort, the newlyweds can head to Koh Kood, one of the lesser known islands in Trat. Blissfully free from crowds, it is one of the last few unspoiled islands in Thailand. Activities offered here are snorkelling, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming under the Long Chao Waterfall. Couples can also spend one-on-one time getting to know each other better in the island's crystal clear waters on one of the many pristine beaches. Want an Instagram-worthy photo of your honeymoon? Koh Kood is fringed with super photogenic rows of coconut trees and the amazing lighting beautifully complements her sunsets.

Solo Backpackers

Travellers who are looking for an affordable yet memorable experience in Trat should visit the city's largest island, Koh Chang. The island isn't only well-known for its size but also the diversity and range of activities that are offered to visitors.

Thanks to its mountainous and forested landscape, travellers get to enjoy the beaches as well as hikes up to the waterfalls. While there are numerous hotels and resorts on Koh Chang, the island has a strong sense of community. Solo travellers who would like to experience living on the island the authentic way can try various homestay services. If you choose the homestay option, you will be living among the locals, sharing their food, and sleeping in one of their guest houses.

This experience will let you truly immerse yourself in the local culture, in a genuine cultural exchange opportunity. Our top pick destinations for Koh Chang are White Sands Beach, Kai Bae Waterfall, and Bang Bao Floating Village. Here, you can find almost every activity you can think of from snorkelling deep into the ocean to hiking the secret Kai Bae Waterfall at an affordable price.

Thailand is full of islands and cities that are yet to be discovered. Hopefully Trat will find a place in your heart as one of Thailand's hidden gems.