History

Traditionally, Trat has been a center for trade and commerce between Thailand and Cambodia. Today, however, Trat is the launching point for access to some of the most pristine beaches the Kingdom has to offer. With easy access to the Koh Chang National Marine Park and the introduction of direct flights from Bangkok, Trat, "Gem of the East," is set to realize a tourist driven renaissance.

Geography

While neither the farthest south nor the farthest east, Trat is the south-easternmost province in Thailand, wedged between the Cambodian border and the Gulf of Thailand. Trat enjoys generous forest areas, grasslands, mountains and, most impressively, an archipelago featuring some of the most beautiful islands and beaches Southeast Asia has to offer. Trat's total land area is 2,819 square kilometers - roughly the same size as Rhode Island in the United States, or slightly larger than Luxembourg.

Climate

The climate of Trat province varies, of course, from the mainland to the islands. The best weather to be found in the province is certainly on the islands where temperatures are generally moderate year-round.

People

Trat province is home to about 218,000 people, making it the fourth smallest in Thailand. The two largest ethnic groups are Thai and Khmer.

Accommodation

Accommodation to suit almost any taste and budget can be found in the city of Trat as well as on many of the islands in the Koh Chang National Marine Park. The greatest selection of places to stay is found on the island of Koh Chang itself. The busy season is from November to February - visitors are advised to make reservations in advance of arrival if possible.

Food & Fruits

There is a wide variety of food throughout the city and on the islands, particularly on Koh Chang where every taste can be satisfied at a reasonable price. Since the province of Trat is famous for its shrimp paste and rakum (a sweet, delicious fruit), visitors should not leave the area without trying one or both.

Gems

Trat is traditionally famous for its gems - primarily the Red or Siam Ruby, however the gem trade has slowed down somewhat of late due to reduced supplies in the area. The best gem finds are on the mainland - you're unlikely to get a deal on any of the islands.

Places to visit in and around Trat Click for more information

There's an activity for every taste in Trat. Apart from the gorgeous sandy beaches and endless sun, some of the more popular things to see and do include:

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is the biggest of the islands in the Koh Chang National Marine Park and the second largest island in Thailand (after Phuket). It is also the most developed of the islands in the park, but not nearly as developed as many other islands in Thailand. Because it's the biggest island and gets the most visitors it also supports the best infrastructure and has the widest selection of activities for the adventurous visitor. It is still relatively untouched and continues to have a tranquil charm that makes it an ideal getaway spot.

Koh Yuak, Koh Man Nai, Koh Man Nok, Koh Plee, and Koh Suwan:

This picturesque group of islands off the west coast of Koh Chang is the site of some of the region's best snorkeling.

Koh Klum

This is the site of the battleground between the French and the Thai navies during the French colonization of Southeast Asia.

Koh Laoya

A set of three islands, the Laoyas are well known for their crystal clear water and beautiful coral gardens.

Koh Wai

Koh Wai boasts a magnificent reef nearly two kilometers long and is an ideal location for snorkeling and fishing.

Koh Mak

Koh Mak is a relatively flat island that supports a handful of ruvver and coconut planations. The population of the island is quite small and yet there are nearly a dozen resorts along its clean, long beaches. Several places on the island are ideal for viewing the sunset and there are many nearby reefs perfect for snorkeling.

Koh Kong (Cambodia)

Koh Kong is home to only five hotels and about a dozen guesthouses at the moment, but its village charm ensures that visitors to this small island return again and again. The island is growing increasingly popular with both Thais and foreigners who, generally speaking, visit the isle to gamble or to renew their Thai visas. Please note that since Koh Kong is in Cambodia, a valid visa is required or one can be purchased on arrival for about US20.

Koh Kut

Koh Kut is the farthest island from the mainland, but that doesn't make it any less worthwhile to visit. Koh Kut's biggest draw is its almost entirely unspoiled natural beauty. The island is nearly three-quarters covered with rainforest and sports some of the cleanest beaches and clearest water in Thailand - probably even in Southeast Asia.

Koh Chang Noi

Home of the luxurious Aiyapura Resort & Spa, Koh Chang Noi is just off the northwestern end of Koh Chang. Koh Yuak, Koh Man Nai, Koh Man Nok, Koh Plee, and Koh Suwan.

Koh Sai Khao

Also known as Koh Prao because of the coconut lined beaches (Mapraomeans coconut in Thai), Kho Sai Khao is now known primarily for its white sandy beaches (sai khao is Thai for white sand).