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Pre Covid Series: Koh Phangan, Thailand

Pre Covid Series: Koh Phangan, Thailand

August 2021 · 4 min read · Surat Thani Province

In my last post about my pre-Covid adventures, we reminisced about my time living near Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Today I'm gonna travel back to my first experience in South East Asia, living in Thailand. My first trip to Asia focused on Thailand exclusively traveling to Bangkok, Chang Mai, Khao Sok National Park, and Koh Phangan. I spent almost a month on this island paradise.

This trip was in 2018, well before the global pandemic. I'm hoping we get to experience adventures like this sooner than later. Let's enter the time capsule and head back to 2018.

Fresh off the ferry from Surat Thani, Thailand
Fresh off the ferry from Surat Thani, Thailand

Koh Phangan, Thailand

Situated in Southeast Thailand, Koh Phangan is an island in the Gulf of Thailand. 70 miles from the mainland, the only way to get to the island is by boat or ferry.

On my first adventure here, I had done plenty of research and wanted to experience the duality of this island. On one side you have the wild Full Moon Party every month that is basically a mini-festival once a month on the island. On the other side of the coin, there's a large conscious community on the island. In the middle of the two, it feels less westernized.

View from my bungalow at Bluerama Hotel, Koh Phangan
View from my bungalow at Bluerama Hotel, Koh Phangan

Bluerama Hotel, Koh Phangan

As I was nearing the end of my trip I opted to splurge a little on a room and rented a bungalow at Bluerama. Rooms were actually quite affordable as well. I can't recommend this place enough.

Situated on a mountain, getting up the driveway to the hotel can be quite intimidating on a motorbike.

Once you arrived, you'll get to experience peace and quiet in comfortable, private, and clean rooms.  The rooms also have amazing views of the Gulf of Thailand.

The hotel also has a mountaintop pool, bar, and restaurant that makes you feel like you're living in paradise.  Some of the island's best DJs can be seen here playing sunset sessions for your enjoyment.

Partying on Koh Phangan

When I arrived, I was actually too late for the Full Moon Party. No big deal there is a party every night in Koh Phangan. I found all-night techno-fueled events that were right up my alley. 

Whether you want to travel by boat to dance the night away at Eden or rave in the jungle at the Black Moon Party, there is always somewhere to dance with like-minded people. 

Black Moon Party

The Black Moon Party was a "rave" hosted monthly during the New Moon. Music was heavily focused on psytrance and melodic techno on the main stage. They also featured a cave stage with hip hop and a house music stage. The event would go way into the morning and at least till sunrise. It was a great time and if they ever start doing parties like this again, I wouldn't miss it. It's not just for kids.

Finding the Best Sunset in Koh Phangan at Amsterdam Bar

Amsterdam Bar is world-famous for its stunning views and sunsets. The sunset here rivaled any I've ever seen on my adventures. I'd say they are a close second to sunset in Ibiza. 

The beaches in Koh Phangan

You can find countless miles of beaches on the island. The beaches are surprisingly not crowded as well. You won't have to fight over prime real estate on any beach. You can even find plenty of beaches where you'll be the sole lounger.

Five-Part Koh Phangan Series

So this story turned into a five-post series. Want to keep reading? You can find the rest of the story here...

Koh Phangan Part 1: Bluerama Resort and the Black Moon Party

Koh Phangan Part 2: Beach Life at The Relax Beach Resort

Koh Phangan Part 3: Food in Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan Part 4: Daytime in Koh Phangan

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Koh Phangan Part 5: The Full Moon Party In Koh Phangan

Let's Connect

Currently based in Siem Reap, Cambodia, I'm a solo-traveling, digital nomad. Due to the pandemic, I've been living in Siem Reap for almost 2 years now. While I'm hoping to get back on the road soon, I'm not in a rush. 

I'd love to connect with other travelers, digital nomads, gamers, or residents of Cambodia. Don't hesitate to say hi or send me an upvote!

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You can learn more about me and my company at OneZen.me.

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Travel Resources for your trip to Thailand

Recommended by TravelFeed

Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to Thailand.

Accomodation: Explore the best places to stay in Thailand on Booking.com, Agoda and Hostelworld.

Travel Insurance: Medical emergencies abroad can be pricey, but travel health insurance is not. We always use SafetyWing for affordable and reliable coverage.

Transportation: Use 12go and Omio to find detailed bus and train schedules, making travel planning easier.

Car Rental: For hassle-free car hiring, DiscoverCars is our trusted choice with a wide selection of vehicles.

Internet: Got an eSIM compatible phone? Airalo is perfect for reliable internet access during your trip. Just install it before you go, and you're set!

Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.

Tickets: Save on entrance fees in Thailand with Klook and Tiquets.

Travel Planner: Need a hand planning? Our free travel planner chatbot is your personal guide to Thailand. Chat now.

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