Resorts of Thailand. Chang Island

Chang Island has been a favorite vacation spot for Thais for decades. It is 300 kilometers away from bustling Bangkok and attracts vacationers because of its wild forests and abundance of sea creatures. Siam used to be at war with France for this island paradise, and in 1921 the flagship Tonburi sank off its shores. To learn about the history of the Thai navy, tourists can visit the museum, and near its building there is a sculpture of Prince Chumponski.

The wreck itself, lying at the bottom of Salak Pet Bay, is now a landmark and is very popular with divers. At the north end of Chang Island there is a Chinese-style chapel and sculptures of two enormous elephants at the entrance to the temple. In case of drought or prolonged monsoon winds Thais come here to pray, asking for protection from the "master" of the island, and folklore has preserved many legends telling of miracles.

The mountainous island of Chang is covered with impenetrable rainforest, which is home to wild boars, deer and macaques, and dozens of varieties of birds. In order to maximize the preservation of pristine nature in 1982 on the picturesque Thai island created a national marine park, and travelers can enjoy clean beaches on the west coast, covered with soft white sand. Chang Island attracts and enchants because it is untouched by civilization. As in times gone by, the modern population lives a measured life, cultivating rubber, growing fruit, and fishing.

Many boats come out every day from the small fishing villages, and at night you can see the lights on the longboats fishing for squid from the shore. From the side, the island's mountainous surface resembles the silhouette of an elephant, which is why this piece of land was named "Chang" by pirates and fishermen who sought shelter from storms during the monsoon. After thunderclouds or fog, travelers will see the emerald island. And if just a couple of years ago only the rich people of Thailand could rest here, now this amazing place attracts many foreign visitors.

Chang Island can be reached by ferry, it has good roads, and an airport is currently under construction near the town of Trat. For excursionists, there are unforgettable trips to the picturesque island, fishing villages and mountain waterfalls. The best attractions and beaches are concentrated on the west coast. Since the 70s, local families have built traditional bungalows for tourists near Klong Phrao beach.