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Surat Thani

Surit Thani Town is the small provincial capital city and economic hub of Surat Thani Province along the western Gulf coast. Most people only stop here long enough to board one of the ferries bound for Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao. The town is worth stopping in for a couple of days to explore it and the surrounding area.

Surat Thani lies along the southern banks of Maenam Tapee which is definitely the lifeblood of the town. There are a number of piers, restaurants and shops along the river making it a nice place to grab some dinner and go for a stroll. There are also a couple of Night Markets near the river.

Several different companies run ferries to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao which leave from the piers along the river. There are lots of options including overnight boats.

Koh Lamphoo: This small Island commands a great view of Surat Thani's waterfront. It is reached by a small bridge and is used by the locals for recreation.

Chaiya: This small town 60 km north of Surat Thani is a well known archaeological site. 1200 years ago Chaiya was an important northern city of the Srivijaya Empire based in Sumatra. The Chaiya National Museum, located in Wat Phra Boromathat, exhibits ancient sculptures and artefacts found in the area. The museum also gives some insight into the Dvaravati, Srivijaya and some of the other lesser known ancient empires and their power struggles in the region. Open Wed-Sun, 9-4. Baht 30.

Wat Than Nam Lai: located 45 km north of Surat Thani, just before Chaiya is this temple and meditation retreat. The setting is incredibly peaceful.

Oyster Farm: Some of the nearby estuaries have oyster farms, some of which allow visitors. Head down to the Tha Thong pier and book a trip. If you like oysters, try ordering Or Suan. It is a gooey oyster dish that comes on a sizzling platter. Mmmmm so good.

Monkey Schools: There are a couple of schools in the area that train monkeys to pick coconuts and allow visitors to observe. The first one is located 15 km east of Surat Thani on kighway 401 in Kanchanadit and the second one is 10 km north of the airport on highway 41 in Ban Khlong Sai.

Boat Trip: Pack a lunch and grab a longtail boat from one of the piers and go explore the river and canals. There is lots to see including small villages, Wats, a small floating market and mangroves.

Khao Sok National Park: Located 110 km west of Surat Thani, this popular National Park has a wide range of topography allowing for loads of activities including overnight jungle treks, kayaking and spelunking. The park also has a number of waterfalls, a large lake and hiking trails. From Surat Thani, take highway 401 for 110 km and look for signs. There is a restaurant and accommodations on site. Phone +66 2562 0760 to reserve.

Tai Rom Yen National Park: Most foreign tourists skip this park and head for Khao Sok National Park instead. They are missing out. There are fewer people here and it is closer. There are several caves and waterfalls, including some multi tiered ones as well as hiking trails that lead to great viewsfrom the highest peak in the province. Take highway 4009 south from Surat Thani for 60 km and look for signs. There is a restaurant and accommodations on site. Phone +66 2562 0760 to reserve.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park: 60 km northeast of Surat Thani are 42 Islands that make up this National Park. The variety of coral and sea life as well as the dwindling mangroves make this a great place for snorkelling and diving day trips. Accommodations on site. Phone +66 2562 0760 to reserve.

Koh Phangan: Although Koh Phangan, Located 100 km northeast of Surat Thani and 15 km north of Koh Samui, has become famous for its Full Moon Party, the Island is still a great destination for those not looking to party. There are plenty of activities, restaurants and beaches spread out around the Island. The Full Moon Party is held every month during the full moon on Koh Phangan. Basically, it is a huge beach party on Hat Rin at the far south of the Island with bars cranking out the tunes on huge sound systems to over 10000 fun seeking ravers and partiers dancing on the beach. DJ's are flown in from around the world for this fun and crazy event. Book hotels early if you plan to stay near the party. Otherwise don't sleep or head back to your hotel on Koh Samui in one of the fast all night boats.

Koh Tao: This turtle shaped Island (I think it is more peanut shaped) is 115 km northeast of Surat Thani and 40 km to the north of Koh Phangan. There are a lot of dive outfits operating out of Koh Tao as the surrounding waters are perfect for diving. If you have a couple of days to spare, the Island is a good place to stay.

Koh Samui: 75 km east lies this popular Island holiday destination that is very much geared to tourists with plenty of accommodations and a good infrastructure. The Island unfortunately has the western fast food and coffee franchises giving it a less Thai feel than some other Islands. That said, Koh Samui is still a great holiday destination. Koh Samui has some great hotels, resorts and spas in every category from budget to super luxury.

Rambutan Fair: Held in early August, this fair celebrates this tasty fruit. Like all fairs there will be a parade with lots of floats. Fruit and other foods are for sale everywhere along with plenty of music and good spirits.

Chak Phra Festival: Held in October, this festival celebrates the Buddha's descent to earth at the end of the Khao Phansa retreat by parading Surat Thani's Buddha images on floats through town and on barges along the river. There are also boat races, music, food and drinks.