Koh Tao Guide Online,Thailand - Accommodation and diving on Koh Tao

All information published on this web site is also available as a free booklet; Koh Tao Info. You can find this booklet at all surrounding ports and selected shops and travel agencies in Bangkok (Kao San), Chumphon, Samui, Phangan and of course on Koh Tao.

In case you wish to explore the island more in depth, especially on foot, there is a more detailed, topographic fold-up map "Koh Tao in Focus" available for free in shops, resorts, dive centers and agencies

Some advice that matters not only in Koh Tao:
Please keep in mind that you are a visitor and treat the locals and the environment with the necessary respect. Try to blend in rather than to stick out, your customs are not the standards here. For example: Thais are offended by nudity; decent clothing in religious sites is required; losing your temper means losing your face and gets you nowhere.
Imagine how many visitors have been here already and how many of them might have misbehaved, naturally this reflects on the future ones. So always being friendly, polite and calm, keep smiling even when it seems difficult, will help a lot and open many doors.
If you have a complaint rather try to explain than to demand, your needs are not necessarily understood.
When you feel wronged or cheated, consider if the cause is worth the hassle and maybe just follow the true Thai tradition of "Mai Pen Rai" meaning "Never mind" ...and always keep smiling.

Attention, sleeping under coconut trees might not be as relaxing as it seems, because its likely that one of these nuts decides to drop down exactly while you are there.
There are no streetlights but lots of dark areas with plenty of obstacles, so get yourself a decent flashlight, it makes a big difference when staggering home after a long party night.

Oh, it has to be said: drugs of any kind are in Koh Tao as illegal as everywhere else, there are undercover police and even a little joint will be handled as a capital crime, resulting at least in a financial disaster, maybe a visa ban throughout Asia, or even worse. You have been warned!

Should you get ill or have a minor accident, you can find first aid, professional medical care, medicine and good advice in one of the many clinics around. If more serious you can reach hospitals in Chumphon and Samui by speed boat in about 1½ hours or even by helicopter.
Now for some tips to avoid unpleasant interruptions of your valuable holiday.
People who come first to the tropics always underestimate some dangers of the otherwise wonderful climate and surroundings.

The sun. Expose yourself slowly to the sun, 20 min on the beach is an awful lot for a white westerner. The burning rays will get you even in the shadow, through the reflection of the sea. Sunblock is essential. Wear a shirt when snorkeling. In case of sunburn best apply Aloe Vera.

Dehydration. You will sweat a lot and you'll have to refill your loss by drinking lots of water, 5 liters a day is the rule of thumb, and sorry coke or beer don't help at all. Fresh coconut juice though is miraculous, a natural electrolyte.

Heatstroke. The sun again, better always wear a hat. Sitting in the sea is refreshing, but if for too long your head gets it all, in the same time your body can't sweat and your system shuts down. If you feel nauseous, feverish and dizzy, seek medical advice immediately.

Fungus. Not dangerous but itchy. Likes humid climate and damp clothes. Prevent it with talcum powder which is cooling nicely too. Dry your towels in the sun. If it's too late you can get relieving creams in the pharmacies.

Local food. It's good, its tasty, but you've got to get used to some of it, take it easy with the spicy stuff and avoid salads with fermented crabs, they are meant to make you run. Chinese green tea and rice soup or yoke are excellent to calm down an upset stomach.

Infections. Even tiny scratches can turn into nasty things if not treated properly. Keep wounds dry and clean and use lots of Iodine. If it gets worse, better see a nurse.

Mosquitoes. You heard about them. They love sucking you dry in the early evening and anytime in the jungle. Don't scratch the bites or we are back to infections. There are plenty of repellents available. Cheaper is one of the local wonder ointments called Yah Mong, like Tiger Balm, this amazing stuff keeps them away, stops the itching and smells good. Helps for many other things too. Avoid sensitive areas like eyes or groin, that's worse than a bite.

Contact Koh Tao Info