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Although the island of Koh Tao is
a beauty in itself, the most spectacular scenery can be found in
the underwater world. This is the primary reason why the island
has become a mecca for scuba divers across the world. Coral reefs,
deep off-shore pinnacles and rock formations can be reached within
ten minutes by boat. Here you can find rocks that come alive through
sponges, anemones, soft and hard corals. Lucky divers and snorkelers
can even spot the massive, harmless whale sharks in season, or manta
rays and turtles while swimming among schools of exotic fish. To
those unwilling to scuba dive but dying to see the underwater world,
snorkeling gear is available all over the island. With a water temperature
between 27 - 30 degrees Celsius one easily falls in love with the
sea.
As for those who don't like water sports and only plan to stay
for a day or so, the Thai food on the island is amazing. Pizza or
a tender steak with good wine are some of the more popular dinner
choices. The sunsets of Koh Tao are
known as some of the most spectacular to watch, and places to relax
and view them while having a " sundowner " are easy to
find.
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Spa, Massage and Yoga
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The ultimate in exercise and relaxation
 The
Thai's have been practicing their own particular brand of massage
for nearly 2000 years. And it isn't just a muscle manipulation either.
It's based on the freeing of blockages in an invisible system of
energy lines linking 10 different areas of your body - and it actually
does work! Aches and pains are manipulated away, leaving you with
extra vitality and an overall feeling of calm and well-being.
Jira's Spa, located opposite the post office in Mae Haad, can offer
full Thai massage or if you don't have a lot of time between dives,
simple head, neck, shoulder or foot massages. If you really want
to indulge, why not go for a herbal steam sauna or a body wrap with
papaya and carrot.
Prices start at 100 baht for simple waxing up to 990 baht for the
3 hour 'Island Experience' which includes herbal steam sauna, skin
treatment and foot massage.
Relax. Unwind. Massage, meditation, sauna, Tai Chi, all soak up
time on Koh Tao. Treat yourself to days of relaxation. Courses in
Yoga, meditation, Tai Chi and Reiki are also available around the
island. Koh Tao is definitely a relaxing experience.
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Muay thai boxing - sairee stadium
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Regular fight nights and training camp
 Muay
Thai is Thailand's national martial art. Thai boxers are adept at
striking with knees, elbows, legs as well as punches. Island Muay
Thai trains boxers from beginner to professional levels. Training
instructors and competitors. Several Thai and European coaches conduct
daily training sessions at Island Muay Thai Sairee Stadium. It is
a great way to get fit for both men and women. Builds confidence
and strength. Students of Island Muay Thai receive recognised certifications
and a membership card that entitles you to use of training facilities,
coaches and discounted entry to Island Muay Thai fight events.
Thursday nights are Fight Night on Koh Tao. Island Muay Thai presents
high prize money fights featuring professional boxers from around
Thailand and the rest of the world. A great night out on Koh Tao
with the excitement and exhiliration of a truly cultural experience.
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Trekking
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There are quite a few tracks to explore all around the island.
Not only will it be healthy and save you some money, but this way
you will discover the real beauty of Koh Tao. Savour the variety
of the mangroves, enjoy the spectacular panorama from the mountain
top or dip into the warm water of a lonely little bay. Please bring
enough mineral water to avoid dehydration, sunblock and a good hat
to prevent sun burn or heat stroke, and naturally, don't forget
your camera.
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Thai Culture
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Learn about the country you're visiting
With a little bit of effort you can immerse yourself in the local
culture. Much of the island remains coconut plantations. A walk
around and you will often see nuts being collected by monkeys or
the husks been burnt to produce charcoal. Locals handcraft unique
jewellery and bags from the coconut shell, for sale in some of the
roadside stores.
Local fishermen are happy to take travelers out fishing. Andy at
Tatoo Bar is good to get in touch with for the fishing trip and
a few beers. Maybe you can keep your catch and enroll in a Thai
cooking class, learning a couple of basic Thai dishes like a coconut
curry and a papaya salad. Just e-mail with any questions.
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