Travel Blog by 
The Thai islands are popular for a reason: combining a heady mixture of beautiful scenery, local authenticity and a young and trendy vibe, they really seem to hit the nail on the head. For the backpacker on a shoestring, the islands on the east coast are most popular- Ko Tao for diving, Ko Pang Yang for partying and Ko Samui for chilling out.
I was lucky enough to visit all three during my trip there, although I spent by far the most amount of time on Ko Tao learning to dive. It was a great place to learn- very relaxed and friendly (we got invited out to supper with local families more than once), wonderful for underwater adventures and, most importantly, affordable.
One side of Ko Tao is dedicated to diving. Every bungalow and bar is connected somehow to a diving business. This is fun and leads to lots of riotous nights out. However, it can get a bit draining after a few days. When this happened to us, we rented a moped and took a trip to the other side of the island. A lovely little bit of escapism.
If you’re looking for a real hit on the backpacker trail, this is the place to go.
Comments
itchyfeet76 says...
Ko Tao is just lovely, I agree. Has a real village-y feel and the bay at the southern tip is stunning. Diving and snorkelling is pretty incredible and as with almost everything in Thailand, reasonable beyond belief!
Posted 534 days ago.
Nina says...
Thailand is on my must see list! I´ve always wanted to learn to dive too....do you have to sign up for a course first?
Posted 530 days ago.
Amelia says...
Thailand is on my list too, what would be your top recommendations? I have my PADI, but a bit rusty now...still keen to know the diving hotspots though!
Posted 511 days ago.
lucysoff says...
Organising a dive course in Thailand is easier than ordering a massaman curry, and almost as cheap.
My advice would be do a bit of research first, on prices etc, and then just rock up and take your pick. People meet you off the boat and try and get you to come with them right away, but don't be hurried- shop around.
We learnt with Master Divers who have their own 'Nitrox' bar- I'd happily recommend them.
Posted 503 days ago.
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Posted 381 days ago.
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