Trat’s Koh Chang island appears to be a huge hit among local tourists during this long weekend, with even Thai superstar Nadech Kugimiya seen soaking in the atmosphere.

 

He was spotted enjoying a show at the Klong Son Elephant camp on Friday, where he reportedly donated 160,000 baht for elephant feed. A source said the actor had donated the money he earned from songs he had written about elephants.

Dusit Samutrakaphong, chief of Mu Koh Chang National Park, said more than 10,000 people had visited the park between Thursday and Friday, though most were Thai. He added that one of the most popular activities was diving, judging by the number of boats and diving gear rented.

The weather was also favourable, with clear skies and no strong winds or waves. The only problem was the long line of cars waiting to get on the ferries to Koh Chang. The government tagged an extra day to the July 28 holiday for the King’s birthday to create a long weekend in a bid to promote local tourism.

Covering an area of about 213 square kilometres, Koh Chang is Thailand’s second biggest island after Phuket and is known for its protected coral reefs, diving spots and diverse marine life.

 

 

The Nation