Are there any gems in Thailand that have not been ruined by mass tourism? Of course. Then you have to go to Koh Taen. This island is located about 15 kilometers from the mainland and 5 kilometers south of Koh Samui, in the Gulf of Thailand.
Snorkeling is a wonderful way to explore the fascinating underwater world without the complexity of scuba diving. It's simple, accessible, and provides instant fun for anyone, regardless of age or swimming ability. With a mask, snorkel and sometimes flippers, you can float gently on the surface and enjoy the colorful marine life below you.
Diving at the Similan Islands National Park (video)
Similan Islands National Park is a group of nine islands in the Andaman Sea about 55 kilometers west of Khao Lak. These islands 1982 became a protected National Park. These nine islands are one of the most beautiful in Thailand and can only be admired from the end of October to the end of April.
From June 1 to September 30, Thailand's most famous beach is closed to tourists. The authorities want to give nature the opportunity to recover during that period. The continuous flow of thousands of day-trippers has put a heavy burden on the coral in the area. It is the first time that the beach, part of Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park in Krabi, will close.
Commission wants to put a brake on the number of tourists visiting vulnerable maritime places
A national committee wants to limit the number of visitors who visit vulnerable maritime places to 6 million per year, in order to prevent these valuable natural areas from further deteriorating.
Explosive rise of damaged coral reefs in Thailand
In just a decade, the area of damaged coral reefs has increased from 30 to 77 percent, said marine ecologist Thon Thamrongnawasawat, of Kasetsart University. At least 107.800 of the 140.000 rai are in poor condition and the area of damaged coral reef is increasing rapidly.
Extensive damage to the coral reef off Si Chang Island
West of Sriracha, extensive damage has been done to a coral reef beloved by divers. A cargo ship registered in Panama attempted to cross the reef between Koh Si Chang and Ran Dock Mai, one of the adjacent mini islands. But the Panamanian freighter made a miscalculation about the sailing depth, which resulted in damage of more than 3000 square meters.
Coral in Thai waters affected by rise in temperature
Global warming is also affecting coral in Thai waters. For example, the coral in the sea at Koh Talu and Koh Leum in Prachuap Khiri Khan has been affected. This causes the coral to lose its color, indicating that the water temperature is rising. Five percent of the coral reef has been affected.
Students seek sponsors for coral reef project in Thailand
How can you improve and protect the coral reef in Thailand as sustainably as possible, without incurring sky-high costs? Four Wageningen students have ideas they would like to realize. That is only possible if they bring in enough money with a crowdfunding campaign.
About leaked oil and dying corals
Have the coral reefs off Rayong been affected by last month's oil spill? Maritime biologists say yes, government agencies say: not yet.
A hut on the beach on Kradan Island (video)
In the seventies and eighties you went to the beach in Thailand because of the beach. A beautiful sandy beach, crystal clear water and swaying palm trees, you could not wish for more. Most beaches in Thailand did not have expensive hotels and restaurants, not to mention extensive shopping malls.