Arrival

The easiest way to reach the villas on Koh Phangan is to fly to Thailand via Bangkok international airport, from Bangkok it is a 45 minutes flight to Koh Samui airport. From Samui ther are currently numerous ferry and speed boat operators running daily services (06.30 to 18.30) toThong sala, Baan Tai and Haad Rin. We can arrange for speed boat pick up to and from Dee Dee Retreat. (seasonal)

Only 12 km from koh Samui and 40 km from Ko Tao, Koh Phangan has grown at a much steadier pace then Samui, and although the island is becoming more developed with some fantastic hotels and new holiday homes and villas, most of the development has been done tastefully which has helped keep Koh Phangan, Koh Samui's pretty little sister. The local Thai's still live very simple, and traditional lives, which is centred around village life and the local temples. The main source of income remains farming and fishing, although tourism is also becoming an important income source.

The island is over 70% mountainous, so if you do want to go exploring we would advise you hire a jeep. The roads are very up and down. 4 x 4 jeeps can be hired locally from about 1000 baht a day. motor bikes and mopeds can also be hired, unless you are an experienced motorbike rider we would advice against this! Most of the ringroad is now concrete, there are still a few dirt roads most off which run of the main roads, and lead you down to one of the many bays (23) on the island. Had Thong Lang lies about 1 km at the end of one of these tracks. The dirt road is in good condition, The last 50m can be tricky after a lot of rain.

Had Thong Lang is located 20 minutes north of Thongsala, the islands capital with it's thriving markets, selling fruit, vegetables and fresh fish/meat, restaurants and a good selection of shops for clothes and souvenirs. The main port is also located here.

Chaloklum is located about 10 minutes further north from Had Thong Lang. A traditional fishing village with a slow pace of life, there are some very good restaurants and bars all with a relaxed atmosphere

There are numerous other bays in the local area all will have a selection of bars and restaurants. Check out local beach page

Access to the villas is down a 1km dirt track, common for this Island, all main ring-roads have 'just' recently been paved by the Thai Government.

As such we highly recommend jeep or bike rental when staying at Dee Dee Retreat, as this is the best way to explore the Islands delights.