Koh Chang Ecotourism Swot Analysis
Introduction
Koh Chang is the Thailand’s second largest island, after Phuket. named Elephant Island because it is said to resemble the profile of an elephant. Koh Chang is situated some 330 km East of Bangkok in the province of Trat and is some 40 kilometres long and 16 kilometres wide. It has only recently been discovered by non-Thais as ferry, road and now air access has made the island increasingly accessible (regular flights are now available from Bangkok to Trat).
The island comprises of 70% rainforest, rugged high peaks and steep cliffs set off by gently shelving white sand beaches, colourful coral reefs and dramatic clear blue waters. These factors combined make Koh Chang a gem waiting to be discovered for travelers.The ecological value of Koh Chang has been recognised by being included in the Marine National Park which includes 52 other surrounding islands covering just over 650 square kilometres.
Most of the scenic sandy beaches and bays are located on the western side, extending from the north to the south including Klong Son Bay, White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach and Kai Bae Beach. The profusion of natural attractions and facilities that have been continually improved allow many things to do. Aside beautiful long sandy beaches, Koh Chang also has dense forests, waterfalls, mangroves, spectacular dive sites and surrounding islands such as Koh Mak, Koh Kood and other small islands waiting to be explored. Thanks to the development of the infrastructure, Koh Chang and the surrounding islands can be easily accessed. It can be reached by plane via Trat mainland, by car and boat. The travelling within the island is also convenient. The regulations manage the development of the island and ensure a balance between the tourism dollars and the natural ecology of Koh Chang. The majority of development takes place on the western and to a much lesser extent to the eastern coastline leaving the inner hinterland as nature intended. Accommodation available on the
Koh Chang is the Thailand’s second largest island, after Phuket. named Elephant Island because it is said to resemble the profile of an elephant. Koh Chang is situated some 330 km East of Bangkok in the province of Trat and is some 40 kilometres long and 16 kilometres wide. It has only recently been discovered by non-Thais as ferry, road and now air access has made the island increasingly accessible (regular flights are now available from Bangkok to Trat).
The island comprises of 70% rainforest, rugged high peaks and steep cliffs set off by gently shelving white sand beaches, colourful coral reefs and dramatic clear blue waters. These factors combined make Koh Chang a gem waiting to be discovered for travelers.The ecological value of Koh Chang has been recognised by being included in the Marine National Park which includes 52 other surrounding islands covering just over 650 square kilometres.
Most of the scenic sandy beaches and bays are located on the western side, extending from the north to the south including Klong Son Bay, White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach and Kai Bae Beach. The profusion of natural attractions and facilities that have been continually improved allow many things to do. Aside beautiful long sandy beaches, Koh Chang also has dense forests, waterfalls, mangroves, spectacular dive sites and surrounding islands such as Koh Mak, Koh Kood and other small islands waiting to be explored. Thanks to the development of the infrastructure, Koh Chang and the surrounding islands can be easily accessed. It can be reached by plane via Trat mainland, by car and boat. The travelling within the island is also convenient. The regulations manage the development of the island and ensure a balance between the tourism dollars and the natural ecology of Koh Chang. The majority of development takes place on the western and to a much lesser extent to the eastern coastline leaving the inner hinterland as nature intended. Accommodation available on the