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Ko
Lanta |
Ko Lanta
means 'Dazzling Island' and with its eight long, deserted beaches,
breathtaking sunsets and laid-back feel, Ko Lanta has all the ingredients
to charm and delight. Located on the West coast of Southern Thailand,
overlooking the Andaman Sea, Ko Lanta is probably the best positioned
island to enjoy some of Thailand's best diving and snorkelling. |
| From the
buzzing little town of Saladan with its trendy coffee shops, jazz cafe
and European bakeries, to the 100 year old, teak-wood-lined streets
of Lanta's 'Old Town' - home of the sea gypsies, Ko Lanta retains the
natural charm and friendliness of rural Thailand. On the southern-most
tip, Lanta's National Marine Park protects 134 sq km of unspoilt tropical
rainforest, coastal grasslands, dramatic limestone cliffs and twin
bays of contrasting shiny pebbles and pure white sand. It is home to
a huge range of wildlife including over 100 species of birds, large
Monitor Lizards, Deer, wild Pigs, Languor Monkeys, flying Lemurs, Civets,
Macaques, Pythons, Cobras and much more. Off the coast, the Marine
Park encompasses a further fifteen islands which can be explored by
traditional Longtail boat. The marine life in this area is spectacular
and can be enjoyed by divers and snorkellers alike. You can explore
Ko Lanta's caves, wander along kilometres of white sandy beaches, trek
through natural rainforest and enjoy stunning panoramic views, or simply
relax in your hammock with a good book. |
Much of the island is owned by a clan of 'Sea Gypsies', a tribal culture
dating back more than a thousand years. The seafaring 'Chao Ley' (as
they are called in Thai) retain their own language and many ancient customs
and ceremonies. They are natural fishermen and keep the island supplied
with fresh fish and seafood including enormous shrimps, squid, crayfish,
oysters and more. |
| The twenty thousand residents out-number the tourists at all times. The
traditional economy of fishing, coconut and rubber plantations, rice paddies,
prawn farming and fruit are now supplemented by a growing tourist industry.
However, Lanta is by no means as touristy as other nearby islands and even
during mid-season it is possible to walk three kilometres down some beaches
and pass only a few other visitors. |
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Climate |
| Thailand's climate is the most diverse in Southeast Asia and the weather
is extremely hard to predict. The temperature during the day remains fairly
constant throughout the year averaging 30 degress C, with humidity, rainfall
and evening temperatures varying from season to season. For most people
the weather is quite warm all year round, especially in the southern parts
of Thailand. |
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Average monthly temperatures: |
Average monthly rainfall: |
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Weather Links |
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BBC - 7 Day Forecast - Krabi |
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CNN
- 7 Day Forecast - Ko Lanta |
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Thai Meterological Department - Daily & 7 Day Forecast |
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This
site has been created as a non-profit enterprise to help
Ko Lanta businesses after the Tsunami |
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