The leading Island for Dive Training -- and a Haven for Snorkelers
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Batteries
Most dive schools collect batteries and take them to the mainland.
Laundry
Laundry services are available at several locations in town for 40 to 50 Baht per kg. Ironing is charged separately.
Book Shops
The Good Luck Book Shop in Mae Hat has new and used books for sale and exchange. On the way to Sai Ri is Ds Books, on the way to Chalok Ban Kao Bay the Info Book Shop.
Entertainment
Many restaurant owners refrain from playing the usual constant stream of videos. Many bars located on Sai Ri Beach have loud music until late at night especially when there's a new or full moon. Apart from that the evenings on Koh Tao are mostly peaceful and quiet.
Information
Information about Koh Tao is available on the net where you can also book accommodation in advance: www.kohtao.com www.kohtaoonline.com Resorts which also welcome non-divers are listed at this site: www.on-koh-tao.com (with reservation service). Up-to-date information and practical maps are provided in the free booklet "Koh Tao Info".
Banks exchange travelers' checks and cash as long as their stock of Thai Baht lasts (often only until 10 am!). ATM machines can be found in Mae Hat (7), Sairi Village (3), Sairi Beach (2), Chalok Ban Koh (1). The bays on the east coast do not have any ATM's or banks.
Motorcycle rental
Rates for small motorcycles start at 150 Baht for 24 hours. ATV's are used a lot for driving on the roads, rental from 700 Baht per day. Before returning the motorbike to the rental agency it is advisable to repair any damage, otherwise it may become excessively expensive. Exercise extreme caution when riding to the beaches and bays on the east coast. Even skilled bikers often fall on the partially narrow, steep and slippery dirt roads despite their careful driving style.
Petrol
There are regular petrol stations in Mae Hat. Petrol in 0.7 Liter bottles is available for motorcycles along all roads.
Pharmacies
In Sairee Village and Mae Hat pharmacies are available.
Police station in Mae Hat, Tel. 077-456631. Police warnings about gangsters in buses should be taken seriously.
Post Office
Poste Restante is available in the Mae Haad Town Post Office, open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Postcode: 84280.
In Sairee Village there is a Post and Pay Service Center, in Soi Lotus next to Dental Clinic and open daily from 08.30 to 23.00 hours, tel. 077-457093. They handle letters, postcards and packages, and offer oversea calls and internet.
Seasons on Koh Tao
The best time to go to Koh Tao is from late December to April and in August and September. During the high season from December to the end of March the island is absolutely packed. About 400 new guests arrive every day and they sometimes even sleep on the beaches or in offices on the floor. Mid April (Songkran) is the time when many Thais are visiting the island - the room rates rise to astronomical heights. Severe storms hit the island in November and early December so that on one occasion guests had to be evacuated from Koh Tao by the navy after being stranded for one week. During low season most bungalows are offered at a cheaper rate.
Supermarkets
Several 7elevens are available in Mae Hat, Sairee Village and at Chalok Ban Kao Bay.
Umpha Shop
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