In Thailand's south lies the little known island of Koh Lanta, the jewel of the Andaman Sea. Ko Lanta's quiet, laid-back atmosphere offers an ideal get-away for those seeking to escape the masses of tourists

The name Lanta is derived from a kind of rack (Lantan), that the people of the South used, to grill the catch, that they regularly found in the waters off these islands when travelling along the Andaman Coast. Since 1996 the island has been connected to Thailand's southern electrical grid and since 2001 to the telephone network. The island can be easily reached by 2 car ferries, that operate during daylight time only, approx. from 07:00 to 19:00. Some paved streets exist in the two villages but most roads are still unsurfaced. Accommodation on Ko Lanta ranges from simple A-frame bungalows without bathroom to a wide choice of middle-class bungalows, some with swimmingpool, and tops with properties in the 4- and 5-star category. Local laws do not permit buildings, that are higher than the coconut palms, a law protecting Lanta from the negative impacts of tourism so far. To get around Ko Lanta you will have to rent a motorbike, this can be done at most resort counters. Make sure that you are familiar with the vehicle and test the front and rear brakes, the lights and horn. Drive with extra care when passing through or by villages and schools and remember, that swimming suits and naked upper body are fine for the beach, but not the right attire for a drive through the local villages.