Siam Huts - Reviews - Ko Chang

Over the last three years I have spent more time at Siam Huts than I have at home. Ko Chang Island lies off eastern Thailand close to the Cambodian border and like all of Thailand, especially the islands in the south, has developed dramatically during that time. While most of the island's inexpensive bungalows have been demolished to make room for high-dollar resorts and condominiums, Siam Huts had the good sense to renovate yet continue catering to the low-budget traveler. Though prices have continued upward each season, their beach-front bungalows are still a bargain and manage to maintain some of the old-time charm.

Their crude bungalows have all been recently torn down and rebuilt from the frame out with new solid walls, new wiring, and glass windows. Some even have air conditioning now which may be handy after February when heat and humidity begin to soar.

The new bungalows are still basic - very basic. Besides a cold-water bathroom with shower, sink, and toilet, the huts contain an electric fan and a mattress -that's it - not even nails in the wall to hang things. On month-long stays I would gather scraps of wood, twine, and short lengths of bamboo to fabricate small shelves or an ash tray. An empty Singha beer box makes a fine little table. The lack of amenities and furnishings can be frustrating but most time is spent out on the beach.

Siam Huts has an inexpensive restaurant with Thai food. Every evening they put on a barbeque which is very good. With their new small bar and extended chill-out deck Siam Huts has entered the circuit of late-night parties which rotate from one establishment to another each night of the week.

As fast as Thailand is commercializing, it looks like the family owned and operated Siam Huts will thrive with the low budget traveler as that market continues its steady shift toward Cambodia and Vietnam.