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KoToa is a small island, only 21 sq km and half of that too rough to reach. In the begining the islandwas not inhabited, visited only by fishermen from nearby islands when seeking protection during thunderstorms or when in need of clean water and food. It seems bizarre that such a tourist paradise should have been originally earmarked as a top-security prison. Strange, but true. From 1933 until 1947 the islandhoused political prisoners. Being just about seventy km from the mainland meant it was comparatively escape proof! Alcatraz...piece of cake. KohTaois surrounded by lots of Black Tip ans Whale sharks too.
During the last 12 odd years the island has changed in many different ways as it developed to become one of the major diveoperation centres in Thailand, bringing all levels of diversand water lovers alike.
This was at the same time that the very first settlers laid claim to a large part of land on which is now known as Sairee Beach.
Despite KohTao still being under Royal Patronage, plots of land were claimed, and cleared for coconut plantations. You can still see loads of evidence of the large plantations all over the island. They were all released and transported by boat to Suratthani on the mainland and the islandwas deserted yet again. From the days of being a prison camp, through to its current development, Turtle islandhas retained it's sparkle, though it now caters for everyones needs and expeniture. The name Koh Taomeans Turtle Island; most say that the name is due to the islands outline which is meant to appear to be an inverted turtle while many others claim it is from the day's when the sea near the island was rich with turtles and the island was their breeding grounds. The island is surrounded by big sharks too, nice friendly ones fortunately. |
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Bungalow Resorts and Hotels on Koh TaoCharm Churee Villa Resort & SpaAccommodation on Koh Tao |
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(c) 2012 by www.kohtaoisland.net |
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