Thailand’s Full Moon Party is a popular event that takes place on the island of Koh Phangan during the full moon each month. The party attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, making it a vibrant and exciting experience. If you’re planning to attend the Full Moon Party for the first time, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your trip:
Full Moon Party: Top Tips
- Plan your trip well in advance: The Full Moon Party is a popular event, so it’s important to book your travel arrangements well in advance. You can fly into Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, and then take a domestic flight to Koh Samui or Surat Thani. From there, you can take a ferry to Koh Phangan. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then take a ferry to Koh Phangan. You can book your flights, accommodation, and transportation through a travel agency or online.
- Geography: Koh Phangan is a relatively small island located in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is hilly and covered in dense jungle, with a number of beautiful beaches and bays along the coast. The main town on the island is Thong Sala, where the ferry terminal is located. Haad Rin, where the Full Moon Party takes place, is located on the southeastern tip of the island.
- Towns: Thong Sala is the main town on the island and is home to many shops, restaurants, and bars. The town also has a night market where you can find local street food and souvenirs. Haad Rin is a smaller town that comes alive during the Full Moon Party, with many bars and clubs catering to the party crowd. There are other smaller towns and villages on the island, each with its own unique character and attractions.
The Full Moon Party “booze buckets” are always a top seller - Getting around: The main ways to get around the island are by motorbike or taxi. You can rent a motorbike from one of the many rental shops on the island for around 200-300 baht per day. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available, but they can be more expensive. Be sure to agree on a price before getting in. You can also take a songthaew, which is a shared taxi that runs along a set route.
- Be prepared for the weather: Thailand is hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) throughout the year. It’s important to pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent. Bring a rain jacket or umbrella in case of unexpected rain.
- Stay safe: The Full Moon Party can be a wild and raucous event, so it’s important to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid drinking too much alcohol. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night. It’s a good idea to travel in a group and use a taxi or tuk-tuk to get around the island.
- Bring cash: Many of the vendors and bars at the Full Moon Party don’t accept credit cards, so be sure to bring plenty of cash with you. There are ATMs on the island, but they can run out of cash during the party. Be prepared to haggle when buying souvenirs or food.
The fire jump rope is a Full Moon Party tradition - Experience the local culture: Koh Phangan is a beautiful island with a rich culture, so take some time to explore and experience the local way of life. Visit the temples, sample the local cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenery. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Respect the environment: The Full Moon Party can generate a lot of waste, so be sure to dispose of your trash properly and avoid littering. Respect the environment and avoid damaging coral reefs or marine life. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
- After the party: If you plan to leave the island the day after the Full Moon Party, be sure to book your travel arrangements in advance. Ferries and transportation options can fill up quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead. You can also choose to stay on the island for a few more days and explore other beaches and attractions.
In Conclusion
Attending the Full Moon Party in Thailand can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. Just remember to plan ahead, stay safe, and respect the local culture and environment.
Haad Rin Beach, location of the monthly Full Moon Party in Thailand.
Photo credit: By joestump https://www.flickr.com/photos/joestump/ – https://www.flickr.com/photos/joestump/5225596082/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25863217
