Community Tourism - Thailand
Koh Phra Thong is a relatively undeveloped island with only basic infrastructure and services. This means that rather than being swamped by resort chains, the island benefits from more traditional & interesting holiday accommodation options. The homestay in Baan Lions is one such option
Houses in Baan Lions - Koh Phra Thong
Baan Lions is a village at the northern tip of the island. It replaces the village of Pak Chok which was severely damaged during the 2004 Tsunami. The new name comes from the fact that the Lions Club International Foundation and other benefactors, have funded the rebuilding.
Baan Lions now has more than 100 simple but modern homes which house the villagers. They have an open style which suits the importance of community to the Thai people. They all have bathrooms with running water and a shower. Power comes from private or community generators. This is normally available for a few hours from dusk until 10pm.
Village Life in Thailand
The lack of power and other modern comforts brings a natural resourcefullness amongst rural Thais. Here exists a people who are not cursed with mass consumerism. The children make their own toys; their imaginations untainted by plastic moulded dolls or computer graphics.
The primary profession in these coastal communities is fishing. This is done by line or by net depending on the location and the season; squid are caught in skilfully made squid traps. This profession is threatened by commercial fishing which leaves much less for the villagers to sell at market.
Island Homestays - About your Hosts
The residents of Koh Phra Thong are used to community living, talking and telling stories. As such, they are enthusiastic to show their hospitality to outsiders on vacation; and to hear your stories. The opportunity to share their homes, culture and food with guests from other countries is broadly welcomed.
Why choose a Homestay in Thailand
By participating in the homestay program on Koh Phra Thong, guests to this tropical island will get to try wonderful new foods, learn how to make thatching or a squid trap and gain a greater understanding of these rural Thai communities. In return visitors will be contributing to sustainable tourism by injecting a vital income directly into the local economy at grass roots level. This is important to maintain the survival of these villages allowing them to flourish rather than wither under the ever present encroachment from outside developers.
Koh Phra Thong holiday homestays are outstanding value at the price of 220 Bt per person per night and 350 Bt for 3 meals a day. There are also a number of homestay activities which introduce visitors to village life on the Thai Andaman coast.
More homestay photos are available in a zip file.
Before booking please read our Koh Phra Thong travel notes and our terms & conditions.
Marine Habitats
This tropical Thai island is fortunate to benefit from diverse & healthy marine habitats. In Golden Buddha Bay there are coral reefs. In Koh Ra Channel there are expanses of seagrass and some of the densest mangrove forest in the country.
Thailand Divemaster Training
Blue Guru offer all inclusive Divemaster internships with scuba diving in the Surin Islands & Richelieu Rock. With exclusive tropical beaches and genuine local diving direct from the shore - training in such a location is a rare opportunity.
Diving/Activities Packages
Blue Guru and Golden Buddha Resort have come up with some select diving packages that also include other activities. These are designed to give guests a taste of what Koh Phra Thong has to offer at very special prices.
Mr. Chuoi Bar and Huts
Mr. Chuoi's bar and huts is an excellent budget accommodation option for the intrepid traveller. Situated close to a private bay, surrounded by nature, with freshly prepared food and an excellent little bar - everyone enjoys their stay with Mr. Chuoi.
