02 Sep Paradise Found: Koh Jum
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all—everything and everyone. And I mean everyone. It’s good to decompress and recharge your batteries. Preferably with no-one and nothing around to interfere with the process, and it wouldn’t hurt to have warm blue waters surrounding you at the same time.
But where to? It seems that every beautiful, exotic beach has been taken over by those pesky tourists. And the islands that do have private beaches are incredibly expensive—usually crawling with pretentious people too. Not at Koh Jum.
I found this tiny hideaway after a long search; I was seeking the quintessential island for peace, rest and relaxation… minus the hipsters. Unless you consider the monkeys that patrol Koh Jum to be too cool, then this island is as close to perfection as you can get. Actually, let’s face it, monkeys really are the coolest. Just don’t try to pet them.
The island of Koh Jum is off the southern coast of Thailand and is part of the Krabi Province in the Andaman Sea. This no frills, small, rustic holiday spot is ideal for the person who wants to forget about the world and retire to a time and place where old-fashioned island life was the way.
To get to there you take a long tail boat or a ferry from Krabi, which takes about 45 minutes. There are approximately 20 resorts on the island that all have a family-run B&B feel to them.
Situated in the natural, wild habitat are the quaint bungalows within these resorts. Most have ocean views, outdoor showers, and secluded beaches. Truly secluded. You will find yourself strolling along the shoreline—on long morning walks, perhaps—with only your footsteps in the sand.
The easiest form of transportation on Koh Jum is a scooter or motorbike, which most resorts will have, or you can rent at one of the island’s three villages. Because Koh Jum is so small, you can ride around the entire perimeter in about 45 minutes. The only caveat is that you should know how to drive in difficult terrain. The steep uneven roads are mostly unpaved and quite dangerous to ride for the amateur biker. But, if I could manage, (almost) anyone could.
As far as the beaches go, it’s important to know that the activities are only as wild as you make them to be. There’s a lot of laying on hammocks, exploring the beaches during the low and high tides, and motor biking through the jungles. Koh Jum is the place you go to after you’re finished partying, so don’t expect any raging full moon parties. Instead, come with an open mind, a tired body and I’m sure you will leave with a freshly inspired awakening. Just don’t forget the mosquito repellent.
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