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Thailand means many different things to different people. Some it is the ideal break away with gorgeous white sandy beaches, relaxed way of life and 5 star living for 2 star cost. To others it is a it is a blend of ancient culture steeped in tradition. The warmth and friendliness of the Thais, the amazing rood. Some go for the hedonistic nightlife found in certain Thai resorts. However there is a new breed of traveller emerging on to the Thai scene, fuelled by an adventurous thrill seeking urge,the desire to not be just another tourist and the growth in the extreme sports providers in Thailand. This new breed of traveller, mainly seems to originate from the disgruntled ex city employee. Bored with their job, fed up with modern life in general, they need an out let to vent their frustrations. They want some adventure, excitement and change. Fortunately for them they have found an answer:
The centre of the action is an unlikely, yet incredibly beautiful venue. A tiny little rock in the gulf of Thailand, just north of Koh Phanang. Koh Tao. Voted as one of the 10 ten destinations to see by the lonely planet. The Rock – has everything the aspiring extreme sport adrenaline junkie could want. Freediving, Scuba diving, Rock climbing, Muay Thai training, Wreck diving to name a few. This unique blend of excitement, adventure, culture, nightlife and lifestyle provides gap year students and people on a career break with an ideal environment to pursue personal development goals through the participation on extreme sports.
Championed by Xtreme Gap, the extreme sports and adventure travel gap year company. Koh Tao, is a great place to spend a gap year for several reasons. The change in culture is undeniably refreshing from the dull drudgery of the west, the setting beautiful, but there is more to it than that. You are cut off from the outside world quite literally. Two boats a day means that the current affairs and news stories of the outside world is only accessible to those who actually bother to research them. There is no need for the TV, time virtually stands still as you enjoy your own piece of paradise as you while away your time on the Island, engaging in some exciting adventures.
The longer you stay on the island the more you feel a sense of belonging there. The relatively small expat community all know each other, and welcome strangers with open arms. Most of these people were travellers and loved the place so much they ended up staying, setting up businesses and befriending the locals. Many people come to the island to check it out and then end up staying for months, unable to leave because they really can’t see any reason why they would want to.
The traffic ridden commute to the office becomes a hazy memory as their morning routine becomes a coffee on the boat, heading out to chumporn pinnacle, one of South East Asias top dive sites. With in moments Bullsharks and occasionally a whaleshark will pay a visit to the fortunate Divemaster trainees.
Many people although initially apprehensive about travelling alone, can’t help but make new friends, the experiences shared cementing long lasting friendships.
