We were in Koh Chang, booked a tour of their 5 islands. Did you specify in advance that 850 baht is all you need to pay per person, or will there be additional payments? They said they wouldn't have to pay anything else. But at the pier, we were charged another 200 baht each. I had to pay, otherwise they wouldn't have put me on the yacht. As a result, after the showdown, the money was returned to us, but the mood was spoiled.
We visited Koh Chang for the first time before the pandemic. The most positive memories. Now here we are. The island came to life. The infrastructure is working, the beach is clean, restaurants/cafes/bars are functioning. The hotel is fine.
We traveled from Bangkok by car for five hours, so choose a more comfortable car. There is an airport nearby, but Bangkok-Trat tickets are above average. We are vacationing with a company, of course a comfortable bus is more profitable than an airplane.
I also think Koh Chang is a great place to stay in Thailand. Of course, it is necessary to take a moped, get up at sunrise while everyone is sleeping (swimming at this time is a special pleasure!). Drive all over the island (including the eastern part), visit different beaches and different cafes until you find your favorite, with the most delicious Tom Yam. Also, be sure to go to Koh Kood, first for three days to understand if you need to go there for a long time. We have been going to these islands regularly since 2007.
The best place to stay in Thailand if you need a quiet, peaceful and atmospheric vacation. Be sure to take a moped and drive through all the villages of this island.