Koh Pha Ngan and the Full Moon Party

A growing number of young New Zealand travellers are attending the monthly "Full Moon Party" on Koh Pha Ngan - a small island off Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. Any such traveller should be aware of the risks involved.

Violent crime (including assault and rape) against tourists does occur, and there are frequent reports of visitors being drugged and robbed. The purchase, possession, use, or supply of illegal drugs is a serious offence in Thailand, and can result in lengthy spells of imprisonment. Sting operations involving illegal party drugs are commonplace and the resulting fines are hefty. Passports are also a prime target for theft even from locked rooms and guest houses. In addition, poisonous jellyfish present off Hat Rin beach on Koh Pha Ngan have caused deaths. Exercise extreme caution when swimming in this area during the rainy season, particularly at night and at high tide. If stung, immediate hospital attention will be necessary. Make sure you have travel insurance. If you must go to Koh Pha Ngan then be extremely vigilant and wary of strangers. Avoid travelling to the island alone.