Getting to Full Moon Party

Q: When does the Full Moon Party take place on Ko Phangan in Thailand in August? I have heard that July may be the last one and it may be moved to another island or cancelled? Could you find out for me? If it is taking place, what is the easiest way to get there from Hong Kong? - Miekie Nel

A: These rumours seem to crop up every few months, sending the backpacker world into a spin. Be assured that rumours of the world's most famous full moon party being moved or cancelled are not true. They started after it was suggested by some prominent figures that the parties were bad for the image of this pristine island, but those in tourism industry don't agree. Every month the Full Moon Party brings 20,000-50,000 revellers to Haad Rin beach and next month it takes place on Sunday, 13 August. You can fly directly from Hong Kong to Koh Samui, which is only a short boat ride from Koh Phangan. However, most visitors will travel through Bangkok. From there there are flights to Samui in Bangkok Airways or bus, train and flight services to Surat Thani on the Thai mainland, from where you can travel via ferry to Samui and Koh Phangan. Accommodation on Koh Phangan is at a premium and expensive over party periods, but there are plenty of rooms and hotels on Koh Samui. (10/7/11)