Philip arrived for the first time on Koh Phangan in August 2013 and has been on this amazing island since then. His first impression was immediately a feeling of ‘I could live here’. He met many cool like minded people, he loved the underground party scene, the chill vibes and the kitespot was amazing so it all came together in this place.
Hi, Philip. Thank you for the interview. What does Kitesurfing and wing foiling mean to you?
Kitesurfing and wing foiling are my two biggest passions. I love the combination of water and the power of the wind. It keeps me fit and focused and gives me the feeling of complete freedom, adrenaline and euphoria. It is also perfect to clear my thoughts and not have a single worry on my mind.
Where does your knowledge and experience come from? How did it emerge?
I had my first experience with kitesurfing 12 years ago but it really kicked off for me when I decided to leave my life in Belgium and went on a kitesurf trip to Brazil. Brazil has one of the best winds in the world so this was the ideal place for me to progress. After several months of kitesurfing in the best places along the north east coast I decided to make kitesurfing a main part of my lifestyle by becoming an instructor. At that time the International Kiteboarding Organisation (IKO) had instructor training courses running in Thailand so.. off to Thailand.
During my instructor training I learned a lot of new things about kitesurfing, equipment, weather and my favorite.. teaching psychology. I have a degree in psychology and worked a long time in a sports center before so this combination was an ideal background for me to become a kitesurf instructor. Knowing how to motivate a student, having a lot of patience and a positive vibe is my main focus.
As soon as I achieved my IKO instructor certification I got a job offer at one of the kitesurf schools in Huahin and later on in Phuket. Here I gained my experience day by day.
How did you connect Kite Surfing to your life here?
After my time in Hua Hin and Phuket I got in contact with the school on Koh Phangan where I worked for the last 2 years. This was an amazing time with an amazing team. Cheers to Mica and the whole crew! Here I gained a lot of knowledge about the conditions for teaching on Koh Phangan. When the second season came to an end I felt like I was ready for a new chapter… opening my own school. I love teaching but I also felt like I need to progress in life and take on a challenge. Opening my own school gave me that chance to create something unique and completely do my own thing which I love. A year ago we started to teach wing foiling on Koh Phangan as well. There was a lot of demand for this new sport so we jumped on it!
What do you feel your Kite Surfing brings to the People?
It’s very simple. My goal is to give my students the same feeling that I had when I did my first rides on the water. This feeling is indescribable and for me to be responsible for that is just amazing.
Do you find Koh Phangan to be a good place to learn Kitesurfing and wingfoiling?
YES, Koh Phangan is one of the best and easiest places to learn kitesurfing because of its flat, reef-protected waters, endless space and stable winds. This combination makes it ideal for beginners. With wing foiling we go over the reef into the deep water. This gives us an endless playground here on Koh Phangan. Thailand offers many other great kitesurf spots as well. You can read my complete guide to kitesurfing in Thailand HERE.
Where is your favorite place on Koh Phangan?
Too many but I will name a few.. My regular go-to-place to eat is Tom's kitchen in Bankai. This guy just makes the best food and the prices are very good. To chill out i love to go to Highlounge. This place has the cosiest vibes and it’s like coming home. For parties I love to go to Hollystone on Saturdays. They have the best house music and energy on the island.
What are your Hopes & Dreams?
Well having my own kitesurf school is kinda a dream come true so I am very happy with that. Of course I hope that everything works out well and that I have many happy customers and a lot of wind.
Besides that I just wanna spend a lot of good times with the people I love, travel and be happy with the things in my life.
What is your life philosophy?
For me it’s all about good vibes and balance. Keep it chill and positive and this will make life easier. Also have an open mind, dare to take a risk sometimes and try to find that thing that makes you happy.
Why did you choose Kiteflip as the name?
I wanted something short, easy to remember and personal. In Belgium many of my friends call me Flip (my name is Philip) and ‘flip’ is also used a lot in extreme sport tricks. And so Kiteflip was born. Although a Kiteflip isn’t an official trick I hope one day I invent it and put my school's name in the history books.
What makes Kiteflip special?
I would say my close contact with the students. I like to get to know new people so I always spend some time with my students outside the lesson having a drink, showing them some cool places on the island etc.. At Kiteflip we want to make the people feel at home.
Finally can you give a few reasons why people should try kitesurfing and wing foiling on Koh Phangan with Kiteflip?
Learning wing foiling and kitesurfing on Koh Phangan with Kiteflip is a great experience that I am proud to offer. Our island is blessed with steady winds, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced riders. Wing foiling on Koh Phangan is such a thrilling activity; it’s amazing to see people glide over the water and enjoy the stunning scenery around them.
At Kiteflip, we provide top-notch instruction and high-quality equipment. Our passionate and skilled instructors ensure a safe and enjoyable learning journey. We love seeing our students quickly get the hang of it, and their progress is truly rewarding.
One of the highlights of learning wing foiling on Koh Phangan with us is the vibrant and friendly community. Our students often meet like-minded individuals who share their love for water sports, creating a fun and supportive environment. This camaraderie makes each learning session even more enjoyable.
Koh Phangan is a paradise, with its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and relaxed vibe. Wing foiling on Koh Phangan offers a unique way to explore the island’s natural beauty while engaging in an exciting sport. Our lessons are affordable, making it easy for anyone to learn a new skill while enjoying a tropical vacation. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve, Kiteflip is here to help you master kitesurfing and wing foiling on Koh Phangan. In case you would want to wing foil anywhere else in Thailand please check out my complete guide to wing foiling in Thailand HERE
All our lessons meet IKO and IWO standards (International Kiteboarding and wing foiling Organisation). After you complete the lesson we will provide you with a IKO certification card that is recognized world wide.
Everybody can learn how to kite or wingfoil, young or old, fit or not. It is more of a technical sport so you don't need a lot of strength. The only requirement we have is that you are able to swim.
What's included in the price? Lessons, equipment, IKO or IWO certificate, free photo/video shoot and happy times.
Come and join us!!!
Contact details
KITEFLIP Kite surf & Wing foil Center
Mac's Bay resort
64/5 moo 2 Bantai Koh Phangan
84280 Surat thani, Thailand
kiteflip website
+66987315940 (whatsapp)
