Be it dozing in a hammock, soaking in the sun, beach partying, feasting or getting the best spa treatment, the boutique island of Koh Samui, in Thailand, will have them covered. Koh Samui is located in the Lower Gulf of Thailand and has some of the best resorts and beaches within its territory. Also known as Samui Island, Koh Samui attracts all kinds of tourists, from budget travelers to well-heeled holiday-makers. It offers a distinguished and tranquil atmosphere that sets it apart. Upon reaching Bangkok, you can take a night train to Surat Thani train station. From here, take a bus to reach Don Sak ferry pier which is a 60-minute journey and then take a ferry to Koh Samui which will take another 90 minutes.
The Trails You Should Cover
Samui’s major attraction, the ‘Big Buddha’, sits 15 meters tall on the north coast of the island. Hin Ta and Hin Yai, also known as the Grandpa and Grandma Rocks, are a beautiful natural feature of the landscape that carries a sad tale of an old couple named Ta Kreng and Yai Riem, and must not be missed. Visit the Fisherman’s village and Bophut Beach for shopping and finger-licking food, Mae Nam Beach for peace and Chaweng Beach to watch sunrise.
A Strip of Sand for Everyone’s Palate
No wonder Koh Samui appears on the wish list of so many travelers. The island is spread across an area of 50 km, hosting no less than 40 beaches, small coves, and bays. Some of the best beaches other than Chaweng, Bophut and Maenam include Lamai, Choeng Mon, Lipa Noi, Nikki Beach, Taling Ngam, Silver Beach, Samrong Beach and Thongson Bay, and Bang Por.
Body, Mind and Spirit
Pamper yourself and make the best of a leisurely mix. Tourists from all over the world come to Koh Samui for the most stress-free massage for the soul. Some of these retreats include yoga, cleansing fasts, tai-chi, chakra-balancing, herbal steam treatments and definitely spas that would take you to the next level of tranquility.
Dig In!
Neatly clubbed with the island’s sultry sands, eating in Samui is the other top indulgence. Be it the simple Thai dishes or Burmese food, various flavourful delicacies are served on the seaside tables. You might have a tough time choosing though – the food is too good to resist! There is a plethora of roadside shacks selling kôw gang and you must try it.There are also plenty of choices for picky eaters and vegans. Some of the best places to dig in Koh Samui include Chez Francois, Supattra Thai Dining, Hemingway’s on the Beach, Homemade Burgers and Sandwiches, and Pepenero.
Pick a Souvenir
Lamai has a great range of quirky little stores and Nathon steals the show with the cheapest deals.You can pick some Thai silk clothing, beaded jewelry, Thai curry packets, Magic Alambic Rum (locally made rum that comes in a variety of flavours), handicrafts, coconut oil, coconut wind chimes, coconut salad spoons, coconut monkey statues, essential oils, herbal massage packs and candle diffusers along with dried durian, Rambutan jam and definitely, some coconut candies.
So, plan your vacation to Koh Samui, pack your bags and get ready to take serenity to the next level!
