80 km from continental Thailand we find the striking Ko Samui. This was the first island in the Gulf to receive tourists and the construction of an airport contributed to place it in the firmament where the regional tourist stars glow.
80 km from continental Thailand we find the striking Ko Samui. This was the first island in the Gulf to receive tourists and the construction of an airport contributed to place it in the firmament where the regional tourist stars glow.
This incredible development was stopped by the wise decision to ban any buildings which could be higher than a palm tree, and to preserve the golden sand beaches which are, undoubtedly, Ko Samui´s main attraction and some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand.
Ko Samui has beaches for everyone. Chaweng and Lamai are the most developed ones, while Maenam and Bophut are quieter, and Choeng Mon in the northeast is undoubtedly one of the best, with only a few hotels which do not spoil the environment.
The striking development of Ko Samui makes it easy to find all kinds of accommodation, from big international hotel chains to smaller but comfortable lodgings.
There are lots of things to do in Ko Samui: swimming, snorkelling, visiting different beaches, making a stop to eat at the many good restaurants which offer the classical Thai food, or enjoying the famous Thai massage. And at night, a myriad of bars, clubs and activities to please everybody.
If you are fond of extreme sports, you can practise bungee jumping on Chaweng beach or watch buffalo fighting or the famous Thai boxing. If you prefer something quieter, you can visit Butterfly Garden or take a day trip to the magnificent Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Any time of the year is good to visit Ko Samui, though November is the wettest month. You can get there by ferry from Surat Thani, Kho Pha Ngan or Ko Tao, or by plane from Bangkok, Phuket, PAttaya, Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur.
