Koh Samui, also known as the ‘Coconut Island’ and second only in popularity to Phuket, is one of Thailands premiere Island escapes. There are only two seasons in Samui, warm and tropical with a short rainy season which starts primarily in November. Incredibly accessible, Samui is located under an hour’s flight away from Bangkok, (flights are also available from Phuket or Pattaya) and its international airport allows for easy connections via other Asian destinations, such as Hong Kong and Singapore. (find out more about Thailand in general by clicking here)
Ferry connections are also available for visitors wanting to connect from mainland Surat Thani with Koh Samui, the perfect option if you are looking to travel by Train, Car or Bus. Samui is also well known for its proximiaty to the Ang Thong Marine National Park and 60 surrounding islands including famous Phangan island, Tao island and Nang Yuan island.
Once on the island, although Samui itself is small enough to be circumnavigated in just a couple of hours by motorbike or car, it’s size is somewhat deceptive as this small island offers visitors an amazing number and variety of beaches and activities.
The bustling beach towns of Chaweng and Lamai are some of the most popular places on Samui to visit, due largely to their fantastic beaches, and in both towns you will find luxurious beach resorts, mouthwatering international cuisine, and a fantastic nightlife. Entertainment wise, in these areas you are assured of finding a myriad of activities to suit all members of the family, and highlights include the major attractions of the ‘Big Bhudda’, cooking courses, yoga instruction, Muay Thai training, scuba diving, and even golf. Although both towns boast a great atmosphere, Hat Chaweng is our Barefoot Traveller recommended beach to visit for couples and families.
If in search of a more intimate escape, Samui offers some truly luxurious accommodation and retreats. Just outside of Lamai town, the Banyan Tree Samui combines all of the elements to give you just the right mix of luxury, tranquility and accessibility, as this 5-star retreat enjoys stunning views over secluded white sandy beaches yet is just 1km from Lamai Shopping town.
Or, try travelling a little further south where you will find some of the more relaxing areas of the island, away from the hustle and bustle of the more developed towns in the North of the Island. One of our Barefoot Traveller favourite spots is at Laem Set Beach, located on the south coast of Koh Samui. A quaintly charming area, you’ll find a wealth of natural beauty, wildlife and stunning scenery, amidst which is the superbly located ShaSa Resort. This all villa boutique property is nestled amongst hillside scenery, and its 33 suites boast contemporary design and chic elegance, making for an unexpected tropical hideaway that is well worth a visit.
Barefoot Traveller’s Top tips for Travel to Samui:
Plan Ahead: Pre arranged private transfers can often be included for a low additional cost and arranging your airport transfers before you leave home will save you having to navigate yourself around and negotiate your fare with the local drivers.
Want to go Diving?: Koh Samui offers some incredible diving experiences, however like any destination, its important to check that the operator is certified. If in any doubt, contact the team at Barefoot Traveller for a list of our recommended operators.
Dress Appropriately: Respect for the local customs is essential in any destination, and Thailand is no exception. Koh Samui have strong values regarding dress, and it is expected that women should not go topless on the beach and men should not walk around shirtless other than at the beach.
To find out more about planning your dream holiday to Koh Samui, contact the expert travel team at Barefoot Traveller to discuss your requirements, or, click here to browse our latest special offers.
