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Ko Samui

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Between Malaysia and Thailand lies a thin stretch of land known as the Kra Isthmus. Just 50 miles east of this stretch of land is Ko Samui (Koh Samui or simply just 'Samui'); a south eastern Thai island that is just 9.3 miles in diameter.

The origins of Ko Samui's name is an area of debate, with some believing that Samui is a derivation of 'saboey' which means 'safe haven' and other believing 'mui' comes from the name of one of the trees that is particular to the island. Whatever its true meaning, Ko Samui was a quiet island dominated by the fishing industry until the 1970s when the main ring road was built and it was recognized as a wonderful place to visit on holiday.

Ko Samui is located in the western part of the gulf of Thailand and as a result is largely accessible by boat from the surrounding mainland. This gives the island a great advantage when it comes to tourism as there are several ways to arrive there, but also because there are other prevailing industries keeping Ko Samui's economy thriving such as fishing, coconut harvesting and oddly enough, large IT corporations.

Ko Samui's environment and atmosphere is completely unique, with such a large population (around 45,000) within such a small area, and roads that only follow the coast. Life on this island is certainly not quite what people of the western world are used to but the way of life is more relaxed, the climate warmer, the scenery more beautiful and the culture out of this world.

Areas

Chaweng Beach

On the east coast of the island, Chaweng beach is 5km of unspoilt white sands, exciting nightlife and dedicated hotel owners. This is a great area for tourists as it holds all the necessary amenities as well as offering staggering scenery and a perfectly safe environment.

The North

While the beaches in the north are a lot quieter than those on the eastern shore of the island, the big Buddha, Choeng Mon beach and the town of Bophut can be found here. Visiting the north of the island will give visitors a better insight into what life is really like on the island.

Weather

There is no particular season when you shouldn't visit Ko Samui unless you can't stand daytime temperatures reaching up to 35ºC and this usually happens during June to August. We recommend you make your journey between March and July, when the temperatures are not too hot and the autumn monsoon showers are still a good two to six months away.

Getting There

By Plane

Ko Samui has its own airport, with flights leaving to and from Bangkok almost every hour. If you wish to fly to the island then you will need to get a connecting flight from Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, Chiang Mai, Hong Kong or U-Tapao.

Once you arrive at the airport there are several ways to travel to your individual destination including the Samui Shuttle taxi service, hiring your own taxi or motorbike or simply staying in a hotel near the airport itself.

By Boat

Combined bus and ferry journeys take passengers from mainland Thailand to the island of Ko Samui for what is the Thai equivalent of around just £5 (350 baht). Passengers can expect to spend over two hours traveling but once arriving by ferry it becomes clear that this choice was definitely worth it. Ko Samui's ports are spectacular, adorned with exotic plants and trees, white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. This is the most ideal and relaxing way to arrive on the island.

Getting Around

Car rental companies on Ko Samui are not quite as prevalent as they might be at other tourist destinations. This doesn't mean to say that you can't travel easily however, and taxis, motorbike and bicycle rentals are readily available:

By Taxi

Songthaew are Ko Samui's taxi vehicles costing around just 10 baht per passenger (prices can be negotiated depending on your destination). If you're planning on getting taxi's a lot then consider asking to hire a Songthaew for the duration of your stay and negotiate on a price. There are also car taxis available to hire, such as the Samui Shuttle which goes to and from the airport.

By Motorbike/Bicycle

If you're looking to explore the island a little quicker than on foot but not stuck inside a taxi then why not hire a bicycle or motorbike? This is an ideal solution for groups of younger travelers looking to get somewhere quick, or for family groups who enjoy bike riding.

On Foot

Ko Samui is a relatively small island with a lot of amenities and leisure activities packed into a small space, so walking around the island is the most intimate way to get to know the area. You can take your time, spend however long you choose in one area and what's more, never have to negotiate on a price.

Sights & Activities

The Big Buddha

This is one sight that shouldn't be missed. Bang Rak is the region which is home to a 39 foot high gold Buddha located at the top of a large staircase. Thousands of tourists come each year to see the Buddha, sign a brick to put towards the building of a new temple, buy souvenirs and climb the staircase right to the top and experience the staggering views over the island. Note: Take care to cover up knees, shoulders and upper legs as the Buddha marks a highly religious area where care is taken to cover up.

Angthong National Marine Park Tour

A day-trip to the Notional Marine Park with 'Blue Stars' is well worth getting up early for and spending 1800 baht (£28.50)! From 7am until 4pm visitors will be taken cave-exploring, elephant trekking, climbing to see stunning views, snorkeling and kayaking in the Emerald Lake, just 19 miles North West of Ko Samui itself. Light breakfast, snacks, drinks and lunch are provided, along with snorkeling equipment, parking facilities, hotel transfers and insurance.

Spas and Health centers

There's nothing more relaxing than visiting a Ko Samui spa and experiencing a true Thai massage, body wrap, facial or body scrub. Some of the most popular spas on the island include the Peace Tropical spa at Bophut and the Ayutthya spa at Chaweng.

The Beaches

An incredible 5 kilometers of Ko Samui's coast is taken up by Chaweng beach on the east coast of the island. Here visitors will find the whitest of sands, the clearest of waters and the most idyllic and peaceful of atmospheres. As the sea laps at your feet try some fresh fruit from the vendors who walk up and down the beach, or take part in some of the Watersports offered here. Other great beaches on the island include Bophut in the north and Lamai beach in the south east.