Koh Samui is a must-visit part of Thailand, renowned for its beaches and ocean, culture and festivals, dining options, nightlife and a whole lot more. Even if you've visited Thailand before, there's plenty more to discover in this picturesque region. Here's just some of what you can experience with a holiday to Koh Samui.
Koh Samui: The Overall Experience
Koh Samui, also known as just Samui, feels like it's an entire world away, even though it's incredibly accessible. You can fly into the island, which is off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus, from Bangkok or drive from a closer nearby destination. When you arrive, you'll find it has the perfect blend of infrastructure and development to ensure you have a comfortable and even luxurious stay, while also offering up pristine scenery and a welcoming local culture.
Thai seclusion: One Night In A Deserted Paradise
Flavourful dance: Not-To-Miss Thailand Dinner Shows
Hop across the Gulf of Thailand: Song Saa Private Island
The Natural World And Waterfalls
Koh Samui is perfect for those who love to explore the natural world. Do you have a soft spot for waterfalls? You're in the right place, because Koh Samui is home to some particularly spectacular cascading waters. Be sure to visit Hin Lad and Namuang, the best and most accessible two.
If you visit during or after the rainy season, between September and March, you'll see these falls at their peak when the water flow is strongest. Both waterfalls are well signposted and your accommodation provider or a local will be able to show you the most direct route there. Be prepared for your hiking with good footwear as you need to take a walk before you get to the sites themselves. Of course, you'll be thrilled by Koh Samui's beaches. There are a variety on offer, such as Bang Kao, Bang Por, Chaweng, Lipa Noi and Big Buddha Beach - just to name a few! Some beaches will be busier than others, while some are more developed or more remote. Whether you like to relax on an uncrowded, far-flung beach, or you prefer to paddle in waters surrounded by plenty of others, there's something for you on the island of Koh Samui.
Discovering The Culture Of Koh Samui
Koh Samui isn't just revered for its natural attractions, it's also a hotspot for culture too. While you're visiting, you should get a taste of local customs and traditions. One experience might be to visit the Mummified Monk Exhibition at Wat Kiri Wongkaram. Here, you can witness the preserved and mummified body of the monk Loung Por Ruam. At the same time, you can learn all about other Buddhist traditions and practices. The Big Buddha temple is also not to be missed. This features a 12 metre, glittering gold statue of a Buddha in a seated position. You'll find this awe-inspiring statue at Wat Phra Yai, which is located on Koh Fan, which is accessible by Koh Samui via a causeway. Tour operators can take you to visit this site if you don't have your own form of transport.
You may also want to time your visit to Koh Samui with some of its festivals. Songkran takes place during April and involves celebrating the sacredness and life-giving properties of water. There are all sorts of events and festivities that take place. The Loy Krathong Festival is also a hit, which takes place in November and involves floating candles out onto the water to expel bad luck and welcome future fortune. Koh Samui is also famous for its full moon parties, which are popular with young people. They involve celebrations beneath the moon and lamplight on the beaches of Rin Nok and Haad Rin Nok, Koh Phangan, which is just a boat ride away from Koh Samui island.
If you would like to experience a unique holiday in Koh Samui, contact the experienced consultants at your nearest Travel Associates store today to begin planning for the trip of a lifetime.
