Guide to Koh Samui

Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island after Phuket! Travelers visit Thailand from all over the world, but the beauty of the Koh Samui is it attracts everyone from the budget backpacker to the wealthiest people on earth. This beautiful Thai island is a famous destination of Thailand that many dream to visit. Are you planning a trip to Koh Samui? This guide will give you suggestions on how to get around, where to stay and what to do in Koh Samui. So, keep on reading to get your travel inspiration from the tropical Thai island of Koh Samui.

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WHERE TO STAY

Koh Samui is a fairly small island that can be entirely driven around in one day. The most popular places to stay are on Chaweng beach, Lamai, Bophut and Maenam. We decided to stay at Villa Ihana, a villa located on a secluded hilltop in Choeng Mon. The Villa is situated in arguably the best location on Koh Samui surrounded by luxury villas and resorts such as the Six Senses, The Sala & Melati Beach Resort. The villa has prime location at the end of a private no through road containing a development of only 6 villas, next to the beach and sea. Our two-story villa even had its own private infinity pool, which was our favorite part of this stunning property.

Villa Ihana is a place for peace and tranquility, yet is still only 10 mins from Chaweng and Bophut Fisherman’s Village which are famed for restaurants and nightlife. Our stay at Villa Ihana was very pleasant and our host, Roger, was very accommodating. Airport pick up and drop off was very smooth. We were able to easily arrange taxi rides, in-villa massages and a private chef. The villa itself is beautiful, spacious and offers breathtaking panoramic views over Koh Som, Angthong Marine Park & Koh Phangan.

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HOW TO GET AROUND

Basically there are four main ways to get around the island:

• Scooter
• Songthaews
• Rental car
• Taxi

 

Getting around the island will depend on where you stay, your budget and your preferred mode of transportation. Walking is an option, but sometimes it’s easier to get a Songtaew as a cheap way to get to places that are a little bit too far to walk. Booking your own hire car is a brilliant way to tour the island. We took a private taxi that we arranged from our villa, which was affordable and convenient for us. Whether by songthaew, car, on foot or in a taxi, you have a variety of ways to get where you want to go. If you decide to rent a scooter, be sure to wear a helmet!

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WHAT TO DO

Go to the Beach

Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach are tourist favorites! Chaweng Beach is the hub of Koh Samui, and where you’ll find nightlife, as well as plenty of restaurants and bars. For a more quiet spot, Lamai Beach is a beautiful long stretch perfect for kicking back and relaxing. It’s out of the way, making it perfect for a more peaceful vacation. Choeng Mon Beach is on the north-eastern tip of the island, and this area is one of mystical secluded bays. Regardless, what beach you decide to visit, sit back, relax and get your tan on!

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Thai Massage

After a fun day of exploring the island, what is better than indulging yourself in a pampering massage? There are many different types of spas around Koh Samui offering a wide array of treatments and catering to all kinds of budgets. Unwind and relax, you’re on vacation after all! A Thai massage is a must – and they’re so cheap you should have one every day.

Side Note: I had about 5 different types of spa treatments during my stay in Koh Samui and never paid more than 20 USD. All massages lasted an hour and were just as good, if not better, than any massage I have paid hundreds of dollars for in the US.

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Watch the Sunset

Enjoy a sunset at a beautiful restaurant over dinner or watch it from your hotel or villa. Done properly, you must have a cocktail in hand. Champagne, please!

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Day trip to AngThong Marine Park

If you are visiting the island, do make a note to also visit Anthong Marine National Park. One of Samui’s most famous surrounding attractions. Angthong is made up of 42 islands grouped together in the gulf of Thailand, the scenery is breathtaking and the nature is unforgettable as you can cruise, hike or kayak. Many affordable tours are available from the Island of Koh Samui and include cruises, speed boats, group tours or private tours.

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Take a Cooking Class

A great way to experience Thai cuisine is by having a private chef teach you how to cook traditional Thai dishes. This experience allows you to learn about the spices and ingredients absolutely necessary to successfully prepare flavourful Thai dishes. We had Chef Sergio from IVL Property prepare a delicious lunch for us in our villa. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can also arrange a cooking class with your hotel.

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Dine in a Tree Top

Yes, you can eat amongst the trees at Anantara! A treetop restaurant overlooking the incredible Samui coast. Not only is the food outstanding, but it is one of the most unique places you’ll ever eat at. There are eight individual open-air ‘tree-houses’ which split off from the main walkway at separate intervals, ensuring completely private dining. If you splurge on one meal, make sure it’s in a tree house!

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Water Activities

With clear blue, warm waters, Koh Samui is an extremely popular destination for water activities. We decided to go jet skiing for an hour one afternoon and it was so exhilarating! There are an abundance of other waters sports available on Koh Samui, including snorkelling, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving and sailing. Whatever your preference is, make sure to do at least one of these activities during your visit to Koh Samui.

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Fishermans Village

The Fisherman’s Village in Bophut is one of the few traditional places left on Koh Samui. Bophut Plaza in the centre of the fishing village is a great spot to hit up for souvenirs. There are also a number of restaurants with local and international cuisine for you to have a bite and a cocktail.

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What do you think about my guide to Koh Samui?

Have I inspired you to jump on the next flight to this beautiful island?

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