Koh Samui

Picture an island nestling in the calm, azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand fringed by coral reefs with beaches of powder soft white sand framed by a backdrop of coconut trees, their fronds dancing in the gentle breeze. The palms stretch upward to the central uplands, thick with lush tropical vegetation. The coast and lower slopes are awash with coconut palms making Koh Samui the ‘Coconut Capital of Thailand’. It is said the island sends 2,000.000 coconuts per month to Bangkok. This green vista is interspersed occasionally by black granite boulders. Some of these rock formations appear to defy gravity by hanging dramatically against the hillside. This tropical paradise is called Koh Samui. A 250 square kilometre rounded island which is about the same size as Penang.

Koh Samui translates from Koh, the Thai word for island, and Samui, which i

s probably derived from the Chinese “saboey” meaning safe harbour. The magic island first came to the attention of world travellers when it started to crop up in conversation in many of the cheap hotels that then clustered around Bangkok’s Hualamphong Railway station some 45 years ago. It was difficult to get to, requiring special negotiation with fishermen in Suratthani lying 80 kilometres across the sea on the mainland. When you reached the island, there

was no road and so those intrepid voyagers hopped from beach to beach by boat. In the past forty plus years things have changed hugely.

The island is now served by an international airport that looks more like a botanical garden than the accepted tradition of functional ‘air station’. Flights leave hourly for the new Suvarnbhumi Airport in Bangkok and link the island to additional destinations such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Pattaya and Phuket. A 52-kilometre road rings Samui and links all the major towns. Nathon the capital plays host to government buildings and banks and serves as one of the ferry ports serving the Thai mainland. The road skirts the 635-metre mountain that sits centrally astride the landmass and takes in the main resorts of Lamai and Ch

aweng. Lamai is the smaller of the two and offers a quieter and perhaps cleaner beach. The latter caters for, perhaps, a younger and more energetic visitor. Further on lies Bangrak is better known as “Big Buddha Beach” as it takes its name from the huge Buddha statue at the eastern end of the bay.

Borphut boasts a trendy fisherman’s village, much favoured by French tourists and Maenam to the north offers spectacular views across to Koh Phangan and the Ang Thong Natural Marine Park. This area is much less crowded than the bustling Chaweng and the marginally quieter Lamai. It still retains its original Thai flavour. However, to get to grips with authentic ‘Samui’ you need to rent a car or motorbike and take one of the many roads that lead up away from the coast and into the mountain. As you climb higher you come to rubber plantations and hidden away villages clustering around paddy fields, still hanging onto a traditional way of life that is far removed from the tourist dominated hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars that cluster around the coast.

Samui has over the years developed a reputation as centre of complementary medicine offering spas designed to detox inhabitants of an overstressed globe. The Health Oasis Resort located adjacent to the unspoiled Bang Po Beach to the west of Maenam offers stunning views across to Koh Phangan. Sit in the authentic vegetarian restaurant after six p.m. and turn your head to the west you will witness spectacular sunsets over the islands that comprise the Ang Thong National Park. Health Oasis is unique in that the Thai Department of Health lists it as a traditional medicine hospital. It specializes in supervised detox and fasting treatments.

Be sure of this, whatever your tastes Koh Samui will be able to provide a venue for a holiday that will linger long in your memory. So if you are planning a trip of a lifetime whether it be for tourism or health this magical island is a venue well worth considering.

Why Samui?

In a world full of attractive holiday locations what is it that makes this island so special?
Global competition for tourists, and the money they spend, is as strong as it’s ever been. Access to information on the internet and easier transport links have opened the world up to those willing to travel.

Samui is only a small island in the Gulf of Thailand and yet the world’s biggest hotel groups are queuing up to open showcase resorts here; supermarkets and retail chains are appearing everywhere you look; large international companies are investing in real-estate projects; the airport has recently expanded to cater for increasing visitor numbers; there are constant rumors of superstars from sport, music and film being linked to the island; and individuals are always searching for holiday homes, or a permanent move to Samui to work or retire. All of this continues, despite some complaints about the infrastructure and, the opinion of some, that it’s easier to live in other countries. So, why do they come? What is the attraction with Samui?

Well, the reasons for everyone will be different; many aspects of the island can combine to create the ideal situation to suit each individual’s needs. The island’s diversity may well be one of the major attractions as all nationalities, cultures, classes and religions seem to live side-by-side in total harmony.

It’s a small island and so, for those that live here, you’re always seeing people you know, whether it’s in a restaurant; out shopping; or even just getting around. Familiarity definitely helps to create a feeling of comfort and it’s one of the reasons why people always appear relaxed and happy. When you meet someone you know you generally smile at them, so when you meet one after the other you tend to smile a lot. This can have many benefits including reducing your stress levels and promoting a more relaxed atmosphere. Happiness can be infectious; if you’re always smiling, those around will usually reciprocate.

The size of the island also means that you’re never far from where you want to be and so the stresses of travelling from A-to-B, or being late for appointments are never really an issue.

Samui has always had a unique, indescribable atmosphere which is probably the culmination of all of the island’s individual little charms working together. One aspect that separates Samui from other places is the method of the island’s development. In pretty much all other popular destinations the tendency has been for developers to go upwards. High-rise apartments, hotels and department stores can all change the nature, and aesthetic appeal, of a destination; especially on a tropical island.

Fortunately, the government has done everything possible to maintain the atmosphere and appearance without preventing the island’s evolution. In fact, the development of the island has been on an incredible scale. But tight building regulations and the introduction of even stricter zoning laws have ensured that the small-island feeling has remained throughout. The lack of high-rise buildings is important for the future of tourism on Samui as many people are attracted here because of that distinction and the effect it has on the overall ambience.

Sympathetic, and sensible, development has changed the face of Samui without losing its aesthetic appeal. It’s replaced one form of beauty with another. Take two of the newer large scale developments for example, Samui Town Centre and the BigC shopping complex. Here you have two big projects that have been built on land previously occupied by palm trees, and yet a great deal of care has been taken to sustain a tropical feel; the design, style of architecture and landscaping has produced something that has its own beauty and will certainly enhance the island’s popularity. Not to mention improving the quality of life.

Protecting the natural beauty of the island is of paramount importance for the future. And, it’s probably the first thing most people will notice. Fantastic stretches of white sandy beaches and densely forested mountains are both littered with interesting and varied rock formations that are universally attractive and create picture-perfect scenes all around Samui. The climate is pretty impressive, too, with good year-round temperatures and no real monsoon to speak of. In summary, Samui has ample sunshine and just enough rain throughout the year to keep the green tropical appearance.

Low crime rates, the low cost of living and still relatively low prices for property all encourage people to visit, relocate or invest here.

Samui’s metamorphosis from a secret backpackers’ haven to a top luxury destination is almost complete. And the

associated lifestyle choices have increased with the changes. The island now offers many lifestyle opportunities. It’s the sophisticated luxury living with fine-dining; trendy bars and clubs; private yachts and jets; exclusive designer shopping; and world leading luxury villas that’s the main lifestyle currently being promoted on Samui. And it’s all here. But don’t panic if that’s not your scene. Samui still gives people the opportunity to have a less extravagant and expensive existence. For example, people who come here for the simple life, on a small budget, will be equally satisfied with life on the island.

For investors, the attractions are clear; Samui has a big future in high-end tourism. An expansion of the airport and the opening of hotels such as Conrad and Four Seasons confirm how far the island has come, and where it’s heading. And Samui’s airport linking directly with so many South-East Asian destinations makes it an obvious stop-over for anyone visiting the region.

People like to have choices, whether they are a tourist; an individual or couple looking for a holiday home; someone relocating here to work, or retire; or a big company looking for an investment with a considerable guaranteed return. Whatever it is you’re looking for, Samui will give you options. Surprisingly, for a small island, it has outstanding choices in all areas: beaches, accommodation, dining, shopping, nightlife, property, and lifestyle.

So, ultimately, it is the diversity of Samui that makes it so attractive to such a wide market. The ability to give people what they want, and have something to please everyone, is priceless. And it’s what has always encouraged visitors to return year after year. Many other locations around the world benefit from great beaches

, impressive facilities, a friendly atmosphere, good transport links, or a low cost of living. But there are few other places, if any, that have all of these winning factors?

Transportation

Motorbike
In the old days, the only way to get from one beach to another beach on Samui was by motorcycle. The "roads" were really just dusty bullock, cart trac

ks but out of the jungle and in the rainy season they turned into long narrow swamps that were impassable to anything with four wheel. But in the last couple of years the provincial government has done a truly remarkable job of road building and now you can go from one end to the other end of the island without ever losing sight of the ocean on wide, well-maintained roads.

There are three types of motorcycle generally offered for rent on Samui. The most popular are the "Step throuhts" these are small, usually no more than 100cc's, and have automatic transmission. If you want to rent, it will cost you around 100 - 170 Baht per day (24 hours).

In the days before the new roads, the only type of bike offered for rent was the "dirt bike" and even though there are few places left on the island where knobby tires, low gear ratio and high center of gravity are necessary. It's almost always a single, mail tourist who rent them. This bikes are not recommended for the beginning rider. For rent this kind of motorbike, plan on paying 150 - 200 Baht per

day (24 hours).

The third choice for bike riders on Samui is fairly new phenomenon, the "chopper". These are big bikes, anywhere from 400 - 900 cc's made exclusively for highway touring. A chopper has a big power plant that can take you down hundreds of kilometers of tropical highway without strain, and seats that are almost as comfortable as those in any small car. Their only liabilities are the rental price, 500 - 700 Baht per day (24 hours).

Jeep & Car
Another way to traveling around the island is driving a car. Samui offers you many cars for rent which can be easily found around the island; or just

ask the hotel where you stay. For renting a jeep , it will cost you around 800 - 1500 Baht per day (24 hours). If you like it more comfortable you can rent a car from Budget Car Rental which delivers the car to your hotel or awaits you at the airport on your arrival. It is also a good way to discover Thailand as you can return the car everywhere in the country.

Bicycle
The cheapest vehicle you can rent is a bicycle, which will cost app. 100 Bath per day and you can have a lot of fun and a very special experience.

You don't feel very well driving around by yourself?
No problem; you can hire a taxi for 20 to 50 Baht per 10 km during the day. The taxi will cost 150 to 200 Baht at nigh

t time. You stop the taxis at the street or you will find them at the market place.

Driving safety tip

Renting the Vehicle.
Most rental companies will hold you responsible for any damages occurring while you are renting the vehicle. Make note on the contract of any dents, scratches or missing parts before you drive off with the vehicle. If you have never ridden a vehicle before, do not hesitate to ask for instruction. The roads of Koh Samui can be harsh training grounds for those who do not understand operating features of the vehicle. Make sure everything on the vehicle is functional. Brake lights and turning signals, low and height beams should working properly.

Wear a helmet
This point of safety cannot be stressed enough. Although it seems that the helmet law in effect on the island is enforced only in Nathon, there are other reasons other than stiff fines (500 Baht) that make wearing a helmet good practice.

More deaths occur from motorcycle accidents due to head injuries than any other cause. If you do go down on a motorcycle, your head is bound to hit either the road, a rock or another vehicle before any other part of your body. Ask your rental agency for an extra helmet if you plan on having a passenger on the vehicle.

Road Conditions
Riding a vehicle in any unfamiliar environment can be risky and Samui is no exception. As the island continues to grow, more and more construction and traffic will make the roads very dangerous and especially when traveling at night.

The shoulder of road i.e. the area to the immediate left of the road can be used as an emergency lane to avoid fast approaching traffic from behind. Be aware that these areas usually consist of loose gravel or sand and is sometimes eroded. Be careful when pulling off the side of the road and on to these shoulder areas. Care must also be taken driving around turns where gravel sometimes falls of construction trucks.

Right of Way
In many countries, any person or vehicle on a road or in a lane has the right of way. Such is not the case in Thailand and especially in Koh Samui. Yield at all times to oncoming traffic that may come over into your lane. Yield at all times to traffic coming from behind by moving over as far to the left of the lane as possible allowing plenty of passing room.

You may need to, as mentioned before move onto the shoulder of the road. Use your mirrors. When wanting to pass another vehicle, use your horn in a polite manner i.e. a short honk will allow the person in front of you to know where you are. Make sure your high beam lights are off when approaching traffic at night.

General Tips
Keep your eyes on the road ahead, to the right, to the left and behind at all times. Be aware. Watch for people, animals and debris on the road. Here on Koh Samui more than anywhere else you will ever travel, driving defensively, staying focused and level headed is imperative for your survival.

Courteous driving as hard as it may seem at times could be part of the solution to driving challenges on the island. Should you notice a company driver or hotel limousine service driving recklessly, Make note of the time and hotel name and phone number and call the General Manager to report the incident. Driving a vehicle on Koh Samui can undoubtedly enhance the experience of the island and your holiday stay but only if you know the risks and drive with safety and caution in mind. The island is yours to explore. Happy motoring.

Adventure Sport

Bird Watching in Ko Samui
Ko Samui, the largest island of the Gulf of Siam is a part of an archipelago of 80 smaller islands of which 6 only are inhabited. Adventure sports id very common here. Both tourists and the local people looks forward towards the various adventure sports that this island offers. Bird Watching in Ko Samui is very popular both among the adults and the children.

The South coast of Ko Samui is preponderantly arid and undeveloped. This wildness of the area gives good shelter for birds and other exciting wildlife. The wilderness of the area has made it a nesting ground for several species of birds. The nests of the birds are actively protected keeping into account their nesting seasons when planning pruning of trees and bushes. The staff and contract workers are strictly prohibited from trapping birds, shooting them with slingshots or in any other way molesting them. You will find lots of very beautiful and tuneful tropical birds here. The electric blue flash of the kingfisher is a daily sight as it salvages the tide-pool. While birds like the sunbirds and flower-peckers are seen everywhere. You can also notice a sea-eagle passes by quite regularly. You can also access books on the subjects of birds, native mammals and local flora in the libraries of this island.

Bird Watching in Ko Samui is really very interesting. You can see various species of colorful birds here. So don't miss this sport when you are in this amazing island in Thailand.


Mountain Biking in Ko Samui
Mountain Biking in Ko Samui is one of the most celebrated adventure sports. Pristine beaches, lush green jungles, awesome hills and cascading waterfalls, surround this beautiful island. As a matter of fact the panoramic landscape beckons all adventure lovers to tread their foot on this diversified landscape.

If you have a strong heart and a control over your nerves then Mountain Biking in Ko Samui is for you. You will go through incredible adventure when you are on your bike discovering Ko Samui. There are some deadly roads, which may bring your heart pumping hard. Samui's roads are hair-raising at the best of times at night on a bicycle with no lights they're downright terrifying. The south of Chaweng has the most tiring journey. From then on the road is relatively flat until north of Nathon, when easier gradients but longer hills lay in wait. One of the best spots for Mountain Biking in Ko Samui is the Mae Nam Valley area. You will go through intriguing technical down hills and up hills through coconut groves and farmland. But the Wanorn Waterfall, south of Na is recommended only for the exceptionally fit and strong people. Though the road starts off in a good condition it starts deteriorating at a rapid rate as you climb to the 205m high point. You will face dodging boulders, negotiating slippery mud. But you will enjoy the panoramic view of this beautiful landscape. Many tour operators conduct Mountain biking tours. You can even hire a bike.

Mountain Biking in Ko Samui attracts adventure lovers from all round the globe. So if you have a bend towards adventure Ko Samui is the right destination for you.

Trekking in Ko Samui
Ko Samui is the largest island of the Gulf of Siam. This island is basically covered with coconuts and forested hills on Chalk Mountains which culminates at 636 meters. This island is a part of an archipelago of 80 smaller islands of which 6 only are inhabited. The pristine beaches, lush green jungles, awesome hills and cascading waterfalls goes on to create a very panoramic landscape, rarely found in other islands. Tourists throng this place all round the year not only for its scenic beauty but to enjoy adventure sports here. Among all the adventure sports trekking is one of the most important one. Trekking in Ko Samui is practiced widely both by the local adventure lovers and equally by the tourists.

The diverse landscapes of Ko Samui beckon adventure lovers to come and take on nature close and on foot. Trekking in Ko Samui is quite popular. People from all round the globe of various age and sex come here to enjoy trekking. Primary Tropical Rain forest is one of the most haunted areas for trekking. People here come either in group or with the trainers. But whether you know how to trek or not you should try elephant trekking here. Elephant trekking has become very popular among the tourists visiting this island. Sitting at the back of an elephant wandering through a tropical jungle accompanied by the only noises of the surrounding nature at the backdrop will surely you mad in excitement. This adventure ride will sure give you lots of enjoyment and fun.

Trekking in Ko Samui is really exciting and adventurous. So, you are a adventure bug, then you must trek in this beautiful island.

Water Sport
It's the place to be if you want to be active in or above the sparkling blue sea. Samui is happy to offer you all kinds of water sport facilities as well as sailboat cruises for various day and overnight tours to the neighboring islands.

Diving
Koh Samui and Koh Tao are a divers paradise with beautiful coral reefs. On this pages you will find links to local diving operators and dive tours.

Sailing
Enjoy sailing in the tropics. Discover beautiful coastlines, visit remote waterfalls, viewpoints and the underwater life by boat!! We offer you an individual sailing experience on a 26ft. sailing boat with max. 4 guests on board!! The perfect trip for honeymooners!! Our sailboat charter is an individual boat trip for maximum 4 persons on board to the nearby islands; Koh Phangan, the Marine Park and Koh Tao. On overnight trips, which give the whole cruise a more adventurous touch, we do jungle walks on the islands, go kayaking and prepare delicious BBQs on the beach.

Canoeing / Kayaking
Kayaking in the emerald waters off Koh Samui can provide some of the best memories of your vacation to Koh Samui. Take a half day guided kayak and snorkel tour around remote islands off Samui. Snorkeling on the reef and remote beach landing with refreshments makes it a real experience!

Fishing
Fishing can be found off the waters of Koh Samui. There are many companies that can organize a trip or tour for you.