Koh Samui, also known as Samui, is Thailand's one of the most idyllic islands, located in the Gulf of Thailand. Situated about 85 km east of Surat Thani and about 700 km south of Bangkok, Koh Samui is the largest island on the Gulf of Siam and third largest island in Thailand, other two being Phuket and Ko Chang. Sometimes Koh Samui is also referred to as Coconut Island because of its countless number of coconut palms, harvesting more than two million coconuts per month.
Koh Samui's prime attraction is undoubtedly its serene environment blessed with mountainous jungle terrains, luxuriant tropical ferns, swaying coconut palms, long stretch of pristine white sandy beaches, granite boulders, clear blue water, superb waterfalls, and sparkling ponds. Hence, it is no wonder why foreigners, particularly from Europe, flock here year-round.
One of the most popular among the Koh Samui's attractions is Wua Ta Lap, which has to its credit a stunning cave. Perhaps the most prominent attraction of Koh Samui is Pra Yai or the Big Buddha - a 12 mt high golden statue which is proudly placed at the northern point of the island. This astounding image is visible even from several kilometers away. Located at the southern part of the island, Na Thian Butterfly Garden is another popular attraction, providing opportunities to observe numerous species of butterflies. A well-maintained garden, bee house, and a Thai style house are also attached to the garden.
There are also some interesting destinations in the area, such as, Hin Ta Hin Yai, which are two renowned granite stones that stand out among numerous other rock formations along the coastline. These two rocks, literally meaning Grandfather and Grandmother are believed to be the origin of the Mui people. Landmarks also include the Samui Aquarium with a variety of tropical fish and marine fauna. Other worth visiting destinations in the area are Thale Nai, encircled by mountains; the statue Garden featuring an array of Buddhist and Hindu Statues; and Tham Bua Bok.
In addition, Samui is much famed for its incredible beaches such as Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, and Maenam Beach, each of them providing options to enjoy a range of activities such as fishing, boat chartering, and sailing. Further, Samui boasts of some stunning water falls like Namuang. Koh Samui is home to some of the best diving sites in Thailand, with a range of spectacular islets such as Koh Mad Lang, Koh Som, and Koh Taopun.
However, Koh Samui's enormous range of activities is more than diving and fishing. For instance, Koh Samui provides excellent options for bowling, with more than ten pin bowling. For shooting enthusiast, superb facilities are available to enhance your shooting skills at the Shooting Gallery, consisting of a variety of guns with live ammunition.
Some superb options are also available for adventurers in the form of Bungy Jumping in Chaweng. Equally fabulous is Samui's nightlife, with a range of happening beach bars, cabaret bars, rocking, and pubs. If you are looking for something different during your Koh Samui vacation, then spectacle a Muay Thai (Thai boxing) match or take a Thai cooking lesson under the guidance of some renowned Thai cooks. Likewise, take an elephant trekking for a unique experience.
A lot number of other choices are also available, such as Treasure Island Adventure Golf Course and a tennis court facility as well as a go kart facility. For weary travelers, a plethora of spa facilities are available to get pampered and relaxed. Majority of the high-end resorts and hotels render a range of massages and herbal treatments.
From elegant bungalows and sea view villas to beachfront resorts and world-class hotels, accommodation options are aplenty in Samui. Many of them provide top-class facilities including air-conditioned rooms coupled with en-suite bathrooms, lounge, kitchen, and dining room.
Facilities cover barbeque area, baby sitting service, and car rental. Further, majority of the villas and apartments offer maid service, apart from facilities such as superb swimming pools and complimentary airport transfers. Besides, there are also some fantastic options available for budget conscious travelers. Above all, most of them provide some kind of discounts for booking rooms in advance.
With these attractions and umpteen options to choose from, Koh Samui is unquestionably a luxury destination in Thailand!.
