Joanna James
Koh Samui is famous for its breathtaking beaches but it has so much more to offer. Here is a list of things for you to do on your next trip to Koh Samui.
If you dreamed of being Superman when you were young, now you have the chance to fly in Koh Samui using a flyboard. Fly board riders are strapped on to a board connected to a hose, which drives the board up with water pressure. There is another variation where a water jetpack is strapped to your back. This new water sport can easily make your vacation an unforgettable one.
Koh Samui is home to the only Thai rum distillery, the Magic Alambic Rum Distillery, makes rum from local sugarcane. The rum is a great hit with locals and tourists alike and there is a quaint open-air tasting room built from coconut thatch. The rum can be drunk neat or with mixers. There is even special homemade mixer syrup available which is the best accompaniment to the distillery's rum. The Koh Samui rum is available in four flavours; original, pineapple, coconut and orange. It is within an hour's drive of popular hotels in Koh Samui such as the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort.
If you are staying at a resort, Samui may seem too relaxing at times. If you want to shake things up, join a Muay Thai camp. Koh Samui has several gyms dedicated to training Muay Thai fighters and they even offer training sessions to members of the public. Gyms often welcome people of all ages and levels and in some instances, children as young as 10 have the opportunity to learn Muay Thai. Some training camps also organise retreats for you to hone your fighting skills. You can go home looking better than when you left!
The Fisherman's Village Walking Street in Bophut wakes up the sleepy little town every Friday afternoon. The Chinese style shophouses at the Fisherman's Village are a great place to shop for souvenirs and special Koh Samui clothing and jewellery. It also offers local handicrafts, Thai herbs and spices and traditional musical instruments. There are also several diving shops for those who want to go diving or snorkelling. If you are lucky, you will spot some street performances which range from beatboxing to traditional Thai dances.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Samui Cultural Centre. The Samui Cultural Centre is owned by Khun Chart, a man who was born and raised on Koh Samui. The purpose of the centre is to set out the history, culture and religion of Koh Samui. Remarkably, the statutes depicting the various gods and angels in Thai cultures were carved by Khun Chart himself. An afternoon at the Samui Cultural Centre is a great way to gain a greater understanding of Koh Samui and Thai culture.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
