Joanna James
Koh Samui became a backpackers' destination in the late 70s and today visitors from all walks of life seek to escape into its beautiful environs during their holidays.
The first inhabitants of Koh Samui were fisherfolk who settled in the area approximately 1500 years ago. The inhabitants of Koh Samui are known as the 'Chao Samui'. Even maps belonging to the Ming Dynasty of China mention Koh Samui. While fishing and coconut plantations used to be the main trades of the island, today most locals depend on tourism-related activities.
The archipelago of the Ang Thong Marine National Park seems to lovingly embrace the island of Koh Samui. The national park is home to tall limestone mountains, many waterways, a thickset jungle, beautiful beaches and secluded coves that await explorers. While it provides a warm shelter to numerous wildlife and marine creatures, tourists can enjoy various activities such as kayaking, scuba diving and hiking in its environs. Koh Samui provides an arresting view of the Ang Thong Marine National Park as well as easy access to its wonders.
World famous Phuket is known as the largest island in Thailand. However, what most people don't know is that Koh Samui claims the second place with an area of 228.7 square kilometres and a population of over 60,000 people.
Well, at least in popularity, liveliness and of course its inherent beauty, Chaweng surpasses all the other beaches in Koh Samui. This is probably the main reason that Chaweng beach resorts are some of the most sought-after resorts in Koh Samui. This area is packed with many amenities that visitors desire such as restaurants that serve a delectable fare, clubs, shopping arcades and of course resorts such as Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort. In fact, Chaweng is the heart of Koh Samui.
The Big Buddha statue with its imposing appearance is the area's most prominent landmark. Visitors can catch a spectacular view of the land and seascape below from this point. The rocks Hin Ta and Hin Yai have earned their repute as a result of their peculiar shapes. Hin ta and Hin Yai are shaped like male and female genitalia and warrants a visit from tourists to capture 'the shape of them' in memory and in the form of a digital image.
Beginning from the 70s when the island became a touristic destination, Koh Samui has attracted many visitors all year around. However, the ideal time to visit the island falls from middle of December to February. During this time period, the heat and the humidity somewhat dissipates. Visitors should avoid going to Koh Samui in November unless they wish to watch a storm or two and stare at the torrential that comes pouring down to embrace the soil of Koh Samui with love and vengeance.
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.
