Joanna James
Bophut has to date retained its original Thai-Chinese ambience and presents visitors with not only a soulful beach but also a way of life to explore. Here are some interesting facts about Bophut.
Bophut as we know it is actually two places. The Bophut beach which spans across several kilometres in between the Big Buddha and Maenam beaches is a stretch of white silky shoreline. The elegant shapes of the coconut trees and the serene waters of the bay make it a place of relaxation and peace. Bophut Fisherman's Village retains a historical vibe. Rustic buildings of old world charm line the streets dotted with several boutique stores. You can easily find your way to the Fisherman's Village on a Friday from your Samui resort to enjoy the Fisherman's Village Walking Street market. Friday Walking Market is usually lined with numerous food stalls and other vendors selling various items. Live music and appealing performances add to the liveliness of the night.
The narrow beach street packs Old Chinese 'shop-houses' some of which have become restaurants and cafés to cater to tourists. These new additions have somewhat retained the original look and feel of the establishments at least on the outside. Visitors can wander the streets and feel the old world beckoning them in spirit and sip a cup of coffee at an old shophouse become a café. Some of the new establishments have been converted into trendy shops.
The Fisherman's Village is home to a number of restaurants that offer authentic Thai, Italian, Indian and even French cuisine. Seafood fare, however, dominates the area while visitors can also enjoy pub-style Australian and British food. The 700-metre village street is dotted with 30 odd restaurants and bars. Visitors can walk from one restaurant to another and enjoy an assortment of cuisine concocted out of fresh ingredients.
Most visitors are aware of the robust reputation of dentists in Samui. Most of these dentists practice in the Bophut area and the prices are reasonable. Visitors can visit a dentist in Bophut for restorative and general dentistry requirements such as filings, teeth polishing, extractions, routine check-ups and extractions. However, a number of dentists in the area also treat more complex issues and provide cosmetic dentistry treatment as well.
In November, Bophut experiences torrential rains and storms. Come mid-December the area takes on a refreshed look with plenty of sunshine accompanied by balmy weather. Visitors can expect a break from heat and humidity during this time period. There is a number of hotels and resorts that tourists can book in Bophut such as Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort. December is also the ideal time to savour beautiful sunsets from Bophut beach and feel the age-old magic of the Thai-Chinese way of life.
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