Joanna James
Koh Samui is famous enough to be considered one of the premier vacation destinations in the world, but don't let its reputation get in the way of your visit - it's tranquil, it's interesting, and it's possibly one of the best times of your life. The second largest island in Thailand, it's a great choice for a little detour from the mainland, with marvels both manmade and hewn from nature. It may not be a hidden gem, but it's certainly a gem nonetheless.
The two most popular beaches on Koh Samui, this area covers about two to three kilometres between them, layered with pristine white sands and hazy blue seas. Along these very beaches are many renowned resorts, such as the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, and they all provide some form of sun protection via parasol or beach umbrella, owing to the popularity of the beaches themselves, and there are usually vendors along the coast that sell a large variety of things, from henna tattoos to ice cream cones.
One of Koh Samui's more curious attractions, the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks are shaped like genitalia and are found on the southern edge of Lamai Beach. The rocks themselves are centred around a local legend of romance long past, of a couple whose boat capsized in a storm, and whose bodies were turned into these rocks as a sign of their everlasting romance. Although a curious story, the rocks themselves gatekeep a lovely view, so make sure to stop by for a few memories to make.
Situated on a small island called Koh Fan, this 12-metre statue depicts a classic scene of enlightenment, and the path to the feet of the statue is adorned with a dragon-embellished stairway. Here, the rigorous chanting of the Buddhist monks adds to the air of holiness, as well as the visitors who bring offerings. Make sure to dress respectively when you visit, looking for things to do in Samui.
Encapsulating around 42 untouched islands in an archipelago, the greenish-blue waters of Ang Thong are famous for their rock formations and dense rainforest. Many people choose to travel by kayak, and day tours through the park will guide them along the park's best sights, such as the turtles and trevally fish. The park itself has services like equipment rentals, food, and round-trip facilities. It's a great place to see some limestone caves and beautiful lagoons.
There are many night markets in Thailand, and Koh Samui is no exception. The place to be on the island for this sort of excursion, is the Bophut Beach Fisherman's Village, with rustic wood-crafted houses lining the streets, drawing the traders and shoppers of the Koh Samui streets like moths to a flame. With an impressive selection of goods ranging from musical instruments to fabrics and souvenirs, the beautifully vibrant atmosphere is representative of the atmosphere around Koh Samui in general.
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.
