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Destination Ko Samui in Thailand

The perfect spot to string up a hammock – that’s what you may think when you see the lovely coconut palms swaying in the breeze on Ko Samui. Thailand’s 3rd largest island, Ko Samui, has grown exponentially in popularity with travelers since the early 1990s, and is now the second most popular Thai island destination after the world famous Phuket. While several of its beaches are already quite commercialized, especially Chaweng and Lamai, there are still many kilometers of serene and beautiful white sand beaches, flanking the sparkling azure water of the Gulf of Thailand.

Beaches and Water Sports

Indeed, the beaches are the main attraction of this peaceful island, which has a much less developed tourist scene than some of its neighbors. A few of the beaches do have a fair number of bars and consequently something of a party reputation, but there are plenty of areas where sun, sand and surf are the primary form of entertainment. As a result, Samui tends to be popular among an older crowd, as well as families traveling with their children.

Water sports are a major focus for most visitors to Ko Samui. Diving is popular here, as it is throughout Thailand, although some tourists report that visibility off some of the beaches of Samui is not the best. Wind surfing, kite surfing, sail boating, kayaking, snorkeling and fresh water fishing are a few of the water based activities enjoyed by vacationers of all ages on the island.

Activities and Sightseeing

Other outdoor activities are also a big part of the picture for travelers to Ko Samui. Rock climbing up a steep cliff face is for the bold and the brave. Or get yourself in shape by renting a mountain bike and joining a guided bicycle tour to explore the paradise that is Samui. If you prefer a different type of mount, there are also guided tours on horse back. How does a nice canter along the beach sound to you? From the thrill of bungee jumping to the more sedate game of golf (plus mini golf and even the fun new foot powered game called – what else? – football golf), you’re sure to find a sport that appeals to you. And a large proportion of these are family friendly.

In terms of sight seeing, you will learn that there are several waterfalls to admire – and cool off in if the fancy strikes you. An amazing aquarium and tiger zoo will delight both the young and the young at heart. Wildlife lovers will also appreciate the butterfly garden and the nearby insect museum, a snake farm and a monkey museum. The local Buddhist temples are important for their cultural value.

Before it was discovered by tourists, Ko Samui’s main industry was agriculture, and you can still enjoy some delicious fresh picked fruits, notably coconut, durian and lang san. For more substantial meals, sample some of the many island restaurants, which offer local fare – the typical highly spiced Southern Thailand dishes, such as hot Indian style curry – as well as cuisine form all over the world. Seafood is naturally featured on most menus, although in peak tourist season, the supply tends to be limited. Later in the evening, you can check out the nightclub scene in Chaweng, which is known to be lively, even rowdy, or opt for a quiet nightcap in one of the smaller beach areas.

Because Samui is quite a big island with a large supply of tourist rooms, feel free to choose your overnight accommodation according to which beach you prefer. A variety of hotels, from top flight luxurious resorts to very simple, are available to suit every budget. There are also some old style inexpensive beach bungalows still in business.

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