Arriving on Ko Samui from a Cruise Ship

Big Buddha on Ko Samui

If you are a passenger on a cruise ship docking at Ko Samui in Thailand, you may have a half-day or at least a few hours to do some sight-seeing on the island. Cruise ships will offer their own tours and trips, but although these can be convenient they are also usually highly priced compared [...]

Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother Rock) Ko Samui

Hin Ta and Hin Yai, Lamai, Koh Samui

There is a rocky outcrop at the south end of Lamai Bay which features on all Ko Samui day tours. Thai and overseas tourists alike smile and line up to have their photographs taken at Hin Ta (Grandfather Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandmother Rock). These two rock formations are in close proximity and are renowned [...]

Where to Stay on Ko Samui

Bophut Beach, Ko Samui

I’ve been asked a number of times what is the best place to stay on Ko Samui. As always, the answer depends on what you are looking for because the ideal location for a honeymooning couple probably won’t be right for a single backpacker. Over the years I’ve been fortunate enough to stay in a [...]

Chaweng Beach, Ko Samui

Looking north on Chaweng Beach, Ko Samui

Chaweng Beach on Ko Samui is one of the most scenic beaches on the island and fits the stereotypical travel brochure descriptions of ‘soft white sand, azure sea and palm trees’. Chaweng stretches for 6kms from north to south and it really is very picturesque. During the day sun-seekers take to their sun-loungers and there [...]

Big Buddha Ko Samui

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If you are flying to Ko Samui, keep an eye out for the largest Buddha figure on the island which is clearly visible as you come in to land. For a close up view, visit Wat Phra Yai the temple which is home to the Big Buddha and overlooks Bangrak Beach (also known as Big [...]

Ang Thong National Marine Park, Ko Samui

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The delightfully scenic marine park of Ang Thong consists of 42 small islands stretched out to the west of Ko Samui. The islands and waters that surround them support a huge variety of wildlife including macaques, dolphins and kingfishers. However, you don’t have to be a birdwatcher or naturalist to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity [...]