Ko Samui has the nickname of 'coconut island', a reference to the coconut plantations which at one time were the biggest source of income for the islanders. These days, the main industry on Ko Samui is tourism. But long before the tourists arrived … [Read more...]
Diving in Thailand
I do sometimes get asked for recommendations and advice on where to dive in Thailand, but I'm not much of a swimmer and have never dived so I'm not the best person to ask. With that in mind a reader of the site, Peter O'Connor, has kindly taken time … [Read more...]
Arriving on Ko Samui from a Cruise Ship
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 … [Read more...]
Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother Rock) Ko 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 … [Read more...]
Where to Stay on 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 … [Read more...]
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 … [Read more...]
Big Buddha Ko Samui
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 … [Read more...]
Ang Thong National Marine Park, Ko Samui
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, … [Read more...]
