Introducing Koh Samui

Crystal clear, pristine Koh Samui beach (Photo Courtesy Samuitransport.com)

With its tropical warm waters and white sandy beaches, Koh Samui is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand. This beautiful island is rich in natural resources, coconut trees and coral reefs.

Koh Samui is divided into seven sub districts and its beaches range from being wild and lively to being quiet and secluded. The island has both natural and man-made attractions and getting around can be done by riding a taxi, songthaew, motorbike, bicycle and car. With its friendly people, natural beauty and world-class amenities, Koh Samui truly offers a perfect island getaway.

The economy of the island in recent years mainly depends on tourism. In the past, farming and fishing are the two major livelihoods on the island. Koh Samui weather is suitable for these activities and together with its accessibility from the rest of the country, the island draws not only local investors but also international investors as well. Tourism is a booming industry in this part of Thailand. Tropical islands such as Koh Samui make the Land of Smiles famous all over the world and help propel its economy forward.

From February to late June, the bulk of visitors flock to this idyllic island to experience the lovely Samui weather. This is the time that the island is experiencing the hot and dry season. Like in other tropical destinations, Samui weather is also quite unpredictable so it is better to check the weather forecast week to week to avoid any inconvenience. Rainy season starts in July but raining is on and off until October. From October to January, strong winds are inevitable occurrences, which makes this time of the year not very good for diving and snorkelling. Whether Samui weather is good or bad, however, tourists still visit the island from December to July. This is considered the peak season.  Those who do not want to be in Koh Samui during this time of the year, should visit it sometime in September or October instead. Samui weather in November is very similar to the weather of Malaysia.

The famous must-see places in Koh Samui are its lively beaches in Chaweng and Lamai, majestic Na Muang waterfalls, scenic temples and their relics, its jungles that can be accessed by a relaxing elephant trek, interesting rock formations and its still, rustic villages and quiet beaches in the south. 

Reasons Why You Should Go to Koh Samui

Stunning Koh Samui picturesque view from the ShaSa Resort (Photo Courtesy of www.shasahotels.com)

The islands and the beaches- these are enough reasons to go to Koh Samui and if you already have, then these are main reasons that you should go back. This beautiful island along the Gulf of Thailand is paradise; it offers a distinct interesting culture, bars and entertainment, enchanting jungles, enthralling water sports, friendly locals, luxurious resorts like the ShaSa resort, mouth-watering food and the simple joy of being in the beautiful tropics. Koh Samui attractions are a plenty as well as the many things you can do while on the isle.

The first reason why you should go to Koh Samui is the island itself. Aside from the perfect sun, tropical trees and pure sand, you can explore so many other things. One of the most famous Koh Samui attractions is the jungle and there are package tours available for all its guests. Trek through the wild jungle of Samui on top of an elephant and see with your own eyes exotic animals and plants. You can also visit the zoo and get a photo taken with those wild striped tigers inside of their cage and see them perform tricks live. Explore the crocodile farm, the more subtle butterfly farm and some of the island’s beautiful temples that are intricately designed.

One of the hidden Koh Samui attractions that is peaceful and is a great place to go meditate is the Secret Buddha Garden. You can bring your journal or a good book and enjoy the solitude and privacy that surround the place. A trip to the island, is of course is not complete without experiencing and trying out some delicious Thai dishes. You also surely meet some friendly locals and other tourists drink and dance with friends both new and old until the wee hours of the morning. Another thing you should try doing is having a massage by the sea or simply lounging by the shore and taking in every lovely element that one could see, hear, taste, smell and feel.

The beaches on the island are amazing! They have been preserved and well taken care of with a number of protected diving sites. There is nothing more soothing and more therapeutic than being near a body of water. You can also enjoy thrilling water sports too. For the diving enthusiasts, Koh Samui and its neighbouring islands offer fantastic dive sites including Angthong Marine Park, Sail Rock, Koh Tao and Chumporn Pinnacle. There are diving schools and diving shops on the island as well.

You could choose what kind of vacation that you want to have and which Koh Samui attractions you want to go see and experience. Koh Samui has something to offer to everyone. 

ShaSa Resort and Residences Announce Surge in Russian Visitor Numbers

One of ShaSa's trademark structures.  

ShaSa Resorts and Residences is delighted to announce a huge surge in its popularity with visitors from Russia and other former CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries so far in 2011.

The year began with a bang for ShaSa Resorts, with a total of 83 Russian guests arriving to stay at the award-winning accommodations at the resort in the month of January, 2011. This number of Russian visitors really took ShaSa staff by surprise, as it was in excess of the total amount of Russian tourists staying at the resort for the whole of 2008-2010, a two-year period.

Throughout the rest of the year, up until the end of October 2011, ShaSa had welcomed more than 1,000 Russian visitors through its doors, something that has strengthen the company’s belief that it can crack the Russian market and become the luxury resort of choice for all Russian visitors to Koh Samui.

It seems that ShaSa Resort and Residences marketing efforts in Eastern Europe are finally bearing fruit, and the excellent services, facilities and standard of luxury afforded at the resort is becoming more and more popular with Russian visitors. The reputation of ShaSa amongst Russian tourists seems to be spreading by word of mouth as much as through the company’s own marketing efforts, with many guests telling staff they had come to ShaSa on the recommendation of others.

As a result of this deluge of interest from Russia and other Eastern European nations, ShaSa has announced that it is sending its staff on a new training program to be able to accommodate these guests. As of this month, all ShaSa staff members are being encouraged to begin taking Russian language classes, so that they can better communicate with the honored Russian guests. In addition, ShaSa has purchased a number of children’s books in Russian language so that the children of guests from these countries can be accommodated in the ShaSa Kids Club.

ShaSa Resort and Residences is an award-winning boutique hotel at Laem Sett Beach on Koh Samui, and offers superb facilities for its guests, including top grade spa facilities, water sports, car rental, travel and tour assistance and much more. Guests are also able to dine at the renowned Beyond the Sea Restaurant, which offers gourmet Thai and International cuisine, as well as a number of delicacies by its guest Head Chef Oan Kuldiloke of the Felice Pasta & Dessert Bar.

What to Pack for your Koh Samui Getaway

What items do you need to pack to truly enjoy your Koh Samui Getaway? Read on to find out! (image provided by travel.findairlines.net) 

Before going into your ultimate holiday, you should start thinking about what to pack for your Koh Samui travel. Whether you lounge on the beach, go trekking up the hills or go on a tour around the temples, you need to be prepared with the things you will need.  If you are going on a Koh Samui travel tour, expect a holiday by the beach and luxurious accommodations in resorts like Shasa resort. Though you have exclusive amenities at Shasa resort like foreign exchange, Wi-Fi, shuttle service, airport transfers, baby sitting services and many more, you still have to bring your personal amenities.

If you want your Koh Samui travel to be stress free, then you have to be prepared. You can have all the comfort you need but you still need to bring certain things on your own. Here is a quick guide on what to pack for your Koh Samui travel experience:

• First rule is to never bring an overstuffed bag or suitcase on your trip. Only pack the things you will really wear and you will actually use. You do not want to wind up getting an overweight luggage at the check in counter and having to pay extra for your overweight bag. The whole country of Thailand is a famous shopping destination so expect to go home with more things than when you first came with. Travel light because you will be going on board and off the boats during the Koh Samui travel tour. It would be inconvenient to carry a very heavy and overstuffed suitcase during the boat ride.
• Next thing you should consider for your Koh Samui travel is the clothes, gear and shoes you will wear during the trip. Since Koh Samui is a tropical island with famous beaches, you will need lightweight clothes and swim wear. If you plan to go diving, snorkeling, surfing and etc, then you need to bring your own gear. Some beaches and resorts have gear you can rent but just to be sure, bring your own so you won’t have to pay extra for the rental. You will probably need summer clothes such as tank tops, t- shirts, shorts and basically thin layers of clothing. Bring shoes such as sandals and slippers for the beach. Protect yourself from the sun by bringing plenty of sun block, a hat and sunglasses. 
• Koh Samui travel is not complete without the parties and the night life. There are some beaches that are known for their “hippie” vibe while some offer a line of night clubs along the beach. You can chill by the beach with a beer or you can go dancing at the night clubs lined up around Koh Samui. However, be prepared with your toiletries and medicine. Carry your own supply of toilet paper or sanitary wipes and soap. If you have prescribed medicine then bring your own supply. Also include painkillers in case you get a hangover. 

Top 5 Reasons to go to Koh Samui

The majestic view of the ShaSa hotel at night. 

1. There are many reasons to go to Koh Samui but at the top of the list is the luxurious ShaSa Resorts and Residences. When you decide on going on a holiday, you think about relaxation and comfort. In Koh Samui, the best place to spend your holiday is at the ShaSa Resorts because it offers a luxurious experience for its guests. Couples can enjoy a private villa with the view of the sea from their balcony. Families can enjoy some quality time together by the pool or by the beach. There is enough space for everyone in the family. Friends can stay at the resort and get spa treatment, hydrotherapy and an overall luxurious holiday treatment. Who wouldn’t want that as their ultimate Koh Samui getaway? Since Koh Samui boasts of its beautiful, sandy beaches, ShaSa Resorts is situated near these famous destinations. It is on top of a hill that creates an amazing view of the Gulf of Thailand from the balconies and villas. Exclusive amenities for the guests include airport transfer, shuttle service, babysitting services, foreign exchange, kayak and even water sports activities, car rental and many other things.
2. The second reason to go to Koh Samui is its beaches. The world is beginning to discover the natural beauty of Koh Samui beaches that have managed to maintain its beauty despite the modern developments and the wear and tear of time. The Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach are the most popular beaches. Guests staying in ShaSa Resorts can visit any of these two nearby beaches or just stay at the peaceful Laem Set beach located right outside their rooms. 
3. Third, the resorts like ShaSa Resorts and the beaches offer an exotic coastal experience and a refreshing holiday by the clear blue waters. Chaweng and Lamai are often visited by those looking for a beach adventure during the day and a nice club scene at night. These two beaches have restaurants and clubs lined up for tourists to choose from. However, those looking for a quieter beaches can go to Big Buddha, Choeng Mon, Laem Set and Mae Nam beaches.
4. Koh Samui is an exotic island in Thailand that is home to around 40 000 people. Most of the people who live in this island are Buddhists. They maintain the virgin rainforest of the island, the clear and sandy beaches, and the coastal features as well. The culture of Koh Samui goes alongside the modern developments like resorts, spas and night clubs. Holiday goers can enjoy a luxurious stay with modern day amenities at ShaSa Resorts and still enjoy the unique culture of the island. Since the beaches and the local shops are nearby, the guests of the hotel can go sightseeing with convenience.
5. Those on a Koh Samui tour staying at the ShaSa Resorts should not miss out on a tour of the island itself. Aside from the beaches, there are temples and local stores where visitors can take pictures and go shopping. Famous landmarks include the following: the Ancient House, Wat Khunaram Ko Samui, Big Buddha Temple, Laem Sor Pagoda Ko Samui, Samui Butterfly Garden and many more.

Koh Samui Shopping Guide: Chaweng Beach

There are many places to buy some wonderful Thai souvenirs in Koh Samui 

When it comes to Koh Samui shopping, the opportunities at Chaweng Beach are on a par with anywhere else on the island. Most of the best shops are located along Beach Road and in the immediate area. It seems as if many of the shops/vendors are compartmentalized, divided into beachwear, sports shops, jewelry shops, etc, while there is a long thread of mis-mash shops selling everything from DVDs to clothes and fake watches running down the length of the street.

Beach Road in Chaweng is actually six km long, and so this particular Koh Samui shopping haven will take quite some time to explore.

Street Shopping

Some of the best places to find cheap goods are on the actual street itself. As you make your way down the street, you’ll no doubt come across many different stalls selling everything from t-shirts and shorts, DVDs, computer games and cheap jewelry to fake ‘designer’ clothes, perfumes and bags. You’ll also come across all the essential beach items you need, making your Koh Samui shopping experience very easy indeed, including towels, swimming costumes, flip flops, shades and dozens of other knick knacks that you probably won’t need, but will probably end up buying anyway! Street vendors typically open up for business around 11am and will continue trading until the early hours of the morning.

Khun Chaweng Shopping Centre

Located slap bang in the middle of beach road, this shopping mall makes a most welcome respite from the scorching hit sunshine that’s impossible to escape from when doing your Koh Samui shopping outside. As well as numerous western stores like Boots, Saville Row, Guy Laroche and Alain Delon, you’ll also find the obligatory KFC, McDonalds etc.

Tailor Shops

Koh Samui shopping wouldn’t be complete without a few tailor shops thrown into the mix, and you’ll find that in actual fact it has more than its fair share of them. Most of the tailor shops along Beach Road are run by Indians or Nepalis, and you’ll instantly know where they are because every time you walk past one a tout will no doubt try to get your attention. If you have the time and the inclination, feel free to take a look around and see what they offer. Although many get tourists frustrated with being constantly asked if they want to buy a suit, for those interested in buying one, it’s possible to get very high quality suits made up for less than $100, so long as you know how to bargain them down from their astronomical starting prices!

Supermarkets

In case you decide to do a bit of grocery shopping, you won’t have to do very far. Chaweng Beach actually has two very large shopping malls in Tesco Lotus and Big C. You’ll need to jump in a tuk tuk to get there most likely, but the offerings are worth it. As well as all the groceries you could possibly want, you’ll find a number of restaurants and coffee shops to relax in, as well as shops selling sportswear, clothes, fashion items, kid’s toys, medicines, cosmetics and more.

Big C and Tesco Lotus both also have a number of banks and money changing booths, and there’s even a cinema in Tesco Lotus that shows the latest movies in English. Truly, your Koh Samui shopping experience here will be complete. 

Best Restaurants in Koh Samui

Breath-taking view from Beyond the Sea, which is considered one of Koh Samui's best restaurants 

As many of you already know Thai food is an amazing blend of flavors that leaves your taste buds in a frenzy. There are countless delicious restaurants in Thailand that you should try out especially when you are in Bangkok but only a select few in Koh Samui.

The amazing island of Koh Samui doesn’t just offer a wonderful scenic view of beaches and underwater excitement. This island also has some of the best restaurants in Thailand. 

It doesn’t matter if you are into authentic Thai dishes or fresh seafood, you’ll be able to find it at Koh Samui.

The best places to grab a meal on this island include:

1) Beyond the Sea is the premier restaurant in Samui

One of the best restaurants in Koh Samui is located at the ShaSa Resort and is called Under the Sea. The Shasa resort is a 5 star hotel located along Laem Set beach.

The restaurant has a breath-taking view of Laem Set beach, fresh seafood and all kinds of tantalizing Thai dishes. Besides being a popular place to eat, Under the Sea also is great place to relax and grab a drink; the restaurant has a huge wide selection of fine wine and cocktails.

2) Carpe Diem is a family oriented restaurant where you can relax

Another one of the most popular restaurants in Koh Samui is the Carpe Diem. This place has interesting white themed interior and has an European influenced Thai menu.

The Carpe Diem is located in central Bophut and is a little pricey.  However, if you want to enjoy a tasty meal in a relaxing atmosphere then this is the place for you.

3) Eat Sense is a classy place with scrumptious dishes

Eat Sense is the finest beachside restaurant in Chaweng with the best Southern Thai food on the island.

This restaurant is perhaps the most romantic place to eat in Koh Samui. Featuring fresh seafood, candle light tables and a great view, you are pretty much guaranteed a great time at Eat Sense. 

Make a Splash in Koh Samui

There are several Koh Samui attractions along the numerous stunning beaches on this majestic island.

Looking to have fun in the sun? There’s no better place in the world than Koh Samui to enjoy a relaxing vacation at a stunning beach.

Take advantage of the Koh Samui’s beautiful beaches and the numerous Koh Samui attractions located at this one of a kind of island. 

Popular beaches in Koh Samui include Laem set, Chawang beach, Big Buddha beach, Lamai beach, Maena and Bophut. Each beach has it’s own perks.

It doesn’t matter what you are looking for a peaceful beach, picturesque beach or an action packed beach where you can do tons of water sports- Koh Samui has it all. 

The most popular water activity at Koh Samui is without a doubt scuba diving. Not only does the island provide year round favorable conditions, it is also home to diverse marine life, clear water beaches, and beautiful coral reef.

There are several diving spots at the island too, whether you are beginner or advanced diver you can find tons of locations to dive at. Experienced divers typically go to dive at the National Marine Park and Sail Rock. Meanwhile beginners usually go diving at Koh Tao.

Koh Tao is renowned for having the clearest water in Koh Samui.

Another one of the many Koh Samui attractions is snorkeling. Snorkeling is more inexpensive than scuba diving and it still allows individuals to see down below into the deep blue sea. Snorkeling day trips will surely include a trip to the famous Nangyuan white sand beach.

Other popular Koh Samui attractions that water sport enthusiasts should check out while on the island is kayaking, jet skiing, fishing, kite boarding and surfing.

When you are not at the beach you can also enjoy some other Koh Samui Attractions such as cheap shopping markets, aesthetic temples and animal shows.

You’ll never have a dull moment when you on this breath-taking island.

Amicable Thai’s Helping Out During Flood

Thailand is currently facing its worst flooding situation in twenty years. This bad situation has brought everyone closer together. Everyone is trying to help others in need as much as they can.

People in the country are extremely kind and giving. Thai’s across the country have been donating tons of money, clothes, water and other useful supplies to flood victims. Many Thais have also joined the Red Cross and other charity groups to help out as much as they can.

Even hotels such as the ShaSa resort are trying to lend a helping hand. There is currently a help a friend promotion going on at the hotel. Typically only friends and families of the owners and staff get this kind of deal but not anymore! For a limited time everyone will be considered part of the ShaSa family.

The ShaSa resort is trying to help victims is by offering Thai residents a special discounted rate for their rooms.

ShaSa is providing a special deal:

Package:
• Family Getaway

Rate:
• 6,500 baht per night for 2 Bedroom Seaview Suite

Terms & Conditons:

• Thai Residents Only
• Minimum Stay 3 Nights
• Does NOT include breakfast
• Valid only until 30 November

People typically flock to the South of Thailand during the raining season because this part of the country normally isn’t affected by the floods, especially the Koh Samui area. The floods will continue to affect the country every year, since the ice caps in China continue to melt and go through Thailand’s rivers, and because monsoons hit the country every year.

Remember, ShaSa is great place to go to avoid the floods in Bangkok and other parts of the country. Enjoy some sun and some fun while relaxing at ShaSa, today by visiting the ShaSa resort.

Three Best Koh Samui Beaches

Koh Samui is an island full of numerous gorgeous beaches. However, some of these Koh Samui beaches are better than other ones.

You settle for anything other than the best, so make sure you book a hotel where one of these top beaches are located.

Without further ado depicted below is a list of the top Koh Samui beaches.

1) Tranquil Laem Set Beach

The best Koh Samui beach is without a doubt Laem Set beach. Laem Set beach is situated along the southern coast of Koh Samui.

This private beach is serene, quiet and peaceful.

Large smooth boulders, surrounding palm trees leaning from all kinds of angles make this beach look spectacular. Simply put you won’t have to be a professional photographer to take a breath-taking photo at Laem Set beach.

Laem Set beach is also located close to beautiful reefs where you can scuba dive at and other attractions such as the Samui Tiger Zoo and Samui Aquarium.

2) Party animals flock to the Big Buddha Beach

The Big Buddha Beach has a complete opposite atmosphere from Laem Set. Laem Set is the quiet family oriented beach where you go to relax, whereas Big Buddha beach is an action packed beach where tourists go to have fun and party.

There loads of inexpensive bungalows and budget hotels located on this beach.

This is the beach of choice to go to and relax before going to Thailand’s most popular party, the “Full Moon Party”. The beach is only a short 5-10 minute speedboat ride from the Full Moon Party beach on the island of Koh Pha Ngan.

3) Thrill Seekers Prefer the Chaweng Beach

Perhaps the most famous beach of all the Koh Samui beaches is the Chaweng beach. It’s a popular place to play water sports such as jet skiing and kayaking. It’s also situated close to many attractions such as shopping markets and temples. 

Chaweng is the longest beach on the island and it contains radiant beautiful sand along its coast. 

Remember, the reason that Koh Samui beaches are second in popularity only to the beaches of Phuket is because of their quiet ambience. Phuket beaches are typically jam packed with tourists, which some people like but Koh Samui is more for people who want to enjoy a more relaxing getaway.  

Learn To Make Your Favorite Thai Dishes at the ShaSa Resort

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” Even today this Chinese proverb remains true.

Most people like to eat Thai food at restaurants but why waste your hard earned cash buying Thai cuisine every month when you can learn how to make it yourself. The question is where can you learn to make Thai food? The answer is the Shasa Resort.

Thai dishes are famous throughout the world, mostly because Thai cuisine is healthy, delectable and has a unique flavor. Popular Thai dishes include Pad Thai, Tum Yum Gong and Thai beefsteak. You can learn to create any of these dishes by taking a free Thai cooking class at the ShaSa Resort.

Thailand is located in between China, India and Oceania so it should be no surprise that it was once the center of trade between these 3 regions. This is also the reason that Thai culture and food is greatly influenced by these areas, and why Thai food uses Indian, Chinese and Oceania techniques and ingredients in their food. Common Thai ingredients include garlic, fish sauce, onions, chilies, coconut milk and spicy peppers.

People assume Thai food takes ages to cook because it’s bursting with delicious flavors. However, creating Thai dishes isn’t as hard as you think, the hardest part is preparing the ingredients; the actual cooking process won’t take that much time at all.

If you are living in western country then you will probably find most essential Thai cuisine ingredients at your local Asian super market. Remember, if you can’t find the exact ingredient you are looking for you can always substitute.

If you would like a glimpse of what you can learn by taking a Thai cooking class in Koh Samui, then you can watch some videos, which will help you get a general idea of how to cook some Thai dishes. The video is very helpful but isn’t as great as learning how to make your favorite Thai dishes from world-class chefs at the ShaSa Resort.

Learning to cook Thai food is both fun and rewarding.

For more information on how you can create your favorite Thai dishes ,You can watch the VDO below: