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. 

Enjoy The Ride Of Your Life Via Koh Samui Quad Bikes

Quad Biking is an exhilarating sport that can try in Koh Samui.

People have been coming up with innovative and creative ways to experience adrenaline-pumping activities that feed their adventurous side.Take this new escapade across streams, rocks, lots of mud, fruit plantations, up the mountains and hilly plains and winding streets in a quad bike. This is a truly amazingly one-of-a-kind Koh Samui travel experience that everyone should try.

ATVs or quad bikes are these machines which are actually 250cc motorbikes with four huge fat tyres. One look at them and you know you will travel Koh Samui like never before. There are several ways to experience this gorgeous Thai island. You could do it by foot and leisurely; be on top of an elephant and explore the jungles, plantations until you reach the top of the mountain for a breath taking view; ride a jeep with windows rolled down to enjoy the sights and sounds better; go boating and explore the pristine seas and the other fascinating islands; or yes, hop on that quad bike and experience something totally different.

Stay at the luxurious ShaSa Resort and they will make sure to arrange your quad biking adventure for you. Go quad biking at Mae Nam in Soi 1 where the quad biking experts and professionals are based. They will be the ones to guide you through the whole ride. Not everyone is qualified to drive the quad bikes however. Before you begin the journey, they allot time for you to be test your driving skills. If you make 3 mistakes in your test run, then you will be made a passenger along a professional quad driver. Kids are usually not allowed to drive the quad bike on their own.

If you want to travel Koh Samui via a quad bike, this will require a group leader to be followed in a convoy along different paths and courses. If you wish to be on a safer track then remain in the starting area where there are obstacle courses and other fun things to do. The bike is equipped with a first aid kit and help is only a call away.

Amazing paths as well as safety precautions are provided for that unforgettable KohSamui travel experience. This exploit is certainly for the bold and the daring who just love getting an adrenaline rush.

Snorkelling Adventures at Koh Nang Yuan

Make sure to go on a snorkelling adventure while in Koh Samui (Photo Courtesy of  pinkflamingo.com.au)

Samui is an island paradise and a fun filled place for those who love the beach. On this lovely island, there is always something exciting to do. Regardless of one’s preferences----be it some hardcore pampering at the wellness spa or outdoor activities that involve the beach, there is something for everyone. Koh Samui diving is one of these activities. People from all over the globe visit Samui to be able to experience snorkelling in its turquoise waters. Koh Samui diving is not only for professionals. There is a always a first time for everything, and what better place to dive than in this island filled with hundreds of water species that will surely leave divers in awe?

For those who love to snorkel, there are speedboats that will take visitors from Koh Samui to the island of Koh Nang Yuan. Here, adventurers are in for a treat. With the long stretch of white sand, everyone will get to have fun at the beach and be able to witness the beauty and wonder of the corals. Snorkelling at Koh Nang Yuan is a great way to get in touch with nature and look at some amazing underwater creatures. It’s no wonder why Koh Samui diving is now one of the most popular activities here on the island.

Next stop of the Koh Samui diving adventure is Koh Tao, which translates to “Turtle Island”. It obtained that specific name because of its interesting shape, just like the hunched back of turtles. This island is the ideal place to snorkel and is actually one of the most scenic sea spots in Thailand. Koh Tao is a place where visitors can take in the beauty of the sea----above and below the water.

This Koh Samui diving tour departs from Koh Samui hotels such as the ShaSa Resort everyday. The hotel pick up is at 7:15 am and the tour finishes as 4:30 pm. The cruise includes snorkelling and lunch. There’s an English speaking guide that will facilitate the entire trip. The weather of Samui and the nearby islands make them ideal for snorkelling. The visibility is good and the beauty of the sea is incomparable. The vast diversity of marine life, which includes whale sharks and corals, is a must see. Snorkelling is a rare experience that visitors will definitely remember for a long time. Koh Samui is indeed a wonderful place with lots of exciting things to offer.

Banana Boating in Koh Samui

Going on a banana boat is thrilling experience that is one of the top Koh Samui attractions. (Photo courtesy of  Whatonsanya.com)

One of the main Koh Samui attractions and the reason why a lot of people from all over the globe come to experience this magical Thai island, is its pristine beaches. And tourists could certainly appreciate them in a lot of ways. Of course, one could lounge all day by the shore, sipping a deliciously concocted cocktail, reading their favourite novel or laying down on the white sand to achieve that perfect tan but for the more adventurous, there are various water sports and fun water activities that they could do.

These water sports and activities are the more thrilling attractions in Koh Samui that could be enjoyed by every one of all ages. One of these fun activities that could be enjoyed by a group of friends or the whole family is a banana boat ride. If you are staying at the ShaSa Resort or any other place on the island, make sure to arrange for a day of banana boat riding. Tour guides will also be able to suggest the best deals and best places to experience this exhilarating activity.

The whole island is quite vast and every area of the island has its own array of Koh Samui attractions. Banana Boat rides are offered at Chaweng, Lamai and Bo Phut so these are the ideal places to experience that adrenaline rush via that yellow floating banana. But before one gets to hop on, it is important to be aware of the safety measures. Life jackets must be provided for everyone. The driver of the speed boat that will tug the banana boat along the waters or any other person in charge must be able to properly brief their customers with the safety precautions while enjoying the ride.

Once properly secured, the boat will be edged forward into the deeper and farther part of the sea. The speed will increase and soon, it will feel as if you are being pulled into space. The banana boat tips sideways from time to time and your body has to lean the other way to make sure you do not fall off although the purpose of the ride is to really throw each and every one into the water. Hence, it is advisable to make sure your life jacket is in place. Banana boat rides are fantastic KohSamui attractions that could definitely create a funny memory ideally shared with family and friends. 

Where to Stay in Koh Samui Paradise?

Birds eye view of the ShaSa Resort (Photo Courtesy of www.shasahotels.com)

There is no doubt that the island of Koh Samui is one of the paradises on earth that is worth discovering. People will go out of their way to search for paradise and Koh Samui is one of those that is frequented by travellers from all over the world. The usual idea of bliss would be the tropics with its endless amount of sunshine and luxuries. Such luxuries and comfort are offered by staying at a gorgeous resort such as the ShaSa Hotel.

Everyone who has stayed at the luxurious ShaSa Hotel could certainly attest to having had a fabulous time. The island is beautiful on its own but experiencing the best accommodation doubles the greatness of an isle vacation. The hotel is conveniently located near the city centre and transportation may be provided upon request so getting around the island is not a problem at all. You can even rent a limousine to go around the island if you want.

ShaSa Hotel is a five star resort, so expect the finest services, gorgeous rooms, superb food and great spas and amenities.  Everyone strives to give you the best of what you want and need. There is a currency exchange available, a 24-hour front desk service, room service, a private beach, a luscious garden, a play room for the kids, a nice library and a gift shop. Walking around the entire private area of the hotel is paradise in itself.

The ShaSa Hotel is also a very ideal place to host events and conferences as you will be assured of the best five star services. The staff is all very accommodating and friendly so expect to have all your needs entertained during your whole stay. You can even request for pre-arranged tours and activities such as the Safari tour, tiger watching, sailing, boating, temple visiting and other fun water sports activities. Everything is made convenient for their guests.

It is one thing to travel paradise and another to get the most exclusive, luxury accommodation while spending your time there. So if you want to have the finest Koh Samui trip, opting to stay at the beautiful ShaSa Hotel will certainly provide nothing less than this. A grand time is not cheap but life is, after all, meant to be lived the best way possible. Remember you only once!  

                  

Temple Fairs of Koh Samui

Koh Samui has some impressive temples that visitors should definitely consider visiting (Photo Courtesy 123rf.com)

The Land of Smiles is primarily a Buddhist nation and it is famous for its impressive Buddhist temples. There are striking landmarks across the nation. They are one of the first things that come to mind when someone thinks about Thailand. Thai Buddhists, particularly the older generation, frequent these temples once a month during a full moon. Most Thais visit the temples during major festivals like Loy Krathong, Songkran, Macha Bucha and the Buddhist Lent Day.

Like the rest of the country, visiting Buddhist temples is part of the several things to do in Koh Samui. The island is home to a number of remarkable temples. The Wat Phra Yai is a famous Buddhist temple in Koh Samui and it houses the island's iconic Big Buddha. The remarkable golden statue is 12 meters tall and has shops and restaurants at its base. These establishments cater to the needs of both devotees and tourists alike. Visiting this temple is one of the major things to do in Koh Samui and is truly an enriching experience.

There are other several notable temples in Koh Samui. The interesting ones are Wat Khunaram that houses the mummified monk, Loung Pordaeng and Wat Kiri Wongkaram that houses another mummified monk, Loung Por Ruam. The Coral Buddha in Wat Somret  used to be a major crowd drawer. Visiting it nowadays is no longer part of the important things to do in Koh Samui except for Buddhist devotees. The impressive pagodas in the grounds of Wat Laem Sor and Wat Sila Ngu are a must-see. The latter houses the relic of the Lord Buddha. Another interesting Buddha statue is found in Koh Samui's most colorful temple, Wat Plai Laem. It has 18 arms. On the other hand, visitors can also find other religious sites on the island like the Chinese temple near Maenam pier.

Part of this temple visiting tradition is participating in its elaborate Buddhist temple fairs. It is one of the important things to do in Koh Samui and a visit to the island is not complete without it. Temple fair is a tradition that most temples in the Land of Smiles celebrate at least once a year. This festivity includes selling of various goods near temple grounds, buying and eating local delicacies and playing fun-filled games that both the young and old enjoy. These things to do in Koh Samui should definitely not be missed by tourists. 

Cleanse the Spirit with Yoga

Relax. Clear Your Mind. Try some Yoga while in Koh Samui.
(Photo Courtesy of organiclifestylemagazine.com)

There are so many exciting Koh Samui activities that visitors can take part while here at the island. Samui is an island far from boring. Regardless of the temperament and preferences of its visitors, Samui has something for everyone. Aside from soaking up the sun at the many beaches all around the island, there are plenty of other Koh Samui activities to choose from. Those who want more than fishing and have visited the island’s famous sites should try doing some yoga on the island.

People often visit Samui to relax. Yoga is such a relaxing and a spiritually purifying meditation practice, making it one of the newest and popular Koh Samui activities.Yoga is a holistic approach to well being, integrating the wonders of meditation to achieve a higher state of mind and a more tranquil feeling. There are plenty of places in Samui that offer yoga classes. One of the best is Samahita Retreat. Created by a yoga expert, Samahita is visited by locals and tourists who appreciate yoga and want to relax while improving their health.

Samahita provides a very serene and tranquil place for a more a deeper meditation. In this place, the stress of everyday life seems to melt away and visitors experience the many benefits of the ancient art of yoga. Yoga understands how important it is to have a balance of body and mine and bring back the body’s equilibrium. It is no surprise that yoga is one of the most important Koh Samui activities every tourist should try at least once. Only meditation can offer true release from stress and allow the body to renew itself. The place is a quiet haven for those who want to take a break from the beach and monkey zoos. A serene place where good and quality food is served, Samahita provides an ideal place to retreat and look inward.

For those who want to be able to experience the many benefits of yoga, they can also try the wellness centre at the ShaSa Resort. This popular resort in Samui also offers yoga classes to its visitors, taking wellness to a higher level. There is also a relaxing spa for those who need some pampering. This 5 star hotel offers numerous Koh Samui activities to choose from, a stay at the ShaSa Resort will surely be an event to remember.