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.