Four Reasons to Visit Koh Samui Today

It's hard to imagine that it was only in 1971 when two backpackers on coconut boats arrived in Koh Samui -- a 228-square-kilometer island off the Eastern coast of Thailand.

Just like similar undiscovered resort islands that dot the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui benefited from its natural beauty populated by swaying palms, virgin beaches and a tropical climate that is mostly dry throughout the year. Forty years later, Koh Samui may not be as tranquil as it once was. The 45-minute flight from Bangkok has made the island into one of Asia's hot spots for tourism, rivaling neighboring Phuket and Chiang Mai as Thailand's top destination.

1. World Class Resorts

The ShaSa is one of the most luxurious resorts in Koh Samui

Koh Samui is home to some world-class accommodations, such as the ShaSa Resort that sits on the side of a hill with majestic sunset views of the water below. With its choice of luxury beach front bungalows, plus amenities like outdoor living spaces and a refreshing pool, its luxurious style and comforts are on a par with some of the best resorts in the world. Meanwhike, dinner by the beach at the Beyond The Sea restaurant offers a refreshing take on Thai and Western-inspired dishes.

2. Chic hangouts

Koh Samui's beachside atmosphere is sophisticated with an aura of serenity while only being steps from the chaos of the lady-boys and beer girls at Chaweng beach. If you're looking for somewhere where its possible to both escape from the crowds and head out for a night of partying, Koh Samui has it all.

3. The Land of Buddha and humongous sculptures

The monks, Buddhists temples and giant Buddhas in Thailand are the equivalent of Christian pastors, churches and the huge ArtPrize collage of Jesus Christ in Grand Rapids. Wat Plai Laem, a giant 18-arm Guanyin (the goddess of mercy and compassion) is the most famous temple for tourists, in the northern part of the island. The giant laughing Buddha is the most memorable among the many Buddha statues that call Wat Plai Laem home. Also of interest, down on Lamai beach, there are two giant natural rock formations called Grandpa and Grandma rocks that resemble sexual organs.

4. Markets and festivals galore

Food markets in Asia are similar to those back at home, except for the fact that you can find every part of any animal for sale (some are alive), food carts outside of the market may outnumber the actual stalls inside, and there is an organized chaos to the screaming dialogue between the eager vendors and determined buyers. The Fisherman's Village Five-day Festival every August may be your best bet for a complete culinary and cultural excursion.

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.