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.

Shopping at Nathon Walking Street

There are tons of souvenirs at the Nathon Walking Street (kohsamui-thailand.org)

The scenic town of Nathon in Koh Samui is not only famous for its lovely sunsets but for its fun-filled Koh Samui shopping and dining. It is easily accessible from the mainland and from other towns on the island. A visit to Nathon is not complete without stopping by its famous street full of local foods and products once a week. It is a must-see Koh Samui shopping destination. Aside from that, tourists can also enjoy the spectacular view of the ocean while chit chatting over pre-dinner cocktails in a restaurant nearby.

Thailand is famous for its night markets and this town in Koh Samui does not lag behind. It is a favourite destination for Koh Samui shopping enthusiasts. What makes the shopping experience in Nathon unique though is its concept of walking street once a week. Every Saturday a street in Nathon is transformed into a popular Koh Samui shopping enclave from five o'clock in the afternoon to eleven o'clock at night.

Nathon walking street is closed up entirely to traffic. Vendors then set up their respective stalls selling a wide array of goods at reasonable prices. Shoppers can choose from different household and beauty products, trendy clothes, bags, antiques, slippers, watches and more.  Every tourist in town should not miss out this chance to see various local hand-made products on display and sample popular local delicacies. It is a great way to mingle with the locals, observe their norms and understand their culture and tradition.

Western foods like pizza are sold in Nathon walking street but the ubiquitous presence of hawkers is the ultimate food lover's delight. These hawker food stalls are common sights in Thailand but are particularly abundant on Saturday nights in this quaint Samui town. Going to this walking street for a meal during your stay is worth a trip. The foods are delicious but if you want to taste the best, watch where the locals buy their food from, these are typically the best hawker stalls. Thai delicacies that every gourmet food lover should try are khanoom cheen (rice noodles with spicy fish flake curry served with fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs), som tam (papaya salad), nam prik kung siap (dried prawn on a stick), khao yam (rice with shrimp paste) and khao mok khai (fragrant rice served with chicken). Visiting this street is indeed not only a fun Koh Samui shopping experience but a dining adventure as well.

Paintball Shootout Fun in Koh Samui

Paintballing is an exhilarating experience that kids and adults can enjoy (Photo Courtesy bathspasu.co.uk)

Whoever invented paintball certainly is a genius and fortunately, this exhilarating activity is one of the coolest things to do in Koh Samui. The great thing about playing paintball at Koh Samui is the fact that it is set in a real jungle, in the greener portions of the island. Thus, it is definitely more thrilling than a paintball site that is indoors somewhere. The players get a feel of an actual war game while they are outside in the jungle and running for their lives. It would most certainly bring out the adventurous side of everybody.

The game of paintball is an exciting and interesting concept that requires a lot of tactics, aim, physical endurance and of course a great sense of fun. It is one of the most exciting things to do in Koh Samui that can be enjoyed with your family and friends. It’s a game of outwitting and outlasting your opponents with all the elements of fun written all over it. Staying at ShaSa Resort certainly has luxurious benefits and one of them is not having to worry about a pre-arranged paintball session with pick-ups and drop offs to your hotel and a prepared agenda.

Before getting into action, it is essential to be properly prepared. The right gear will include masks, gloves and all the necessary protection for the game that awaits, this gear can be rented but it will save you money to bring your gear. You would not want to get dehydrated in the middle of an on-going fight so never forget to bring water. Your gun and bullets will be provided for you along with instructions on how to use it.

There are so many things to do in Koh Samui but paintballing is definitely worth a half-day trip. The game is between two teams with an equal number of players and the main aim is to capture the opponent team’s flag. A player who is hit in any part of his body by a paintball is automatically disqualified and is out of the game. The firing range is sent to be more than 5 metres away. If you are less than 5 metres away, shout “You’re dead!” instead of shooting, because getting hit at this distance will truly leave a mark and cause immense pain. Each game lasts for 10 minutes with 3-minute intervals. If no player is able to capture the flag, then the game is declared a draw.

If you find yourself booking that trip to Thailand, don’t forget to include paintball as one of the things to do in Koh Samui aside from getting that bronze tan and experiencing that lovely authentic Thai massage.