How to plan your perfect trip to Koh Samui – Live out the life of the islander
Planning for a vacation entails a close consideration of several factors. These include sourcing affordable flight plans, comfy accommodation facilities and having more than a fair share of thrills and spills to keep you going for the entire duration. Concerning the island of Koh Samui, Thailand, do take note of the following guide that will see to it that your time in this part of the country goes off as expected.
Be well read
Having a clear understanding of what’s in store for you will be a step in the right direction and this is why it is advisable to read up on what type of destination Koh Samui is. Found in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is nestled in the southeast section of the nation and is the second largest island that you can visit when in Thailand. Worthy of mention is the fact that Koh Samui is the sole island in the whole of the Gulf which boasts of an airport. This is the Samui International Airport which is privately owned and operated by Bangkok Airways. Several other entry points are provided, especially from the capital of Bangkok for ease of travel which includes train and ferry trips that must be booked well ahead to avoid disappointment.
Image via Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort
General traveller tips
Getting into Koh Samui will be of utmost importance and as pointed out above, several transportation facilities are provided that suits a multitude of preferences. To enjoy the best flight prices, advance bookings would need to be made. A good way to get around the subject of flights is to keep track of the first and last flights of the day that you have singled out as these will offer you opportunities to snap up a better price more often than not. If you’re more of a budget traveller who yearns for investing the majority of your finances in the glorious outdoors that makeup Koh Samui, then do consider flying to Surat Thani for the first leg of your trip before boarding a local bus and ferry en route to reaching your preferred destination. Tickets for trains can be bought at the nearest station while should you be seeking the comfort of a 1st class ride in a sleeper coach, then making an advanced reservation through a local service provider would serve your interests well. Furthermore, it is prudent practice on your behalf to bring your own food and water on your mode of transport unless, of course, you opt to take the next available plane to sunny and dazzling Koh Samui. Of particular relevance would be your choice of lodging and in this sense, a Samui resort the likes of Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort can be considered from where your future paths on the isle can be contemplated.
Include as much time for the outdoors
Koh Samui is filled to the brim with many a pleasing scene and to the intrepid vacationer, herein would lie ample space to begin living the life of the islander on your own terms. Take a speedboat and head off towards Ang Thong National Park which is blessed by well over 40 picture-perfect islets and turquoise ocean where one could swim, kayak or attempt both before settling down picnicking out on a secluded cove. In the event a riveting dive or a quiet snorkel is high on your list of priorities, then look no further than the waters off Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao which hold an abundance of marine life to explore including whale sharks and colourful schools of fish. For handmade products and handicrafts that would enhance the appeal of your mantelpiece back home while also being outstanding gifts for that special someone, consider beelining for the local markets that feature prominently when touring through Samui. From pure Thai silks, and beautiful jewellery to detailed furniture, select from a cross spectrum of best buys that are well worth investing in before you leave these breathtaking shores.
