What we did in Koh Samui and what you must too!

When you hear people talk about Thailand, all you hear is saccharinely sweet tales of smiling people, great weather, awesome food and other superlative-adjective-induced praises. Let me let you into a secret – they are right!

I’m not sure why the whole world is not packing its bags and settling in Thailand (but it’s probably better that way!) Thailand is Earth’s own piece of paradise with all of the above greatness in store. And I discovered it through my 9-day trip to Koh Samui/Ko Samui.

Koh Samui is a small island off the coast of Thailand to the South. Beaches are the main draw and tourism is the breadwinner here. Gorgeous hotels line every street offering a variety of Thai massages, insanely good food and cozy rooms to lure the traveler. Having spent nine days, here is what we recommend:

STAY

Lanna Samui: One of the top hotels in Samui, Lanna is great value for money. Everything about this place was top-notch – from the tastefully minimalistic rooms, the eucalyptus-infused steam rooms (we took multiple steam-baths everyday!), and the well-equipped gym to their incredible pool. Great place with great service, don’t forget to down their Mai Tais while chatting with their affable manager, Lance.

Ban Tai Estate: If you were part of a large group, you’d be better off staying at one of the villas at the Ban Tai Estate. Well stocked with everything you may need during your stay – from a hair dryer to a dishwasher – the luxury villas are perfect for a rejuvenating albeit expensive vacation. Soak in the pool, get an intensive Thai massage (the Villa administrators can arrange from a neighboring massage parlor. Ask for Note. She is brilliant and does a painstakingly good job of relaxing every muscle in your body.) and have home cooked meals in-house; you could not ask for a better holiday!

EAT

Fishermen’s Village: If you are a non-vegetarian who loves to eat everything that walks, flies and swims, then walk along on a Friday when they have the Fishermen's market bustling and try out everything from fried Crocodile meat (only 100 Bahts!) to fried Octopus. Vegetarians, you have mounds of mouth-watering mango sticky rice, instead. An array of food and drink options line up the street so that you don’t drop while you shop. Our recommendation: Grab a plateful of the tiny coconut pudding at 50 Bahts. It simply melts in your mouth!

Treetops: For a special date or simply a high-dining experience, (vegetarian ask for their special menu), this is the perfect place for that delicious fare. Steeply priced, but definitely worth every baht for the bite, dining here is also an unforgettable experience as you are nestled between the trees for your meal. I still have dreams of their delicious avocado salsa (with apple marshmallows, vierge tomatoes, and season organic greens)! 

ROAM

Take a bike, they are available at very cheap prices for rent. It is the best way to roam the island at ease. Remember: Be safe. So, don't drink and drive.

Ang Thong Marine Park: Plan a whole day’s outing to be amidst the sun and sea to visit Ang Thong Marine Park. You could snorkel if you want to spot some pretty undersea creatures. While I am no great snorkeler (in fact, I was terrible at it!), I still managed to catch shoals of fish before I scampered back on board. Most importantly, always ALWAYS ensure you catch the sunset mid-sea; it is not a sight to miss! We were on a yacht with sails and the sunset was absolutely divine, what with sails billowing in the wind, an orange-inked sky, and salty ocean sprays! Perfectly romantic.

Fishermen’s Village: While you munch on some octopi tentacles, it is a very good idea to pick some authentic Thai trinkets at the Fishermen's Village. While most tourists prefer the Chaweang beachside, we favor this space as you get to feel the festive air of the city. Open every Friday from 5pm onwards, brace yourself for a long but fun evening.  Pick up hand-woven bags, egg-painted coconut shells and more for the dear ones back at home - the least you can do to appease them considering they are going to be super jealous once you gush about Samui.

DISCOVER

The Thai Experience: One of the things that we will definitely recommend, especially if you are traveling to Samui in a group is to go for dinner at The Thai Experience. A slice of Samui life served with delicious food, the experience is a lot of fun! You brew your own cocktails, find a way to make some street food and the best part – you get to eat and drink whatever you make. Now isn't that a fabulous deal?!

The Island Book House: If you are a bookworm like us, then this is a must-do on your list. Run by Paul Wotham, a British expat who has made Samui his home, the place is filled with thousands of books in over 25 languages. We bagged our copy of D. Somtow’s “Dragon Fin Soup and Other Stories” to take back with us some Thai writing. Worth the 180 Bahts we paid, the stories are fantastic and based on many of the charming local Thai beliefs. 

Baan Thitinan cafe and souvenir shop: This place has the most curious assortment of statues and artifacts from Tintin to Thai goddesses, Asterix to Chinese teapots! A rare gem that we chanced upon. A must visit in Koh Samui. Be sure to say hi to the incredibly friendly and lovely Baan Thitinan. 

There's oh-so-much more to experience in Samui. Which is why we recommend that one trip is not enough. You feel a certain wistfulness that deserves a second trip! And a third. And so on. And why wouldn't you? After all, everybody wants a slice of paradise!