Koh Phi Phi

Sitting a three hour boat ride from the mainland, Koh Phangan is the last unspoiled island of any major size left in Thailand. Differing from its sister Koh Samui in many ways. Where Koh Samui is brash and built up, Koh Phangan is laid back with a landscape. Large property developers have yet to begin exploiting this tropical paradise, most development is restricted to discrete bungalow resorts.

Koh Phangan is still a popular destination for backpackers and budget travellers, infamous for its Full Moon Party most young travellers see the island as one of the highlights of their trip to Thailand. The party takes place at the southern end of the island in the town of Haad Rin, a hedonistic party town made up of meandering side streets packed with bars, restaurants and gift shops, bungalow resorts to suit every pocket and above all else the stunning Haad Rin Nok beach. At the time of the full moon, Haad Rin is packed full of revellers and advanced booking is recommended if you wish to stay in this part of the island at this time of the month.

Moving north from Haad Rin we next encounter Ban Tai, home to both the Half Moon Party and the Shiva Moon Party both large events themselves. Ban Tai is also where you will find the ‘horny mile’, a stretch of road almost a mile long that is populated by lady bars on each side. These bars are a lot more laid back than their counterparts in either Bangkok or Pattaya and seem to be a solid favourite with the middle aged tourists who arrive upon Koh Phangan.

Further north still you will come to Thongsala, the only true town upon the island, a vibrant mix of Thai shops, western bars and restaurants along with traditional food markets at every turn. At night the main market square becomes an open air restaurant serviced by a couple of dozen street vendors who set up tables and ply their trade. Some of the best food on Koh Phangan can be found here after the sun sets. Thongsala also houses the main ferry pier for the island and forms a natural gateway to the mainland. Once you leave Thongsala behind and head further north you will notice a drastic change in the pace of life, things are quieter here with only occasional houses built and small village settlements with local shops. The villages of Wok Tum and Hing Kong are particularly lazy; both wonderful places for somebody looking for a longer term stay on the island.

Further up the coast road you will find Haad Yao and Haad Salad, both excellent diving areas with a close in reef allowing easy access for beach dives, further north still you will find Mae Haad and the small island of Koh Ma sitting an easy wade across the sea from Koh Phangan. This is the premier snorkelling spot on the island offering sites usually only witnessed by scuba divers.

Up at the northern tip of Koh Phangan you will find Chaloklam, a squid fishing village with a beautiful crescent beach. The seafood here is exceptional, taken straight from the sea each morning. At night you can watch the lights of the dozens of squid boats that ply the waters in this area, and then watch them return with their catch and dry it in the sun whilst you eat breakfast at a beachside restaurant.

Over on the west side of the island you will find Tong Nai Pan, originally a secluded backpacker community now the site of the largest developments upon Koh Phangan. Luxury resorts cater for the sun worshipers who agree that the western beach is the most beautiful upon the island.

Being home to several large dance parties every month; Koh Phangan can be either a hedonist’s heaven or a holiday hell, outlined below is some sensible advice for people visiting the island.

When attending any of the parties on the island you should always keep a few things in mind. Remember that this is not your home country, the law here protects the Thai people, as a ‘farang’ (westerner) you have significantly reduced rights. Take for example an auto accident, let’s say you are driving your rented jeep up a steep hill, coming towards you is a sand truck, and it fails to brake and collides with your jeep. Clearly the fault of the truck driver yes? He was going far too fast down a steep hill, not your fault at all right? Wrong, in Thailand the law is simple, if a farang is involved in an auto accident with a Thai person then regardless of who did what to cause the accident it is your fault. Why is that? Simple logic applies, you are a farang, you should not be here, and if you were not here the accident would never have happened thus it is your fault. I joke not.

Always remember that the island of Koh Phangan relies upon the tourist trade as its main source of income. Not a problem in itself, where the problem starts is with the less than honest people who are just waiting to take advantage of you should you give them the opportunity. Each month there are dozens of new stories involving some stupid farang who got far too drunk on Haad Rin beach, fell asleep and lost everything they had in their pockets to one of the professional pick pockets who cruise the parties looking for likely prey. You would be amazed at how many party goers decide it is safer to carry their passport, credit cards and plane tickets in their pockets than leave them in a security box. That pretty Thai girl (who probably wasn’t actually a girl) that just came up and gave you a kiss at a party, did her hand go anywhere near your pockets? It happens; in fact it happens every month to many people, keep your wits about you.

Drinking and driving, just don’t do it. So you think you can drive when you have had a skin full? Ok fine, off you go on your scooter with no crash helmet or protective clothing. Even a low speed crash whilst wearing a pair of shorts and sandals is terribly painful. Take it from me, somebody who knows, only a few short weeks ago I launched my Honda CBR onto the beach at 2am after drinking far more than was safe. I didn’t walk for two weeks and I consider myself lucky, people die here every year due to drink driving, many are injured each month and have to cut their holiday short.

Don’t upset the locals. I don’t mean the lady who is cooking your food or the guy who is pumping you gasoline. I mean the kind of locals who consider themselves ‘mafia’ and make a hugely successful living ripping off tourists. These are not nice people and this is not a movie, there are many suspicious deaths on the island every year. Although these people are wise enough to realise they cannot go too far as they depend on the tourists as much as anyone else, if you give them a reason then they will give you trouble. On the surface Koh Phangan appears to be a tranquil paradise island, in reality it is a small piece of valuable land that has more in common with the Wild West than a civilised city. Almost everything here is controlled by certain key families, including the police, tread carefully; the illusion of safety is just that, an illusion.

If you maintain your self control, don’t take foolish risks and remember that you are not in your native country then you will have no problems upon Koh Phangan. If you push the envelope a little too much a world of hurt could be waiting for you. I don’t want to make Koh Phangan appear to be unsafe, almost all of the stories I hear involve somebody doing something stupid, the problem is they are doing something stupid in a place that has no safety net. Remember that and take care when you are visiting the island.

The sea is great place to spend time enjoying the region's tropical beauty and marine life. Samui is becoming a water sports Mecca, with a range of options for those who want to get wet.

The warm seas that surround Koh Samui have long played an integral role in the island's allure, with few visitors able to resist the temptation of the waters that gently lap Samui's beaches. Right now, there have never been so many ways for people to take a dip around Samui. Here are just a few of the most popular options for water babes who need an H2O fix during their time in paradise.

One of the most popular water sports worldwide is scuba diving and the Gulf of Thailand, with a rich diversity of marine life and favourable year-round conditions, is now firmly set as one of the world's premier dive holiday destinations. Whilst the teeming seas are an important part of the area's popularity, another key selling point is the huge variety of dive sites to visit. Koh Samui has it's own 'house' reefs that are suitable for novices, whilst more challenging dives await experienced divers at nearby Sail Rock or in the National Marine Park. For the clearest waters and most choice though, local dive operators also offer day trips to the stunning island of Koh Tao, where more than a dozen quality dive sites await discovery. Whether you're a hardened diver seeking some exciting dive experiences, or a nervous novice, keen to take your first breaths in this amazing environment, there is a diving option for everyone off Samui.

If going under the waves doesn't appeal, there are other ways to immerse yourself in to the deep blue world, the most popular of which is snorkeling. Many reefs lie directly off Samui and most visitors can't resist the urge to don a mask and snorkel and have a look at what lies beneath. As with diving, your snorkeling possibilities are by no means restricted to the immediate area. One of the more popular tours incorporating snorkeling is an adventure trip to the Ang Thong National Marine Park. This also includes a few hours kayaking amongst the park's striking collection of fifty limestone rock islands and formations, as well as a chance to see the 'golden bowl', a hidden lake that is completely encircled with majestic cliffs and was the inspiration behind Alex Garland's best selling novel: The Beach.

If it's the marine life you'd like to focus on then take a day tour to Koh Tao, where the clear waters and splendid array of shallow and bountiful reefs make for some of the best snorkelling anywhere in the world. Day trips also usually include a visit to famous Koh Nangyuan, an exquisite trio of verdant jungle islands connected by stunning, white sandbar beaches. Few visitors to Nangyuan are left disappointed and the views below the waters certainly match the breathtaking beauty above.

Back above the water, for more of an adrenaline rush, Koh Samui is now also home to one of the most exciting water sports of modern times: kiteboarding. Kiteboarding Asia is a company that has been on the island for five years and now also boasts three centers in Phuket, Hua Hin and Chumpon. Often called the new windsurfing, the sport also incorporates aspects of both wakeboarding and surfing to provide a truly thrilling experience.

These are the main but by no means the only seafaring options off Koh Samui, There are plenty of other water sports available such as jet skiing, taking a ride on a banana boat, hiring Kayaks to explore the beaches and rocky coves or renting Hobie cats and other craft for a spot of self-skippering. Add in other popular activities such as leisurely sunset dinner cruises, fishing trips that allow you to catch and barbecue your own supper, or perhaps even chartering a junk for a luxurious jaunt around the Thai Gulf and you'll soon find that it's possible to spend every day of your holiday either on, in or under the beautiful waters around Samui.

The islands of southern Thailand are widely known as “Island Paradise”. Their picturesque beaches, moderate tropical climate and unique, extremely relaxing lifestyle account for this reputation. Travelers from all over the world come to these southern Thailand islands to experience the famous transition to another dimension, as they gradually absorb the overwhelming serenity and ephemeral separation from the dynamic and straining modern life style.

In the eyes of the inexperienced traveler at the very first stages of planning his or her trip to Thailand, all “paradise islands” may look exactly the same: all the islands are tropical (in the classic sense and climate wise), picturesque and serene. But in fact, a more thorough perspective would reveal that each island, just like every individual traveler, has its own set of unique qualities. The cost of stay in some islands can turn out to be a surprisingly expensive experience, while visiting other islands can be quite a bargain; some islands are dramatically peaceful while others are loaded with exciting nightlife activities; some islands provide the perfect conditions for divers while others are ideal for backpackers.

After years of intensive research, and after exploring every dark corner on every island in southern Thailand, my final conclusion is that Koh Phangan is no doubt and by far the perfect choice for the perfect vacation. Koh Phangan is the perfect choice because it has this unique ability to adopt itself to the likes and needs of every individual traveler in the limits of being an island (except from providing the ultimate urban environment. But nobody visits the Thai islands to relive his urban daily lifestyle). Here are the five elements that make Koh Phangan the ultimate vacation choice:

1. The best value for your money. Until recently, Koh Phangan had a strong reputation of a backpackers’ island. As a result, the island’s costs of living had been adjusted to the target audience. Food and accommodation on the island cost surprisingly low, so that even a backpacker with a budget of 30$ per day can provide himself or herself with a reasonable, almost western life standard on the island, which includes air conditioned rooms and delicious cuisine. During the last several years, when more spoiled tourists discovered this island, local entrepreneurs began to invest in luxury accommodation. Nevertheless, the best quality accommodation in Koh Phangan is still cheaper, on average, compared to the same standard accommodation offered on other islands.

2. The rare opportunity to experience the “old school” island paradise. Even the sworn lovers of Thailand will agree, that the days when the “paradise islands” were the place in which one can sit on a lonely beach and share his or her thoughts with a single coconut tree, are a thing of the past. Still, in Koh Phangan one can find some “reservations” of remote picturesque beaches with only a limited choice of accommodation, such as Haad Thong Reng, Haad Yao and Haad Sadet. Some of these forgotten venues feature about three dozens bungalows hidden in the midst of the jungle. These “old school” beaches make you fell like merging with a “real” paradise, created by true nature and not by wise and experienced tourism industry entrepreneurs.

3. Breathtaking diving sites. The Gulf of Thailand is considered to be an excellent diving area, due to its clear lucid water and the huge variety of underwater life. Until recently, the consensual opinion stated that the only place for “real” scuba divers in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Tao Island, next to Koh Phangan. Nowadays, more and more divers are choosing Koh Phangan as a launching ground for their preferable diving sites: a small island Koh Ma, connected to Koh Phangan by a sand bar; the neighboring beaches Haad Salad, Haad Yao & Haad Chaophao, offering a hugevariety of tropical fish and coral reefs; and Ang Thong National Marine Park - a group of 42 islands, protected as a National Park.

4. The Full Moon Party. The full moon party, held in Koh Phangan since 1989, attracts thousands of travelers every month coming from all corners of the globe. Even if you are not the classic partygoer - the full moon party could be a unique and unforgettable opportunity to join thousands of joyful, exhilarated people dancing together in the most beautiful place in the world to the sounds of the best music.

5. To experience radically unique travel activities. Koh Phangan is quite a small sized island (about 170 km2), but it offers a widest variety of activities. You can come on a Sunday, as a backpacker to Sunrise Beach, become a professional diver on Monday in Koh Ma and turn into a seasoned partygoer on Tuesday as you take part in the exhilarating full moon party. If you’re able to wake up on Wednesday morning, you can meet local people in the fishermen’s village Chaloklum learn and experience their traditional way of life. Additionally, you can join forces with your sportsperson alter ego and go trekking on Thursday; and on Friday you’ll have the unique opportunity to pretend being a Mowgli riding an elephant’s back in Phangan Safari. On Saturday, you can try living as a sheikh in a luxury resort with a spa…and maybe get the chance to write a novel on the seven most unforgettable days of your life.

The brilliantly colored coral reefs of Koh Samui in Thailand attract scuba divers from all over the world for the sheer joy of diving. In fact, you can say that Koh Samui is probably the best diving site in South East Asia. Scuba diving is Thailand’s most popular water sport, providing unlimited excitement and a pleasurable pastime. With the help of modern scuba diving equipment that allow you to breathe underwater with effortless ease and comfort, a whole new marine world opens up before you, usually unseen by the human eye. Those who have not mastered the technique yet, can find scores of dive schools with experienced professionals ready to give them diving lessons and hand-guide them to the abyss. Obtaining a certificate is a breeze. Neither is it a tall story to say that you can get a number of dive certificates in Koh Samui that include Scuba diver, Adventure diver, Rescue diver and so on. Also, scuba diving in Thailand is competitively priced, and once you have obtained the certification in this country, you may utilize it to go scuba diving anywhere in the world.

Diving is suitable in Thailand throughout the year, visibility depending on the season. While in the Andaman Sea, the best time is from October through April, the Gulf of Thailand offers scuba from May through September. Most of the dive shops and establishments are affiliated with PADI or other international dive bodies, holding multi-lingual courses. Thailand is also one of the most seacology conscious countries of the world. Several professional divers from fourteen dive centers on the island of Koh Samui recently organized a clean up at Sail Rock, which is one of the frequently used dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand. Their principal activity centered round removing fishing nets covering coral and sundry marine life. Twenty-five Koh Samui Easy Divers removed around 160 kg of debris from under the sea.

Koh Samui or the “island of the coconut tree” with its rolling hills, coconut plantations, carved sandy beaches and offshore islands has, over the years, developed into a supreme holiday destination with a distinct island flavor. It is also a place to relax, meet divers (scuba) from every corner of the universe, talk about the preservation of corals, sun bathe and party till deep in the night. Fringed by coral reefs and deeper offshore pinnacles, it is not very hard to appreciate the country’s wide popularity among backpackers and members of the selective dive community alike.

Surprisingly enough, few people realize that Samui is also a renowned Buddhist center with temples and artifacts, including mummified bodies of Buddhist monks, preserved with dignity and care. The Northern coast of Samui is dominated by the Big Buddha, a 15 meter figure that looks out over the sea and has become the island’s principal landmark.

So come to Koh Samui, and take a dip to the amazing world of corals – Samui offers among the cleanest waters in the region. Or you can also come to Samui on a religious trip.

Travel to Thailand and include Koh Samui Island to your plan. The moment one arrives here, the place casts a spell on you, with its beautiful palm fringed beaches in the traditional villages and the relaxed atmosphere. Koh Samui is the third largest Thai Island, home to some of the well-known beaches like Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Big Buddha, Choeng Mon, Hua Thanon and Maenam. This island is famous for its natural beauty and charm, and importantly a place where one can enjoy their holiday their way, from a relaxed one, to a laid back or an active and fast paced.

This place is for the beach lovers with the beautiful white sand beaches, clean, clear water, thriving tropical gardens and gentle ocean breezes. Koi Samui Island today is a familiar name in Europe, Australia to the USA. The first tourist arrival started in 1971 and since then the place is charming its visitors, though the current pace of development has made it a more commercial but the sleepy magic still exits and it is certainly a paradise out here. Visitor's to Samui are rewarded with an ideal tropical retreat away from the traffic and hustle bustle of city life, alluring white-sand beaches, a sapphire-blue sea, with loads of tempting Thai cuisine. To add the people are unusually warm and friendly. The best and most developed beaches are at Chaweng and Lamai, which offer a wide range of Koh Samui hotels, restaurants and nightspots to suit every taste and budget.

Make the most of your holiday as Samui offers a number of places to see and things to do. Kick-start by visiting the island's natural attractions the coral beds at Laem Sed and Tong Takien, the Hin Lat and Na Muang waterfalls and the phallic rock formations at the southern end of Lamai bay, which are just a few to name. If one has time on hand, beyond the main island there are other places worth exploring. Koh Phangan is world famous for its monthly Full Moon Parties, then Koh Tao offers with one of the best diving locations in Thailand and the Ang Thong National Marine Park is worth visiting.

Of the many things, the accommodation facilities at the Island are tempting. Koh Samui has a wide range of hotels in Koh Samui. There are five-star resorts available to bungalows on the beach. Moreover, this place is just perfect, if one is looking for a place without really big hotels, resorts and discotheques, but great beaches, places to eat, bars and even a couple of fine nightclubs. For no reason who come here once, want to come back again.

Thailand is great value; an outstandingly beautiful country; the people are warm and welcoming; it offers a multitude of outdoor activities; it’s home to wonderful ruins of ancient kingdoms as well as present day temples; the food is out of this world and Thailand has some of the finest beaches on the planet.

Chiang Mai and its surroundings is any adventure enthusiast’s playground with a huge array of activities on offer- from outstanding mountain biking and trekking to rafting and elephant riding. You can even cycle all the way to Bangkok! If Chiang Mai and the north are associated with adventure and activity then the south is with beaches and sunshine. The islands are split on either side of Thailand’s peninsular, with, amongst others, Phuket, Koh Lanta off the Andaman coast to the west and Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan to the east in the Gulf of Thailand.

There is of course plenty in between as well, not least the ‘City of Angels’ – Bangkok, surely one of the most vibrant city’s on the planet! So many visitors pass straight through, convinced that it offers nothing but pollution and noise. Take our advice; give it a couple of days and you’ll fall in love with the place.

In the heartland of Thailand you’ll have the opportunity to trek, explore lost kingdoms, ride elephants, walk with tigers, raft and visit, and even stay with, hill tribe people!

Thinking of Thailand as a tour destination? Think exotic, oriental, majestic and more!

Thailand’s boundaries stretch to neighboring regions of Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia, the Gulf of Thailand and the Indian Ocean. The exciting Eastern city of Thailand offers immense scope for sea, air and road travel, dependent on a tourist’s budget. Its four main regions, namely North, Central Plain or the Chao Phraya River Basin, North East (Korat Plateau) and South Peninsula live up to the true meaning of ‘thai,’ literally meaning free and denoting the same in its multicultural diversity that happily coexists with its diverse inhabitants.

Agriculturally rich, with paddy fields dotted landscape that make room for heritage palaces and famous temples alike, modern Thailand comes as a pleasant surprise for the global traveler: natural beauty of many beaches and islands, innumerable shopping bargains and vibrant festivities of carnivals and shopping centers that offer wide variety in local foods and gourmet cuisine, exotic hill - tribe villages and ancient ruins all contribute to Thailand’s cosmopolitan air as a tour destination.

Thailand as a tour destination: its many exciting activities and pleasures. Buddhism is the main religion in Thailand with the King of Thailand revered as the supreme monarch and also the patron of all religions embraced by the people. Thus, Thailand has religious tolerance woven into its social fabric and respects people of all races. This multiculturalism makes Thailand a hot favorite as a tour destination for the global traveler with add-on visits to nearby cities like Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth and other major southern Thai towns being part of an avid tourist’s list. Places of tourist interest in Thailand include Phuket, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Chang and Koh Samet while provinces like Krabi, Koh Libong, Koh Hai provides great photographic memoirs of Thailand as a tour destination.

Twenty years ago, Koh Samui was a sleepy backwater. An island of calm, clear blue waters, crystal white beaches populated only by fishermen and a few backpackers: what Alex Garland maybe had in mind when he wrote "The Beach". The reason for Koh Samui's allure was obvious. Situated in the middle of the Gulf of Siam, Koh Samui is blessed with year-round sunshine and pristine beaches. Like all good secrets, news spread quickly of this 'jewel in the sea' and it led to Koh Samui becoming one of the world's best-know tropical destinations for foreigners in their endless quest for a mythical paradise.

By far the most popular area on Koh Samui is Chaweng on the East coast, with its large white-sand beach, luxury hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Due to the lack of available land now around Chaweng, other areas such as Lamai, Ban Taling Ngam and Bang Por are undergoing major development and are set to boom in the very near future. The North and Southwest of Koh Samui is likely to become a major 'hotspot", with some of the biggest plots of land on the island being available and where some of the largest private houses are being built.

The real estate situation is in a lull at the moment following some recent illegal development scandals and as a result of the current political instability, but with new elections being held later this year and reputable agencies like Savills and Exotiq entering the market, the situation can only get stronger.

Currently part of the province of Suratthani, Koh Samui is soon about to become a province in its own right, meaning much more money from the central government and consequently much better investment in the island's infrastructure, making it an even better option for foreign investors. The airport is set for major renovations, which will result in easier access to South-East Asian destinations and increased tourist numbers, the Hyatt is developing a new hotel and Big C and Club Med also have plans to build new resorts on the island. Combine this with the fact that glitterati such as David and Victoria Beckham, Dustin Hoffman and Kristen Justin-Henin have recently bought land in Koh Samui; it lends loads of confidence to the island's real estate market. With both property and cultural developments such as these, surely it can only add to Koh Samui's reputation as one of the World's top island destinations.

You’ve probably heard of Koh Samui, it’s the third largest of Thailand’s islands and many people seem to rave about it – but what’s so great about Koh Samui and is it really worth a visit?

Well, not only is Koh Samui worth a visit – it is one of those places on earth that’s once seen and never forgotten. In fact, many of those who visit Koh Samui once are hooked for life and some never leave. There are also an increasing number of Western expatriate retirees moving to live in Thailand and Koh Samui is a favourite destination because not only is it highly affordable but it offers up an excellent standard of living.

Basically what’s so great about Koh Samui is that it has the perfect blend of stunning climate, inimitable views, pristine sandy beaches, lush dense and incredible foliage, rare flora and fauna, excellent cuisine, plenty to see and do and experience and the people are among the friendliest on the planet – oh and healthcare is world class yet affordable and there are even international schools available on the island for those who wish to move there before their retirement years.

If you want to experience the best of Thailand in a safe environment and only moments away from all the amenities and facilities you could possibly want then Koh Samui is the place to go.

You can learn to dive in the crystal clean waters, you can learn to sunbathe (!) on the pure white sandy beaches which are fringed with beautiful palm trees, you can visit coconut plantations, witness incredible waterfalls, take boat trips to outer lying islands such as Koh Tao, Koh Wua Talap or Koh Mae Koh, you can snorkel in the National Marine Park or if all that sounds too energetic why not spend a day or even a week at one of Koh Samui’s spas?

Spa resorts are in abundance on the island and they offer peace, tranquillity and a whole host of luxurious treatments that will leave you feeling purified and whole again after the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And as soon as you’re feeling refreshed and energised it’ll be time to hit the abundance of excellent shops and boutiques or to go for a night out on the town where you can watch cabaret, go bar hopping, dine exquisitely or just while away an evening on the beach star gazing.

If all this sounds like your idea of heaven on earth you’re not alone – Koh Samui is great, it is well worth a visit but don’t blame me if you’re hooked and want to stay for life! There are new residential developments springing up in areas zoned and protected specifically for low rise residential construction and these developments all offer a taste of Thailand combined with contemporary architecture. One of the latest is Infinity Samui which consists of condos, penthouses and villas with infinity pools and infinity sea views. On site there is a spa and all residents will be treated to five star hotel like service – so you can actually live a life of affordable luxury in one of the most desirable places on earth - which is why we truly believe Koh Samui is just so great!

The full moon party upon Koh Phangan is a very special event, there are few places in this world where you can live out your desert island dreams of palm trees and white sand beaches and still have a blinding night out at a rocking party every month, Koh Phangan is one of them.The town of Had Rin is a vibrant mix of friendly Southern Thai hospitality and Koh Phangan's unique party culture, creating a place and vibe that could only be found at the origin of the Full moon party, Koh Phangan.

The Full Moon Party is held at Haad Rin Nok, so the many restaurants, pubs and bars in Haad Rin are decorated to attract tourists.At the party, top-name DJs provide many genre of music, like Hip Hop, Dance, R&B, Reggae and lots more. In addition, any number of other performers may join the Party throughout the evening; fire blowers and dancers, face painters and impromptu firework displays among them.

In high season, there are over ten thousand people joining this party, but there are rooms to accommodate them scattered all over Koh Phangan, if you want to stay in Haad Rin you should book a room at least one week before the Full Moon Party.It is possible to stay on Koh Samui and get the ferry over for the party and back again early the next morning.

Police are cracking down on the drug scene at full moon parties, undercover police attend the party to try to catch people dealing or taking drugs. Large fines are the consequence faced by anyone caught. This is a significant change from the early days of the Full Moon Party when drug taking was actively encouraged upon Koh Phangan.

With the global notoriety that the Full moon party has gained as being one of the biggest and best beach bashes in the world, Koh Phangan gets more than its fair share of hedonists gracing its shores. Few know that the first Full Moon Party actually started as a going away bash for a friend of the owner of Paradise Bungalows on Haad Rin beach, which just happened to be at full moon.Each year the scene on Koh Phangan grows with the ever-increasing number of party faithful that return, bringing their friends and spreading the vibe.

Phuket is not only Thailand's largest island but is also widely known as the Pearl of the Andaman Sea, a world class holiday destination attracting millions of visitors every year. The province is famous for many fascinating tourist attractions, but few people have heard of Koh Naka Yai, Phuket's secret gem and home to the Koh Naka Retreat.

Koh Naka Yai is a small island less than 15 minutes by boat off the east coast of Phuket. The island is set in the beautiful scenic surroundings of Phang Nga Bay, an area that first became famous when it was featured over thirty years ago in the epic James Bond movie 'The Man with the Golden Gun', and it hasn't looked back since. A National Park, this stunning bay of paradise island "getaways" is blessed with spectacular limestone outcrops and mangrove forests that line the bay and the many tributaries running into it.

Amazingly, Koh Naka has up until now managed to escape the tourist plight of many of Phuket's exotic islands, not least Phuket Island itself which has become so popular over the past few years and a "must visit" for holiday seekers worldwide.

Koh Naka Yai is the classic postcard image of island exotica with fine, pristine white sandy beaches lined with coconut trees - the ultimate place to unwind from the stresses of modern day urban madness. No roads, no cars, no internet cafes, just the chirping of birds and cicadas in the background. The only activity you would encounter during stay here would be Koh Naka Noi's famous pearl farms, which can be visited on a day trip, or the occasional yacht anchored in the bay.

Inevitably, and not surprisingly, the island will some day become home to some upscale resorts but, fortunately for now, Koh Naka remains a virtually uninhabited fisherman's island with only one major home on the entire island, the Koh Naka Retreat.

The Koh Naka Retreat is the stuff that dreams are made of, an exclusive private villa hideaway with a private jetty leading to an infinity edge swimming pool enjoying stunning views of Phang Nga Bay. With blue waters and 5 secluded sandy beaches to choose from, Koh Naka Retreat provides a beautiful romantic 'Castaway' environment for tranquility seeking holidaymakers and honeymooners alike.

Koh Samui lies roughly eighty kilometers of the east coast of Thailand. Samui is situated surrounded by other Islands of the Ang Tong group. From the second a traveler arrives on Samui they will fall in love with Samui. Many travelers visiting Samui adore the wonderful atmosphere that can be found on Samui.

From nearly every position on Koh Samui, tourists are granted astonishing views of surrounding sea. The Samui airport will definitely be one of the most astonishing airports found any where on the globe. For those tourists arriving by boat to the wonderful Thai holiday Island, the ferry dock will steer them ahead instantly onto the white Samui beaches and its coconut trees.

Koh Samui Bungalows & Resorts

Koh Samui offers a remarkable selection and assortment of beachfront Koh Samui bungalows and resorts and is obtainable for virtually every tourist accommodation budget. Travelers will find on Samui a large offering of accommodation that ranges from standard beach bungalows on one of the beaches all the way up till incredible and luxurious Samui hotels and beach resorts.

The great thing about Koh Samui is that almost every voyager can find lodging right on one of the Samui beaches and at the budget available to the visitor.

Koh Samui Population

The population of Koh Samui is made up for the major piece of Thai Buddhists. Previous to the arrival of tourism dollars and the hefty number of tourists, Koh Samui has been living off coconut farming and fishing. Fishing and coconut farming are still an vital part of Samui however the vast mainstream of local residents are at present employed in the Samui hospitality and travel industry.

Samui Beach

The leading and most trendy Samui beach is of course Chaweng beach. Close runner ups are the Samui beaches at Lamai and the one at Maenam. Many of the beaches on Koh Samui have a huge number of bungalows and resorts however the Samui beaches by no means suffer from busy crows or noise as Koh Samui beaches are normally relatively stretched and spacious.

Acitivities on Koh Samui

Koh Samui offers tourists a lot of amusement and entertainment which ranges from the infamous Chaweng nightlife to relaxing trips by boat to deserted and fabulous beaches. Tourists visiting Koh Samui can also get pleasure from a wide choice of watersport options on Koh Samui. Visitors can also go one of the great trips to one of the beautiful waterfalls found all over Samui or go on an elephant ride through the natural rain forest.

Samui Weather

The ideal time of the year to visit Koh Samui is definitively during the dry season. The dry season on Samui starts in February and ends in June. If you stay on Koh Samui from March until October, you will experience temperatures in Samui which can get up to 35 Celsius. The Koh Samui rainy season lasts from early November until late February.

Thailand, Siam, The land of smiles, situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, with a highly inspiring culture and something for everyone has made it a very appreciated tourist attraction for decades. From Bangkok with its rich heritage of ancient architecture merged with today's traffic jams and skyscrapers to the green paradise-like tropical islands in the south and the rolling hills and fertile valleys of the north, Thailand will be the most exciting and magical adventure which you'll never forget.

Located 862 kilometers south of Bangkok is Phuket, Thailand's largest island, which is often dubbed as the pearl of the Andaman, or the pearl of the south. Its natural resources- rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical in-land forests contribute to making it the South's wealthiest, busiest, most visited and most popular island and province.

Patong Beach is the most developed, most vibrant, most visited beach of Phuket that never fails to impress visitors. Located approximately 15 kilometers from the city, the beach has a wide range of accommodations and shopping arcades, and provides magnificent leisure activities and energetic night-time entertainment. It is a picture perfect postcard view of a 3-kilometer long white sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, lazing, and enjoying challenging water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing snorkeling, sailing, and parasailing. On the hills behind Patong you will find Phuket villa rentals which rank amongst the best in the world. The rich and famous from all of the world come here to enjoy the stunning beaches and sample the vibrant nightlight which Patong is famous for.

Also popular is Karon beach, located south of Patong Beach, Hat Karon is a curving beach that lies beautifully in the sun with small sand dunes, casuarinas and palm trees. The crescent bay is the beach's signature that drawing travelers attention. From May to October, the beach may be affected by serious undertows, as the bay open. Watch out for those warning flags before going swimming or surfing at the southern end of the beach.

During the high season, the beach is ideal for relaxation, swimming or sunbathing. A wide range of accommodations, from top-end to budget and mid-range, are available. Other facilities such as nightclubs, restaurants and other evening entertainment are located along the beachfront road. Again, luxury Phuket villas are dotted along this beautiful stretch of coast, offering great accessibility to Phukets attractions.

Thailand constantly is winning awards for its tourism infrastructure, recently The Swedish travel publication, Travel News, recently presented the annual Grand Travel Award - the equivalent of the travel and tourism industry's 'Oscars' - for the fifteenth consecutive year.

Thailand ranked first in the "World's Best Tourist Country" category, making this the fifth consecutive year that Thailand has won the Swedish Grand Travel Award. The other top ten travel destinations deemed to be popular with Swedish travelers include South Africa, the United States, Italy, China, Greece, Denmark, Spain, France and Croatia. Other awards include Asia's very own award-winning luxury travel and lifestyle magazine, DestinAsian, awarding Bangkok with 'Best Leisure DestinAsian City' and The Oriental Bangkok won the DestinAsian 'Best Hotel, Bangkok' award.

From Bangkok, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury villas for rent. Stunning locations are within hours of the capitol making weekend breaks very popular these days, High flying professionals can fly in from Hong Kong and be relaxing beside their private pool a their Thailand villa in no time, and enjoying the Thai pace of life.

Most tourists staying on Phuket during their holiday unfortunately only visit the beach located closest to their hotel. It is a shame as there are so many beautiful beaches which the tourists could visit. The best way to see all the beautiful beaches is by renting a motorbike or jeep and by simply driving up and down the coast line as travelers will encounter countless beautiful and deserted beaches.

Some of the nicest beaches of Phuket are those mentioned below.

Bang Tao

The beautiful Bang Tao beach is located next to the upscale Phuket Laguna complex where a number of excellent 5 star hotels are located.

Kamala

Kamala beach is one of the most popular beaches and is located only a few minutes drive from Patong beach. Travelers looking for a beach area which offers a peaceful surrounding should consider booking a hotel or resort in the beach resort area of Kamala.

Karon

The most popular after Patong beach is Karon beach and is located just south of Patong. Karon has a long beach and numerous resorts line this beach. Tourists visitingwith children often prefer the somewhat laidback atmosphere that Karon beach has to offer.

Patong

Patong beach is the busiest of all the beaches of Phuket. The vast majority of entertainment and business venues are located in Patong beach. If travelers are looking for a beach resort area where they can party until the early hours of the morning then Patong beach is the ideal choice for them.

Surin

One of the most upscale Phuket beach areas is the area around Surin beach. If tourists do visit Surin beach then they should definitely try the excellent and inexpensive seafood which is served at the Surin beach side restaurants.

Patong Beach is located on Phuket Island's west coast. Patong Beach was once considered as to be too remote for people to go. However, today it is one of the most famous beaches of Thailand. The beach became popular with western tourists, especially Europeans, in the late 1980s. Today one can find many large hotels and resorts in Patong. Patong Beach is approximately 15 kilometers from Phuket Town.

The beach is oval shaped and the coastline is filled with luxurious hotels and restaurants. Patong Beach is famous for its nightlife. Nightlife is centered around two main areas - the Bangla Road and Paradise Complex. There are many restaurants, discos and bars right from budget levels to luxurious star hotels.

Patong Beach is a public beach and it is open to anyone. There are certain beaches in Phuket which are reserved just for foreigners and do not allow locals on to them. A number of facilities are available at Patong Beach. Tourists and visitors can hire a boat to visit other beaches around the island. Visitors can participate in water sports and tourists can go for shopping in the innumerous shops that sell items rather cheaply.

On December 26, 2004, Patong Beach was struck by a tsunami caused by the earthquake in the Indian Ocean. The wave caused a great deal of destruction. Although the destruction was not as bad when compared to Khao Lak, it took six months to rebuild a part of the destroyed beach. At that point it was estimated that another year or so would be required to rebuild the beach to its former glory while removing all traces of the destruction caused by the tsunami.

Lipa Noi, the area just south of Nathon, which stretches down to Ban Taling Ngam, is for many who live here one of the most beautiful parts of Samui. It combines pure countryside with a wonderful coast land, with little in the way of development. It's also stunningly quiet, and if you have come to Samui to escape the noise of a big city, then Lipa Noi is bound to please you with its laid back lifestyle. The Thais who live here still practice many of their traditional occupations. You'll still see fishing boats going out across the water, and the family buffalo being taken for a gentle stroll by their owners as the sun sets. In the hills behind Lipa Noi, undisturbed jungle reaches up into the highlands, and the only sounds you'll hear are the splashing of one or other of Lipa Noi's waterfalls.

You might be forgiven for thinking that, admirable though Lipa Noi might be, surely it's lagging behind on infrastructure. Oddly this is not the case, and the roads here are undoubtedly some of the best on the island. Thanks to the slower pace of development here, fewer trucks are taking their toll on the highways and the infrastructure isn't under so much threat. You'll also find little in the way of snarl-ups, as there's little traffic around to cause them.

A great way to explore this area is to follow the series of roads that are to be found just a few hundred metres back from the beach and which lead all the way from close to Nathon Hospital and take you down to Le Royal Meridien hotel and beyond. Drive through a beachside temple and meander through some of Samui's finest (and least populated) coastal scenery, allowing for stops on the way, as there's a lot to see. Lipa Noi and the south have escaped the mass-development that characterizes Chaweng and the east coast. You might well think if you visit the west coast that you aren't even on the same island, so different is the feel to it. However, the shops, night life and all the amenities are a short drive away; head south from Lipa Noi and Ban Taling Ngam, and very soon you will find yourself in Lamai. Amenities in the Lipa Noi area do exist, and you will find them amongst the best on the island. For 5-star food and drink, but at reasonable prices, try The Five Islands restaurant, just down the road from Le Royal Meridien. There are also privately run tennis courts and even a fishing resort, one of the first in Thailand.

Those who love Samui come back to Lipa Noi time and time again; they find it unchanged; its pace of life has barely speeded up and its beauty remains intact. It can safely be said that it encapsulates all that is best about Samui, and the reason it became a number one travel destination in the first place: gorgeous beaches and views, a relaxed way of life, and miles and miles of lush, abundant tropical greenery.

So you have landed in Bangkok, probably spent a couple of days enjoying the crazy place and are now ready to head out to the islands? Great, but just how do you get there? Well you could consult your guide book, it will tell you how, but it won’t give you a very good idea of which is the best option. I will try to do that here.

Train and boat

There are several trains each day travelling south from Bangkok to Surat Thani. It takes around 9 hours to complete the train journey, you must then get a coach from the station (don’t worry they will be waiting for you to get off the train, not hard to find one) to pier in Donsak. From there you take a boat, approximately a 4 hour trip depending on the weather. Possibly the best way to do this journey is to take the overnight sleeper train, this gets you to Surat Thani early the next morning, you will arrive on Koh Phangan sometime in the afternoon. Be warned, the aircon is very cold should you take a 1st or 2nd class ticket, consider taking 3rd class, fan only, you really don’t need aircon at 2am.

Bus

Taking a bus is the cheapest option; it is also the least comfortable. So called ‘VIP’ buses can be booked from most travel agents in Bangkok. The journey takes up to 19 hours, a long time to be trapped on a slow moving vehicle. I only recommend this option if you are on the kind of budget where you need to watch every penny.

Flying

Unfortunately, Bangkok Airways still maintain a monopoly over flights to Koh Samui airport. This makes the Bangkok-Samui route the most expensive in Thailand. If you choose to fly during the day you will be looking at a fee of around 4,000 Baht. There are two promotional flights each day, one at 6am the other at 10pm, and these can be booked for 2,000 Baht, but book well in advance as they fill up fast. Once on Koh Samui just ask a taxi driver to take you to the pier for the next boat leaving to Koh Phangan, it’s a 20 minute crossing.

Once you arrive upon Koh Phangan you will be swamped by friendly taxi drivers asking you where you want to go, don’t be alarmed they are just trying to make a living and they really are your only option for public travel on the island. Renting a scooter is the best way to get around.

Once regarded as a side trip from the more established Asian sailing routes, Samui has now burst onto the international yachting scene.

The annual Koh Samui Regatta, held each year at the end of May, has become one of the "must do" events on the Asian sailing calendar and regularly attracts yachts from as far afield as Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Prior to the Regatta's inauguration in 2002 the island was home to just a few "privileged" local sailors who had made Samui their home. But Samui's first international yacht racing event spread the word throughout the region and beyond. This meant the great sailing conditions in this part of the Gulf of Thailand were no longer a secret and international publicity has led to a boom in the local sailing business.

Samui now has a burgeoning charter fleet with a range of boats available. There's everything from beach-launched catamarans to mid-sized cruising yachts, not to mention large day-sail vessels. Chaweng Beach is the main location for most of the beach sail boats, from Nacras and Hobie Cats to Lasers and Windrider trimarans. Head north to Bang Rak (Big Buddha Beach) and Bophut, there you will find the larger cruising boats such as the Coco Sailing twin-masted catamarans, the Polynesian style "Nok Talay", the 50 ft. day-sail cat "Kia Ora" and the "Easy Charters" 63 ft. Pinisi. If you would like to cruise in company or try your hand at flotilla sailing, the largest sail charter company in the world, Sunsail, base their fleet out of Bophut bay for the May to August summer season.

The increased number of boats resident around the island and the excitement of the annual Regatta has also led to the birth of monthly club racing. Conceived as an enjoyable way for local sailors and charter visitors to get together, this regular monthly weekend event is characterized by its attitude, where protests are not allowed and racing disputes are settled over a beer at the BBQ. With a healthy number of boats available for charter these events are proving very popular. especially with many sailors who fly in for the weekend, step onto a fully prepared boat, race the event and fly out when the racing and party is over. The Tradewinds Resort on Chaweng beach has become the meeting point for these get-togethers, which are generally held at different venues around the island, depending on the weather and the season.

Of course, with an expanding number of yachts resident on and around the islands, back-up services are needed. These include repairs, chandlery, supplies and a place to keep the boats safe and secure. There has been much talk of a marina project on Samui, and the island is certainly ready for one. The construction of a floating pontoon at Petcharat Marine in Bang Rak (Big Buddha) Bay will certainly be a welcome addition to their present fuelling, water and supply services. Renowned for their yacht-friendly services, Petcharat are also installing fixed moorings and with several other projects being mooted it wont be long before international class marinas and waterside developments provide the missing piece of the puzzle to make Samui's sailing scene complete.

The sea is great place to spend time enjoying the region's tropical beauty and marine life. Samui is becoming a water sports Mecca, with a range of options for those who want to get wet. The warm seas that surround Koh Samui have long played an integral role in the island's allure, with few visitors able to resist the temptation of the waters that gently lap Samui's beaches. Right now, there have never been so many ways for people to take a dip around Samui. Here are just a few of the most popular options for water babes who need an H2O fix during their time in paradise.

One of the most popular water sports worldwide is scuba diving and the Gulf of Thailand, with a rich diversity of marine life and favourable year-round conditions, is now firmly set as one of the world's premier dive holiday destinations. Whilst the teeming seas are an important part of the area's popularity, another key selling point is the huge variety of dive sites to visit. Koh Samui has it's own 'house' reefs that are suitable for novices, whilst more challenging dives await experienced divers at nearby Sail Rock or in the National Marine Park. For the clearest waters and most choice though, local dive operators also offer day trips to the stunning island of Koh Tao, where more than a dozen quality dive sites await discovery. Whether you're a hardened diver seeking some exciting dive experiences, or a nervous novice, keen to take your first breaths in this amazing environment, there is a diving option for everyone off Samui.

If going under the waves doesn't appeal, there are other ways to immerse yourself in to the deep blue world, the most popular of which is snorkeling. Many reefs lie directly off Samui and most visitors can't resist the urge to don a mask and snorkel and have a look at what lies beneath. As with diving, your snorkeling possibilities are by no means restricted to the immediate area. One of the more popular tours incorporating snorkeling is an adventure trip to the Ang Thong National Marine Park. This also includes a few hours kayaking amongst the park's striking collection of fifty limestone rock islands and formations, as well as a chance to see the 'golden bowl', a hidden lake that is completely encircled with majestic cliffs and was the inspiration behind Alex Garland's best selling novel: The Beach.

If it's the marine life you'd like to focus on then take a day tour to Koh Tao, where the clear waters and splendid array of shallow and bountiful reefs make for some of the best snorkelling anywhere in the world. Day trips also usually include a visit to famous Koh Nangyuan, an exquisite trio of verdant jungle islands connected by stunning, white sandbar beaches. Few visitors to Nangyuan are left disappointed and the views below the waters certainly match the breathtaking beauty above.

Back above the water, for more of an adrenaline rush, Koh Samui is now also home to one of the most exciting water sports of modern times: kiteboarding. Kiteboarding Asia is a company that has been on the island for five years and now also boasts three centers in Phuket, Hua Hin and Chumpon. Often called the new windsurfing, the sport also incorporates aspects of both wakeboarding and surfing to provide a truly thrilling experience.

These are the main but by no means the only seafaring options off Koh Samui, There are plenty of other water sports available such as jet skiing, taking a ride on a banana boat, hiring Kayaks to explore the beaches and rocky coves or renting Hobie cats and other craft for a spot of self-skippering. Add in other popular activities such as leisurely sunset dinner cruises, fishing trips that allow you to catch and barbecue your own supper, or perhaps even chartering a junk for a luxurious jaunt around the Thai Gulf and you'll soon find that it's possible to spend every day of your holiday either on, in or under the beautiful waters around Samui.

Your destination for water sports, adventure activities, shopping and fine foods – Koh Samui or Samui is one of the top travel destinations of Thailand. It’s an island in the Gulf of Thailand, about 80km from the eastern coastline of southern Thailand.

The Thailand's second largest island has numerous lures, such as thick green forests, incredible coconut fringed white sand beaches, coral reefs, temples, gardens fantastic waterfalls, and remarkable rock formations, but the top 10 reasons to visit koh Samui are as follows:

The Big Buddha Beach is one of the major attractions of the Koh Samui. Sited 15 minutes from Chaweng, the stunning beach is the place full of entertainment and pleasure. The exotic beach offers perfect setting for partying long during nights and relaxing during the day times.

Wat Phra Yai temple attracts you with its sheer size and beauty. The temple is a great marvel famous for its 12 meter tall Buddha sculpture. It is Samui’s major tourist attraction, which is on Route 4171 near the airport.

The Ancient House is an amazing and the oldest house at Ban Thale on the island. The house built around 150 years ago, has all the parts fitted together without any nail. It is made of teak planks and shows off several beauteous woodcarvings.

The Hin Lat Waterfalls are probably one of the finest expressions of the scenic beauty. Located 2 kms south of Na Thon, these waterfalls are astounding to observe and you can even take a dip in a big rock pond made at the underside of the falls. The Hin Lad cloister is also close at hand that is worth visiting too.

Undoubtedly, Snake Farm is one of the top lures on the island. It is sited in the region of ‘Taling Ngam’ in the south of the island and of Nathon. There are 2 daily shows at 11 am and 2 pm showing snakes living on Samui, and some of Asia's most vicious species plus centipedes and scorpions.

Aquarium & Tiger Zoo attracts you to watch its lot of fish and coral species, among others sharks, catfishes, turtles and various others that lived in the local underwater ocean deeps. It also offers you opportunity to see tigers in their cages, and watch birds, such as parrots, falcons, sea eagles and others.

Situated at the south of the beach of Lamai, Hin-Ta and Hin-Yai is surely one of the most desired tourist attractions as they bear close resemblance to the male and female genital organs. These two rock formations are also called Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks.

Two Crocodile Farms on the Koh Samui Island are also great tourist traps. Located behind the airport and on a 7000 square meters area, one of the farms has over 100 animal species including Siam and sea water crocodiles, caymans, snakes, lizards, apes and many more. The other one is in the south of the island, at Namuang Waterfall II.

You can really have some nice time at Tamarind Spa, which offers excellent massages in a calm and green setting. The prices here are affordable and well worth it. You can also have all type of massage therapies, and other natural treatments at the best possible prices.

Accessed via a 30-minute boat ride from Ban Thong Krut, the Naga Pearl Farm is also a great tourist attraction. Here you are shown how pearls are cultivated. There is also a big shop on the premises where different kinds of pearls and pearl products are sold that include pearl shells and unique handicrafts.

Thailand has some of the world’s better if not best beaches. With many seaside towns offering something for all kind of visitors. Here’re some of Thailand’s well known beach destinations.

Phuket: You can find almost anything to entertain anyone in Phuket. From the long-stretched beaches, luxury to budget hospitality, fine cuisine, buzzing nightlife, exciting shopping, great golf courses and extensive spa treatments.

Samui: 2nd to Phuket when it comes to the variety of attractions. Samui also has a few magnificent waterfalls, visitors should not miss.

Hua Hin: Thailand’s oldest beach resort that still remains popular with those wishing a quiet getaway only a few hours away from Bangkok. Also known for its night market offering a variety of exquisite foods and snacks.

Rayong and Koh Samet: Rayong doesn’t only have beautiful beaches lining its coast but also the cultural and natural resource riches. Koh Samet, the biggest island on Rayong’s coast with its crystal-clear water, is also a favorite for those seeking a quick visit out of Bangkok

Pattaya: Not known for the best beaches for its increasing popularity has caused a great deal of water pollution. But instead, Pattaya is renowned for its nightlife. Hundreds of beer bars, go go bars, restaurants and clubs lined the busy “Walking Street” also known as “The Strip”.

Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island. It is still covered with coconut trees, jungle and rugged rocks of granite sloping into the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Siam. Samui measures 21km in its length and is 25km wide.

Nowadays Koh Samui is a preferred destination for divers who are looking for an up-market western infrastructure in the Gulf of when compared to what is available on Koh Tao the main diving destination in this area.

5 Star resort and luxury villa accommodation is easily found on all parts of the island. Four international hospitals are available as well as a golf course, plenty of Spa treatments from traditional Thai massages to healing fast and hot stone therapies. Many restaurants employ international high class chefs and the variety of international cuisine is enormous with no doubt -delicious. All the major fast food chains will be found as well.

Diving from Samui is varied, mainly boat diving and virtually possible all year round. The journey to the dive sites differs between 45 mins (Speedboat to Sail Rock) and 3.5 hrs (slower displacement boats/tourboat) depending on the destination and boat type, which means Speed- or Tourboat.

Depths range from shallow reefs between 10-18m and deeper Pinnacles down to 40m. However most of the dives are not conducted deeper than 30m and depending on diver's experience.

The majority of dive trips offer two or three dives which are more or less daytrips due to the destination and travel time.

One of the undoubtedly most famous dive sites in the Koh Samui Archipelago is

SAIL ROCK located 45 km north of Samui midway between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. This rock pinnacle is, shaped like an ice-berg emerges from 40m to 15 m above the oceans surface. Sail Rock provides large schools of pelagic's steep walls, rock formation covered with corals and an awesome "chimney", a swimthrough located on its northwest side. The chimney starts at 18m down and exits at 6m where the natural light penetrating the top makes it fantastically picturesque. At its exit on the top you will find yourself surrounded by magnificent carpets of colourful anemones full of vibrant anemone fish. At 12m you will spot a hole that opens up. -"The window" is another opportunity to exit the chimney into the open water.

Apart from the big schools of fishes you see here all year round you have a good chance to spot whale sharks or manta rays passing by on their feed in season.

You’ve probably heard of Koh Samui, it’s the third largest of Thailand’s islands and many people seem to rave about it – but what’s so great about Koh Samui and is it really worth a visit?

Well, not only is Koh Samui worth a visit – it is one of those places on earth that’s once seen and never forgotten. In fact, many of those who visit Koh Samui once are hooked for life and some never leave. There are also an increasing number of Western expatriate retirees moving to live in Thailand and Koh Samui is a favourite destination because not only is it highly affordable but it offers up an excellent standard of living.

Basically what’s so great about Koh Samui is that it has the perfect blend of stunning climate, inimitable views, pristine sandy beaches, lush dense and incredible foliage, rare flora and fauna, excellent cuisine, plenty to see and do and experience and the people are among the friendliest on the planet – oh and healthcare is world class yet affordable and there are even international schools available on the island for those who wish to move there before their retirement years.

If you want to experience the best of Thailand in a safe environment and only moments away from all the amenities and facilities you could possibly want then Koh Samui is the place to go.

You can learn to dive in the crystal clean waters, you can learn to sunbathe (!) on the pure white sandy beaches which are fringed with beautiful palm trees, you can visit coconut plantations, witness incredible waterfalls, take boat trips to outer lying islands such as Koh Tao, Koh Wua Talap or Koh Mae Koh, you can snorkel in the National Marine Park or if all that sounds too energetic why not spend a day or even a week at one of Koh Samui’s spas?

Spa resorts are in abundance on the island and they offer peace, tranquillity and a whole host of luxurious treatments that will leave you feeling purified and whole again after the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And as soon as you’re feeling refreshed and energised it’ll be time to hit the abundance of excellent shops and boutiques or to go for a night out on the town where you can watch cabaret, go bar hopping, dine exquisitely or just while away an evening on the beach star gazing.

If all this sounds like your idea of heaven on earth you’re not alone – Koh Samui is great, it is well worth a visit but don’t blame me if you’re hooked and want to stay for life! There are new residential developments springing up in areas zoned and protected specifically for low rise residential construction and these developments all offer a taste of Thailand combined with contemporary architecture. One of the latest is Infinity Samui which consists of condos, penthouses and villas with infinity pools and infinity sea views. On site there is a spa and all residents will be treated to five star hotel like service – so you can actually live a life of affordable luxury in one of the most desirable places on earth - which is why we truly believe Koh Samui is just so great!

Tourists are left awe struck on a visit to the Phi Phi Island Thailand for its amazing and distinct landscape with pristine beaches, imposing cliffs, clear water and charming marine life. The island is one of the leading destinations in Thailand among the tourists located close to the more popular islands of Phuket and Krabi. Phi Phi Island consists of two islands Phi Phi Don, which is a larger of the two and inhabited. The second island Phi Phi Lei is a small island, which became famous after the movie 'The Beach' was shot here. These two islands without any doubt are among Thailand's most beautiful and captivating destinations.

After the increasing popularity and development, the islands have lost most of its earlier tranquility, but still the regions natural beauty and crystal clear waters overwhelm its visitors. Set at the heart of a national park, the islands remain one of the country's most popular holiday destinations. The country's foremost holiday destination Phi Phi Island is set in the heart of the national park and it does not disappoint anybody. However, the two islands are not as big but offer many opportunities for an exciting to a relaxing holiday. One gets excellent opportunities and facilities for diving and snorkeling, which top the list of exciting ways to spend time here. Then the crystal clear waters perfect for checking out the rich marine life. From cliff diving, sunbathing, reading, exercising, hiking, to rock climbing there are a whole lot of possibilities to explore. With droves of visitor's flocking the island, it has accommodation for all kinds of travelers. There is an array of accommodation available from Phi Phi Island hotel, bungalows, to hostels. Phi Phi Island has something for every budget, specially very kind to budget-minded backpackers, with rooms of one-star (or less) rating scale outnumbering the up market resorts. For those who want to experience a paradise, there are a few luxury hotels.

Phi Phi's beauty is the biggest attraction for the visitor's here. The place is certainly love at first sight for the tourists. It is the most popular destination on the Andaman Coast after Phuket, serving as the convenient escape from the hustle-and-bustle. Moreover, the place is affordable. The islands excellent resort-style accommodation, top quality restaurants, shops and a lively nightlife all make it a perfect place. Whether one stays just a few nights or a week, the island is an amazing destination to relax, go diving, swimming, and snorkeling.

PHI PHI ISLANDs one of the world's best admirable and acclaimed day-tripper destinations. Consisting of two baby islands, blanketed in abundant forests with abrupt limestone cliffs from the Phang Nga Province chain, the name comes from the Malay language, acceptation "mangrove wood".

Beach of Plenty

Phi Phi Don, is the beyond of the two islands: one bisected accouterment to sun-worshippers, the added to the diving brigade. A attenuated isthmus of arch accolade - Tonsai Bay, and Lodalam Bay, , amidst by mountains to the east and jungles to the west - affix the halves. Because a abundant allocation of the autogenous is inaccessible, development is concentrated about the bays.

Trap Marine

Two kilometers to the south is the arid Phi Phi Ley, , added than six aboveboard kilometers belted by phosphoric bedrock formations and cliffs, preventing beach access. The arduous cliffs and limestone rocks trap surrounding waters, careful the accolade and giving them the actualization of civil lakes.

Cave Carvings

The Viking Cavern in the northeastern bend is home to bags of nesting swifts. In 1972, His Majesty the King renamed it Tahm Pya Nak (Cave of the King Serpent), from Buddhist mythology, because of the bedrock that resembles a serpent head. Locals admire the cave, admitting that doesn't stop them from occasionally stripping it of its nests for bird's backup soup. Paintings of elephants and ships are engraved on the close walls, believed the assignment of pirates apartment from monsoons.

Mythic Destination

Crystalline seas, aerial cliffs, foliated pillars of limestone, adorable apricot and a active underwater life, all amalgamate to accomplish the Phi Phi Islands a dream destination in the Andaman. Visitors not on a bound agenda should be abiding not to bypass this close paradise.