Koh Samui is the third largest island in the country and is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Since discovered as a secret backpacking paradise in the seventies, the island has fast evolved into one of the world's premier holiday destinations. The island is serviced by Thai Air and Bangkok Airways with a growing number of direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Rolling hills blanketed by coconut groves, palm fringed beaches of white sand set by crystal blue waters and secluded rocky bays, Koh Samui is the ultimate island hideaway. Though smaller enough to drive around in one hour, there are many attractions to reward those keen on exploring such as temples, jungle waterfalls, quaint fishing villages, deserted beaches and many shops and restaurants.

The island's largest and most popular beaches are Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut and Maenam but there are countless bays and quieter beaches around the island for those looking for some more privacy and seclusion to relax and soak up the sun. If it is activities you are looking there are plenty of water sports available on the main beaches such as water skiing, paragliding, windsurfing and snorkeling.

Island hopping is another attraction and boats can be easily hired for trips to Koh Pha Ngan (the nearest and largest island next to Samui), and to the smaller islands of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan, where beautiful bays with colorful coral formations offer excellent conditions for snorkeling.

A more adventurous full day excursion can be made to Ang Thong Marine Park, a group of 40 islands northwest of Samui. Here you will see spectacular limestone formations, caves, blue lagoons and amazingly beautiful beaches

Dining and Entertainment

There are a vast range of places to eat and drink from small local Thai eateries to international standard pubs and restaurants. The local produce is excellent and having your own kitchen affords you the opportunity of shopping in the local markets where you will find an abundance of fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables. In addition there are also the supermarkets Tesco Lotus, Big C and Makro for your everyday needs or if you are missing something from home. If it is bustling nightlife you are looking for the main areas are Chaweng and Lamai, where you can dance the night away to your favourite tunes. If you want something a little quieter then look no further than Bophut  Fisherman's Village, which has a collection of small bars and restaurants on the waterfront.

Spas

Massage is an ancient form of healing in Thailand and can be found on the beaches or in luxury spas around the island, where you can also find a wealth of rejuvenating body and facial treatments. Alternatively why not let us book your treatments in the privacy of your own villa.

Sports and Sightseeing

The Santiburi in Maenam boasts an 18-hole championship golf course set on the hillside with stunning seaviews also there is a 9-hole course on the hillside in Lamai and an 9-hole par 3 course in Bophut.

There are tennis courts, squash courts and badminton courts where equipment is available for hire and for those looking for adrenaline charges there is a bungee jump and a go-kart racing track.

Also very popular are sailing and scuba diving and there are many boats with skippers available for charter and international standard diving courses at every level.

Health

There are three well equipped international hospitals on the island all with accident and emergency departments. Health tourism is becoming ever more popular and international standard cosmetic surgery and dental treatment is available with the benefit of local costs.

Shopping

Chaweng has the widest selection of shops offering clothes, art, handicrafts, books and pharmacies including Boot's. Nathon also has a good range of shops and Bophut Fisherman's Village has a collection of boutiques.

Currency and ATMS

The local currency is Thai Baht and this can be found in the following dominations, 1, 2, 5, 10 Baht coins and 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Baht notes. There are approximately 50 Baht to 1 British pound, 46 Baht to 1 Euro and 35 Baht to 1 USD (please note that this is a guide only). There are many banks all with ATM machines which take credit cards and debit cards and they will cash travelers' cheques.

Getting Around

Cars and motorbikes are widely available for rent though we recommend motorbike hire only to those who are very experienced. Songtaeows, a type of private bus on a set route is an in-expensive method of travel and also taxis are widely available though you need to negotiate your fare before you get into the latter. Ferries operate regular services to Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and the mainland.

Weather

Koh Samui enjoys a warm all year round climate with sunshine ten months of the year. The wet season normally runs from mid-October to mid-December, though sometimes brief tropical showers can run into the beginning of January.