Koh Samui Guide

Koh Samui Guide

Koh Samui, located off the Eastern coast of Thailand is the largest of the archipelago of more than 80 islands. An idyllic island paradise, a haven for those looking for an opportunity to relax and recharge. Koh Samui has become increasingly popular with those that are looking to escape rather than face the pace and commercialisation of Phuket. Perhaps the biggest appeal of Koh Samui is the white beaches and emerald sea, combined with watersports and fresh fish resturants.

Koh Samui has a surface are of approxaimely 250 square kilometres, making it the third largest island in Thailand after Phuket and Koh Chang. The population of almost 40,000 are predominantly Buddhists, however, there is also a mix of Moslems and Chinese in some of the more remote villages.

Koh Samui was arguably re-discovered and colonised by backpackers in the early 1970's when they lived in huts on the beach without electricity and running water. A large percentage of the population are employed in the farming and harvesting of coconuts, Koh Samui currently exports more than 2 million coconuts to Bangkok each month.

30 years later koh samui has seen a massive influx of investment and travel. Koh Samui has quickly become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. Due to massive demand the island is now supported by a domestic airport and ferry port, making it easy and cheap to transfer from the mainland. The main area of Koh Samui, Chaweng offers a wide variety of restaurants, bars and nightlife while many of the hotels are self contained. The popularity of the island is in part due to the fact that there is accommodation available to suit every budget.