A paradise island of sun, sea, sand, and compulsory relaxation

Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island, a paradise of white sandy beaches backed by palm trees that sway in the gentle sea breeze. Having been “discovered” in the early 1970s by backpacking tourists, the simple structures and makeshift roads that once connected the island have been replaced by a modern tourist infrastructure of top-class resort hotels and spas. Koh Samui is undoubtedly a place of relaxation, where outstanding tourist amenities complement the stunning natural beauty of the island. Koh Samui has top-class restaurants and simple street vending stalls in equal measure, which has thankfully helped to stop the island from becoming completely “jet set”.  Although not quite the untainted paradise that it was less than half a century ago, there is still a wonderful feeling of getting away from it all in Koh Samui.

Why Go?
Koh Samui was once the secret paradise hideaway of penniless backpackers, but luxury hotels, spa resorts and top international restaurants have since been introduced. Sun, sea, sand and blissful relaxation are the order of the day on holidays in Koh Samui.

When to Go?
Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination for international visitors and Thai people alike, so in the peak of the tourist season in June and July the island’s hotels can get quite busy and prices will be higher. Late September to December is best avoided due to the rains, although temperatures remain pretty constant around the high 20s and low 30s for most of the year. March-May is the best time to go.

How to get there?
Flights to Koh Samui Airport (USM) are almost exclusively the preserve of Bangkok Airlines. They operate frequent flights to the privately-owned airport on Koh Samui Island from Bangkok International Airport with connections from Hong Kong and Singapore. You can fly from London Heathrow to Bangkok with British Airways, Thai Airways, Qantas or the Taiwanese airline EVA Airways. Fly to Hong Kong with BA, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic, Cathay Pacific and Air New Zealand.

Must see
The main purpose of holidays in Koh Samui is to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of life back home. Take to the beach and soak up the sun or enjoy a bit of snorkelling in the crystal clear water. Experience Koh Samui's incredible natural beauty at the Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of about 40 islands, with hidden lagoons and stunning white beaches. Na Muang Falls is the tallest waterfall in Koh Samui, where you can swim in natural pools in idyllic surroundings.