Ko Samui is not just a popular island resort in Thailand. This is a real tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand. Probably, there is no person who would spend their holidays there and would not want to return. Samui is fascinated already at the moment when it is first shown in the windows of the plane. White beaches, cozy coves and coconut palms, caves and capes - all this splendor on one small island. What attracts Koh Samui to tourists who want to return to this paradise island again and again?
Koh Samui airport
The tropical holiday begins right at the airport, which can be safely called a local attraction worthy of attention. The departure and arrival areas of this international airport, which serves at least a million passengers a year, have virtually no interior space. All modern functionality is perfectly organized under awnings, among flower beds and fountains. At this moment, the long exhausting flight and all the problems are forgotten.
Where to stay on Koh Samui
Samui offers guests luxury five-star hotels, comfortable hotels, and bungalows a few meters from the sea. Hotel service on Koh Samui is exemplary regardless of the number of stars. Due to the small size of the island, you can get from any point to the airport or attractions in no more than half an hour.
What sights are there on Koh Samui
Among the most interesting sights of Samui are the beautiful Hin Lad and Na Muang waterfalls, lost in the jungle. On Muang it is located in the territory of a natural park, you can take a ride in an off-road vehicle with guides or take an elephant ride. In addition, there is a snake and crocodile farm in the park.
Khin Lad waterfall is located near the city of Nathon. You can only get to it on foot, walking along a path in the jungle for about two hours. The waterfall consists of multi-level cascades that end with a pool.
Fans of snorkeling and enjoying the beauty of uninhabited tropical islands should definitely visit the Ang Thong Marine Reserve. It is a unique complex of 42 islands, mostly composed of limestone. Some of them are 400 meters above sea level. The observation deck offers a beautiful view of the Emerald Lake of volcanic origin and sheer cliffs.
Those who are going to visit cultural sites will find a 12-meter high gilded statue of the Big Buddha - not only a tourist attraction, but also a place of worship for the inhabitants of the island. You should definitely keep this in mind when visiting this architectural complex. Local residents must take off their shoes before climbing to the Big Buddha - tourists should not neglect this rule either.
High in the mountains is the Magic Garden - a real gallery of stone sculptures located along the bed of a mountain river. According to legend, the park was founded in 1976 by a local resident who, at an advanced age, decided to master stone carving. Fourteen years were devoted to creating a composition depicting scenes from the life of Buddha and paradise. Now the garden is open to all comers for a symbolic fee collected for the restoration of the statues.
Entertainment on Koh Samui is so diverse that you can talk about them for a long time. But even an ordinary walk along the beach will leave an unforgettable impression and allow you to feel the atmosphere of joy and serenity that reigns on the island.
