Koh Samui

Together with 40 other unpopulated islands Koh Samui (250 sq. km (97 sq. mi.)) makes up the Ang-Thong Archipelago, a chain of islands north-east of Surat Thani. The best time to visit Koh Samui is between February and April, as in the following months the Gulf of Thailand is subject to heavy monsoon storms. The chief town of the island is Nathon where there are fine beaches and some hotel and villa complexes. Other beaches with reasonable accommodation are Ao Maenam, Ao Bo Phut (with an enormous statue of Buddha), Ao Cherngmon, Chaweng Noi Beach and Chaweng Yai Beach (the two longest beaches on Koh Samui). Motorcycles and bicycles can be rented and are a good way of exploring the island. Since the construction of an airport on Koh Samui (despite the vehement but unsuccessful objections of conservationists) the island has become a magnet even for visitors seeking luxury hotels (seven flights daily from Bangkok; duration about 11/4 hours).

By boat: bus from Surat Thani to Dan Sak, from here boat to Koh Samui (about 3 hours in total, fare includes bus). Catamaran from Bangkok.

There are picturesque fishing villages on Koh Samui together with coconut and durian plantations and - hidden in the dense jungle among the 600-m (1968-ft) high mountains - some waterfalls.

Koh Samui offers every kind of water sport: diving, snorkeling, windsurfing. It is advisable to check that the diving school belongs to one of the two international associations that regulate the safety standards of the equipment and quality of instruction.