Chaweng Beach photo courtesy of kohsamui.com

Beaches Galore

Koh Samui is home to some of the best beaches in the world, each offering something slightly different from the next. Chaweng and Lamai on the east side are the liveliest with an array of activities and entertainment to enjoy both day and night. The northern beaches of Big Buddha, Bo Phut, Choeng Mon and Mae Nam are more peaceful, boasting an abundance of tropical island charm. To the island’s south and west coast are numerous deserted bays to explore, so wherever you stay on a Koh Samui vacation in 2016, you’ll find a beach for every mood.

Erotic Rocks

Known locally as Hin Ta and Hin Yai the world-famous Grandmas and Grandpa rocks in Koh Samui draw crowds from far and wide. These fascinating erotic rock formations have been carved by the current to resemble male and female genitalia! Local lore has it that the rocks were formed when a couple were shipwrecked and washed ashore here. This area is one of the most photographed places in Koh Samui and is well worth a visit during your Samui villa holiday.

Bophut Fisherman’s Village

Located along the middle section of Bophut Beach this is one of the islands most popular tourist hotspots. Lined with elegant boutiques, bars, restaurants, dive stores and more, the area boasts a sophisticated and distinctly Mediterranean vibe. Bophut is situated between Big Buddha and Maenam beaches, within easy reach of villa rentals in Koh Samui.

Ang Thong National Marine Park

This exquisite archipelago of islands can be seen from many Samui villas and should top the list of things to do during your Koh Samui vacation. Here you will find towering limestone mountains, dense jungle, powder white beaches, waterfalls, mangroves, caves and more to explore. This protected area of land and sea is home to a rich variety of exotic plants, animals and fish and is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, diving, hiking and sunbathing. Ang Thong can be easily reached by boat from Koh Samui.

The Mummified Monk

The island’s mummified monk at the Wat Khunaram temple attracts visitors from across the globe in search of traditional Thai culture. Located away from the crowds the temple is famous for the mummified corpse of monk Loung Pordaeng kept on display there. Laid in a glass coffin surrounded by flowers and fruit offerings, locals believe the monk is a symbol of peace and sanctity.

Spas, Shopping, Snake Farms and More!

Need any more reasons to book a Koh Samui vacation in 2016? This diverse holiday hotspot attracts visitors from across the globe who come to experience its world-class cuisine, great shopping offerings, luxuriant spas and great golf at the Santiburi Samui Country Club. Other don’t-miss attractions include the famous Samui Snake Farm, the magical Purple Waterfalls, Samui’s renowned cabaret shows, Buddhist temples, elephant trekking,  water sports and so much more.

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Before going on Koh Samui villa vacation it’s a good idea to know before you go what to pack and what not to! Here’s a handy guide to packing for Koh Samui to make your departure as easy as possible.

Know Before You Go

Thailand is a very modest country and although the locals are used to the casual dress of tourists, it may be a good idea keep your knees and shoulders covered. Using the ‘knees and shoulders’ rule as a guide, stick to packing long shorts and light cotton or linen shirts. Sundresses are acceptable day wear but leave your jeans behind as it will be far too hot to walk comfortably in these. The typical Thai may dress modestly but the rules are bent for tourists around the beaches and resorts, where shorts and t shirts are the norm.

What to Wear When Sightseeing in Koh Samui?

When sightseeing and walking around the island, everyone should opt for day wear rather than beach wear. Comfy sandals are great for wandering around, as they don’t require socks and are easy to slip on and off. Just make sure they have a good grip for safety. Remember to pack running shoes if you plan on taking part in any tours or keeping fit in the Koh Samui villas gymnasiums. During rainy season, a light sweater or cardigan will be enough to keep out the chill. Ponchos and umbrellas are also readily available around the island.

Packing for the Beach

At the beach, bikinis and swim trunks are fine but women should be aware that breast exposure is not the norm in Thailand. This also applies to breast-feeding in public. Once you’ve left the beach, be sure to remove your beachwear in a restroom cubicle or somewhere private and slip back into your day wear. Local vendors are often seen selling beach wear along Koh Samui’s beaches.

What to Wear in the Evening

Sometimes you will want to party so don’t be afraid of dressing to impress. Women can wear anything in the bars and clubs, including shorts, t shirts and evening dresses. Men should consider wearing long trousers and collared shirts to restaurants however visitors often wear shorts in nice venues.

Dressing for Koh Samui Temples?

Modest clothing that abides by the ‘knee and shoulder’ rule is a strict dress code in the temples in Koh Samui. Women may want to consider knee length or long skirts, long shorts or trousers and preferably closed-toed shoes. A pashmina or long scarf is your best friend here as it can either cover your shoulders or function as a longer skirt. The same rule applies to men. Keep it modest with covered torsos, sleeves and legs.

Pack light!

Villas in Koh Samui come equipped with laundry facilities and villa staff so pack light as you can wear the same thing twice.

Extra Essentials

Koh Samui boasts year round sun so be sure to bring hats and sun cream and after sun. Items such as tampons, deodorant and razors are not easy to find on Koh Samui so make sure you are well stocked for your trip.

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Koh Samui may be a picture perfect vacation destination but it’s also a living and working island with distinctive local customs and habits. Read on to learn more about Koh Samui culture including its markets, festivals, sports and more.

The very first settlers that landed in Koh Samui were Chinese traders and Muslim fishermen – both groups still inhabit the island living peacefully alongside their friendly Thai neighbours. In the early 1970s, Samui became popular with the hippie backpacking community as an unspoiled hideaway in the gulf of Thailand. This was the start of tourism in Samui and with impressive investment in its infrastructure, the island has since evolved into the popular vacation destination it is today.

A great place to get an authentic taste of Koh Samui life is at the local markets like the Nathon fresh food market, the Lam Din market and the Hua Thanon fishing village. Here you will find a proud and vibrant local culture without the hubbub of too many tourists.

Another important part of daily life on Koh Samui are traditional Thai festivals. The larger celebrations are Chinese New Year which takes place in February, Songkran, the Thai New Year, in April and Loi Krathong, which is also known as the festival of light, which takes place in November. These lively festivals involve parties, processions, food fairs, temple festivals and live performances all over the island. There are also regular food and cultural events staged by the Tourism Authority of Thailand in the island’s capital Nathon.

Passing from village to village throughout the year are Koh Samui’s renowned temple fairs. Popular with locals and visitors of all ages these fairs combine live entertainment, local food, market stalls and plenty of fun. Expect to find flip flops galore, plenty of Kung Fu films on show lots of local delicacies including crispy deep-fried grasshoppers!

Buffalo fighting is still a big local sport in Koh Samui, with champion buffaloes being worth more than one million baht. The fighting season varies according to customs and ceremonies so it’s impossible to predict when to watch a fight, but if you visit at the right time they usually take place at stadiums in Ban Makham near Nathon and Ban Saket. Unlike Spanish bull fighting, the animals fight one another, locking horns in a lively display of power and play.

As Thailand’s national sport Thai boxing is another part of Koh Samui life. The sport developed from the ancient Muay Thai martial art and fighters are faced with rigorous training before stepping into the ring. Visitors can see traditional Thai fights Mon, Wed and Sat nights at Phetch Buncha Stadium on in Chaweng or at Lamai Beach on Saturday nights for lady boxing.

Local bars or ‘country’ bars are the venue of choice for local people and are a perfect way to enjoy a typical Samui tradition. Local bars offer live local music, great food and plenty of drinks with the friendly local people. Visitors are just as welcome to join the party so come alone or bring Thai friends if you have them, to fully appreciate the local revelry. Country bars are mostly located around the main island ring road and are easy to spot with cowboy style logos and small stages by the bar.

Koh Samui is a stunning vacation destination with some of the friendliest local people in the world. With its culture of lively festivals, ancient temples and historic sites to sports, spas, restaurants and some of the best beaches in the world, there’s plenty to lure you to discover Koh Samui culture for yourself.

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Boasting sun, sea and miles of powder-white sands, Koh Samui is every beach lover’s dream. This picture-perfect island is fringed with some of the best beaches in the world, with each offering something slightly different from the next.

Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui

There are six main beaches in Koh Samui, spanning across the island’s north and eastern coasts. Chaweng and Lamai on the east side are by far the liveliest with an array of activities and entertainment at any time of the day or night. The northern beaches of Big Buddha, Bo Phut, Choeng Mon and Mae Nam are more peaceful, boasting an abundance of tropical island charm.  Whether you’re in search of a tranquil treat or bustling beach buzz, Koh Samui’s diverse bays offer something to suit all tastes. Here’s a handy guide to help you find the best beach in Koh Samui…

• Chaweng Beach
  The renowned Chaweng is Koh Samui’s most popular tourist resort. Here you will find an endless array of shops, hotels, restaurants and bars as well as the longest beach on the island. Chaweng Beach is divided into three diverse sections, all with their own charm and delights. The northern end is the quietest part with a stunning sandy headland and a shallow channel separating the main beach from the smaller island of Koh Matlang. Many luxury villas in Koh Samui are located here; just a stone’s throw the warm shallow waters and palm-fringed shore.

  The central area of the beach is most popular with tourists. Expect sun bathers and beach vendors galore, with water sports equipment to rent from an array of outlets along the main strip. Entertainment is on offer both night and day, with live music, Thai dancing and many bars to enjoy. There are plenty of beachside restaurants to choose from, most providing cushions on the sand for a guests to lay back and enjoy the atmosphere.

  The south end of the beach is the widest part and hosts many of the island’s events including the annual Samui Regatta. A few steps away from the sand is Chaweng’s main strip where you’ll find 5 kilometres of shops and stalls, restaurants and bars, pharmacies, opticians, supermarkets and more.

• Lamai Beach
  For those in search of something a little more family-friendly, Lamai Beach is one of the best beaches in Koh Samui. Known as the second most popular beach on the island after Chaweng, this sweeping bay stretches as far as the world famous Hin Ta and Hin Ya formations. To the north of the beach is Tong Takian Bay, set amidst lush green mountains; a stunning spot to explore for locals and visitors alike.

  The town itself sits back around 100 metres from the main beach, offering an excellent selection of shops and services. Lamai nightlife is not for the faint-hearted, with plenty of bars and nightlife located in the middle of the main street. Restaurants can be found in abundance, with something to suit all tastes and budgets. There are plenty of gorgeous Koh Samui villas located in Lamai, conveniently situated in private developments yet close to the bustle and facilities nearby. Lamai boats an array of attractions including temples, a small zoo and charming local villages and stunning viewpoints to explore.

• Bangrak Beach
  Also known as Big Buddha Beach, this bay is named after Ko Samui’s famed 12-metre Buddha statue towering overhead. The beach here is located on the northeast coast just a short drive from Chaweng, although the atmosphere here is far calmer. Bangrak boasts wide undulating sands lined with resorts, restaurants and shops. As with all of Koh Samui, it’s easy to find water sports vendors and tour operators offering energetic activities in abundance. From here visitors can take a boat  across to Koh Pha Ngan for the full moon party or visit the enormous Big Buddha statue which can be seen by air on arrival to the island.

• Bophut Beach
  Bophut Beach is the perfect peaceful spot during a Koh Samui holiday. Located far from the madding crowd  Bophut is also known as Fisherman’s Village – a traditional and well preserved part of Koh Samui. The centre of the beach is home to an array of charming wooden houses, perfectly in keeping with the natural surroundings. The beach itself stretches for more than two miles, boasting immaculate powder white sands and rows of tropical coconut palms. A small number of boats are still used for fishing here and Bophut is known for its laid-back family-friendly allure. The village itself is great to explore with an excellent selection of bars and eateries, plus a ‘walking street’ event every Friday featuring live music and performances plus food, clothes and jewellery stalls.

• Mae Nam Beach
  Perhaps the prettiest beach in Koh Samui, Mae Nam is a must-see spot during your Koh Samui vacation. This tranquil bay is one of the most picturesque places on the island with fine gold sand, an azure ocean and a perfect view of Koh Pha Ngan in the distance. Mae Nam is a remote beach, perfect for lazing the days away in the warm Samui sun. At the west end is the Wat Na Phra Lan temple, great for sightseeing. There’s also the Lomprayah Pier, with regular boats trips over to Koh Tao and Koh Pha Ngan. The stunning John’s Garden is a great spot to eat, particularly popular with couples and honeymooners. Mae Nam also hosts a weekly ‘walking street’ selling snacks, clothing, jewellery and much more. This beach is also the closest to Nathon, the administrative centre of Koh Samui.

• Choeng Mon Beach
  Nestled in the far northeast corner of Koh Samui, Choeng Mon Beach is best known for its quiet, secluded bays. Home to some of the best accommodation in Koh Samui, this area is popular with couples, families and the more discerning luxury traveller. The main beach is one of the best beaches in Koh Samui, with plenty of water sports options and kayak trips over to Koh Fan Yai island. Away from the beach are a few fantastic restaurants and great resorts for drinking and dining in Choeng Mon. Chaweng in the south and Bophut and Big Buddha Beach to the west are easily accessible for those in search of a more active itinerary. Songthaews operate here, as do taxis, for guests looking to visit other parts of the island – alternatively motorbike and car hire in Koh Samui can easily be arranged.

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Among the endless stunning sights in Thailand are the fabulous spirit houses found across the country.

These ornate dwellings are believed to attract guardian spirits to protect local people and land, often found outside homes, schools, and Buddhist temples. Spirit houses are even seen outside caves, mountains, forests, valleys and rice fields – and even in the grounds of Koh Samui villa rentals.

Spirit Houses in Koh Samui

It’s no secret that in Thailand spirit worship is as old as mankind itself, and these impressive little structures serve to house celestial beings who, according to local lore, would otherwise abide in heaven. Spirits are believed to be guardians; however they are thought to be good and evil, capable of causing havoc when crossed. One shouldn’t conceive of moving house, starting a new venture or making a change to the norm without keeping the spirit world adequately informed and appeased with gifts and prayer.

Known locally as San Phra Phum spirit houses are quite simply mini masterpieces. The construction of each dwelling can be simple or complex, ranging from baby size bungalows to elaborate erections complete with mini figurines, furniture, incense and flowers. Spirit houses can be constructed out of wood, brick or concrete depending on the type of spirit it is hoped to attract and are always built and sold by experienced spirit house builders. Such ‘experts’ are familiar with the many proper rituals involved in order to attract spirits and for it to ‘accept’ the earthly abode.

When placing a spirit house it’s all about location, location, location. A perfectly positioned spirit house will protect the sanctity of the nearby surroundings ensuring the perfect balance of nature and nurture. A spirit house should be free of falling shadows and complete with adequate views for the ‘inhabitants’.

Visitors may often notice Thais presiding over spirit homes, praying and presenting offerings such as candles, flowers, fruit, meats and delicacies. This is thought to appease the nine spirit guardians including the guardians of the gardens, rice fields, barns, animals, forests, waters, mountains and more.

Sometimes spirit houses are positioned on roads where accidents have happened, an example of this can be seen on Koh Samui’s ring road just past Chaweng where an impressive spirit house overlooks the bend. Other well-known spirit houses in Thailand include a dwelling in Wat Chedi Luang which houses the Chiang Mai City Pillar, so large that visitors can walk inside. Often guests go to make offerings and request help from the spirits inside.

Spirit houses are one of the most fundamental features of Thai life but as intriguing as they are tourists are advised to conform to spirit house etiquette. These are places of worship so a display of respect is advised when taking photographs and approaching the houses. Never put your feet on any religious item, and don’t touch or try to rearrange items in the spirit house to suit your photo. An especially important rule to remember is not to photograph spirit houses when people are praying.

For a private spirit house experience during your Koh Samui vacation why not book one of our spirit villas – spirits stay rent-free!

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Are you jetting off to Thailand? Make sure you do not confine yourself to the usual tourist destinations like Bangkok and Phuket, as you will surely miss the magic of this Southeast Asian nation.

Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand (also known as Gulf of Siam) is Koh Samui, the third largest of the Thai islands which is an untouched gem of tropical beauty, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of commercial Thailand.

Koh Samui is becoming increasingly popular and has developed into defining the Thai holiday experience, but it has retained its picturesque natural scenery and relaxed environment.

The Kingdom of Thailand has made its mark on international tourism offering a combination of stunning landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and a range of sporting and holiday activities to create the perfect Asian experience. Among the top 30 most populous countries and one of the economic powerhouses of Southeast Asia, Thailand has fallen victim to a more commercial feel, with towering skyscrapers and congested highways, which at times feels like a reflection of large western cities. With islands like Koh Samui, Thailand has managed to retain a distinctively Asian identity mixed with natural beauty and a laid back lifestyle.

A largely Buddhist nation, Thailand has strong influences from many other cultures which is evident in the cuisine and practices of the locals. Koh Samui is no different and you can enjoy the best that Thailand has to offer by choosing to stay in a private villa on the island. Samui International Airport on Koh Samui allows you to travel to and from many Southeast Asian destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia, without having to go through mainland Thailand. With a rather temperate climate, Koh Samui is not exposed to prolonged rainy seasons and torrential floods like other parts of Thailand, which allows longer periods of fun in the sun, typical of any tropical island.

Whether you opt to go kayaking in the clear blue waters or just relax in your beach villa, Koh Samui has everything one would expect for the perfect island holiday. When planning your next trip to Thailand, make sure that Koh Samui is on your itinerary and enjoy the best of Southeast Asia’s untouched natural beauty.

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White sandy beaches, studded with coconut trees and a clear ocean, Koh Samui is the idyllic island getaway transporting visitors to a world that is picturesque and entrenched in a relaxed beach culture.

Koh Samui is considered part of the southern province of Surat Thani and unlike other popular islands in Thailand, it is relatively dry. With a warm and tropical climate, Koh Samui experiences only a short rainy season providing the opportunity to cater for sun loving tourists, whereas other islands like Phuket encounter rain for almost 6 months in the year. However, be prepared for sudden showers that last for less than an hour which are typical of any tropical island.

Life in Koh Samui revolves around the coast due to the almost uninhabitable mountainous forests in the centre of the island and this beach culture is reflected in the friendly and relaxed demeanour of the residents; their lifestyle, cuisine and past times. The economy of Koh Samui is dependent on tourism, meaning that you can expect all the services and facilities you may require to have a comfortable, safe and enjoyable holiday on the island. The growing popularity of Koh Samui as a tourist destination has seen five star hotels, luxury modern beach villas with private pools and world renowned restaurants sprout up along most of the island.

Fun and activities in Koh Samui are not isolated to the beach and water sports, although there is no shortage of such sporting activities; like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, kite surfing and speed boating. You can also play a few rounds of golf on Koh Samui’s golf course, watch the nature shows or spend a day in Ang Thong National Marine Park. For the shopaholics and foodies, Koh Samui has a plethora of shops, eateries and bars to ensure that all your fancies are catered for, with most establishments catering for western tastes.

For the demanding traveler who wants a mix of culture, cuisine and coastlines, Koh Samui reflects the best that Southeast Asia has to offer. A multitude of cultures coalesce into a uniquely Thai experience coupled with some of the best weather and beautiful beaches in the world. Koh Samui is a one stop destination for any visitor to Thailand, offering a distinctly Asian experience coupled with all the amenities and activities that one would expect on an overseas beach holiday.

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http://thailandculturecustomguide.org/thailand-etiquette/everyday_etiquette.html

This is a great article: do read it.

And after you have, do not despair! Foreign visitors (farangs) to Koh Samui will not be expected to know all the intricacies of Thai etiquette, or the proper and right way of doing quite ordinary everyday things. Thai culture offers guidance on how to conduct yourself in a wide range of situations, how to dress and how to converse. Of course these ‘ways to live’ have been handed down from generation to generation, and for the young Thais who are brought up with parents and extended families, especially away from the big cities, these customs are second nature, and probably need no formal teaching.

For example it is not expected that during a conversation there will be loud voices or much gesticulation – which many European visitors may find rather restrictive and alien! Younger people should not hold a conversation over the head of an older person. Your body language and the questions you may wish to ask while speaking to a Thai are very important – no folded arms, no personal questions, no rude language.

There are three things held in the greatest respect by Thais: 1. their Nation 2. their religion and 3. the Thai Monarchy. All must be given the greatest respect and should not be spoken about in a critical or patronising way.

There are of course exceptions to all rules, and you may well see someone clanging his spoon and fork together at the dining table, or speaking over the head of a more senior person. In Bangkok people may have chosen to ignore some of their ingrained codes of conduct but if you venture into the countryside, this will not be the case.

So the main things to remember while you are on Koh Samui are:

• Politeness to everyone is essential
• Do not lose your temper
• Do not shout
• Older people are to be respected
• The head of a person is sacred: not to be touched!
• The foot is not: do not point your foot at anyone, or touch anyone with your foot: it is an insult
• Do not be overly amorous in public
• Keep the bikini and the Speedos for the beach – cover up and dress appropriately elsewhere.

The Thais are amongst the most hospitable and friendly people on the planet, and if you are lucky enough to be invited into a Thai’s home on Koh Samui –

• Arrive on time – too early or too late is a no-no
• Take your hosts a small gift – it will be very appreciated (some cakes or biscuits, perhaps a small bottle of wine)
• Remember to remove your shoes at the door
• Try not to sit with one leg over the other, or both legs totally stretched out. Victorian prim and proper does it.
• Don’t stay too long!

Above all, enjoy your stay in one of our stunning Koh Samui Villas, and should you ever feel you have stepped over the line of Thai good etiquette, just say sorry and move on. As well as being friendly and happy, the Thais are very forgiving of these little farang mistakes.

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