Ko Samui, Thailand
Ko Samui, Thailand
Description
View cruises with Ko Samui, ThailandThailand's third largest island has been attracting international travelers for less than half a century. Before then, this island in the Gulf of Thailand was noted for its coconut plantations and rubber production. Today, Ko Samui's premier charms are its powdery white beaches, its Buddhist temples or wats, and its crystalline waters. Despite the island's increasing popularity, it retains a casual and unspoiled air that offers a bracing tonic to the experienced traveler.
The majority of the island's population resides in Nathorn, Ko Samui's capital. The island's first settlers were a mix of Hainanese coconut farmers and Malay fishermen.
Nathorn is an anchorage port. Passengers transfer to shore via ship's tenders.
Points of Interest
- Wat Phrayai (Big Buddha)
- Chaweng Beach
- Monkey Demonstration
- Wat Plai Laem
- Elephant Trekking
- Na Muang Waterfall
- Culinary Arts at Nora Beach 5-Star Hotel
- The Passage Samui Villas & Resort
More about Ko Samui, Thailand Points of Interest
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Wat Phrayai (Big Buddha) -
This temple on Fan Island has become a major meditation center, attracting locals and foreigners from around the world. It is named after the massive, 39-foot sitting Buddha on the premises.
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Chaweng Beach -
Situated on the island's unspoiled east coast, this coastline boasts four miles of powdery white sand and crystalline water, with an assortment of resorts, restaurants and bars lining the beach.
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Monkey Demonstration -
For centuries, monkeys were trained to climb the palms and pick the ripe fruit for their handlers. Although rarely being practiced today, you can still enjoy our special demonstration of these creatures harvesting coconuts.
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Wat Plai Laem -
Once part of the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem is home to a superb statue of Kwan Yin (or Guanjin), the 18-armed Buddhist avatar of Mercy.
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Elephant Trekking -
View elephants in sanctuary settings, traveling through jungles or over local plantations for stunning, verdant views.
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Na Muang Waterfall -
Easily accessible and rarely frequented, these glistening falls cascade down a natural rock staircase that descends to a refreshing pool of crystalline mountain water.
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Culinary Arts at Nora Beach 5-Star Hotel -
Stop in at one of Ko Samui's premier hotels for a cooking class where passionate chefs teach you the basics of preparing Thai dishes such as stuffed crab, pan-fried Thai noodle (Pad Thai).
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The Passage Samui Villas & Resort -
Escape to the exotic natural hideaway beach resort at Laem Yai Beach in Koh Samui. This upscale boutique resort overlooks a national marine park with nearby snorkelling kayaking, beach biking and hiking for you to explore the area.