Ko Samui (Thailand) > Reviews > Koh Samui....Is there more to be said

Author's product rating:   

Value for Money
Shopping
Nightlife
Ease of getting around
Family Friendly

Advantages:	Relatively unspoiled, freindly, great value for money
Disadvantages:	None, really

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Arriving in Koh Samui after what seemed like a whole day's travel from Bangkok I did wonder if I had made the right decision. Hot, sticky and tired is not the best state of mind to arrive anywhere but I have to say that the first people we met made it all worth while. I knew from experience that the Thais are natural and gregarious but nothing prepared me for the welcome at our hotel and in the resort (Chaweng) generally.

Yes, Chaweng is a little more commercial than I expected but compared to Patong (Phuket) or Pattaya it was charming and quiet. There are bars aplenty and, of course, lots of "adult" type entertainments but it is never "in your face" or overtly annoying. Whilst we were there a ten pin bowlng centre was opened to tremendous fanfare.

Eating out can be really cheap and cheerful or sort of mid range and fabulous. Most of the classier hotels have theme nights and special buffets and it is really worth checking them out. They're not at all prissy about admitting guests from rival establishments. As you would expect there are loads of places for Thai massage and it's worth trying out at least some of the other treatments as well. The foot massage is an experience that I wouldn't have missed.

The island is small and can be circumnavigated quite convincingly in a day. If you have the chance, opt for a 'private' tour and not the usual coach excursion. Our driver was extremely knowledgeable and we had a great time during the drive. We also got to visit a couple of places not on the general tour.

If anyone has been to Goa, especially around Calangute or Candolim then you will know what Koh Samui is like. I was constantly struck by the resemblances.

All in all a fantastic place to visit. But do it soon. The touts are coming!